The new Kapellenbahn on the Schmittenhöhe
published on · Schmitten News
The construction of the new Kapellenbahn chairlift marks the beginning of another major infrastructure project on Zell’s landmark mountain. Planning permission has been granted, construction work is already underway, and the objective is clear: The new lift is scheduled to open in time for the upcoming winter season.
The new Kapellenbahn at a glance
- Lift type: detachable 8-seater chairlift
- Features: weather-protection hoods, automatic safety bars
- Safety technology: AURO system (autonomous mountain station)
- Valley station: 1,728 m
- Mountain station: 1,964 m
- Number of supports: 10
- Speed: up to 5.5 m/s
- Journey time: approx. 3 minutes
- Capacity: up to 3,400 passengers per hour
- Number of chairs: max. 42
Greater comfort and capacity for our guests
The existing 4-seater chairlift has been in operation since 2001 and is now being replaced by a modern detachable 8-seater chairlift. For guests on the Schmittenhöhe, this means greater comfort, shorter journey times and a substantial increase in capacity.
The detachable chairs slow down as they pass through the stations, making boarding and alighting smoother, more convenient and even safer. Along the route, however, the lift travels at a higher speed. This will reduce the journey time to around three minutes.
Capacity will also increase significantly: While the existing lift carries 2,394 passengers per hour, the new Kapellenbahn will transport up to 3,400 passengers per hour.
Smart technology for enhanced safety
The Kapellenbahn is also being upgraded to meet the latest technical and safety standards. Following the example of the Breiteckbahn, the mountain station will be equipped with Doppelmayr’s innovative AURO system. Cameras and sensors continuously monitor the exit area, allowing the system to respond automatically whenever necessary.
With the new Kapellenbahn, the Schmittenhöhe is thus implementing state-of-the-art cable car technology that combines a high level of comfort with enhanced safety.
Improved infrastructure for guests and emergency services
The project extends beyond the cable car itself, with several improvements planned around the facility. As part of the redevelopment, the valley station will be relocated around 150 metres towards Piesendorf. This will improve access from Pinzgauer Hütte mountain hut and allow for a more efficient piste layout in this area. The new mountain station will also include a modern ski patrol base and public toilet facilities.
Good to know: Summer visitors will not be affected by the construction work. Most hiking trails and mountain bike routes will remain open throughout the project.
Ecological compensation measures during construction
Modern infrastructure and responsible stewardship of the natural environment go hand in hand on the Schmittenhöhe. For this reason, the construction of the new Kapellenbahn is accompanied by a range of ecological compensation measures. These include reforestation, the preservation of valuable mature trees and targeted CEF measures designed to protect the habitats of grouse and other wildlife.
What are CEF measures?
CEF stands for “Continuous Ecological Functionality” and refers to preventive measures used in species conservation. The aim is to create new or enhanced habitats before construction begins, ensuring that the ecological function of the affected area is maintained without interruption.
The following measures have been implemented on the Schmittenhöhe:
- a new body of water, together with piles of stones and branches, providing replacement habitats for amphibians and reptiles
- targeted forest management to improve habitats for various bird species
- 3 areas of old-growth woodland and 25 veteran trees and deadwood trees serving as refuges, breeding sites and feeding grounds
- a 3-km-long amphibian protection fence, with the collection traps checked daily so that the animals can be safely relocated to their new habitats
A new lease of life for the old Kapellenbahn
In the interest of long-term use, the existing Kapellenbahn will not be scrapped. Instead, it will be carefully dismantled and rebuilt in Romania. Schmittenhöhebahn AG has been following this principle of reuse for many years, applying it to cable car systems, snow groomers and snowmobiles. This approach conserves resources, reduces emissions and extends the service life of high-quality equipment.
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