Matterhorn Alpine Crossing Becomes Reality in Zermatt, Switzerland & Cervinia, Italy

The Matterhorn Alpine Crossing opened last Saturday, July 1, 2023. The Matterhorn Alpine Crossing is the highest cross-country cable car in the world and connects Zermatt, Switzerland, with Cervinia, Italy. The cabins were designed by non-other than design studio Pininfarina, which also designed Ferraris for many years, including the Enzo. The so called ‘Crystal Ride Cabins’ are equipped with 27 seats and glass bottoms, so you can enjoy the spectacular view of the glacier below you.

It might look like an artist rendering, but this is an actual picture of the futuristic-looking Leitner cabin of the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing, which was designed by Pininfarina. | Picture: Leitner Facebook Page

The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise station on the Swiss side is situated at 3,883 m (12,740ft) and connects to the station Testa Grigia in Italy at 3,480 m (11,320ft). The cable car crosses the Swiss-Italian border at an altitude of 3,480 m (11,417ft).

The opening was moderated by Swiss-Italian TV-presenter and former model Michelle Hunziker, who stated, “I am proud to be part of this unique connection between Italy and Switzerland. For me as a Swiss-Italian, it is a very special moment.”

Michelle Hunziker at the grand opening of the Matterhorn-Alpine Crossing cable car. | Picture: Leitner Facebook Page

The cable car traverses from peak to peak, an incredible 1 mile (1.6km) above the Theodul Glacier, suspended between the peaks. There are a total of 10 cabins which can transport guests in 4 minutes from one station to the other. The cable car has an hourly capacity of 1,300 people. The incredible project has cost a total of CHF 140 million thus far, and is expected to yield an annual cash-flow of CHF 40 million, which is not surprising, considering a return trip will set you back a staggering USD 270 (CHF 240).