Zermatt has begun construction on its new. six-seater Patrullarve lift by Leitner. | Credit: Matterhorn Paradise
This summer has been a busy one for Zermatt, Switzerland.
Zermatt recently began construction on its new Patrullarve chairlift in the resort’s Sunnegga-Blauherd area. Chairlift manufacturer Leitner recently took to its Facebook page to give an update on the lift’s construction progress.
“From foundation works and structural concrete elements to the first cable infrastructure and station developments, every milestone brings the future ‘Blauherd–Rothorn’ ropeway connection one step closer,” the company wrote in its post.
So far, construction workgroups have progressed foundation works, shaped out station structures, and installed the first cable infrastructure. Leitner says the project is on schedule with its opening set for the beginning of the 2026-27 ski season.
“We’re proud to see this landmark project come to life day by day and look forward to sharing more milestones with you in the coming months,” Leitner wrote.
The New Patrullarve Lift
Zermatt is building the new Patrullarve lift to replace the old four-seat Patrullarve-Blauherd chairlift, which was built in 1989 and served skiers as the resort’s oldest chairlift. The new state-of-the-art Patrullarve is a detachable six-seater designed to enhance the mountain experience.
With its carrying capacity of 2,000 people per hour and speed of six meters per second, the Patrullarve lift will improve efficiency and convenience at the resort.
Zermatt’s First ROPERA Lift
The new chairlift will also be Zermatt’s first lift with Leitner’s ROPERA technology. ROPERA, which Leitner calls “the new era of ropeways,” combines high performance, low noise, and environmental sustainability when manufacturing lifts. Leitner designed ROPERA stations to cause minimal noise by using modern technology and advanced sound insulation to keep operating noise to a minimum – ideal for urban zones, natural areas, and noise-sensitive environments. They also have a lifespan of over 40 years and are up to 95% recyclable. Leitner also designed the ROPERA system to be easy to maintain.
“With a modular structure and easily accessible components, maintenance tasks are simplified, downtime is minimised and productivity is increased,” Zermatt wrote in its announcement. “At the same time, modern safety features ensure a safe and ergonomic working environment.
Maximum Comfort
Alongside its operational upgrades, the lift is designed to bring maximum comfort for its riders. Every ROPERA lift uses Leitner’s EVO chairs, which use premium leather, seat-heating technology, and bubbles to protect skiers from winds and other conditions.
“With this investment, Zermatt Bergbahnen is reaffirming its commitment to continuously developing the mountain experience and offering visitors state-of-the-art infrastructure at the highest level,” Leitner’s Head of Technology North Fabian Imboden said. “The new ropeway system will epitomize the company’s spirit of innovation and forward-looking approach, offering a skiing experience that will continue to set standards for decades to come.
Other Upgrades Across Zermatt
In addition to its new lift, Zermatt has been working on other upgrades throughout the summer. Those include the addition of a fully modernized cable car from Trockener Steg to Matterhorn Glacier, along with a new luggage transport service at the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing.
With the 2026-27 ski season quickly approaching, Zermatt looks to use its lift upgrade to continue strengthening its reputation as one of the world’s best skiing destinations.
Matterhorn-Alpine-Crossing. | Credit: Zermatt Bergbahnen