Regular visitors to our blog will already know all about the new 3S cable car coming to Zermatt and opening later this month. We have been covering its progress for several years since 2013.

Our ultimate guide to the 3S lift covers everything you need to know about the lift capacity, cables, costs and the challenges of construction at altitude.

The ‘Crystal Ride’

Recently, Zermatt Bergbahnen has revealed additional information about the four ‘Crystal Ride’ cabins that will feature as part of the new twenty-five gondolas.

The ‘Crystal Ride’ cabins are the epitome of design and sophistication. The Pininfarina design studio – known around the world for their work with Maserati and Ferrari – have brought the finest Italian design to the project.

The Pininfarina influence can be seen in the car-inspired seats, panoramic windows and lights in the ceiling of each cabin to make you feel as if you’re beneath the stars.

Glass floor clears to become transparent

The piece de resistance that makes this another amazing touch to make this a ride like no other is the integrated glass floor. Three minutes into the nine-minute journey to the highest lift station in Europe, the previously opaque glass floor will clear to become transparent thanks to an electrical current.

At this point the cabins will be 170 metres above ground level and will offer a unparalleled dramatic view of the glacier below.

Each one of the ‘Crystal Ride’ cabins is embellished by glistening Swarovski crystals. These ‘Crystal Rocks’ bring a sparkle to outside of the cabins as well with stunning results.

This adds another unique experience to Zermatt and means the 3S Matterhorn Glacier Ride looks like it will become yet another must-see attraction for visitors across the world to add to the Gornergrat railway and the Matterhorn itself.

“A completely new rider experience”

According to Sandra Stockinger, Head of Marketing at Zermatt Bergbahnen:

“The Crystal Ride cabins will surprise our guests with a completely new ride experience. They will be able to marvel at the mountain world around Zermatt in a unique 360-degree panorama.”

The new lift will open in late-September 2018.

Accommodation in Zermatt

If you’d like to try the Crystal Ride yourself, then please contact us at Matterhorn Chalets and we can help you find the right accommodation for you.