Mt. Stanserhorn CabriO Cable Car

The Basics

To get to the CabriO station in Kälti, you first need to ride Oldtimer Funicular Train up the mountainside from Stans—tickets include both journeys. The cable car ride takes around six minutes, so early birds can enjoy plenty of time to explore the peak’s walking trail, chat with a Stanserhorn Ranger, or have a meal at the Revolving Restaurant Rondorama, a mountaintop eatery offering prime views of the region from its revolving dining platform.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Book your tickets in advance to avoid on-the-day disappointment, as Stanserhorn is popular.

• The cable car’s lower deck is fully accessible for wheelchair users.

• One-way tickets are available for purchase, though the hiking route is only recommended for experienced mountaineers.

How to Get There

The town of Stans is 7 miles (11 kilometers) from Lucerne for a 15-minute drive. Public parking is available at the main train station for a steep fee. Alternatively, a 20-minute train ride from Lucerne will drop you at the main station, from where you cross over the road to Stanserhorn Station to be whisked up to Kälti’s cable car terminal via 19th-century funicular.

When to Get There

High season offers expansive late spring and summer vistas. Travellers looking for a quieter Alpine experience should visit in April, when the crowds are smaller. Early birds can take advantage of Good Morning tickets, which provide discounted access, minimized wait times, and preferential seating in the first hour of opening. All mountain services, including the CapriO cable car, close over winter and reopen in spring.

Swiss Travel Pass

Look out for Swiss Travel Pass packages, which include return journeys on both the CabriO cable car and Oldtimer Funicular Train, as well as several more Swiss excursions in one ticket. Ideal if you are on a budget, these packages usually include unlimited use of public transport, free access to more than 500 museums, and discounts on a variety of other experiences, and can be booked for a time period of your choice.

What is the CabriO Cable Car?

The CabriO cable car is an open-top cable car that travels from Kälti to Stanserhorn 6,227 feet (1,898 meters) in the Swiss Alps in roughly six minutes. It’s a great place to take in views while riding up to the summit in the open air.

What is the best month to ride on the Mt. Stanserhorn CabriO Cable Car?

The CabriO Cable Car season starts in April and usually goes until the end of November, depending on conditions. The weather can be unpredictable, even in warmer months, but closures are more common in spring and fall. However, you’ll also encounter fewer crowds if you come during the shoulder season.

Are reservations required for the CabriO Cable Car?

No, reservations are not required for the Mt. Stanserhorn CabriO Cable Car. However, booking your tickets in advance is a good idea to avoid disappointment. Both 1-way and round-trip tickets are available. Most people opt for the round-trip option, as hiking one way requires skill and experience.

Are there any dining options at the top of Mt. Stanserhorn?

Yes, there are dining options at the top of Mt. Stanserhorn. A seasonal revolving restaurant features Alpine cuisine made primarily from Swiss ingredients. The restaurant is predominantly self-serve, though table service is available for larger groups at lunch and on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings.

Is the CabriO Cable Car wheelchair accessible?

Yes and no. The CabriO Cable Car’s main level is wheelchair accessible, but the top deck isn't. The cable car stations are accessible and have parking spots for people with disabilities, where applicable. Accessible toilets are available, and the revolving restaurant at the top of Mt. Stanserhorn has wheelchair-friendly seating.

Are there any hiking trails or activities at the top of Mt. Stanserhorn?

Yes, there are multiple hiking trails at the top of Mt. Stanserhorn. Options range from circular trails that take around 30 minutes to a more strenuous hike that takes visitors from Stans to the summit of Mt. Stanserhorn in around four hours. Expect beautiful views of mountains, lakes, and—seasonally—wildflowers.