05.02.2026
Cervino The One – Reinforcing the international connection between Zermatt and Cervinia
In recent years, Zermatt Bergbahnen has continuously invested in expanding the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise summit experience with the construction of the modern Matterhorn Glacier Ride I and II 3S cableways. With the opening of the Matterhorn Glacier Ride II, the connection between Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and Testa Grigia, the final element of the complete cable car connection between Zermatt and Cervinia – the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing – has been realised. On the Italian side, new facilities and strategically important projects are also being invested in. The Cervino S.p.A. has announced a significant upgrade to the international connection between Zermatt and Breuil-Cervinia with the Cervino The One project, which will be presented at the end of August 2025.
Cervino The One is the name of the cableway project that will connect the centre of Breuil-Cervinia with Plateau Rosa/Testa Gigia in just over fifteen minutes. Modern 3S cableways from Leitner will be used, as are already successfully operated by the Zermatt Bergbahnen. The new facility is designed in two sections and will have a midway station in Plan Maison. Construction is scheduled to start in June 2026.
In an interview with Federico Maquignaz, President of Cervino S.p.A., we asked for some background information:
What were the reasons behind the design and implementation of the major Cervino The One project?
The Cervino The One project arose from the need to increase the capacity of the current single-track ropeway connection between Plan Maison on Plateau Rosa / Testa Grigia. Over the years, the international connection between Zermatt and Cervinia has become increasingly important, so that the existing infrastructure, especially at this altitude, has become an operational limitation. The new solution makes it possible to improve the reliability and continuity of cableway operations, better manage passenger traffic and optimise the operation of the facilities, while at the same time ensuring greater resilience and stability in operation in the face of typical high-altitude weather conditions. The need for a double track also stems from the goal of making the mountains accessible 365 days a year by making the connection more solid, continuous and consistent. All of this is in line with a strategy of increased accessibility and use of the area, which can offer guests a more comprehensive, emotional and high-quality experience.
What is the current status of the project? When will construction begin?
The project has been finalised. Cervino S.p.A. is currently awaiting approval, which should arrive in the course of the summer, so that work can begin according to the planned schedule.
What are the next stages of construction and the project timeline?
Work is expected to begin in June 2026 at Plan Maison and in the area of Testa Grigia / Plateau Rosa. Implementation will take place in successive phases, planned to take into account seasonal conditions and the construction challenges posed by high mountain terrain. The current goal is to be able to inaugurate the facility by December 2029, while ensuring the highest standards of safety and quality.
Why did you decide on identical 3S cableways from Leitner, such as those in use in Zermatt between Trockener Steg and Testa Grigia?
Following an official tender process in which Leitner and Doppelmayr participated, Leitner was selected to construct the new 3S cableway. The system is based on proven technology that has already been used extensively in high mountain regions. It offers high reliability, large transport capacity and stable operation even in challenging weather conditions. It also provides our guests with a very comfortable ride.
Will guests have to expect restrictions on the cableway connection between Breuil-Cervinia and Plateau Rosa / Testa Grigia during the construction phase?
No restrictions on the connection are expected during the construction phase. The work is planned in such a way that uninterrupted operation is guaranteed. Of course, there may be disruptions in connection with the construction sites. However, we will try to minimise the impact on the guest experience.
Are restaurants or other offerings planned in addition to the cableways?
Yes. The Cervino The One project involves more than just the construction of a new 3S cableway. It also includes the upgrading of the Plan Maison and Breuil-Cervinia stations and the arrival areas. This includes new offerings, facilities and space for restaurants and shops, with the aim of improving the overall experience and enhancing the affected areas in a sustainable manner.
Given the strategic importance of the project for Cervinia, the Aosta Valley and cross-border tourism, we asked Federico Maquignaz one final question:
How does the new cable car fit into the region's long-term strategy?
Cervino The One is part of a comprehensive infrastructure investment strategy that the Aosta Valley has been pursuing in recent years. Projects such as Sky Way Monte Bianco, Cervino The One and La Stella di Pila are concrete examples of a structured development plan. These are investments that are embedded in multi-year plans and aim to keep pace with the best international Alpine resorts and improve infrastructure, accessibility and the quality of services. Cervino The One makes a direct contribution to this project by strengthening international connections and making the infrastructure more modern, efficient and competitive in the long term.
