Politics Swiss cable cars transported slightly fewer guests in summer

There were 2% fewer guests on Swiss mountain railroads this summer than a year ago. The month of August was very pleasing with an increase of 6 percent. Compared to the five-year average, however, the number of guests is 11 percent higher.

The warm and sunny August attracted vacation guests and excursionists to the mountains, the Swiss Cableways Association announced on Wednesday. At medium altitudes, 14 percent more guests were transported and at low altitudes (up to 1500 meters above sea level) 5 percent more. There was a slight decline (-2 percent) for cableways above 2000 meters above sea level.

Over the season as a whole, the mountain railroads in the Vaud and Fribourg Alps were able to increase by 9 percent. In the Bernese Oberland, there was an increase of 2 percent. Ticino (-2 percent), Central Switzerland and Valais (-3 percent each), Graubünden (-7 percent) and Eastern Switzerland (-11 percent) recorded a drop in guest numbers.

Nevertheless, the association is optimistic. Compared to the average figures for the last five years, guest numbers have risen in all regions with two exceptions. There were declines of 6 percent in Eastern Switzerland and 12 percent in Graubünden.

Overall, the Swiss cableways were pleased to welcome 11 percent more guests. However, the growth rates in the tourist destinations vary greatly. In Valais, for example, only 1 percent more guests were transported. By contrast, the Bernese Oberland, Central Switzerland and the Vaud and Fribourg Alps recorded increases of 20 percent and more.