That old drag lifts are replaced by new cable cars is not unusual. However, it is already noteworthy that the replacement system combines chairlifts with cabins.

This is exactly what happened in the Swiss ski resort of Thyon: Since December 2023, the Télémixte La Matze has been operating instead of the two drag lifts Theytaz 1 and Matze.

From the village to the summit

The new installation from the Swiss manufacturer BARTHOLET starts directly in the village, with the Les Collons 1900 valley station located in close proximity to hotels and apartments.

From there, the 24 chairs and eight cabins ascend 876 meters to the Thyon 2000 summit complex, overcoming a height difference of 228 meters.

This not only better connects both locations but also optimizes the slope situation: The elimination of the two drag lift tracks makes the main slope wider, making this area attractive for families and children for the first time.

From just winter to year-round

The Telemix cable car will not only transport skiers but also mountain bikes, hikers, pedestrians, and guests with mobility impairments. Non-skiers previously relied on shuttle buses.

The new cable car not only expands the perspectives of the Télé-Thyon mountain railway company in winter – think winter toboggan run –but also, unlike drag lifts, makes summer business possible.

In addition, there is an extension of operating hours into the evening to offer guests a diverse leisure experience.

From just transportation to more comfort

With a capacity of 2,000 people per hour in winter and 600 in summer, the Télémixte La Matze can transport significantly more guests faster than the previous drag lifts in winter. This makes access to the “Les 4 Valles“ ski area even more attractive.

With 410 kilometers of slopes, it is the largest connected ski area in Switzerland. Furthermore, the riding comfort in the chairs and cabins is considerably higher than when riding on T-bars:

The eight 10-person cabins with floor-to-ceiling glazing allow an unobstructed view of the mountain panorama, the interior of the gondola adapts to the respective use thanks to foldable benches and is equipped with ski holders. Optionally, bike holders would be possible.

The 6-person chairs are designed to be very wind-resistant with recesses and offer little surface for gusts. Constructed individual seats with individual coloring provide a design element.

As with the cabins, Studio F. A. Porsche was responsible for the design here as well. Clearly separated platforms for chair and gondola passengers ensure stress-free boarding and disembarking at the mountain station.

From outdated to modern technology

On the operator side, the new BARTHOLET installation convinces with numerous well-thought-out components. For example, the eight cabins are stored half in the mountain and half in the valley station, while the chairs remain on the cable in winter.  In summer, “only“ the cabins operate.

The cable is a Performa-DT cable from the Swiss manufacturer FATZER, known for its particularly smooth running. This increases passenger comfort and reduces noise – an important factor as the valley station and part of the route are situated near hotels and apartments.

Additionally, the lifespan of the cable increases and roller wear decreases. For the first time in Switzerland, the BARTHOLET engineers also implemented control by SMER.

From peripheral area to booming region

The balance sheet of the new lift is already very positive just a few months after opening: Peak daily throughputs of more than 8,000 passages significantly relieve the Trabanta quad chairlift as the previous main axis in the area.

Télémixte La Matze also significantly upgrades the La Matze ski area. In addition to expanded hotel capacities, this leads to new record numbers for recorded rides (+35 percent) and ski days (+22 percent).