Cable cars in Austria: Pathways to greater sustainability
Mountain experiences and panoramic views by cable car
Introduction
Take the cable car to new heights. Austria’s mountain lifts open up impressive experiences, from sweeping alpine panoramas to spectacular viewing platforms with uninterrupted views of the Alps. Gondola lifts make reaching the summit easier – and in many cases accessible for the first time.
Barrier-free facilities and the option to bring dogs on board ensure a comfortable and straightforward experience.
A growing number of projects show how cable car operators are putting sustainability into practice. Measures include investment in renewable energy, more energy-efficient systems and close cooperation with regional partners. Cable cars run on electricity, and in many areas photovoltaic and hydropower systems contribute to energy supply.
These developments highlight how lifts and mountain railways are continuously evolving – making it easier to reach the mountains, whether for skiing in winter or enjoying panoramic views and Austria’s natural landscapes all year round.
Innovation, technology and a pioneering spirit
Many Austrian cable car operators have been investing in innovation and technical solutions for years:
Lower energy consumption: modernisation has reduced the sector’s energy use by around 20% over the past decade
Renewable energy: several ski areas use electricity from hydropower, complemented by photovoltaic systems on buildings and mountain stations
Digital snow measurement: GPS-based snow depth monitoring allows snowmaking and slope maintenance to be managed more precisely
Photovoltaics in ski areas: solar panels on rooftops and lift stations generate electricity on site
Travel without a car: ski buses, rail connections and e-charging stations offer alternative ways to reach many ski resorts
Keeping track of CO₂ emissions: an industry-wide CO₂ calculator helps operators record and manage emissions
Sustainable cable cars in summer & winter
Sustainable winter sport regions
A little code of conduct for four-legged friends
Dogs on holiday are a great companion when hiking! Most cable cars allow you to take your four-legged friends with you. And because the protection of nature and animals is a top priority in alpine regions: Don't forget a muzzle and lead in the cable car and on the hike. And certainly not the "doggie bag"!
In the Wilder Kaiser region in Tirol, with views of the Kitzbühel Alps, dogs are welcome on several summer mountain lifts, including the Hartkaiser lift in Ellmau, the Brandstadl lift in Scheffau and the gondola lifts between Söll, Hochsöll and Hohe Salve.
In the Dachstein Salzkammergut region in Upper Austria, there are several dog-friendly cable cars and gondolas, such as the Dachstein Krippenstein lifts, the Gosaukammbahn Zwieselalm and the Salzberg lift in Hallstatt.
In Vorarlberg’s Montafon region, the Montafon mountain lifts welcome dogs all year round, providing access to peaks such as Muttersberg, Kristberg and Hochjoch.
To the cable car by public transport
Many cable cars are located near ÖBB railway stations or provide shuttle services. The mobility programmes of the climate and model regions also enable convenient, environmentally friendly access to other activities in the area - let's get stuck into the fun!
Particularly well connected to the public transport network by train and bus:
What does ‘sustainable travel’ mean?
A responsible holiday is about being inspired and enjoying meaningful experiences, while also respecting nature, supporting climate protection and engaging considerately with the people who live in the destination.
Landscapes and nature: Those who value sustainable travel treat Austria’s unspoilt natural landscapes and carefully maintained cultural landscapes with respect and a sense of responsibility.
Choosing accommodation and mobility consciously: Sustainable travel means selecting accommodation with recognised sustainability certifications and opting for low-impact ways of getting around.
Accessibility: Travellers looking for a barrier-free holiday can rely on Austria’s strong focus on accessibility and cultural inclusion.