CabriO World’s first Open Top Cable Car Ticket to Mt Stanserhorn

This review explores the CabriO World’s first open-top cable car experience to Mt. Stanserhorn, a journey that blends vintage charm with exhilarating modern engineering. While we haven’t personally kept the wheels turning, plenty of travelers have shared their firsthand impressions, giving us a clear picture of what to expect.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the ticket pre-booking means less time waiting in lines, a significant perk in popular Swiss spots. Second, the combination of historic funicular ride and the world’s only open-top CabriO gondola creates a sense of both nostalgia and thrill. Third, the option to relax at the revolving mountain restaurant with panoramic views adds a relaxing culinary touch.

However, keep in mind that the ticket exchange process can be a bit time-consuming, even with prebooking. It’s a small inconvenience, but worth knowing if you’re trying to maximize your time. This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a mix of scenic vistas, a touch of history, and a dash of adventure—especially those who want to experience something truly unique in the heart of the Swiss Alps.

Good To Know

• Prebooked tickets save time and hassle at the mountain station.
• The open-top CabriO gondola offers unparalleled views and a thrilling ride.
• The vintage funicular adds historic charm and a scenic ascent.
• Hiking and dining options at the summit provide a well-rounded experience.
• The tour is family-friendly and suitable for most travelers.
• Expect some wait times for ticket exchange, even with prebooking.

An Overview of the Experience

The journey to Mt. Stanserhorn begins in the charming town of Stans, just a quick 15-minute trip from Lucerne. The experience is designed to be straightforward and enjoyable, with a prebooked ticket that allows you to skip some of the lines—though, as some reviews point out, the actual process of ticket exchange at the counter can still take a few minutes.

Once at the mountain station, you board the historic funicular—a 19th-century marvel that gently pulls you up the hillside, offering scenic views of the Swiss landscape. Many visitors find the train ride to be relaxing and picturesque, a gentle warm-up for the stunning vistas ahead.

The CabriO Cable Car: A Ride Like No Other

The highlight of this experience is undoubtedly the CabriO gondola. As the world’s first convertible open-top cable car, it provides a sense of flying and freedom that enclosed cabins simply can’t match. The breeze on your face and unobstructed views of the mountains make this ride memorable.

Travelers have shared that the CabriO’s open-air platform offers a panoramic spectacle of soaring peaks and alpine meadows. As you ascend, the air gets cooler and crisper, but the views grow more dramatic. The gondola’s smooth ride reassures those worried about motion or stability, even with the open sides.

Some reviewers, like Mary C, appreciated that they saved nearly $100 compared to other tours, and found the ride exhilarating and worth every franc. Others, like Ladytiger75, described the journey as “very easy and very nice”, emphasizing how effortless the ascent felt.

The Summit Experience

Once at the top, you’ll find a 360-degree view over the Swiss Alps and ten lakes—an awe-inspiring panorama that makes the climb worthwhile. From the summit, you can enjoy a short hike with a mountain ranger, who points out the most beautiful flowers and shares interesting tidbits about the mountain.

A highlight is the revolving restaurant—the Rondorama—where you can sit down, relax, and watch the mountains spin around you in a gentle 45-minute cycle. The view from the restaurant combines culinary delight with visual spectacle, perfect for a leisurely lunch or coffee break.

For those eager to stretch their legs, a mountain hike from the summit is possible, with guided options available. Travelers who enjoyed this part of the experience appreciated the ease of the trail and the ability to explore at their own pace.

Practical Details and Tips

Getting to Mt. Stanserhorn is simple—by car or train. The ticket redemption point at Stans is easy to reach, and the station is near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers. Be sure to arrive during opening hours (8:15 AM to 5:15 PM, from April to November), especially if you want to maximize your time on the mountain.

The cost of $101.66 per person includes the entire package—train, funicular, CabriO ride, and admission to the summit area. Many reviews point out that the value is excellent, especially considering the spectacular views and unique ride. Some mention that their overall experience felt relaxed and less crowded than other Swiss mountain tours, adding to its appeal.

While the ticketing process is generally smooth, some users noted that skipping the line doesn’t always mean faster boarding; verification at the counter can add a few minutes. Still, the peace of mind from prebooking often outweighs this minor wait.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Theresa M’s comment about line waiting underscores that even with prebooking, the process isn’t entirely seamless. However, she also notes that “there was NO skipping the line”, hinting at the importance of arriving early or being patient.

Many travelers, including Ken B, appreciated the “nice and smooth” ride and the “colder outside” air as they gained altitude, which enhances the feeling of being truly in the mountains. Others, like John P, highlighted the “chill and relaxing” vibe, emphasizing that the experience isn’t rushed and can be enjoyed at a leisurely pace.

Mary C, who was concerned about the weather, found that even on a foggy day, the views and the experience were “worth every penny”. The cost-saving aspect was also a recurring theme, with many saying they saved money compared to other tours or activities.

The Value of This Tour

Considering the $101.66 price point, this tour offers a comprehensive Swiss mountain experience, combining historic transport, an innovative cable car, breathtaking views, and culinary delights. The ticket prebooking reduces some logistical stress, and the rounded experience—from scenic ascent to summit hikes and dining—packs a lot into a half-day or full-day outing.

The unique CabriO gondola sets this experience apart from standard cable car rides, offering not just views but a feeling of floating above the mountains. If you’re a fan of scenic vistas, outdoor activities, and Swiss culture, this tour hits many sweet spots.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for adventurers and scenic lovers who want to experience Switzerland’s stunning landscapes from a new perspective. It’s perfect for families and couples looking for a relaxed yet exhilarating day out. The easy accessibility and short travel distance from Lucerne also make it suitable for those with limited time but eager for a mountain escape.

Travelers seeking authentic Swiss transport history will enjoy riding the vintage funicular, while those craving outdoor exploration can hike the summit trails at their leisure. Foodies will appreciate the revolving restaurant, offering a unique dining experience with unbeatable views.

Final Thoughts

The CabriO tour to Mt. Stanserhorn delivers a truly memorable Swiss mountain adventure, combining vintage charm, innovative technology, and breathtaking scenery. The ride on the world’s first open-top cable car offers an experience that’s both fun and awe-inspiring, making it a standout activity in the Lucerne area.

While the ticketing process might be slightly less streamlined than expected, the overall value, views, and relaxed atmosphere make this a worthwhile choice for most travelers. Whether you’re a nature lover, photo enthusiast, or just looking for a unique Swiss experience, this tour ticks many boxes.

If you’re after stunning scenery, easy access, and a taste of Swiss engineering marvels, this excursion is highly recommended. It’s a chance to enjoy the mountains in a way that few other activities can match, all while soaking in some genuine Swiss culture and hospitality.

FAQ

Is the ticket prebooked or do I need to buy it on the day?
You can prebook your tickets, which helps save time at the station, but you’ll still need to exchange your voucher at the counter, so arriving early is advisable.

How long does the whole experience take?
The duration can range from 2 to 6 hours, depending on how much time you spend hiking, dining, or exploring at the top.

Can I hike down instead of taking the cable car back?
Yes, some reviews mention that hiking down is an option, adding an extra outdoor element to your day.

What’s included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers the train to Stans, the funicular ride, the CabriO gondola, and access to the summit area including the revolving restaurant.

Are there any age restrictions or physical requirements?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The experience suits a range of ages, provided mobility isn’t an issue.

Is the ride on the CabriO gondola safe?
Yes, the CabriO gondola is a well-engineered, smooth ride trusted for safety, and reviews describe it as very comfortable.

How accessible is the tour for public transportation?
The starting point at Stans is near public transit, making it easy to reach from Lucerne or other nearby towns.

What if the weather is bad?
Cloudy or rainy weather might obscure views, but the experience still remains enjoyable. Check the forecast and plan accordingly, as the views are often spectacular on clear days.

This detailed look at the Mt. Stanserhorn tour shows it as a well-rounded, scenic, and fun-filled adventure perfect for those wanting a genuine taste of the Swiss Alps without a full-day commitment. It’s an experience that combines history, innovation, and natural beauty into one memorable trip.