Penkenbahn, Gondola lift in Schwendau, Austria.
The Penkenbahn is a cable car in Schwendau that connects the valley to the mountain and provides access to several ski areas. The modern facility operates with continuous cabins moving passengers steadily between the lower and upper stations.
The first cable car opened in 1995 with smaller cabins for winter sports users. It was replaced in 2015 with a new system that dramatically increased passenger capacity.
The cable car serves skiers heading to several connected ski areas across the mountains. You'll see winter sports enthusiasts with their gear boarding regularly throughout the season.
The cabins fill up quickly during ski season, especially at midday and on weekends. Going early in the day usually means shorter waits and a more comfortable ride.
During warmer months, mountain bikers and hikers use the cable car to access trails on the peak. The site is also known as a popular paragliding launch area with multiple takeoff points.
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