Stresa–Alpino–Mottarone Cable Car

The Stresa–Alpino–Mottarone cable car is a lift system in northern Italy that connects the shore of Lake Maggiore with the summit of Mount Mottarone. It covers a vertical rise of more than 1300 meters (about 4265 feet) along a route of 3020 meters (about 9908 feet), providing access to different elevations on the mountain.

The current cable car operation opened in 1970, replacing an earlier rack railway that had carried passengers up the mountain since 1911. The switch to cabin lifts followed a broader shift across the Italian Alps, where many older railways gave way to modern aerial systems.

The lower station sits near the center of Stresa, just a short walk from the lakeside promenade. From there, the route climbs steadily through woodland and open slopes toward the summit, where walking trails fan out in several directions.

When the weather is clear, views during the ride are wide and open, but on foggy days visibility may be limited. Those planning to hike should bring warm clothing, as temperatures at the summit are noticeably cooler than at the lake.

On clear days, the view from the upper station reaches across seven different lakes, among them Lake Maggiore, Lake Orta, and Lake Mergozzo. This wide perspective comes from the exposed position of the summit, which rises well above the surrounding hills.

Location: Stresa

Inception: 1970

Length: 3,020 m

GPS coordinates: 45.88470,8.49065

Latest update: December 5, 2025 16:32