Swiss Cable Cars Report Growth Despite July Weather

Swiss mountain transport is proving bulletproof. Despite a miserable July that saw temperatures plummet and rain soak the valleys, the nation's cable car operators have posted a robust 9% increase in passenger numbers from May to July compared to 2024. This isn't just survival; it's a display of remarkable resilience against the whims of nature.

The figures, released today by the Swiss Cable Car Association (SBS), paint a picture of an industry that refuses to be grounded. While the seventh month of the year delivered a sharp 3% drop in traffic due to hostile weather conditions, the early summer momentum was strong enough to carry the season into the green. The data confirms that domestic and international appetite for the Swiss Alps remains insatiable, even when the skies turn grey. However, this national success story masks a fractured landscape where geography dictates destiny.

The real story of the season lies in the dramatic regional divide. The Vaud and Fribourg Alps are absolutely crushing the competition, registering a staggering 27% surge in passengers compared to 2024. This explosive growth positions Western Switzerland as the undisputed powerhouse of the current summer season.

Not far behind, the Bernese Oberland continues its upward trajectory with a solid 14% increase, while Ticino and Valais posted respectable gains of 8% and 6% respectively. These regions have successfully capitalized on every window of sunshine, drawing crowds that are eager to escape the lowlands. The disparity suggests that tourists are becoming more tactical, flocking to regions that offer specific attractions or perhaps slightly more favorable microclimates during unstable weather patterns.

While the west celebrates, the east faces a sobering reality. Graubünden has completely stalled, recording a flat 0% growth compared to last year. The situation becomes even more alarming when viewed against the long-term average: the region is down a critical 10% compared to the last five years.

This stagnation stands in stark contrast to the boom happening elsewhere. While Central Switzerland soars with a 42% increase over the five-year average, Graubünden is grappling with a significant downturn. This disconnect raises urgent questions about the region's current appeal or perhaps its vulnerability to the specific weather patterns that plagued July. As other cantons race ahead, the eastern giant is currently left standing on the platform.

Context is king, and the long-term view reveals a sector in overdrive. Compared to the average of the last five years, national passenger numbers have vaulted by an impressive 27%. The Bernese Oberland is the standout performer in this timeframe, registering a massive 61% jump above the five-year baseline.

However, we must temper this enthusiasm with reality. This comparison includes the dark days of the pandemic, where restrictions and lockdowns artificially depressed the numbers. The "growth" is partly a return to normalcy, but the magnitude of the rebound—particularly in Bern and Central Switzerland—suggests we are moving beyond recovery into a new era of high-volume alpine tourism. The mountains are not just back in business; they are busier than ever.

The industry now pivots its gaze to the horizon. "The summer season shows how dependent the industry is on nature and weather conditions," admits SBS Director Berno Stoffel. Yet, the mood remains defiant. The sector is banking on a strong finish to the year.

Stoffel emphasizes optimism for the second half of the season. "Experience shows that, if the weather is favourable, even in the months of August to October it is possible to expect many guests in the mountains." With the erratic July in the rearview mirror, operators are ready to capitalize on the late summer and autumn crowds. If the sun shines, the records set in the first half of the season may well be shattered by the time the first snow falls.