History of the Salève cable car

Located on Mont Salève, the cable car of the same name is much more than just a means of transport. Since its inauguration in 1932, it has become a symbol of ingenuity and cooperation between France and Switzerland. Each ascent tells a story of dreams, technical challenges and unforgettable moments, making the Salève cableway an exceptional Franco-Swiss heritage.

A Visionary Dream: the Salève cable car

The story of the Salève cable car began with a collective dream by visionary pioneers in the 1920s. This major project came to life thanks to the ambition of Auguste Fournier, an entrepreneur from Haute-Savoie who wanted to make the summit of the Salève, nicknamed “the balcony of Geneva”, accessible. Eager to open up this unique area to as many people as possible, Fournier surrounded himself with specialists to make his dream a reality.

Among them were André Rebuffel, a telephone engineer from Paris, who provided indispensable technical expertise, and Georges Riondel, a civil engineer from Geneva, who helped develop the project’s structural solutions. Together, they worked alongside Maurice Braillard, a passionate Geneva architect, who dreamed of making the Salève a meeting place for man and nature, where everyone could admire the beauty of the region effortlessly.

Thanks to this trio of talented men and their shared vision, the Salève aerial tramway was inaugurated in 1932, a technical feat for its time. Designed to offer Geneva residents and tourists alike a breathtaking view of the city and the Alps, it attracted thousands of visitors from the moment it opened and became a symbol of the union between technology and nature.

Since then, the Salève cable car has remained an emblematic landmark, perpetuating the spirit of its founders by offering privileged access to an exceptional panorama and welcoming nature, culture and adventure enthusiasts every year. This Franco-Swiss heritage is a tribute to the audacity and genius of its creators, who succeeded in making the Salève a place of contemplation and discovery, just a stone’s throw from Geneva.

The Beginnings: A Triumphal Opening

Major Renovations: Preserving and modernizing

Over the decades, the Salève cable car has had to modernize to meet safety and comfort requirements, while preserving its historic character. After several years of downtime, notably in the late 1970s and 2000s, major renovations were undertaken to ensure its longevity. Each update has been carefully thought out to combine modernization with respect for heritage.

The cabins have been completely modernized, the cables reinforced and the installations adapted to offer a safer, more comfortable experience. These efforts have enabled the ropeway to remain at the cutting edge of innovation, while retaining the charm and authenticity of its era. Thanks to these renovations, the Salève aerial tramway continues to impress, combining tradition and modernity to the delight of its visitors.

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A Franco-Swiss symbol of conviviality and sharing

Over the years, the Salève aerial tramway has become much more than just a tourist attraction; it is now a symbol of Franco-Swiss friendship and cooperation. Located in France but overlooking Geneva, it unites the two nations around a shared heritage. For the Genevans, it represents quick access to nature, a means of escaping the city and enjoying green spaces. For the French, it’s a local pride that enhances the region and attracts visitors from all over the world every year.

Recognized as part of the Franco-Swiss heritage, the aerial tramway embodies this unique link between two cultures that meet and support each other. Today, it plays an essential role in local tourism, attracting sports enthusiasts, families and nature lovers alike.

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A cable car at the heart of a Natura 2000 area: a sustainable commitment

Over the decades, the Salève aerial tramway has witnessed the transformations of its environment, located in the heart of a Natura 2000 area. From rising temperatures to changes in vegetation, it has closely observed the evolution of the region. Today, more than ever, the ropeway is fully committed to a sustainable approach.

Aware of today’s ecological challenges, it implements initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint, protect local biodiversity and raise visitors’ awareness of nature conservation. These actions aim to preserve the ecological balance of this exceptional site, classified Natura 2000, while enabling everyone to discover and appreciate this unique natural heritage.

Thanks to these commitments, the cable car continues to play a key role in protecting the environment, reminding us of the importance of preserving our natural resources for future generations.

Unforgettable moments and memorable events

The Salève cable car: an enduring legacy

The history of the Salève cable car continues to be written every day, with every ascent and descent, with every visitor who marvels at the scenery. Today, it remains a meeting point between France and Switzerland, a witness to the technical innovations of the past and a player in environmental preservation for the future.

Over time, it has become a living Franco-Swiss heritage, the symbol of a visionary dream that has endured through the ages. By taking a ride on the Salève cable car, you’re playing your part in the history of this exceptional heritage, and in its development from generation to generation.

photo credits: Fondation Braillard Architecte, Agence Hemelka