Dubbed “The 8th Wonder of the World,” the newly redesigned Skyway Monte Bianco cable car opened to the public earlier this week. A three year project in the making, construction was finished last May and after initial test runs and finishing tasks, the opening ceremonies brought in Aosta Valley President, Prime Minister Matteo Renzi, and members of the clergy. The Italian clergy attending the event blessed the cable car and afterwards, resort officials made comments on the milestone.
A three-year construction project, the “Skyway Monte Bianco” cost €110 million and seeks to bring summer visitors to the Italian side of Mt. Blanc. In the winter, the new lift will be a boon for skiers, riders, and mountaineers who will be able to access to vast amount of backcountry terrain including the Vallees Blanche on the French side of Mont Blanc.
The cable car itself spins 360 degrees during its ascent offering spectacular views of the Aosta Valley and Mont Blanc.
For some skiers the completion marks the end of a bygone era and for others, it’s just the beginning.