Intro

The Palfries cable car offers a unique view of large parts of the Heidiland and beyond. The cable car runs directly above an impressive waterfall, one of the highest in Switzerland. After passengers arrive at 1,728 metres above sea level, the imposing Palfries plateau is revealed in all its glory.

The Palfries cable car has only been in operation since 2016. Formerly a military cable car, it was built in 1941 and has had an eventful history. The Palfries cable car cooperative committed to ensuring that the cable car was preserved and could be used for tourist purposes. These days, the cable car is operated by volunteers. Since 2010, the cable car has been part of the national fleet of historic cable cars. The cable car takes just 12 minutes to climb a total ascent of around 1,200 metres. The view from the cabin during the ride is spectacular; as the cable car passes over the waterfalls of the Ragnatsch stream for long stretches.

The sun-drenched Palfries plateau lies like a well-kept secret high above the Sarganserland. Few people driving through the region on the motorway in the valley will have any idea what a magnificent landscape can be encountered up here. The Palfries plateau is now a popular destination for families, hikers, nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. 

The idyllic mountain landscape is host to a multitude of walking and hiking trails of varying degrees of difficulty that invite you to explore. A challenging mountain hike leads to the Alvier summit hut, among other places. The peak beckons with an incredible panoramic view of Lake Walensee, the Rhine Valley as far as Lake Constance, the Glarus Alps, the Principality of Liechtenstein and, on a clear day, even as far as the mountains of Graubünden. 

The Palfries plateau offers a wealth of nature-based experiences and activities that will delight visitors. Picturesque picnic areas and pleasant barbecue spots invite you to linger. The refreshing bathing pool and the invigorating Kneipp facility at Sennis-Alp are the perfect way to cool off and revitalise tired feet on hot summer days or after a hike. Another highlight is a visit to the old town hall, a historic 600-year-old log building constructed in the vernacular style of the local Walser people.

Guests can indulge in culinary delights in one of the five cosy mountain cabins and enjoy regional delicacies while marvelling at the breathtaking panorama. Each mountain cabin has a unique atmosphere and a visit is the perfect way to round off a visit to the Palfries plateau.


Operating hours: Daily from mid-May to mid-November

Reservations: Bookings via the reservation system are strongly recommended.

General information

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Season
May - November
Time required
2 to 4 hours (half day)
Suitable for
Children, Families, Groups, Individual, Couples
Accessible
Wheelchair accessible
Weather
Outdoor
Category
Active, Adventure, Culinary, Nature, Relax

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Contact

Seilbahn-Palfries
Ludiweg 11
8888  Heiligkreuz
Switzerland

Phone  +41 (0)81 599 43 79
seilbahn-palfries.ch
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Overview

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Overview
Mels / Heiligkreuz
Eastern Switzerland / Liechtenstein
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Contact

Seilbahn-Palfries
Ludiweg 11
8888 Heiligkreuz
Phone  +41 (0)81 599 43 79
seilbahn-palfries.ch
Show Route

Travel information: Mels / Heiligkreuz

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