Highlight • Rest Area
Furi Cable Car Station
Hiking
4.4
(166)
Alpine skiing
5.0
(1)
The Furi Cable Car Station is a pivotal transportation hub nestled in the Pennine Alps, Switzerland. Situated in the charming alpine hamlet of Furi, approximately three kilometers south of Zermatt, this station stands at an elevation of 1,867 meters above sea level. It serves as a crucial gateway to higher alpine regions, connecting visitors to iconic destinations such as Gornergrat, Schwarzsee, Trockener Steg, and the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, all while being positioned between the Gornera and Zmuttbach rivers.
Visitors consistently praise the Furi Cable Car Station for its strategic location and the impressive views it offers of the surrounding hiking trails and the majestic Pennine Alps. Many appreciate its role as a central transfer point, providing seamless access to a network of mountain adventures. The blend of modern transport infrastructure with nearby natural wonders, including the Dossen Glacier Garden and the thrilling Furi Suspension Bridge, makes it a highly regarded stop for all types of explorers.
As a primary transfer station, Furi is easily accessible from Zermatt, with a modern cable car system that began operation in autumn 2023. This new connection features state-of-the-art 100-person cabins, offering expansive views of the Matterhorn, and even a unique "Rooftop Ride" experience. The station area provides convenient facilities, including restaurants and barbecue spots, catering to both summer and winter guests. Given its alpine environment, appropriate footwear and clothing are always recommended for those planning to explore the numerous Furi Zermatt trails.
Furi is a vibrant destination throughout the year, offering distinct experiences depending on the season. During the warmer months, the Furi Suspension Bridge, the Dossen Glacier Garden with its ancient glacial potholes, and various barbecue areas and restaurants are popular attractions. It's an ideal starting point for Furi Zermatt summer hikes. In winter, the station transforms into a bustling hub for skiers, who gather here before heading out onto the pistes or winding down their day at one of the cozy mountain restaurants.
Many visitors highlight the impressive architecture of the station itself, which provides excellent viewpoints from all angles. The Furi Suspension Bridge, spanning 100 meters across the Gorner Gorge at a height of 90 meters, offers a breathtaking experience and direct access to the Dossen Glacier Garden. Exploring the historic hamlet of Furi, with its traditional wooden barns, also provides a glimpse into the region's rich alpine heritage.
Whether you're planning a challenging trek or a leisurely stroll, the area around Furi Cable Car Station offers a diverse range of routes. You can discover various hiking and cycling paths, explore the Dossen Glacier Garden, or simply enjoy the panoramic views of the Matterhorn. To find the perfect adventure for you, explore the many routes available on komoot, catering to different skill levels and interests, from family-friendly activities to more demanding alpine excursions.
Tips
December 4, 2021
Hiking
In summer, the suspension bridge, glacier garden, barbecue areas and restaurants beckon. In winter, the skiers gather here and think about which piste restaurant they want to end the day in.
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October 30, 2020
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Furi Cable Car Station
4.7
(42)
542
hikers
5.64km
02:00
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(41)
448
hikers
19.2km
09:01
1,300m
1,300m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.6
(16)
314
hikers
8.41km
02:39
260m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
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Elevation 1,840 m
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Frequently Asked Questions
What facilities are available at Furi Cable Car Station for visitors?
Beyond its role as a transport hub, Furi Cable Car Station offers several amenities. You'll find various mountain restaurants for dining, barbecue areas for picnics, and access to the Dossen Glacier Garden with its children's playground. The station itself has been modernized, providing efficient guest and luggage flow, and the new cable cars offer unique viewing experiences like the "Rooftop Ride."
Are there any specific landmarks or natural features to explore near Furi Cable Car Station?
Absolutely! A prominent natural feature is the Dossen Glacier Garden, which showcases glacial potholes and rock caves formed over 4,000 years ago. It's accessible via secured paths. Another significant landmark is the thrilling Furi Suspension Bridge, a 100-meter-long, 90-meter-high bridge spanning the Gorner Gorge, offering breathtaking views and providing access to the Glacier Garden.
Is Furi Cable Car Station easily accessible by public transport, and what are the options?
Furi Cable Car Station is primarily accessed by the cable car from Zermatt. The new cable car, operational since autumn 2023, provides a modern and efficient connection. Zermatt itself is a car-free village, so visitors typically arrive in Zermatt by train and then take the cable car to Furi.
What are the best times to visit Furi Cable Car Station for specific activities like hiking or winter sports?
Furi is a year-round destination. For summer hikes and exploring the Dossen Glacier Garden or suspension bridge, the warmer months are ideal. For winter sports, Furi transforms into a bustling hub for skiers, offering access to numerous pistes and mountain restaurants. The station is well-equipped to handle both seasonal demands.
Is the Furi Cable Car Station area family-friendly, and are there activities for children?
Yes, the Furi area is very family-friendly. The Dossen Glacier Garden includes a children's playground and barbecue areas, making it a great spot for families. The secured paths within the Glacier Garden are also suitable for younger explorers. The cable car ride itself, especially the new "Rooftop Ride," can be an exciting experience for children.
Are there dog-friendly walks or areas near Furi Cable Car Station?
While specific dog policies for the cable car should be checked with the operator, the surrounding alpine environment offers numerous hiking trails where dogs are generally welcome, provided they are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. Many mountain trails around Furi are suitable for walks with canine companions.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible routes or facilities at Furi Cable Car Station?
The Furi Cable Car Station itself, being a modern facility, aims to improve guest flow. However, the surrounding natural attractions like the Dossen Glacier Garden and the Furi Suspension Bridge involve paths that may not be fully wheelchair accessible due to the alpine terrain. It's advisable to check with the cable car operator for specific accessibility details regarding the station and cabins.
What are some of the best hikes that start or pass through Furi Cable Car Station?
Furi serves as an excellent starting point for various hikes. From here, you can access trails leading towards Schwarzsee, Trockener Steg, or even more challenging routes into the higher alpine regions. Popular options include walks to the Dossen Glacier Garden and the Furi Suspension Bridge, or longer treks towards Zermatt or other mountain hamlets, offering diverse terrain for hikers.
How does the Furi Cable Car Station compare to Gornergrat as a destination?
Furi Cable Car Station and Gornergrat offer distinct experiences. Furi is a key transfer station and a gateway to various areas, known for its direct access to the Dossen Glacier Garden and the Furi Suspension Bridge, and its historic hamlet feel. Gornergrat, on the other hand, is a higher-altitude destination renowned for its panoramic views of the Matterhorn and 29 other peaks, accessible by a cogwheel railway. While Furi provides connections to Gornergrat, it offers a more intimate alpine experience with specific local attractions.
Are there any cafes or accommodation options directly at or very near Furi Cable Car Station?
Yes, Furi has several mountain restaurants where visitors can enjoy meals and refreshments. While Furi is a small alpine hamlet, some historic wooden barns have been converted into residential buildings, and there may be limited accommodation options. For a wider range of cafes and hotels, Zermatt, just a short cable car ride away, offers extensive choices.
What are the operating hours for the Furi Cable Car Station and its connections?
The Furi Cable Car Station operates daily, with schedules varying by season. During peak summer and winter seasons, operations typically extend to accommodate hikers and skiers. It's always recommended to check the official Zermatt Bergbahnen website for the most current operating hours and last departure times for all connections from Furi to destinations like Schwarzsee, Trockener Steg, and Zermatt.