Renon Cable Car and Railway: A Panoramic Journey Through Modernity and History
Riding up to the Renon plateau is more than just a transfer — it’s a true journey through breathtaking views, cutting-edge technology, and echoes of history. Just steps from the heart of Bolzano, two iconic means of transport await you, turning every trip into an unforgettable experience.
The Renon Cable Car: Technology with a View
Inaugurated in 2009, the Renon cable car is today one of South Tyrol’s most modern public transport systems. Thanks to its three-cable design — with two carrying cables and one hauling cable — it ensures stability, safety, and comfort even in less favorable weather conditions.
Departure point: Via Renon 12, just 10 minutes on foot from Bolzano railway station.
The cabins, spacious and bright, depart every 4 minutes, carry up to 35 passengers, and reach a maximum speed of 7 m/s, taking you to the top of the plateau in just 12 minutes. Plenty of time to enjoy one of the most spectacular panoramas over Bolzano, Lake Caldaro, the castles of the Oltradige, and the Dolomite peaks.
The cabins also allow the transport of bicycles and strollers, making the experience accessible and practical for everyone. For maximum safety, the system is equipped with a rescue mechanism that allows passengers to be brought safely back to the station in case of a stop.
The Renon cable car is one of the few systems in Europe to operate with a three-cable model in an urban setting, and it’s used daily by commuters living on the plateau and working in Bolzano.
The Historic Renon Railway: A Step Back in Time
Once at the top, the adventure continues aboard the historic Renon railway, which departs right next to the cable car’s upper station.
Inaugurated in 1907, it was originally a rack-and-pinion train connecting the plateau to Bolzano in about 90 minutes — a true transport revolution for its time. It was used for both freight and passenger service, fostering tourism and the area’s economic growth.
Today, the Renon train links the villages of Soprabolzano, Costalovara, Stella, and Collalbo, crossing larch woods, flower-filled meadows, and breathtaking viewpoints. Along the way, your gaze drifts across the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering postcard-perfect vistas.
Fun fact: The Renon railway is one of the very few historic trains still running on its original track and has been electrically powered since the early 1900s — a shining example of sustainable mobility long before its time!
Whether you choose the silent modernity of the cable car or the timeless charm of the historic train, the journey to Renon is a panoramic experience that blends innovation, tradition, and nature, offering unforgettable views of South Tyrol even before your hike begins.
