After 55 years, the iconic Chenus gondola in Courchevel 1850 is being upgraded for winter 2025/26.
Due to open in December 2025, the new €20 million lift will double its uplift capacity and also focus on sustainability.
Uplift capacity will double
Developed by POMA, the improved gondola will feature 10-seater EVO 2 cabins, increasing the hourly capacity from 1200 to 2400 skiers and snowboarders per hour.
The base station is being relocated at the Croisette area on the Courchevel 1850 snow front to ease congestion, especially around the busy Verdons area, and improve skier traffic flow. The new arrival station will include new additions including a picnic area.
Mountain weather is notoriously unpredictable, but the new Chenus gondola has been designed to offer increased wind resistance and prevent closures on blustery days.
Regular visitors to our blog will know that the old cabins were recently available to buy in an auction.
Focus on Sustainability
Sustainability is at the heart of the project. The new installation includes:
- 400m² of photovoltaic panels at the top arrival station
- A rainwater recovery system capable of collecting up to 750m³ annually
- An 8% reduction in energy consumption compared to the previous lift
The route of the new gondola will remain close to its original path, but will only require 11 pylons, rather than 15 previously, to reduce the effect on the alpine landscape and biodiversity.
The project also incorporates bird collision prevention devices, local seed replanting, and reforestation of the former Coqs chairlift area.
Chenus Gondola: Key Facts
- Opening: December 2025
- Capacity: 2,400 people/hour
- Length: 1,898 m
- Vertical Drop: 479 m
- Cabins: 54
- Pylons: 11
- Solar Panels: 400 m²
- Energy Savings: 8%
Accommodation in Courchevel
Chaletline specialise in catered ski chalet holidays and can help you find the right accommodation in all the different ‘stations’ of Courchevel if you want to visit in winter. We offer chalets and hotels in Courchevel Le Praz, Courchevel 1550, Courchevel 1650 and Courchevel 1850.
Call us on 01833 617761 or contact us via our website for free advice.
