Raise a vin chaud and shed a sentimental tear, folks—because the legendary Chenus gondola in Courchevel 1850 is hanging up its cables after 55 years of faithful service. Yes, the lift that’s hauled generations of goggle-eyed skiers from La Croisette to the top of Loze is being retired. But fear not—its sleek, swanky successor will be ready to roll just in time for the 2025/26 ski season.
We’ve had some cracking memories with the old girl. Soggy gloves. Swinging in the wind. Whispered gossip in fogged-up cabins. But while nostalgia tugs at our woolly hearts, this upgrade is pure Alpine progress.
We can’t wait to take a spin on the new Chenus ourselves—and you can bet your ski pass we’ll be reporting back once it’s up and running this winter. 
All Aboard the Future: What’s New With the Chenus Gondola?
- Faster & fancier cabins: Say hello to 10-seater EVO 2 gondolas (so plush you’ll half expect prosecco). Capacity doubles to 2,400 skiers per hour.
- Smoother ride, less fuss: The route’s been tweaked and now runs on just 11 pylons (down from 15). That’s easier on the environment—and your hangover.
- Green power: 400m² of solar panels at the summit plus a nifty water-saving system that reclaims 750m³ of snowmelt and rain each year.
- Energy smarter: It uses around 8% less electricity than the old model—Mother Nature gives it two mittened thumbs up.
- Prime location: The new base station is parked right on the La Croisette snow front. Handy, spacious, and a better spot for those of us who shuffle around in rental boots like penguins on ice.
- Summit glow-up: A new indoor picnic area, restrooms and logistics hub means the top of Loze just became your favourite new lunch stop.
When’s Lift-Off?
Pencil in 6 December 2025—that’s when the new Chenus gondola makes its grand debut. Rumour has it Courchevel’s planning a proper mountain knees-up. Après starts on the lift?
Why You’ll Love the New Chenus
- Queue less, ski more: Double the uplift capacity means you’ll spend more time shredding corduroy and less time making awkward chat in lift lines.
- Gentle progression: Great for beginners and early intermediates, with smooth loading and mellow terrain once you’re up top.
- Mountain munching: That new picnic spot? Perfect for your baguette-and-brie moment with a view.
- Eco feel-good factor: Zoom uphill knowing you’re doing your bit for the planet without sacrificing a smidge of style.
Video: Enjoy a ride on the old gondola.
Quickfire Chenus Gondola Stats
| Feature | What’s New |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 2,400 skiers/hour (was 1,200) |
| Cabins | 54 x 10-seaters (EVO 2) |
| Pylons | 11 (previously 15) |
| Solar Panels | Up to 400 m² |
| Water Recovery | 750 m³/year |
| Energy Use | ~8% less |
| Base Station | Right at La Croisette |
| Summit Station | Picnic room, toilets, logistics |
| Opening Date | 6 December 2025 |
The WeLove2Ski Takeaway
Whether you’re cutting your teeth on the greens or zipping around like a local, Courchevel’s new Chenus lift is the kind of upgrade we love: fast, comfy, and quietly green. And let’s be honest—nostalgia’s lovely, but a shiny new gondola with heated seats and less faff is lovelier still.
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