The First Visions

As early as the beginning of the 20th century, the idea arose to build a cable car to the Untersberg. The plan was to build a spectacular, pillar-free “monster cable car” that would run from what was then the harbor building on Salzburg’s Rudolfsplatz up to the Hochthron in Salzburg. However, the technical and financial conditions were not in place—the plans remained a vision.

The Path to Implementation

It was not until after World War II, with Austria’s economic recovery, that the project could be resumed. The Untersberg Cable Car Company was founded in 1956. However, the original plan to build a railway directly to the Hochthron in Salzburg failed because the route would have crossed Bavarian territory. Funding could not be secured at that time either.

The Founding of the Untersbergbahn

Salzburg Mayor Alfred Bäck was deeply committed to the development of the Untersberg. After the municipal council considered the investment in 1957, Untersbergbahn Ges.m.b.H. was founded on May 15, 1958. Thanks to guarantees from the City of Salzburg, as well as ERP loans and bank loans, funding for the construction was ultimately secured.

Construction Under Extreme Conditions

The construction of the Untersbergbahn presented extraordinary challenges for everyone involved. The steep and rugged limestone massif made it virtually impossible to use heavy machinery. Much of the work had to be done by hand or by experienced climbers. During the construction period, the workers lived in tent camps and simple makeshift shelters.

A total of three auxiliary cable cars were built to transport materials and equipment up the mountain. One of them was named “Ghost Train” because it ran day and night. The construction project became a showcase of engineering excellence and ultimately cost about 34.5 million schillings.

The First Test Drive

On February 18, 1961, a gondola reached the mountain station for the first time as part of a test run.
For the engineers and workers, this was the culmination of years of work
under often extremely difficult conditions.

Start of Operations and Grand Opening

On April 27, 1961, the Untersbergbahn began regular service. A few weeks later, on May 14, 1961, it was officially opened. Together with Federal President Adolf Schärf, Governor Hans Lechner, and numerous guests of honor, a new chapter was written in the development of tourism on Salzburg’s local mountain.

Comprehensive Renovation of the Railroad

After more than four decades of operation, the Untersbergbahn underwent extensive modernization. As part of a comprehensive renovation, key technical systems were replaced, and the railway was upgraded to meet the needs of the coming decades. The modernization ensured that the highest safety standards and modern riding comfort are maintained.

New gondolas and modern technology

Another significant milestone followed with the replacement of the two cabins. The new gondolas offer passengers greater comfort, larger panoramic windows, and state-of-the-art safety technology. At the same time, numerous technical components of the lift, as well as sections of the lower and upper stations, were modernized. In doing so, the Untersbergbahn made a sustainable investment in its future and strengthened its position as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Salzburg region.

Tradition and the Future Combined

Since it opened, the Untersbergbahn has delighted generations of visitors. It combines impressive engineering with a unique experience of nature and transports thousands of hikers, mountaineers, nature lovers, and those who enjoy panoramic views to the Untersberg in just a few minutes each year. Thanks to ongoing investments in safety, comfort, and infrastructure, it remains a Salzburg landmark to this day and a modern gateway to the alpine adventures of the Untersberg.