Muottas MuraglA pioneering achievement in tourism
Did you know that the Muottas Muragl funicular was the first mountain railway in Graubünden to open up a scenic peak to tourists—and that it did so over 100 years ago? We’re incredibly proud of our unique history, and that’s why we’d love to share it with you…
Did you know that the Muottas Muragl funicular was the first mountain railway in Graubünden to open up a scenic peak to tourists—and that it did so over 100 years ago? We’re incredibly proud of our unique history, and that’s why we’d love to share it with you…
For over 100 years straight up
More than 100 years ago, the Muottas Muragl Railway rattled its way up the daring slope for the first time. It had to navigate a 2,201-meter-long stretch with a gradient of nearly 56 percent to reach the mountain’s summit at 2,456 meters. Naturally, the first passengers were left breathless—which was completely understandable given the panoramic scenery all around. Thanks to these courageous pioneers, we can now welcome you to what is arguably the most beautiful mountain for day trips in the Engadin.
More than 100 years ago, the Muottas Muragl Railway rattled up the daring slope for the first time. It had to navigate a 2,201-meter-long stretch with a gradient of nearly 56 percent to reach the mountain’s summit at 2,456 meters. Naturally, the first passengers were left breathless—which was perfectly understandable given the panoramic scenery all around. Thanks to these courageous pioneers, we can now welcome you to what is arguably the most beautiful mountain for day trips in the Engadin.
- 1890 For the first time, Wildberger, an engineer from Chur, is making headlines with his idea for a mountain railway.
- 1904 Engineer Jos Englert designs the project—the Muottas Muragl Cable Car Association is founded. A look at the plans reveals: CHF 800,000 in project costs, a passenger capacity of 1,144 people per day in each direction, a 52-person cabin, operating 6 days a week for 8 weeks during the summer, CHF 3 per ticket, and CHF 1 for dogs
- May 4, 1905 Groundbreaking! The materials for the hut are carried up the mountain by mules. The Italians among the 350 workers are put off by the early snow in September and threaten to leave.
- Frühling 1906 After construction was halted over the winter, work is finally resuming. This includes a director who is now steering the project for an annual salary of CHF 4,000, including housing and 50 centners of coal.
- Februar 1907 Simon Jenatsch, a local conservationist and descendant of Jürg Jenatsch, carries out an attack on the railroad. He uses a hammer to destroy the brake station. His plan to set the station on fire is thwarted.
- 9. August 1907 Maiden voyage after more than a year of construction delays. The funicular is the first mountain railway in Graubünden to provide access to a scenic mountain. Actual construction costs: CHF 1.2 million—a 50 percent cost overrun. Conductors are listed on the monthly payroll at CHF 150, and engineers at CHF 175.
- Winter 1908/09 In response to requests from guests and the hotel industry, the start of the winter season—following a poor summer—is bringing the first skiers to the mountain.
- the 1920s After weathering the hardships of World War I and renovating the hotel’s main and south facades—which included painting, sheet metal work, and roofing—the major capital projects of the 1920s were also completed.
- 1928–1935 With the construction of the Corviglia cable car and the Suvretta chairlift, the first competing operations are emerging in the valley.
- 1939 The railroad had to cope with severe financial setbacks caused by World War II. It was only thanks to the staff’s willingness to forgo 25 percent of their wages that reduced operations could be maintained.
- the 1950s and 1960s Mountain Rail Construction Boom in the Engadin: Piz Nair, Diavolezza, Marguns, Corvatsch, and Lagalb have submitted concession applications. Officials from the Muottas-Muragl Railway have unsuccessfully opposed the approval of Piz Nair and Diavolezza.
- Winter of 1963–64 Cheers to skiing! The first ski lift is whirring away at Muottas Muragl.
- Winter 1972 Increased capacity thanks to the second lift. Even so, it's difficult to hold one's own against the competition from other ski resorts.
- Herbst 1985 Renovations and upgrades at the mountain restaurant.
- 1992 Renovation of the railroad tracks and the funicular.
- 1994 The Philosophers' Trail adds a new dimension to the range of offerings.
- 1997 With the 4.2-kilometer-long toboggan run, the resort gains another attractive new attraction.
- Sommer 2007 100 Years of Railroad History: Grand anniversary celebrations, a book publication, and the unveiling of the sculpture “Il Guot” (The Drop) by artist Timo Lindner mark the anniversary.
- 2009–2010 Renovation and complete refurbishment of the Muottas Muragl Mountain Hotel.
- December 18, 2010 Reopening of the Romantik Hotel Muottas Muragl.
- 2011 Thanks to its forward-looking energy concept, the Romantik Hotel Muottas Muragl has won the 2011 Swiss Solar Prize as well as other prestigious environmental and tourism awards.
Over 100 yearsHistory in Pictures
From the earliest days of construction with picks and shovels to the modern tourist destination it is today: These images tell the remarkable story of the Muottas Muragl Railway—a testament to the pioneering spirit, courage, and the unique bond between people and the mountains in the Engadin.
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