Getting Around Budapest In High Style: Budapest's Zugliget Chairlift

via the bkv site

One of the truly great things for locals and long-term residents of the city of Budapest, is the feeling that there is always something novel, undiscovered, and new about the place, be it a just-opened ‘ruin pub’ created from a decrepit building, an unofficial apartment restaurant, or unfamiliar arcade packed with cute design shops. The new and the old blend together in a way that allows one to be a tourist in one’s own city.

To boot: did you know you can take a chairlift within city limits? The Zugliget chairlift is just one of the things that is surprising yet well-worn in this fine city. The Zugliget chairlift, which takes one deep into Buda’s János Hill, has been in operation for over fifty years. It was actually in the works for many years previous, since the early 1930s. The execution of the scheme took time, however, because construction was put on hold by more than one war. But in 1969 ground was broke, and a year and a half later — with help from some Austrian technology — the cable-based form of transport was delivering passengers up into Budapest’s wilderness.

via the bkv site

Among the (hilarious) names that were rejected after public tender were (in translation) Hilly-copter, Johnny-copter, Push-Pull, Duo János, János Hill Murr, Hilly Humblebee, Heavenly Cart, Armchair lift, Devil’s Chariot, Fly-seat, and Bumpy hump. The nickname ‘Libegő”, or ‘lift’, is the one that stuck, though Zugliget is the official name.

The line features 101 double seated hanging chairs, and the ride takes a total of fifteen minutes. The line is routinely renovated, with new parts replaced, including a new cable every ten years. The peak of János Hill is the highest spot in Budapest, making it a popular spot for hikers and skiers. With its lookout tower, the panorama is unparalleled.

The charlift is open year-round, and there are special lit night rides as well. So go ahead, take a seat and ride high. Budapest has never looked so good.

Erzsébet Lookout Tower via bkv site

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