Getting married in the Saanenland has never been more romantic – thanks to a new gondola service that allows happy couples to tie the knot as they climb the Alps in a cable car.
Mr and Mrs Saanenland
Getting married in Switzerland is a two-step process: First, there’s the civil ceremony, performed by a city official. For Saanenland residents, this requires a trip to the Zivilstandskreis (Civil Registry District) Oberland West in Thun, where you can file the necessary paperwork and participate in a civil ceremony. Second, you can exchange your vows in a religious ceremony of your choice, once you have fulfilled the state’s requirements in Thun. For couples that do not wish to have a religious ceremony, their only option has been to marry in the registry office, depriving them of the personal, romantic ceremonies that couples of faith enjoy.
The mile-high marriage club
In summer, the Berghaus Rellerli hosts such intimate civil wedding ceremonies in a number of settings. This year, happy couples can choose to exchange their vows in a new, lovingly designed, chalet-style wedding gondola that runs from Schönried to the
Rellerli.
“With this specially designed cable car, we’d like couples to make their journey to the altar an unforgettable experience,” says Armon Cantieni, Director of Bergbahnen Destination Gstaad, which runs several mountain railways in the area.
The gondola was fully sponsored by a group of local contributors. Matti Chaletbau provided the wood and equipment at its own expense, while other companies contributed in the form of donations. Interior design and decorations were supplied by Müller-Hirschi of Zweisimmen and Peter Rölli Werbe GmbH of Saanen.
A peak marital experience
Inaugurated in June, the nuptial gondola is a charming addition to the wedding services offered by the Berghaus Rellerli, which has been in the business of matrimony for many years. The gondola can be personalized with floral arrangements or romantic decorations, in keeping with the theme of your wedding and complimenting the beautiful vistas. The Berghaus Rellerli boasts a magnificent Alpine setting for up to 300 guests, including an oversized terrace with a stunning panorama of 2000-metre peaks. The simple yet elegant interior can be dressed up or down to accommodate all styles.
Book your gondola early
Due to its growing popularity, the gondola should be booked at least six months in advance with the authorities in Thun.
www.pom.be.ch or www.berghaus-rellerli.ch
