Canillo's Tibetan Bridge Hits €1.9M Revenue Record, Cable Car Planned

Canillo's Tibetan Bridge and Roc del Quer viewpoint have emerged as the parish's top tourist draws, posting record revenues of €1.9 million in 2025 and finishing the year with €1.3 million in profit, parish major consell Jordi Alcobé announced Friday.

Speaking to RNA, Alcobé highlighted the strong performance during the Christmas period, though he noted the need to boost summer tourism—a goal that is progressing steadily thanks to the two year-round attractions, which only close in extreme weather. Despite challenges like requiring a bus ride and a one-kilometre walk to reach the bridge, the sites achieved their highest-ever billing.

This success stands in sharp contrast to the Palau de Gel, which Alcobé described as an essential facility but one that has never turned a profit. It recorded losses of €1.6 million in 2025, pending final accounts, partly due to a month-long summer closure of the pool caused by a breakdown. Alcobé stressed ongoing efforts to improve viability through expansions like a larger gym, two new restaurants, and pool upgrades, alongside energy-saving measures to cut costs and increase income.

Looking ahead, Alcobé outlined plans for an Armiana cable car to enhance access, eliminate bus dependency, and better manage visitor flows. After a failed tender where the sole bid reached €22 million, the parish is finalising a revised design with adjusted routing and station buildings to lower costs. A negotiated process with the three specialised firms aims for a price at most half the previous offer.

The cable car would feature two cabins holding 15 to 20 passengers each. Alcobé expects 14 months of construction once awarded, targeting operation by summer 2027. Entry fees for the bridge and viewpoint would rise by €10-12, creating a €30 package including the cable car ride. He predicted it could generate €1 million annually, covering its costs through self-amortisation.