Ten Facts About the Sterling Aerial Gondola
A Napa Valley Must-See
Here at Sterling, we are proud to say that we are the only winery in the world with an aerial gondola. Since the 1970s, it’s carried guests to and from our hillside winery, wowing with spectacular views of the Napa Valley along the way. Here are some facts about the Sterling Aerial Gondola, a one-of-a-kind scenic journey through the heart of wine country.
#1 An aerial gondola is a type of transportation system in which cabins are suspended and propelled on a continuously circulating cable. It's typically used in steep and high-altitude areas, such as ski resorts and mountainous regions, where conventional transportation methods like cars or trains are impractical or impossible.
#2 With a maximum operating weight limit of 1,500 pounds and fully assembled with the wire grip, our cabins stand an impressive 16 feet tall.
#3 The highest point where guests are off the ground is close to 105 feet, and the total length of the haul rope is 2,800 feet.
#4 The Sterling Aerial Gondola can operate at speeds of 600 feet per minute. However, a comfortable pace is always maintained, allowing guests to fully enjoy the breathtaking 360-degree views.
#5 The direction of the gondola system has been reconfigured, now offering a longer ride up the northern hillside of the property to give maximum panoramic views of the Napa Valley. The meticulously designed lift angles offer exclusive and enhanced views, amplifying the overall passenger experience.
#6 Featuring state-of-the-art, tinted glass, and wood teak interior seats, the cabins offer passengers a luxurious ride paired with stunning views.
#7 The no-step-in design facilitates easy access for those with mobility issues and strollers, making it fully ADA-compliant.
#8 The system will be 100% powered by solar energy, minimizing its environmental impact, and promoting sustainable tourism.
#9 The gondola was designed and built by Dopplemayer, the same company who built our gondola almost 50 years ago.
#10 The system is engineered to operate in every season, from beautiful, warm summer days to cozy, rainy winter afternoons.
Our Manufacturer Doppelmayr
Doppelmayr, a world-renowned Austrian company, specializes in the design, manufacturing, and installation of advanced ropeway systems. Their cutting-edge technology, unparalleled safety standards, and dedication to customer satisfaction have solidified Doppelmayr's reputation as the go-to partner for reliable, efficient, and environmentally friendly aerial transpo
