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The iconic Bellecôte gondolas are up for auction this Saturday!
If you’ve skied in La Plagne any time over the last few decades, you’ll probably have sat in one of the distinctive blue bubble lifts that used to ferry skiers up to Roche de Mio. They were a staple of the landscape since 1975! So they're a bit rattly, yes, but full of charm. Now they’re being auctioned off, and you could take one home.
Whether you want a statement piece for your garden, a quirky ski chalet centrepiece, or simply something nostalgic to remind you of winters gone by, here’s everything you need to know.
What’s Actually for Sale?
La Plagne is auctioning off 121 original gondola cabins – the big 6-seater bubble-lifts that once ran between Bellecôte, Belle Plagne, and Roche de Mio. These are proper ski resort relics, made by Pomagalski and SIMGA, and they’re being sold individually.
They’re not suitable for use on a lift anymore – safety standards have moved on! But they’d make fantastic decorative pieces if you’ve got a bit of imagination.
Quick facts:
- For decorative use only
- 121 ex-La Plagne gondola cabins
- 6-seaters (Pomagalski / SIMGA models)
- Sold without clamps or hangers
When and Where Is the Auction?
The auction is happening this Saturday, 28 June 2025. You can view the cabins in person in the morning, and the bidding starts in the afternoon. There’s also an option to bid online if you’re not local.
Timings & Locations:
- Online bidding: Subscribe to the sale here.
- Public viewing: 10am–12pm at the Bellecôte car park (73210 La Plagne Bellecôte)
- Auction starts: 2pm
- Venue: Cinema Les Écrins, 45 Place Albert Perrière, 73210 La Plagne Tarentaise
What Condition Are The La Plagne Bubble's In?
Let’s be honest! These gondolas have seen a lot of winters. But that's the beauty! They’re being sold “as is” with no guarantees, and buyers are encouraged to inspect them before bidding. Expect scratches, cracks, dents, and graffiti, but also a whole lot of character.
Think of them as blank canvases for your next DIY or home decor project.
Condition summary:
- Sold as is, no complaints allowed post-sale
- Cosmetic wear: cracks, dents, scratched plexiglass, torn leather seats
- Some have graffiti, stickers or surface rust
- Restoration needed — but full of retro charm
What’s the Starting Price?
Each gondola starts at €500. Though with 121 for sale, there may be a few bargains if demand is low. Do factor in the auction fees and any delivery costs too.
Costs to consider:
- Payment: due immediately (cash accepted up to €1,000)
- Starting bid: €500 per gondola
- Auction fees: 18% (plus 3.6% for online bids)
How Do You Get It Home?
If you win a cabin, you’ll need to collect it the following Saturday, 5 July 2025. A hoist will be on site to assist with loading, and local transport companies are available to provide additional support if needed.
Collection details:
- Transports Chavoutier (Moutiers): 06 86 96 23 18
- Pick-up day: Saturday 5 July 2025
- Time: 9am–12 noon and 2pm–4pm
- Location: Bellecôte car park
- On-site hoist available
- Delivery help: Bouzon Transports (La Plagne): 04 79 09 76 72
Should you buy a La Plagne Gondola?
This is a one-off opportunity to own a slice of La Plagne’s history! Whether you’re a long-time fan or a first-time visitor who fell in love with the resort. The cabins aren’t perfect, but they’re packed with stories and charm. If you’re local or fancy a day trip, I highly recommend heading to Bellecôte on Saturday morning to take a look.
I’ll be there for a nosey (and maybe to place a cheeky bid).
Will I see you there?
Find out more about the new Bellecôte to Roche de Mio Gondola, opening for winter 2025/26.
