A 53-year-old tourist was discovered dead inside a mountain gondola after it reached the summit at a popular French ski resort, sparking a tragic start to the new year for the local community.
Discovery at the Mountain Summit
The grim discovery was made by a horrified gondola operator on the afternoon of January 6, 2026. The holidaymaker, who had boarded the lift alone, was found unresponsive when the cabin arrived at the top station of the Val Cenis ski resort in Savoie, southeastern France.
Believed Cause of the Tragedy
Initial reports from the resort and local authorities indicate the man is believed to have suffered a sudden cardiac arrest during the ascent. The incident occurred in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, a major destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The tourist, whose identity has not been publicly released, was travelling by himself at the time.
Resort Operations and Aftermath
The discovery caused significant distress for resort staff who made the find. While such incidents are rare, they highlight the potential health risks associated with high-altitude activities, even for those using transport like gondolas. The resort, Val Cenis, is a well-known area for skiing and snowboarding, attracting visitors from across Europe, including many from the UK.
Authorities were promptly notified, and an investigation was launched, though early indications point to a natural medical cause. The event serves as a sombre reminder for travellers to be aware of their physical condition when undertaking holidays that involve exertion or altitude changes.
