Matterhorn and Zermatt
★ 4.9🇨🇭 ZermattSuggested visit 1-2 daysBest season July to September for hiking; December to March for skiing
NatureSnow mountainsHiking
The pyramid of the Matterhorn is the emblem of the Alps, with a car-free village at its foot.
Overview
At 4,478 metres the Matterhorn's four ridges are almost symmetrical, making it the most recognisable peak in the Alps. Zermatt below is car-free, allowing only electric vehicles and horse carriages. The Gornergrat railway climbs to a 3,089-metre viewpoint where 29 peaks above 4,000 metres are visible at once, including the Matterhorn, and the Glacier Paradise cable car and many trails add more options.
History
First climbed in 1865 by Edward Whymper's party, which lost members on the descent in a famous episode of mountaineering history; the village has been a resort since the 19th century.
Highlights
- •The Gornergrat viewpoint
- •The Matterhorn reflection at Riffelsee
- •The Glacier Paradise cable car
- •The car-free village of Zermatt
Practical tips
- •The reflection is clearest on calm early mornings
- •The viewpoints are high — watch for altitude symptoms
Practical information
- Best time
- July-September
- Tickets
- Gornergrat return about CHF 120
- Opening hours
- Viewpoint roughly 8:00-18:00
- Local food
- Cheese fondue, raclette, rye bread
- Getting around
- About 3.5 hours by train from Zurich, changing at Visp for the mountain railway.
- Visa
- A Schengen visa is required; apply about one month in advance.
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