Gornergrat
The Gornergrat is a stunning mountain ridge in the Swiss Alps, located near the resort town of Zermatt in the canton of Valais, Switzerland. It sits at an elevation of 3,089 meters (10,135 feet) and is famous for offering panoramic views of the Matterhorn and more than 20 peaks above 4,000 meters, including Monte Rosa, the highest mountain in Switzerland. Gornergrat Railway (Gornergratbahn) is the highest open-air cogwheel railway in Europe, it takes visitors from Zermatt up to the Gornergrat summit in about 33 minutes. The journey itself is spectacular, winding through alpine forests, rocky slopes, and offering increasingly breathtaking views. The journey gives one of the best places to view and photograph the Matterhorn, especially at sunrise or sunset. The unobstructed vista is a major draw for photographers and nature lovers.
Starting your day trip from Täsch, you can efficiently visit both the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and Gornergrat in a single day. Here’s a detailed itinerary to help you make the most of your experience:
Morning: Täsch to Zermatt
Departure: Catch the Zermatt Shuttle Train from Täsch. Trains depart approximately every 15–20 minutes, starting as early as 05:55 AM. The journey takes about 12 minutes. Arrive at Zermatt Station, which is conveniently located near the departure points for both attractions.
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise (Morning)
From Zermatt, take the Matterhorn Express gondola to Trockener Steg, then transfer to the 3S cable car to reach the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. Cable cars operate year-round, typically from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. You can reach the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise directly from Zermatt via a series of gondola and cable car rides—there is no train service to the summit. There are two main gondola routes to reach the summit at Klein Matterhorn (3,883 meters). (1) Direct Route (Faster): Zermatt → Furi: 7-minute gondola ride. Furi → Trockener Steg: 10-minute gondola ride. Trockener Steg → Matterhorn Glacier Paradise: 11-minute ride on the Matterhorn Glacier Ride, the highest 3S cableway in the world. This route is efficient and offers stunning views, especially on the final leg. Note that children under 3 years old are not permitted on the final segment due to altitude concerns . (2). Scenic Route via Schwarzsee (More Panoramic): Zermatt → Furi: 7-minute gondola ride. Furi → Schwarzsee: 8-minute gondola ride. Schwarzsee → Trockener Steg: 9-minute gondola ride. Trockener Steg → Matterhorn Glacier Paradise: 8-minute ride. This route allows for a stop at Schwarzsee, offering unique perspectives of the Matterhorn and opportunities for photography .
The journey is both scenic and efficient, taking approximately 40 to 45 minutes in total, depending on the route and transfer times. Explore the Glacier Palace. Enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck. Panoramic vistas of 38 Alpine peaks across Switzerland, Italy, and France. Visit the Cinema Lounge for informative films. Allocate approximately 2 hours for this visit. Operating hours may vary, so it’s advisable to check the latest schedule before your visit.
The first cable car to Schwarzsee started operation in 1956. In 1962, the Furgg-Schwarzsee link opened, followed by the Furi-Trockener Steg cable car in 1965. Finally, the Trockener Steg-Klein Matterhorn cable car began service in 1979. Ever since, Zermatt has been home to Europe’s highest cable car (3,883 m), created for visitors from all over the world.
Gornergrat (Afternoon)
Visitors often take the cogwheel train (Europe’s highest open-air railway) from Zermatt to the summit. The ride itself offers breathtaking views. The cogwheel train is the highest open-air railway in Europe. The ride provides spectacular views of the Matterhorn, Gorner Glacier, and surrounding 4,000-meter peaks. Return to Zermatt and board the Gornergrat Railway from the station directly opposite the main train station. Enjoy the scenic cogwheel train ride to the summit. Take in the 360-degree panoramic views of the Alps. Visit the highest alpine garden in Europe and Riffelsee Lake. Spend about 1.5 to 2 hours at the summit. Trains run every 24 to 35 minutes, with the last descent varying by season.
Numerous trails start or end at Gornergrat, including easy panoramic walks and more challenging alpine hikes. You might see marmots, ibex, and other alpine animals, especially in the summer months. The “Five Lakes Walk” is a popular trail offering reflections of the Matterhorn in mountain lakes. The clear skies and high altitude make Gornergrat an excellent spot for stargazing. There’s even an astronomical observatory (Gornergrat South Observatory). There is a virtual paragliding experience available near Zermatt called “Zooom the Matterhorn”, located at the Gornergrat summit. This immersive attraction allows visitors to simulate a paragliding flight around the Matterhorn without leaving the ground. At “Zooom the Matterhorn,” you can embark on a simulated paragliding journey: Sit in specially designed chairs that mimic the sensation of flight. Wear virtual reality headsets that provide a 360° view of the alpine landscape. Use hand controls to steer your virtual paraglider, giving you the feeling of piloting through the skies. This experience offers breathtaking views of green meadows, rugged rocks, and majestic mountain ridges, culminating in a virtual circle around the Matterhorn’s summit cross at 4,478 meters above sea level.
The Kulmhotel Gornergrat, also known as the 3100 Kulmhotel Gornergrat, is the highest hotel in the Swiss Alps, situated at an elevation of 3,100 meters (10,170 feet) above sea level on the Gornergrat ridge near Zermatt, Switzerland. Established in 1910, it offers guests unparalleled panoramic views of iconic peaks such as the Matterhorn and Monte Rosa, as well as 29 other summits exceeding 4,000 meters. The hotel boasts 22 rooms, each named after a nearby 4,000-meter peak. Rooms are furnished with natural materials and offer views of either the Matterhorn or Monte Rosa massif. The hotel houses two observatories, one in each of its towers. The southern tower was home to the KOSMA (Kölner Observatorium für SubMillimeter Astronomie) telescope, while the northern tower hosted the Gornergrat Infrared Telescope (TIRGO). These facilities have contributed to significant astronomical research. The hotel is accessible via the Gornergrat Railway, a cogwheel train that ascends from Zermatt to the summit station located approximately 100 meters from the hotel. Near the hotel, there’s a large viewing terrace open year-round. You get panoramic views of 29 peaks over 4,000 m, including the Matterhorn, Dufourspitze (Switzerland’s highest peak), and the Gorner Glacier.
Recommendation: Consider purchasing the Peak2Peak Pass, which includes: Access to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. Ride on the Gornergrat Railway. Use of the Matterhorn Express gondola. This pass offers a convenient and cost-effective way to experience both attractions in one day. Always check the weather forecast, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains. Dress in layers to accommodate varying temperatures. Purchase tickets in advance to save time. Starting early ensures you have ample time to enjoy both attractions without feeling rushed. By following this itinerary, you’ll be able to experience the highlights of both the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and Gornergrat in a single day, starting from Täsch.
Incorporating a hike into your visit to Gornergrat is highly recommended, especially if you’re keen on experiencing the alpine landscapes up close. One popular option is to hike downhill from the Gornergrat summit to Riffelberg, passing by the picturesque Riffelsee lake. Recommended hike : Gornergrat to Riffelberg via Riffelsee. Starting Point: Gornergrat Summit (3,100 m). Ending Point: Riffelberg Station (2,600 m). Distance: Approximately 4–5 km. Duration: 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on pace and photo stops. Elevation Change: Descent of about 500–560 m. Difficulty: Moderate; suitable for hikers with average fitness levels. Riffelsee Lake: A serene alpine lake offering stunning reflections of the Matterhorn on calm days. Continuous vistas of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks throughout the hike. Opportunity to observe alpine meadows and possibly spot wildlife like marmots.
Trail Description: The trail begins at the Gornergrat summit and descends towards Riffelsee, which is about 2 km away. After enjoying the lake, continue the descent to Riffelberg Station. The path is well-marked and maintained, but it can be rocky and uneven in sections. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring layers, as weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains. Start early to avoid crowds and to increase the chances of calm conditions at Riffelsee for reflection photos. Carry water and snacks, as there are limited facilities along the trail. This hike offers a rewarding way to experience the natural beauty of the Swiss Alps, combining the convenience of the Gornergrat Railway with the tranquility of alpine trails.
The last train from Gornergrat to Zermatt varies depending on the season: Until June 13, 2025: The final descent departs at 6:37 PM. June 14 – June 19, 2025: The last train leaves at 7:18 PM. June 20 – September 22, 2025: The final descent is at 8:07 PM. September 23 – October 19, 2025: The last train departs at 7:18 PM. October 20 – November 2, 2025: The final descent is at 6:37 PM. Please note that from November 3 to November 9, 2025, the Gornergrat Bahn will be closed for maintenance. Trains typically run every 24 to 35 minutes, depending on the season. It’s advisable to check the current timetable before planning your trip. Here’s a station-by-station guide for the Gornergrat Bahn, the iconic cogwheel railway that ascends from Zermatt to the Gornergrat summit at 3,089 meters: 1. Zermatt GGB Station (1,605 m): Starting Point: Located directly opposite the main Zermatt railway station. Facilities: Ticket vending machines, free Wi-Fi, lockers, toilets, and baggage services.
Connections: Links to the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn and local electric buses. 2. Findelbach (1,770 m): First Stop: Just outside Zermatt village. Highlights: Offers views of the impressive 93-meter-long Findelbach railway bridge. Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, toilets, and a holding room. 3. Riffelalp (2,211 m): Access Point: Gateway to the luxurious Riffelalp Resort and various hiking trails. A well-marked footpath leads from Riffelalp Station to the resort. This short walk offers stunning views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding alpine landscape. It’s a gentle, mostly flat trail suitable for most visitors. During the summer months (typically June to September), the Riffelalp Tram operates between the station and the resort. This historic tramway, the highest in Europe, covers a distance of 675 meters and provides a unique and leisurely ride through the alpine scenery. The tram is exclusively available for resort guests and adds a charming experience to your arrival. Unique Feature: Connects to the Riffelalp tram, providing access to the resort. Facilities: Ticket vending machines, free Wi-Fi, baggage services, toilets, and a holding room. In the winter months (December to April), the tram service is replaced by electric snowmobile transfers.
These are available during the resort’s operating hours and provide a comfortable and efficient means to reach the resort through the snow-covered landscape. 4. Riffelberg (2,582 m): Scenic Stop: Offers panoramic views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks. Accommodation: Adjacent to the historic Hotel Riffelberg, a three-star hotel. 5. Rotenboden (2,815 m): High-Altitude Station: Second highest open-air railway station in Europe. Activities: Starting point for hikes to Riffelsee Lake and the Monte Rosa Hut across the Gorner Glacier. 6. Gornergrat Summit (3,089 m) : Final Destination: Home to the 3100 Kulmhotel Gornergrat, the highest hotel in the Swiss Alps. Attractions: Offers a 360° viewing platform with vistas of 29 peaks over 4,000 meters, including the Matterhorn, and access to the “Zooom the Matterhorn” virtual experience.
Sample Itinerary (Time and Activity)
07:15 AM Depart Täsch via Zermatt Shuttle Train
07:27 AM Arrive in Zermatt
07:45 AM Board Matterhorn Express Gondola (cable car) to Trockener Steg
08:30 AM Arrive at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
10:30 AM Descend back to Zermatt
11:30 AM Board Gornergrat Railway. Board the cogwheel train at Zermatt station. Try to sit on the right side for the best views of the Matterhorn.
12:15 PM Arrive at Gornergrat Summit. Explore the panoramic viewing platform. Snap photos of the Matterhorn, Monte Rosa, and Gorner Glacier. Visit the Kulmhotel for coffee or tea and enjoy the atmosphere. Take the train one stop down to Rotenboden, then walk ~10–15 minutes to Riffelsee Lake. This is the famous “reflection of the Matterhorn” photo spot. Ideal when the weather is clear and the water is calm. Optional: Hike from Rotenboden to Riffelalp (~1.5 hours, mostly downhill, scenic and moderate). Or take the train with a few scenic stops along the way. Head back to Gornergrat and eat at the Restaurant Vis-à-Vis (for a seated meal) or Panorama Self-Service (quicker). Alternatively, take the train down to Riffelalp and dine with a view there.
02:00 PM Begin descent to Zermatt
02:45 PM Arrive back in Zermatt
03:00 PM Depart Zermatt via Shuttle Train to Täsch
03:12 PM Arrive in Täsch
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
Since Zermatt is a car-free village, visitors must park their vehicles in Täsch and take the shuttle train operated by the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn. Use the Matterhorn Terminal Täsch, which offers 2,100 covered parking spaces and amenities like restrooms, lockers, a bistro, and a grocery shop. Shuttle trains depart every 20 minutes from 05:55 to 21:55, with hourly services until 00:30/01:00. On weekends, trains run all night. The train ride from Täsch to Zermatt takes approximately 12 minutes. Upon arriving at Zermatt railway station, proceed to the Matterhorn Express valley station to board the gondola. The valley station is located on Schluhmattstrasse, about a 20-minute walk from the Zermatt train station. Electric taxis and e-buses are available in Zermatt for quicker transit. The newly renovated valley station offers barrier-free access, ticket counters, ski lockers, restrooms, and real-time lift status displays .
The Matterhorn Express gondola does not take you directly to the glacier. Instead, reaching the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise (Klein Matterhorn) from Zermatt involves a series of gondola rides with transfers at intermediate stations. Zermatt to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise involves (1) Zermatt to Furi: Begin your journey by taking the gondola from Zermatt to Furi. This ride lasts approximately 5–7 minutes. (2) Furi to Trockener Steg: From Furi, transfer to another gondola heading to Trockener Steg. This segment takes about 7–10 minutes. (3) Trockener Steg to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise (Klein Matterhorn): At Trockener Steg, board the Matterhorn Glacier Ride—a state-of-the-art 3S cable car—that ascends to the summit station at 3,883 meters. This final leg takes around 9–11 minutes. The entire journey from Zermatt to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise typically takes about 40–45 minutes, including transfer times.
At the valley station, purchase your ticket and board the Matterhorn Express gondola, which transports passengers to higher elevations, including Trockener Steg and the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. For a unique experience, consider upgrading to the Crystal Ride cabins on the Matterhorn Glacier Ride segment. These cabins feature glass floors that become transparent during the journey, offering breathtaking views of the glacier beneath your feet. This upgrade is available for an additional fee. Please be aware that children under the age of 3 are not permitted to travel on the section from Trockener Steg to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise due to the risk of altitude sickness.
Even with a Swiss Travel Pass, you will need to purchase a separate ticket to ride the Matterhorn Express gondola to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. However, as a Swiss Travel Pass holder, you are entitled to a 50% discount on this ticket. You can buy discounted tickets online through the official Matterhorn Paradise website. Ensure you carry your physical Swiss Travel Pass, as mobile versions may not be accepted for verification. Tickets can also be purchased at the valley station in Zermatt. Present your Swiss Travel Pass at the ticket counter to receive the discount. The trip from Zermatt to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise involves multiple gondola segments: Zermatt to Furi, Furi to Trockener Steg, Trockener Steg to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise (Klein Matterhorn). The entire journey takes approximately 40–45 minutes, including transfers.
When deciding whether to visit Gornergrat or Matterhorn Glacier Paradise first, consider your interests, time constraints, and sensitivity to altitude. Here’s a comparison to help you choose:
Gornergrat: Altitude: 3,135 meters: Scenic cogwheel train from Zermatt (approx. 40 minutes). Panoramic views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks. Diverse landscapes with green meadows and glaciers. Multiple hiking trails, including routes to Riffelsee Lake. VR experience at the summit: Best for: Hikers, families, and those preferring a train ride over cable cars. Considerations: Can become crowded after 10:00 AM. Less likely to have snow year-round compared to higher altitudes.
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise: Altitude: 3,883 meters (Europe’s highest cable car station): Access: Series of gondolas and cable cars from Zermatt (approx. 45 minutes). Highlights: Year-round snow and glacier experiences. Ice Palace and panoramic viewing platform. Opportunity to cross into Italy via the Alpine Crossing. Best for: Snow enthusiasts, families with children over 3 years old, and those seeking high-altitude experiences. Considerations: Not suitable for children under 3 years due to altitude. Less hiking options directly at the summit.
Recommendation: If you’re interested in hiking and panoramic views: Start with Gornergrat. The train ride is comfortable, and the area offers diverse landscapes and accessible trails. If you’re eager for a high-altitude, snowy experience: Begin with Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. The journey offers dramatic scenery changes, and the summit provides unique attractions like the Ice Palace. Both destinations offer unique experiences, and if time allows, visiting both can provide a comprehensive view of the Zermatt region’s beauty.
The Gornergrat Bahn offers a direct train service from Zermatt to the Gornergrat summit. Direct Train from Zermatt to Gornergrat: Departure Station: The Gornergrat Bahn departs from the Zermatt GGB railway station, located directly opposite the main Zermatt railway station. Journey Duration: Approximately 29 to 33 minutes, covering a distance of about 5 km (3 miles). Frequency: Trains run every 24 to 35 minutes, depending on the season. Intermediate Stops: The train stops at several stations along the route, including Findelbach, Riffelalp, Riffelberg, and Rotenboden, allowing passengers to explore various hiking trails and scenic spots. Highlights of the Gornergrat Journey: Altitude: The Gornergrat summit station is situated at 3,089 meters (10,135 feet) above sea level, offering panoramic views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks. Scenic Views: The journey provides breathtaking vistas of alpine landscapes, glaciers, and mountain ranges. Activities: At the summit, visitors can enjoy attractions like the “Zooom the Matterhorn” multimedia experience and access to various hiking trails. Pricing: A round-trip ticket from Zermatt to Gornergrat costs approximately CHF 106.00. Holders of the Swiss Travel Pass or Half Fare Card are eligible for a 50% discount on the ticket price. Tickets can be purchased online through the official Gornergrat Bahn website or at the Zermatt GGB station.
To reach the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise from Gornergrat, you’ll need to return to Zermatt and then proceed to the cable car station. Here’s how you can plan your journey: Step 1: Return from Gornergrat to Zermatt: Take the Gornergrat Bahn cogwheel train directly back to Zermatt. The descent takes approximately 30–40 minutes. Step 2: Reach the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car Station: From the Zermatt train station, you have two options to get to the Matterhorn Express valley station: Walk: It’s a 15–20 minute walk through the village to the southern end of Zermatt. Electric Bus: Take the Green Line (Bergbahnen) e-bus, which stops near the cable car station. Step 3: Ascend to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise The journey to the summit involves a series of gondola rides: Zermatt to Furi: Approximately 5–7 minutes. Furi to Trockener Steg: Approximately 7–10 minutes. Trockener Steg to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise (Klein Matterhorn): Approximately 8–11 minutes. The total ascent time is around 45 minutes, depending on transfer times and queues. Summary: Gornergrat to Zermatt: 30–40 minutes by train. Zermatt to Cable Car Station: 15–20 minutes walk or a short e-bus ride. Cable Car Ascent: Approximately 45 minutes. Therefore, transitioning from Gornergrat to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise will take roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, including transfers and waiting times.
