Riffelsee

Prime one of every Zermatt visitor’s bucket list 

Lake Riffelsee (2757 m) is the pinnacle of mountain tranquility. The depiction of the Matterhorn on the top of the water is one of the best spectacles in history. 

The Riffelsee is situated away from the great hiking paths of Zermatt; nevertheless, the Riffelseeweg (no. 21) leads straight to its shores. The vision of the Matterhorn, King of the Alps, standing alone on the horizon, surrounded by a huge sky, is breathtaking: the sight is unforgettable. The best time to visit is when there is no wind and the surface of the lake is completely still – usually early in the morning or in the evening.

The Riffelsee is not visible from the Gornergrat Bahn cog train station in Rotenboden, but it’s only a short walk away: about 10 minutes along a trail that leads gently downhill. Climbers switch left from the trail in front of the lake to reach the various climbing routes on the south side of the Riffelhorn. Nature lovers are going to find beautiful alpine flora in the area.

The lake Riffelsee and its reflection on the Matterhorn cast a spell that attracts tourists from all over the world: a view high on the list of travelers to Zermatt. It’s especially breathtaking in the spring as the first flowers emerge. Or in autumn with its orange-yellow hues.

How to get there:

Take the Gornergrat train to Rotenboden station, where it is a short hike down to the lake.

Our tip: 

To enjoy the silence and fully appreciate the natural beauty, it’s worth getting up early to catch the first train.

Routes:

• Rotenboden – Riffelsee – Riffelalp; ca 30 mins
• Rotenboden – Riffelsee – Riffelberg – Riffelalp; ca. 1h 10 mins

Camping at Riffelseel Lake

Spending the night or lighting a fire around the Riffelsee is not permitted as it is in a conservation area.Please do not leave the marked footpaths.