Matterhorn

The Perfect natural Jewel of the Swiss Alps

A triangular model. A cragged “tooth” rock reaching up towards the sky. Running on the ground alone. A lure for alpinists, an esthetic symbol, a peak in perfect dimensions. Rugged rock of fairy touch. Playing in a field of clouds and horizontal painting. Seeing enough of the Matterhorn, huh? No way!

Attractions and Excursions near the Matterhorn

There are a wide variety of attractions to be discovered around the Matterhorn. Gornergrat is the main excursion. There is a viewing platform on this three-thousand-metre mountain range with a completely breathtaking view of the Matterhorn and the entire mountain world. We may even enjoy the Matterhorn from the Rothorn, if you choose. The Matterhorn glacier paradise is the highest summer ski region in Europe and is open 365 days a year. And there is still something to do when the sun isn’t shining! The Matterhorn Museum describes the dramatic growth of Zermatt from a rural town to an Alpine holiday destination, as well as other photos and information regarding the first climb of the Matterhorn.

FOTOPOINTS

1.Viewpoint Kirchbrücke bridge

The Kirchbrücke Bridge is one of the most famous and loved sights in the village. The view from the bridge provides a direct view of the Matterhorn, including the Mattervispa River below and the surrounding larch trees.

How to get there:

 Walk from Bahnhofstrasse – pass the church and the museum and continue to the next bridge.

Our tip: 

It’s worth getting up early! Make sure you don’t miss the first rays of sun on the Matterhorn.

2. Kirchplatz viewpoint

There’s a lot to do on the Bahnhofstrasse. Nevertheless, when you reach Kirchplatz, take the chance to snap the ideal image of the Matterhorn. At the town hall (Gemeindehaus), ascend the stairs to the terrace and look south. Traditional wooden houses in the foreground add a special beauty to a gorgeous picture.

How to get there:

 From the station or over the Kirchbrücke to Kirchplatz.

Our tip: 

You can include another typical Swiss emblem in your picture too. There’s a huge bronze alphorn on the steps of the building– a traditional Swiss instrument.

3. Viewpoint in the Old Village

In this section of the village, in time, you might have traveled back to the past century. These ancient, traditional houses made of solid larch wood and covered with heavy roof tiles are definitely worth a visit. This view is especially stunning as you continue your tour of the memorial fountain of Ulrich Inderbinen and step up into the old part of the village.

How to get there: 

From the centre you can reach the Old Village from behind the Hotel Mont Cervin Palace or at the bridge Zum Steg – pass Harry’s Bar and then turn right.

Our tip: 

Around the middle of Hinterdorfstrasse, look through the houses on the left to catch a glimpse of the Matterhorn.

4. Riedweg viewpoint

There is no fixed location for this view. However, the view of the Matterhorn and the village below is even better the further you walk from the center of the village and the higher you follow the Riedweg.

How to get there: 

The Riedweg trail starts just above the Parkhotel Beau Site and leads slightly uphill to the north.

Our tip: 

There is a special atmosphere during the “Blue Hour” – after sunset and before dusk.

5. Le Petit Village viewpoint at Mürini

This view is situated outside the town of Wiest. It’s worth heading out of the middle of the town: here you’ll find a unique view of the entire community, with the Matterhorn in the distance.

How to get there: 

On foot or by bike up Wiestistrasse to the last houses and on to the end of the street.

Our tip:

 Even at dusk or night, a photograph of the village lights is the perfect reward for your efforts.

6. Zen Stecken viewpoint

It’s just short distance from the village, but you feel in the heart of nature. In spring and summer there are flowers and green meadows as far as the eye can see; in winter a blanket of snow. You can’t miss this view of the Matterhorn.

How to get there:

 Follow Oberdorfstrasse on foot to the southern end of the village to reach the hiking trail in the direction of Furi.

Our tip: 

Follow the path to Furi for about ten minutes, then turn right at the first bench and follow the path uphill. In only five minutes, you’ll see a great picture panorama: the Matterhorn with a few barns, surrounded by ancient larch trees.

7. Viewpoint at the bench on Höhbalmen

It’s a long steep path to reach this point of view, but it’s worth it. When you hit the brink, you ‘re nearly at eye level with the Matterhorn, on a plateau just above the town of Zermatt. After the climb, you can sit comfortably on a small bench and enjoy the panoramic view.

How to get there:

Follow hiking trail no. 30 via Trift to Höhbalmen. Around three hours hiking time.

Our tip:

You can enjoy a break at the Trift mountain restaurant before you begin the last steep ascent for Höhbalmen. Specialities: home-made ice tea and apple cake.

8. Tufteren viewpoint

The idyllic view of Tufteren offers charming photos that have everything: a view of the Matterhorn, typical wooden houses, flower meadows in the summer or snow-covered slopes in the winter.

How to get there: 

Take the hiking trail from Sunnegga in summer or winter or via ski slope no. 9.

Our tip: 

Keep a look-out for views of the Matterhorn on the hiking trail to Tufteren. You can often catch a glimpse through the trees.

9. Hidden Valley viewpoint

This is a quiet place far from anything known locally as the Hidden Valley. There are no signs, so it’s not easy to find them. To those that reach it, though, there is a peaceful and idyllic area: lush meadows, a tiny waterfall and a glimpse of the Matterhorn at the end of the valley.

How to get there: See our tip

Our tip: Local hiking guides offer tours to this secret hidden valley, guaranteeing that you really find the right place.

10. Riffelsee lake viewpoint

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.

11. Riffelalp viewpoint

The tiny park in front of the Riffelalp Resort offers the ideal photo – adjust your perspective to capture the Matterhorn between the two large pine trees. Then if the red tram of the hotel wants to move at the right moment: push the button quickly!

How to get there:

Take the Gornergrat Railway to Riffelalp station, where a number hiking trails are available. Or take piste no. 39 in winter.

Our tip:

Plan enough time to stay for lunch. A variety of restaurants offer spacious sun terraces and wonderful panoramic views.

12. Stellisee lake viewpoint

This view has been the subject of a number of advertising posters. The Matterhorn is impressively reflected in the lake under ideal weather conditions. This provides the appearance of an ocean below the mountain, just in front of the Matterhorn.

How to get there:

Take with the underground funicular to Sunnegga and continue by gondola to Blauherd. From here, following the hiking trail for around 20 minutes.

Our tip:

 It’s worth staying overnight in the nearby Fluhalp mountain hut and getting up early the following morning to watch the sun rise. You can also combine this viewpoint easily with the Five Lakes Walk.

13. North face viewpoint from the Schwarzee lake bench

The Matterhorn seems to be formidable and very distinctive from the viewpoint of its rugged and rough north face. It’s worth sitting on the bench at the bottom of the trail / slope and watching the panorama work its magic.

How to get there:

Take the hiking trail from Schwarzsee to Stafel in summer or ski there in winter on piste no. 52.

Our tip: 

Ask a passing hiker or skier if they have time to take a picture of you, the bench and the north face of the Matterhorn.

Excursion Mountains

The mountain excursion through Zermatt provides a stunning experience. Also in the spotlight: the Matterhorn, the mightiest four thousand-metre mountain in the Alps.

Mountain excursions include: Gornergrat (3,089 m), Matterhorn glacier paradise (3,883 m), and Rothorn (3,103 m). Across all these peaks as well as on the road to each and every stop in between, the panoramic view of the mountain shows itself in a stunning display. For example, the Matterhorn has very different and most beautiful sides.

1, Gornergrat

The Gornergrat (3,089 m) is one of those locations that anyone can experience at least once in their lifetime. The panorama of the mountains and the breathtaking shot of the Matterhorn are memorable.

With its bright observation platform available all year round, the Gornergrat, at an altitude of 3,089 m, has been one of Switzerland ‘s main excursion destinations since 1898. The Gornergrat Bahn became the first completely electrified cog railway in the world. Currently, it is a new, eco-friendly railway, fitted with a regenerative braking device that produces electricity at descent and saves money. Therefore, the strength of one or two modern mountain drives is gained by three downhill drives.

Cog railway to the sky

The largest open-air cog rail in Europe takes travelers straight from Zermatt station (1,620 m) to the Gornergrat mountain, 365 days a year. The trip takes 33 minutes and involves a vertical climb of 1,469 m. The line stretches 9.4 kilometers over impressive bridges, across galleries and caves, across larch and Swiss stone pine trees, through steep ravines and mountain lakes.

Panorama for the photo album

The panorama is one of the best in the country. Views of the Monte Rosa massif with Switzerland’s tallest point (Dufourspitze, 4,634 m); the second-largest glacier in the Alps, the Gorner Glacier; and a total of 29 mountains over 4,000 m, including, of note, the Matterhorn with all its glory.

Europe’s highest hotel

At the summit station on the Gornergrat, tourists can consider the highest-altitude hotel in Europe: the 3100 Kulmhotel Gornergrat. Facilities include a bar, an astronomical observatory and trendy shops. It’s a great experience spending the night here.

All Year

• Photo subject: 29 mountains above 4,000 m in view (Switzerland, Italy)
• Shops
• Restaurants: self-service and waiter-served, indoors and out
• Large sun terrace
• “Bernhard von Aosta” chapel
• Panoramic viewing platform

Summer

• Wild ibex near the viewing platform of the station
• Starting point for hikes
• Sunrise trips (bookable offer)
• Sunset dinners (bookable offer)
• For families: “Wolli and the climate detectives” (audio guides available from Zermatt Tourism and the Gornergrat Bahn cog railway)

Winter

• Dining with the stars (bookable offer)
• Moonlight visit (bookable offer)
• Direct access to the pistes and winter hiking paths
• Highest sledging slope in Switzerland (Rotenboden 2815 m – Riffelberg 2582 m)
• Igloo village on 2727 m

2. Matterhorn glacier paradise

The tallest cable car station in Europe (3883 m) with its latest restaurant establishes fresh expectations for sustainable growth. The views of the highest mountains in Italy, France and Switzerland are stunning. The Theodul Glacier ski area is open 365 days a year.

Matterhorn glacier heaven – a place of fun. From here, mountaineers and climbers, assisted by mountain guides, head out to ascend the Breithorn (4,164 m), a 2.5-hour ascend of endless snow; for many tourists, this is their first ascent of a 4,000-metre peak. For several days, the view from the observation deck is so obvious that it appears to stretch as far as the Mediterranean. Mont Blanc (4,810 m) in France, the tallest mountain in the Alps, stands over its neighbors; the top of the Grand Paradise (4,061 m), Italy ‘s highest plateau, is also also noticeable. The air up here is thin, and tourists can take a lot of time to explore. It is also the headquarters of the International Ski Area, available 365 days a year, and the entrance to the biggest summer ski resort in Europe.

The Matterhorn from a fresh angle

Up here, up on the Italian frontier, tourists can experience a somewhat special view of the Matterhorn. This came as a surprise: the image is quite distinct from that of the Gornergrat or the Rothorn, as though the Matterhorn has adopted a fresh appearance. In addition, this vantage point provides the best view of the south face of the mountain.

Summer training for national ski teams

Everyone searching for an autograph of a foreign ski celebrity has the greatest chance of success in the Matterhorn glacier heaven. During the season, nearly all the national ski teams in the world practice on the glacier for pace classes, and all the participants will travel through the summit station to reach the season pistes.

All Year

• Audio system on the ride to the summit with information about the alpine world, the cog railway and much more
• Observation platform with summit cross, photo point and information panel on the mountain panorama
• Inside the mountain: observation window looking out over the Breithorn
• Cinema Lounge
• Restaurant with shop
• Matterhorn glacier paradise lodge with accommodation
• Meeting room
• Glacier palace, the highest in Europe
• Direct access to the ski pistes (365 days a year, including on the Theodul Glacier)
• Ski pistes linked to Italy (both winter and summer)
• Photo subjects: Matterhorn, Breithorn, Weisshorn and other celebrity mountains
• InfoCube – 3S Bahn

Summer

• Summer ski area, 21 km of piste
• Snow Park Zermatt at the Plateau Rosa
• Snowtubing

Matterhorn glacier ride

The largest 3S cableway in the world has been carrying tourists to the Matterhorn glacier heaven since 2018. In addition to the existing aerial tramway, the Matterhorn glacier ride, with gondolas designed by the Pininfarina design studio, offers a more comfortable and luxurious journey. The travel efficiency is therefore expanded by 2,000 visitors an hour. 

The hallmark of the new cable car is its four “Crystal Ride” cabins, which are decorated in Swarovski crystals. During the nine-minute journey, the four special cabins offer a spectacular view: after three minutes, the cloudy glass bottom clears in a matter of seconds to give a magnificent view of the glacier landscape

3. Rothorn

The view from the Rothorn (3,103 m) shows the highest peaks of the Valais Alps. In summer, the Rothorn is a popular starting point for a variety of challenging hikes; in winter, the gateway to the beautiful sunny slopes.

The cable car brings travelers to the top of the Rothorn or, to be accurate, the Unterrothorn. In summer, this is the starting point for challenging hikes and a popular destination for sunrise trips. During season, the summit station provides easy entry to the ski slopes.

Peak collection

The Peak Series is a series of sculptures highlighting the alpine landscape of Zermatt and its most prominent peaks. The plays include descriptions of the different summits, including height, geology and first ascents, as well as observations by mountain guides. Each carries an awareness panel in four languages (see “Reading”).

Summer

• Photo subject: mountain panorama with unobstructed view of Matterhorn and Weisshorn
• Skiline Photopoint, activated with a keycard lift pass
• Sunrise trips (bookable through the lift company, Zermatt Bergbahnen AG)
• Extra-early rides possible (Zermatt Bergbahnen AG)
• Popular area for paragliding
• Trail for experienced hikers to the Oberrothorn (3,415 m) with endemic plants

Winter

• Direct access to ski pistes
• Descents by moonlight (bookable through Zermatt Bergbahnen AG)
• Photo subject: mountain panorama with unobstructed view of Matterhorn and Weisshorn
• Skiline Photopoint, activated with a keycard lift pass

4. Schwarzsee (cable car station)

Schwarzsee (2,583 m) is the starting point for the climb of the Matterhorn and the Matterhorn Glacier Trail. In winter, Schwarzsee provides easy entry to the ski slopes.

The first Schwarzsee cable car service launched in 1956. By then, the tourists had to get dressed. It’s just a 12-minute drive from Zermatt now-a-days. This is also the beginning of a hike to the Hörnli hut (3,260 m), which takes about two hours. The path needs a stable foot and sound system, as well as a clear eye for heights. Up at Schwarzsee, tourists can see the entire valley and the town of Zermatt sprawling below.

Lake with chapel

The Schwarzsee lake lies in a hollow. A small chapel, “Maria zum Schnee”, stands on its shores; many mountaineers stop by after a successful ascent of the Matterhorn (4,478 m) to give thanks. The Schwarzsee region is also home to numerous endemic pioneer plant species.

Two Matterhorn theme trails

The alpine terrain of boulders and screes is dotted with streams and lakes. Those and other signs left by the melting glaciers are the focus of the amazing Matterhorn Glacier Route, which goes from Trockener Steg (2.939 m) to Schwarzsee. The road also illustrates how receding glaciers have produced ecosystems for plants and animals, and how local residents have made use of the resulting environment. The well-known Matterhorn Trail reveals a number of interesting facts about the iconic mountain and its history.

Summer

• Starting point of Larch Walk theme trail
• Matterhorn glacier Trail
• Matterhorn Trail
• Hiking trail to the Hörnli hut
• Photo subjects: Matterhorn, Mischabel massif, flora, reflection of the chapel in the lake
• Schwarzsee hotel and restaurant with sun terrace

Winter

• Direct access to the pistes
• Winter hiking trails
• Schwarzsee hotel and restaurant with sun terrace
• Photo subjects: Matterhorn, Mischabel massif, Gornergrat

5. Sunnegga

Sunnegga (2,288 m) is a family space. In summer, the Lake Leisee provides a cool swim in the morning. During winter, skiers of all ages experience their first experiences of snow-sliding at Wolli Park for beginners.

The funicular journey from the Zermatt valley station to Sunnegga takes only 4.5 minutes. The train, which was fully restored in 2013, leads up a rock tunnel from the inside of the mountain to this warm, dramatic terrace with incomparable views of the Matterhorn.

Marmots’ playground

The Marmot watching Station is only a few minutes’ walk from Sunnegga in summer and offers an enjoyable trip for an entire family. A style trail shows interesting facts regarding these adorable animals live in burrows high in the Alps.

Zermatt’s beach

Families want to rush to the perfectly blue waters of the Leisee in summer. It is the best location for outdoor swimming in Zermatt, complete with children’s playground and BBQ facilities. Children love to play on the large raft and run about in the water while adults rest and admire the beautiful view of the Matterhorn.

Superb skiing and snowboarding

During season, the skiers and snowboarders start on the gondolas, the chair lifts and eventually the cable car to the Rothorn. This is the key to adventures on the sunny tracks of the entire Rothorn region. Nevertheless, others are able to move to the terrace of the self-service restaurant and appreciate the sunlight and the breathtaking views of the Matterhorn.

All Year

Photo subject: mountain panorama with view of the Matterhorn

Summer

• Starting point for many hikes including the Five Lakes Walk
• Kickbike descents
• Mountain bike trails
• Leisee lake with swimming, playground and barbecue sites
• Marmot-watching stations

Winter

• Wolli’s park for beginners (skiing)
• Direct access to the ski pistes
• Winter hiking trails
• Snowshoe trails
• Link to the ski pistes on the Gornergrat

Lakes

Zermatt has more than 150 lakes. Some of the lakes invite you to swim; others reflect the Matterhorn.

1. Grindjisee

The Grindjisee is a highlight of the Five Lakes Tour. A small stretch of water with an explosion of moorland flora is a lure for scientists and botanists and a treat for all nature lovers. The lake sits behind the former lateral moraine of the melting ice, and its shores provide shelter for several uncommon plants. Around the beginning of the 19th century, English botanists came to Zermatt primarily to research the abundance of alpine flora around the Grindjisee and other important locations.

• Starry saxifrage (Saxifraga stellaris)
• Mountain arnica (Arnica montana)
• Glacier wormwood (endemic, Artemisia glacialis)
• Yellow alpine pasqueflower (Pulsatilla apiifolia)
• Sandy spurry (Spergularia rubra)
• Haller’s pasqueflower (Pulsatilla halleri)
• Black vanilla orchid (Nigritella nigra)

2. Grünsee

The Grünsee (2,300 m) is the perfect spot to stop and relax along a walk for a picnic and swim, while enjoying views of the Matterhorn.

The water of the Grünsee (“green lake”) is indeed green, but rather cold as it is fed by the surrounding mountain springs. Geology enthusiasts will find a variety of interesting rock formations here in a former glacial landscape. The alpine flora is particularly rich, with small patches of moorland.

• Wealth of alpine flora
• Photo subjects: many 4,000-metre peaks including the Weisshorn, Matterhorn, Obergabelhorn
• Accessible via Gornergrat Bahn cog railway (Riffelalp or Riffelberg station)
• Accessible via Rothorn (Sunnegga or Rothorn stations)
• No dedicated swimming facilities

3. Leisee

The Leisee Lake (2,232 m) is the beach of Zermatt and a popular outing for the whole family. With children’s playground, barbecue areas, picnic spots, picnic pavilion, rafting and a magnificent view of the Matterhorn.

For children, this is a magical place to swim and play; for parents, a wonderful place to relax. The views of the Matterhorn are magnificent, framed by a pristine alpine landscape. Since the lake is not large, given the height, the temperature of the water is ideal for a swim.

• Accessible in 10 minutes on foot or 3 minutes by shuttle funicular from Sunnegga summit station
• Photo subject: reflection of the Matterhorn with swimmers

Hours of operation 

freely accessible / always open

4. Moosjisee

The Moosjisee (2,140 m) lies on the Five Lakes Walk and is a classic storage reservoir. Its milky colour shows that it is fed by glaciers.

The Moosjisee (also known as the Mosjesee) is a man-made reservoir. Water is used to generate electricity and snow along the slopes. Water from the Findel Glacier is one of the springs of the lake, and as a result the Moosjisee has a typical milky shade of sediment-rich glacial meltwater, known as “glacial milk.” As the trail leads past the lake, observant hikers will spot a wide variety of alpine flora on the adjacent slopes.

• Milky, turquoise water
• Swimming strictly forbidden for safety reasons!

5. Riffelsee

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.

6. Schalisee

The Schalisee lake (1,428 m) sits on the flat valley floor around Täsch, surrounded by larches and grassy meadows. It’s the ideal place for families to relax, swim, have a picnic and enjoy water skiing.

The Schalisee lies next to the hiking trail linking Täsch and Randa, and offers a perfect place for families to swim, relax, lie in the sun or cool shade, play games or enjoy a picnic. The barbecue areas have wood to burn. Children of all ages love to swim here; little children love to play with scattered twigs and cones of larch trees all around.

• 20 minutes’ walk from Täsch railway station along the Mattervispa river
• Partly shaded by larches 
• Tables, benches, barbecue areas
• WC nearby
• With waterski lift
• Material for water skiing on the spot
• Golf course nearby 
• Photo subject: valley and view towards the Klein Matterhorn (3,883 m)
• Beachvolley area
• little restaurant
• children’s playground

7. Schwarzsee

The Schwarzsee lake (2,552 m) is situated right at the foot of the Matterhorn. The Schwarzsee gondola station provides the best view of the famed Hörnligrat peak on the Matterhorn, the Hörnli hut and the village of Zermatt below.

In addition, the surface of the Schwarzsee (“Black Lake”) is always quite dark, almost black. A chapel devoted to “Maria zum Schnee” (“Our Lady of the Snows”) stands by the lake, which sits in a small hollow. According to legend, the chapel has its origins in a promise. Two men from Zermatt had lost their path to the fog along the Theodul Crossing. They promised that if they were saved, they would build a chapel.

• Annual celebration of the patron, “Maria zum Schnee”, 5 August
• 5 August: mass at 6am and 8.30am, main mass with choir at 10am
• 5 August: additional services of the Matterhorn Express to Schwarzsee (on request from the lift company, Zermatt Bergbahnen AG
• 5 minutes’ walk from the Schwarzsee gondola station
• In winter, located beside the pistes
• Interesting geology: the Matterhorn and the African tectonic plate with igneous and sedimentary rocks
• Photo subject in summer: reflection of the chapel on the dark surface of the lake

8. Stellisee

The Stellisee (2.537 m) is one of the most prominent lakes in Zermatt. The vision of the Matterhorn mirrored on its mirror-like surface is stunningly majestic and makes for spectacular images.

Pictures of the Stellisee can be seen all over the world: hardly surprising, because the reflection of the Matterhorn on its still surface was photographed millions of times. The panoramic view of the high peaks, well over 4,000 m high, is one of the most stunning in the Zermatt area. 

The lake is a 20-minute walk from the summit station of Blauherd. Both at sunrise and sunset, this is a especially romantic location. Cotton grass grows along the lakeshore, providing white splashes between the green-brown shades of the meadows.

• Fly fishing (bookable offer)
• Photo subject: reflection of the Matterhorn

9. Waterski Schalisee

Schalisee is the largest lake in the Nikolai Region. The first water ski lift in Upper Valais is being built in collaboration with the Täsch and Zermatt communities. It is a real expansion in our visitors’ summer tourism service.

Schalisee is situated in the flat valley floor of the village of Täsch. This is at 1,428 m in the midst with larch trees and large grass fields. It’s the perfect location for families to live and rest. The water ski lift (Rixen Little Bro 2.0) is 109 m tall. Sustainability has a significant part to play in this initiative. The electric lift is silent and environmentally safe, and will be fully demolished in fall.

10. Weingartensee

The Weingartensee lake at the foot of the Alphubel is almost like an infinity pool. The view: the vast sky, and the 4,000-metre-highs of the Matterhorn, the Dent d’Hérens and the Weisshorn on the horizon.

Weingartensee means “vineyard lake,” but there are no vineyards here, far from it: the slopes at the foot of the Weingarten Glacier are filled with boulders and totally bare. The glacier has dropped its rocky traces all over. The Weingartensee (3,058 m) is a controlled outflow lake. Most remarkable of all, it looks like an infinity pool: the water seems to flow straight into the horizon, blending with the sky.

A lake such as the Weingartensee can expose concealed hazards – as occurred at 10 p.m. on 25 June 2001. The rapid melting of snow led to a mud flow that swept over the lake, causing considerable damage to the village of Täsch. Shortly thereafter, the engineers reinforced the retaining dam and lowered the water level by 3.75 m.

• Reservoir with magnificent mountain panorama
• View of Matterhorn, Weisshorn

Matterhorn Museum – Zermatlantis

The Matterhorn Museum – Zermatlantis provides insight into the development of Zermatt. This reveals the success and disaster of the first climb of the Matterhorn.

There one is immersed in the mountain world of past generations: one sees how people lived in Zermatt in the 19th century and shudders at the sight of the torn rope from the first ascent of the Matterhorn in 1865. At that time, four of the seven climbers lost their lives. Then one stares with awe at “Theo,” a soldier of the 16th century who tried to reach the Theodul Pass.