Near Zermatt, Switzerland, in the Pennine Alps
Ride Europe’s highest open-air railway to reach the Gornergrat Summit, standing at 3,089 meters above sea level. Enjoy breathtaking views of 29 majestic peaks, including the iconic Matterhorn, Monte Rosa, Dufourspitze, and the Gorner Glacier. With its rich mountaineering history and global appeal, Gornergrat offers an unforgettable expedition that includes scenic hikes, thrilling skiing opportunities, interactive exhibits, and more. Here’s everything you need to know before heading to the Gornergrat peak.
Hiking on Gornergrat offers a range of trails catering to every level of adventurer. For beginners and families, options like the Challenge Trail, Rotenboden - Riffelberg, Alpine Garden, Flower Trail, the panoramic 360° Loop Hike and Wolli and the Climate Detectives provide accessible routes. Moderate hikers can enjoy the scenic Panorama Trail, Nature Trail, and Matterhorn View Trail, each leading to great views and occasional encounters with Valais blacknose sheep. For the more adventurous, challenging routes such as the Glacier Trek to Monte Rosa Hut and the Swiss Topwalk await, promising exhilarating glacier views. Not all trails start at Gornergrat though, some start from Riffelberg, Riffelalp, Rotenboden and other places near the summit. Whether pursuing Matterhorn or glacier views, Gornergrat’s diverse trails promise an amazing alpine experiences for all hikers.
From Gornergrat, you can admire Switzerland's highest peaks: Dufourspitze, at 4,634 meters, and Dom, standing entirely on Swiss territory at 4,545 meters. Dom is often regarded as Switzerland's highest mountain, offering a great view from this alpine vantage point.
Lyskamm, another prominent peak visible from Gornergrat, is part of the Monte Rosa massif. This peak is renowned for its challenging climbs and striking presence in the Swiss-Italian border region.
Zinalrothorn, standing prominently in view from Gornergrat, is a majestic peak in the Pennine Alps. Its distinct pyramid shape rises to 4,221 meters, offering a striking silhouette against the surrounding peaks.
Castor and Pollux, named after figures from Greek mythology, are distinguished by the 'twin's yoke' that separates them. Popularly ascended together on the 'spaghetti tour,' a multi-day alpine trek tackling eleven four-thousanders, they offer climbers a challenging and mythically inspired adventure in the Pennine Alps.
Dent Blanche, visible from Gornergrat, stands as a prominent peak in the Swiss Alps, reaching 4,357 meters in height. Its striking white teeth-like summit gives it its name, offering a challenging ascent for climbers amidst stunning alpine scenery.
The Monte Rosa Hut, accessed from Rotenboden station, serves as a basecamp since 2009 for climbing multiple four-thousand meter peaks. Its sleek aluminium design mimics a mountain crystal, boasting self-sufficiency and water recycling. Climbers can stay overnight before ascending peaks like Dufourspitze, Castor, or Pollux.
Signalkuppe, also known as Punta Gnifetti, stands as a notable peak in the Monte Rosa massif. It is famed for hosting the Margherita Hut, the highest building in Europe, providing climbers with a strategic base for conquering surrounding peaks like Zumsteinspitze and Dufourspitze.
Breithorn, among the visible peaks from Gornergrat, is renowned for being one of the most accessible four-thousand meter peaks to climb. It earned the distinction of being the first summit reached among the 29 peaks visible, with a group of five mountaineers conquering its 4,164 meter height in 1813.
Yes, there are hiking trails at Gornergrat catering to various difficulty levels. These trails offer the opportunity to explore the alpine scenery and enjoy nature at its finest.
Yes, Gornergrat is accessible in winter. The Gornergrat Railway operates year-round, and you can enjoy winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding in the area.
Yes, one of the highlights of visiting Gornergrat is the stunning view of the Matterhorn. You can capture iconic photographs of this majestic peak from various viewpoints.
Yes, there are several attractions near Gornergrat, including the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Zermatt Village, Gorner Gorge, and Sunnegga Paradise. These offer additional experiences to complement your visit.
The weather in Gornergrat typically varies with the seasons. During summer, temperatures can range from cool to mild, making it pleasant for hiking and outdoor activities. In winter, expect cold temperatures and abundant snowfall, perfect for skiing and enjoying the snowy landscape. Due to its high altitude, weather conditions can change quickly, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before visiting.
If you're out hiking around Gornergrat, you're almost guaranteed to spot the delightful Valais Blacknose sheep. These fluffy characters are a highlight of the alpine landscape, known for their picturesque appearance against the backdrop of majestic mountains and lush meadows. So, lace up your boots, hit the trails, and keep your camera ready.
It is generally recommended to book your tickets for the Gornergrat Railway in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred timings and avoid long queues.
Tickets heen en terug naar de Gornergrat vanuit Zermatt
Vanuit Zermatt: retourtickets voor kabelbaanrit naar Matterhorn Glacier Paradise en terug en retourtickets voor treinreis naar Gornergrat en terug.
Treintickets heen en terug naar Gornergrat vanuit Zermatt + Pendeldienst Zermatt
Retourtje treinticket naar de Gornergrat vanuit Zermatt + Glacier Express: Panoramatrein tussen Zermatt, Chur en St. Moritz
Swiss Travel Continuous Pass: onbeperkt reizen met trein, bus en boot
