Eggishorn

Eggishorn (2,926 m) is a summit and one of the finest lookouts in the Bernese Alps, in the Swiss canton of Valais near Bettmeralp. It faces the Aletsch Glacier, the longest in the Alps, and on a clear day shows more than twenty peaks above 4,000 metres.

What can you see from Eggishorn?

Below the summit runs the Great Aletsch Glacier, a river of ice about 23 km long. The panorama takes in the Matterhorn, Weisshorn and Jungfrau, among others. The whole area belongs to the Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO World Heritage Site. A restaurant terrace sits by the top station, and the contrast is striking: green alpine pastures of Fiescheralp underfoot, ice on the horizon.

How do you get to Eggishorn?

Start in Fiesch, in the Goms valley, which has a railway station. A gondola climbs from there to Fiescheralp (about 2,212 m), where you change to a second cable car. It reaches the top station in roughly 8 to 10 minutes. The station stands at about 2,869 m on the secondary summit Fiescherhörli, around 500 m from the main peak. A large paid car park serves the valley station in Fiesch. Bettmeralp, the listed locality, lies across the glacier and belongs to the same Aletsch Arena region.

Can you walk up to the summit itself?

Yes. A short path leads from the top station to the main summit, where the summit cross gives the best outlook. Experienced climbers can also take the Eggishorn via ferrata, graded B/C and about 3 hours long.

Which hike should you pick?

The popular circuit from Eggishorn via Lake Märjelensee to Fiescheralp is about 12 km and takes close to 3 hours 45 minutes, at medium difficulty. The trail begins behind the Hörli-Hitta hut near the top station, crosses the Tälligrat ridge and passes a viewpoint above little Lake Tällisee before dropping to the Gletscherstube hut. From the Platta lookout you can judge how far the former Märjelensee has shrunk, as old shoreline deposits are still visible. You return either via Unners Tälli or through the lit Tälligrat tunnel.

When should you go?

Summer is best, when the lifts run regularly and the paths are free of snow. Mornings usually offer the clearest views before cloud builds up. Check cable car timetables and trail conditions before setting out.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Eggishorn? The summit is 2,926 m above sea level, though some sources give 2,927 m. The cable car top station is lower, at about 2,869 m.

Can you reach Eggishorn without climbing? Yes, by cable car from Fiesch with a change at Fiescheralp. A short walk then leads to the main summit.

How long is the Märjelensee circuit? About 3 hours 45 minutes of walking over 12 km, plus time for stops and views.

What is visible from the viewpoint? The Aletsch Glacier and over 20 four-thousanders, including the Matterhorn, Weisshorn and Jungfrau.