Gornergrat

Gornergrat is a rocky ridge above Zermatt in the Pennine Alps, in the Swiss canton of Valais. At 3,089 m above sea level it faces the Matterhorn and the Monte Rosa massif, with the Gorner Glacier flowing far below. It is among the most accessible high viewpoints in the Alps, because a cog railway takes you right to the top.

How do you get to Gornergrat?

The Gornergratbahn departs from Zermatt station (1,604 m). The line is about 9.3 km long, climbs nearly 1,500 vertical metres and takes roughly half an hour. Trains run all year. The railway opened in August 1898 as Switzerland's first electric rack line. Zermatt itself is car-free, so you reach the village by train from Täsch.

On the way up, sit on the right-hand side facing uphill: the Matterhorn stays in view for most of the ride.

What can you see from the summit?

The ridge sits between two glaciers, the Gornergletscher and the Findelgletscher. The panorama takes in more than 20 peaks over 4,000 m, including Monte Rosa, Liskamm, Dom, Weisshorn and the Matterhorn itself. The Gorner Glacier is one of the largest ice systems in the Alps and looks like a frozen river from above.

The Kulmhotel on the summit is the highest hotel in Switzerland. Since the late 1960s its two towers have housed astronomical observatories, and the Gornergrat South Observatory hosts the Stellarium Gornergrat project. Near the station you will find viewing terraces and places to eat.

Is it worth walking down?

Yes. Trails lead downhill from the top towards the Rotenboden and Riffelberg stops, home to the classic Matterhorn view mirrored in Riffelsee lake. In good weather it is an easy, scenic hike, and you can hop back on the train at any station.

When should you go?

Visibility is usually best in the morning, before cloud builds in the valleys. In summer the paths are clear; in winter snow covers the area around the station and ski runs open. It is cold above 3,000 m even in July, so bring a warm jacket, sunglasses and sunscreen. If you are sensitive to altitude, take it easy and drink plenty of water.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the ride to Gornergrat? About 30 minutes from Zermatt, covering roughly 9 km.

How high is Gornergrat? 3,089 m above sea level. Its railway station is one of the highest in Europe.

Can you see the Matterhorn from Gornergrat? Yes, along with Monte Rosa, Liskamm, Dom and Weisshorn. Conditions are best under clear skies, usually in the morning.

Can you visit in winter? Yes. The railway runs all year and in winter also carries skiers.