Matterhorn

The Matterhorn is the pyramid-shaped peak that rises above Zermatt in the Swiss canton of Valais. Its summit stands at 4,478 m (14,692 ft) right on the border between Switzerland and Italy, where it is known as Monte Cervino. Few mountains anywhere are as instantly recognisable.

Where is the Matterhorn?

The peak belongs to the Pennine Alps, in the wider Monte Rosa area. The national border follows the main watershed, so the mountain is shared by two countries. The usual Swiss base is Zermatt, a car-free village at about 1,600 m. The summit sits at roughly 45.98 N, 7.66 E. From the Italian side, the Valtournenche valley and the resort of Breuil-Cervinia lie at its foot.

Why is it so famous?

Its steep, almost symmetrical form towers over the neighbouring summits. Nicknamed the "Mountain of Mountains", it is often called the most beautiful peak in the world and one of the most photographed. It ranks sixth among the Alps' independent summits by height.

Its reputation was sealed in 1865. On 14 July, a party led by Edward Whymper made the first ascent from the Swiss side. Four of the climbers died on the way down, a tragedy that gave the mountain a dark aura for decades.

What can you see without climbing gear?

The summit is for mountaineers, but the views are open to everyone:

• Gornergrat. A cog railway climbs from Zermatt to about 3,100 m. The terrace frames the Matterhorn against glaciers and the 4,000 m peaks of Monte Rosa.
• Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. Cable cars reach Klein Matterhorn at about 3,880 m, with a wide panorama of Alpine summits.
• Trails around Zermatt. Paths lead to mountain lakes where the peak mirrors in still water on calm days. Stellisee is the best known.
• Hörnli Hut. At about 3,260 m, at the foot of the Hörnli ridge, it serves as the base for summit attempts.

How do you get there?

Zermatt has no petrol cars, so drivers leave their vehicle in Täsch and take the shuttle train, about 12 minutes. Trains from Visp serve the rest of the route. From Zurich or Geneva airport, the rail journey takes several hours with changes. On the Italian side you reach Breuil-Cervinia by road and continue by lift.

When should you go?

For trails and viewpoints, June to September works best. Mornings are usually the clearest, and clouds often wrap the summit later in the day. In winter, a large ski area operates here and extends across to the Italian side. Summit climbs take place mainly in summer, when the rock is driest.

Frequently asked questions

How tall is the Matterhorn? The summit is 4,478 m (14,692 ft) above sea level.

Is the Matterhorn in Switzerland or Italy? Both. The border runs across the summit. Most visitors come to Zermatt on the Swiss side, and others to Breuil-Cervinia on the Italian side.

Can a beginner climb it? No. It is a demanding high-mountain climb that needs fitness, climbing experience and, in most cases, a licensed guide.

Where is the best place to see it without climbing? The Gornergrat terrace, the trail to Stellisee and the cable car to Klein Matterhorn are the most popular options.