Riffelsee

Riffelsee is a high alpine lake above Zermatt in the Swiss canton of Valais, sitting at roughly 2,757 m on the Riffelberg slope. On a windless morning its surface mirrors the Matterhorn almost perfectly, which makes it one of the most photographed spots in the Pennine Alps.

How do you get to Riffelsee?

Take the Gornergrat cog railway from Zermatt. The ride to Rotenboden, the second-to-last stop before the Gornergrat summit, takes about 28 minutes. From the platform, follow the "Riffelseeweg" signs and you reach the shore in 5 to 10 minutes. The lake lies a little below the station, so it stays out of sight until you start down the path.

What will you see?

The draw is the Matterhorn and its reflection in the water. Many visitors walk to the far side of the lake to look back toward the peak. In summer cotton grass lines the shore and black-nosed sheep graze the surrounding pastures. The area is protected, so keep to the marked paths. A small pond just before the main lake is often quieter and also reflects the mountain well.

When should you go for the reflection?

Wind decides everything. Dawn and dusk usually bring the calmest water, and even a light breeze can ripple the surface and spoil the shot. A Gornergrat restaurant stands nearby and the train stop sits just above the lake, so midday is busy. At over 2,700 m it can be cold and breezy, so pack an extra layer.

Which hikes start at Riffelsee?

• Rotenboden – Riffelsee – Riffelberg: an easy trail of about 3 km, around one hour, with a high point near 2,814 m.
• Rotenboden – Riffelalp: a medium-grade panoramic route, described as 1.5 to 2 hours, with a few steep switchbacks and a descent of about 580 m.
• Down from Gornergrat: ride to the top and walk back past the lake. The full route from Gornergrat to Findelbach station is about 10.5 km.

You can also start at Riffelberg station and climb on foot, which costs less than the train but takes more effort.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Riffelsee? Sources give about 2,757 m above sea level. Rotenboden station sits slightly higher, at 2,815 m.

How long is the walk from Rotenboden station? Usually 5 to 10 minutes on an easy path signed "Riffelseeweg".

When is the best time for the Matterhorn reflection? Early morning or toward evening, when the wind drops and the water is smooth.

Is the hike difficult? The stretch from Rotenboden to the lake is easy. The longer descent to Riffelalp needs moderate fitness.