Seehorn

Seehorn is a 2,439 m peak rising above the village of Gondo in the Swiss canton of Valais. It belongs to the Pennine Alps but, unlike most Valais mountains, stands on the southern side of the range, in the southern Simplon Valley close to the Italian border.

Where is the Seehorn?

The mountain overlooks the Gondo Gorge, the route the Simplon road takes down towards Italy. Most ascents begin in the Zwischbergental, a side valley of the Gondo-Zwischbergen area. The border is only a short distance away, and from the valley you can plan full-day hikes that cross into Italy and return.

How do you hike up the Seehorn?

The standard route starts at the hamlet of Bord in the Zwischbergental. It is a loop of roughly 11 km and takes about five hours; guides rate it difficult and strenuous. The route runs like this:

• the historic Stockalperweg leads up to the Furggu saddle,
• a forest section follows towards the small lake and the Seetole pass,
• the final stretch climbs to the summit itself.

A longer option starts in Gondo and finishes with a descent along the Stockalperweg into the Zwischbergental, around 23 km in total. It suits fit hikers who want to combine the peak with a walk on the old trade route.

What can you see from the top?

The panorama takes in the Gondo Gorge, the Simplon Pass and the Monte Leone group. To the west rise the Weissmies, Lagginhorn and Fletschhorn massif. The effort is rewarded with views you will not get on the easier trails nearby.

When should you go?

Summer and early autumn, once the trail is clear of snow, are the best months. Set off early, because this is a full-day outing and the longer variants need a time buffer. Check a current map and forecast before leaving: weather near the border can change quickly.

How do you get to Gondo?

Gondo sits on the road over the Simplon Pass. You can drive from Brig across the pass, or come from the Italian side via Domodossola. A side road leads from Gondo into the Zwischbergental. The Brig Simplon tourist office publishes route descriptions for the area.

Frequently asked questions

How high is the Seehorn?

The summit stands at 2,439 m above sea level.

Is the Seehorn hike difficult?

The standard route from Bord is described as difficult. It covers about 11 km and takes around five hours, so good fitness is needed.

Where does the hike start?

Usually at Bord in the Zwischbergental, from where the Stockalperweg climbs to Furggu.

Is this the same Seehorn as the one near Davos or in Tyrol?

No. This peak lies above Gondo in Valais, near the Italian border, and is unrelated to other mountains of the same name elsewhere in the Alps.