Are you looking to explore beyond the charming town of Zermatt? Embark on unforgettable day trips from Zermatt to discover the stunning beauty of the Swiss Alps and surrounding regions. From picturesque mountain villages to breathtaking hiking trails, there are plenty of exciting destinations to visit just a short journey away from Zermatt. Join us as we guide you through the best day trips from Zermatt, allowing you to make the most of your Swiss adventure.
Gornergrat Railway
Travel tips
- Distance from Zermatt: 5.6 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 33 minutes
- To get to Gornergrat Railway from Zermatt, take a train from Zermatt Railway Station to Gornergrat Bahn Station. The journey offers breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and takes you through picturesque landscapes. From the Gornergrat Bahn Station, you can easily access the Gornergrat Observatory and enjoy panoramic views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks.
- Click for Google maps directions: Gornergrat Railway
Exploring Gornergrat Railway: Things to do
Gornergrat Railway is a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts visiting Zermatt. The railway journey itself is an experience to remember, as it takes you through stunning alpine scenery and offers unparalleled views of the Matterhorn, Switzerland’s iconic peak. Once you reach the Gornergrat Observatory, you can explore the viewing platform and marvel at the beauty of the surrounding mountains.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Gornergrat Railway provides access to numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty levels. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker looking for a challenging trek or a casual walker seeking a leisurely stroll, there’s a trail for everyone. The Gornergrat area is also popular for skiing and snowboarding in the winter months, with pristine slopes and breathtaking vistas.
Visitors can indulge in a delicious meal at one of the restaurants near the observatory, savoring traditional Swiss cuisine while taking in the panoramic views. Don’t forget to capture the stunning landscapes on camera, as Gornergrat Railway offers endless photo opportunities that showcase the natural beauty of the Swiss Alps.
Overall, Gornergrat Railway is a destination that combines natural beauty, outdoor activities, and breathtaking views, making it a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the Zermatt region.
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
Travel tips
- Distance from Zermatt: 7.5 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 45 minutes
- How to get there: Take the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car from Zermatt to Trockener Steg, then transfer to the Glacier Paradise cable car to reach the summit. The bus station to catch the cable car is Zermatt Bahnhof, and the train station is Zermatt Station.
- Click for Google maps directions: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
Exploring Matterhorn Glacier Paradise: Things to do
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Situated at an impressive altitude of 12,739 feet, this stunning alpine paradise offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including the iconic Matterhorn.
Visitors can experience the thrill of walking through the Glacier Palace, an ice cave filled with intricate ice sculptures and tunnels. The viewing platform provides a mesmerizing vantage point to marvel at the vast expanse of glaciers and snow-capped mountains stretching as far as the eye can see.
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Glacier Ride is a must-try activity. This exhilarating zip line allows you to soar above the glacier and feel the rush of the icy winds against your face. Additionally, snow tubing and skiing are popular activities for those looking to enjoy the pristine snow-covered slopes.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to witness the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this extreme environment. Keep an eye out for alpine ibex and marmots as you explore the rugged terrain surrounding Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.
Whether you’re an avid adventurer or simply looking to soak in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Swiss Alps, a visit to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Schwarzsee
Travel tips
- Distance from Zermatt: 6 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 30 minutes
- To get to Schwarzsee from Zermatt, take the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn train from Zermatt to Täsch. From Täsch, transfer to the Zermatt Shuttle bus that will take you directly to Schwarzsee.
- Click for Google maps directions: Schwarzsee
Exploring Schwarzsee: Things to do
Schwarzsee is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts visiting Zermatt. This picturesque alpine lake offers stunning views of the surrounding Matterhorn mountain and provides a tranquil setting for a day of relaxation and exploration.
One of the top activities at Schwarzsee is hiking. There are several well-marked trails that cater to all levels of hikers, from leisurely strolls around the lake to more challenging treks up the nearby peaks. The hiking paths offer breathtaking vistas of the Matterhorn and the surrounding valleys, making it a paradise for nature photographers.
For those seeking adventure, Schwarzsee is also a popular spot for paragliding. Experience the thrill of soaring through the sky while taking in the panoramic views of the Swiss Alps below. The calm winds and clear skies make Schwarzsee an ideal location for this exhilarating activity.
If you prefer a more leisurely day by the water, Schwarzsee is perfect for picnicking and enjoying a peaceful moment by the lake. The crystal-clear waters reflect the majestic Matterhorn, creating a serene atmosphere that is perfect for unwinding and soaking in the beauty of the Swiss Alps.
Overall, Schwarzsee offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and tranquility, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Zermatt region. Whether you are an avid hiker, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat in the Swiss Alps, Schwarzsee has something to offer for everyone.
Sunnegga
Travel tips
- Distance of Sunnegga from Zermatt: 1.5 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 20 minutes
- How to get there from Zermatt: Take the Sunnegga funicular from Zermatt to Sunnegga. The funicular station is located near the Zermatt train station.
- Click for Google maps directions: Sunnegga
Exploring Sunnegga: Things to do
Sunnegga is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts visiting Zermatt. The stunning views of the Matterhorn mountain from Sunnegga are unparalleled, making it a popular spot for photographers and hikers alike. One of the top things to do at Sunnegga is to take a leisurely hike along the Five Lakes Walk, a picturesque trail that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and alpine lakes.
For those looking for a more adrenaline-pumping experience, Sunnegga is also a great starting point for paragliding adventures. The clear blue skies and gentle winds make it an ideal location for soaring above the Swiss Alps and taking in the panoramic vistas below. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a relaxing picnic amidst the alpine meadows or dine at the Sunnegga Restaurant, which offers delicious Swiss cuisine with a view.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply want to unwind in nature, Sunnegga offers something for everyone. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this hidden gem in the Swiss Alps during your visit to Zermatt.
Riffelsee
Travel tips
- Distance of Riffelsee from Zermatt: 5 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 1 hour
- How to get there from Zermatt: Take the Gornergrat Railway from Zermatt to Rotenboden station, then enjoy a scenic hike of about 1.5 miles to reach Riffelsee.
- Click for Google maps directions: Riffelsee
Exploring Riffelsee: Things to do
Riffelsee is a stunning alpine lake located near Zermatt, Switzerland, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Matterhorn mountain. This picturesque destination is a must-see for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
One of the top things to do at Riffelsee is to simply take in the beauty of the crystal-clear lake and the reflection of the iconic Matterhorn in its waters. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lake, capturing stunning photographs of the mountain scenery.
For those seeking a bit more adventure, hiking around Riffelsee offers a chance to explore the pristine alpine landscape up close. The area is also popular for birdwatching, with various species of birds frequenting the lake and its surroundings.
During the summer months, Riffelsee is a great spot for a picnic or a relaxing break while soaking in the tranquility of nature. Visitors can also try their hand at fishing in the lake or simply sit back and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
Overall, Riffelsee is a hidden gem in the Swiss Alps that provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an outdoor adventure, Riffelsee offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Theodul Pass
Travel tips
- Distance from Zermatt: 6.2 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 1 hour by bus
- How to get there: Take the bus from Zermatt to Furi, then transfer to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car to reach Theodul Pass.
- Click for Google maps directions: Theodul Pass
Exploring Theodul Pass: Things to do
Theodul Pass, situated at an elevation of 11,333 feet in the Swiss Alps, is a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, this high mountain pass provides a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the Alps up close.
One of the top activities at Theodul Pass is hiking. With a variety of trails catering to different skill levels, visitors can explore the stunning alpine landscapes while breathing in the crisp mountain air. The pass also serves as a starting point for more challenging hikes, including the famous Haute Route trek that connects Chamonix in France to Zermatt in Switzerland.
For those looking for a more adrenaline-pumping experience, Theodul Pass is a popular spot for skiing and snowboarding. With access to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise ski area, visitors can enjoy a day on the slopes surrounded by majestic peaks and pristine snow.
Photography enthusiasts will find endless opportunities to capture the beauty of the Swiss Alps from Theodul Pass. Whether it’s the dramatic mountain vistas, the sparkling glaciers, or the colorful alpine flora, every corner of this pass offers a picture-perfect moment waiting to be immortalized.
In conclusion, Theodul Pass is a destination that combines natural beauty, outdoor activities, and unparalleled views, making it a must-visit location for anyone exploring the Swiss Alps. Whether you’re a hiker, skier, photographer, or simply a nature lover, a trip to Theodul Pass promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of the mountains.
Zermatt-Furi Cable Car
Travel tips
- Distance from Zermatt: 3.5 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 20 minutes
- How to get there: Take the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn train from Zermatt to Furi station. From there, it’s a short walk to the Zermatt-Furi Cable Car.
Exploring Zermatt-Furi Cable Car: Things to do
The Zermatt-Furi Cable Car is a must-see attraction for visitors to Zermatt, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Matterhorn mountain range. As you ascend in the cable car, you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and charming alpine villages below.
Once you reach the top, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the numerous trails that start from the Furi station, ranging from leisurely walks to more challenging treks. The area is also popular for skiing and snowboarding in the winter months, with slopes suitable for all skill levels.
For those looking for a more relaxed experience, the mountain restaurants near the cable car station offer delicious Swiss cuisine with a view. You can savor traditional dishes like fondue or raclette while taking in the stunning scenery.
Don’t miss the opportunity to capture memorable photos from the viewing platforms at the top station. The Zermatt-Furi Cable Car provides a convenient and scenic way to experience the beauty of the Swiss Alps, making it a highlight of any trip to Zermatt.
