Sightseeing
Sightseeing
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The Matterhorn, a majestic peak in the Alps straddling Italy and Switzerland, is known for its iconic pyramid shape. Standing at 4,478 metres above sea level, it's one of the highest summits in Europe. Visiting the Matterhorn is a must in Switzerland . Here are several ways you can experience the Matterhorn:
🚞Take the Gornergrat Railway
I recommend you take the Gornergrat Bahn, Europe’s highest open-air cog railway, departing from Zermatt. The train ride offers stunning views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding Alpine landscape.
The cost of a ticket for the Gornergrat Railway varies depending on the season, type of ticket, and any available discounts.
🎟️Standard Ticket Prices (return trip)
Zermatt to Gornergrat:
Adults: Approximately CHF 95 - CHF 110
Child (6-15 years): half the adult price
Children under 3: free
Highlights: At the top, you can enjoy panoramic views from the Gornergrat observation platform, which includes the Matterhorn and Monte Rosa, The area also has restaurants, hiking trails, and a panoramic viewing area.
Discounts and Special Tickets
Swiss Travel Pass and Swiss Half Fare Card:
Holders of the Swiss Travel Pass or Swiss Half Fare Card receive a 50% discount on the regular ticket prices.
Morning and Evening Tickets:
Discounted fares are often available for early morning or late afternoon departures.
Family Discounts:
Families can benefit from special offers, where children travel for free or at a reduced rate when accompanied by a paying adult.
🚡 Take the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
Reach the highest cable car station in Europe at 3,883 meters (12,739 feet) by taking a series of cable cars from Zermatt via Furi and Trockener Steg.
The cost of tickets, which includes access to the highest cable car station in Europe, varies depending on the type of ticket and the season.
Standard Ticket Prices (return trip)
Adults: Approximately CHF 95 - CHF 120
Child (6-15 years): half the adult price
Children under 3: free
Highlights: The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise offers breathtaking views of 38 four-thousand-meter peaks and 14 glaciers. The complex includes an ice palace, a panoramic viewing platform, and a restaurant. In summer, you can also ski or snowboard here.
🥾Hiking to Hörnli Hut:
If you want a closer view, hike to the Hörnli Hut, located at the base of the Matterhorn at an elevation of 3,260 meters (10,696 feet). This hut is the starting point for climbers attempting the Matterhorn ascent. The hike to the hut provides stunning views and a close-up experience of the mountain.
🚁 Take a Helicopter Tour
Take a helicopter tour for a bird’s-eye view of the Matterhorn and the surrounding peaks. Helicopter tours are available from Zermatt and provide an unparalleled perspective of the mountain and the Alps. Please keep in mind this is super expensive.
🥾Climbing the Matterhorn
⚠️This is for extremely experienced climbers only!
For experienced climbers, summiting the Matterhorn is a challenging and iconic goal. The Hörnli Ridge is the most popular route. Climbers typically stay at the Hörnli Hut before making an early morning ascent.
Climbing the Matterhorn requires significant mountaineering experience, proper equipment, and a high level of fitness. I recommend to hire a guide for help with the route.
I hope you have a super cool experience seeing the Matterhorn 🥰
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