Zermatt and the Matterhorn

Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrive Zurich - Transfer to Zermatt

From Zurich it’s a direct 2.25-hour train ride to Visp in the heart of the Rhone Valley, where you connect to the famed Matterhorn GotthardBahn for the cogwheel ascent of the Mattertal, along the route of the Glacier Express, to Zermatt (1-hour). Use the afternoon for exploring quaint hamlets in the hills above Zermatt, crossing high above the glacier gorge on a 100-meter long suspension bridge, and walking back through the Gornergorge. Visit the Matterhorn museum today.

Day 2 – Zermatt - Riffelalp - Gornergrat

Zermatt is cradled in stunning mountain scenery and shadowed by more 4000-meter peaks than any place in the Alps. Ascend by cog-wheel railway to Riffelalp, a high meadow with lakes that perfectly reflect the Matterhorn. Further up the Gornergrat ridge we overlook the Monte Rosa, the highest peak in Switzerland, with its glaciers and icefalls. (Gornergrat excursions is 50% discount with railpass). (B)

Day 3 – Zermatt - Sunnegga

A morning funicular ascent takes you to Sunnegga where you’ll have sweeping views of the Mattertal valley before descending into larch forests, passing charming hamlets along the way. Another option today would be a cable car up to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and visit the ice caves and magnificent views of the surrounding Alps. (Cable car excursions are a 50% discount with railpass) (B)

Day 4 – Zermatt - Departure and onward travel, or extend your stay

Following breakfast at the hotel there is time for a little shopping in Zermatt or exploring any of the great hiking options that literally lie at your doorstep. Your included transportation rail pass will take you back to the airport—or better yet, extend your stay in Switzerland. (B)