Are you ready to experience the highest peak in the Swiss Alps? Look no further than Zermatt Glacier Paradise, where you’ll be transported to a world of snow-capped mountains and breathtaking views. Located at an elevation of 3,883 meters (12,740 feet), the Glacier Paradise offers a wide range of activities for all ages and interests, including hiking, skiing, paragliding, and more.
But it’s not just the adventure that makes the Glacier Paradise a must-visit destination – the views from the top are truly unparalleled. So why wait? Let us take you on a fantastic ride toward Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. Here is a complete guide about how to make the most out of the Zermatt Glacier, including how to reach it, what to do and how much time to spend.
About Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and Where to Find it
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, also known as Klein Matterhorn, is a mountain peak located in the Swiss Alps in Zermatt, close to the border with Italy. It is the highest cable car station in Europe, at an elevation of 3,883 meters (12,740 feet), and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is accessible via a cable car from the town of Zermatt, which takes about 20 minutes to reach the top.
Once at the top, visitors can explore the many activities and attractions offered at Klein Matterhorn. In the winter, the Glacier Paradise is a popular ski resort, with runs for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
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But skiing is just the beginning at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. The views from the top of the mountain are simply breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Italy and France. But perhaps the most iconic sight at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is its unique view of the Matterhorn, one of the most famous peaks in the Swiss Alps. From the top of the mountain, you can get a close-up view of the iconic peak, which towers over the landscape at 4,478 meters (14,692 feet).
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise also offers other unique attractions like the ice cave with a series of ice carvings. In addition to the outdoor activities, the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise also has a restaurant, a cafe, and a souvenir shop. There is also a terrace with 360-degree views, where visitors can relax and take in the breathtaking scenery.
Zermatt Glacier Paradise: How to get there
If you’re planning a visit to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, here’s what you need to know:
- To get to the mountain, your journey will start in the town of Zermatt. From there, you’ll take three cable cars to reach the summit.
- There are two routes you can take to get to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. The first route is a straight shot from Zermatt to the summit, while the second route includes a detour for a unique view of the Matterhorn.
- Keep in mind that the cable car routes and timetables change depending on the time of year. It’s a good idea to check the hours of the cable cars on the official website before your visit.
- The first leg of your journey, from Zermatt to Furi, is the same no matter which route you choose. From Furi, you’ll have the option of taking one of two different cable cars to the summit.
- To get to the Zermatt Bergbahnen cable car station, you can either walk or take the bus from the southern end of Zermatt. From there, you’ll take a gondola to Furi.
Furi – Schwarzsee – Klein Matterhorn
If you want a truly unforgettable view of the iconic Matterhorn peak, the route from Zermatt to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise through Schwarzsee is a must-see. This scenic route is the most popular way to reach the summit, and for good reason – the views of the Matterhorn are simply breathtaking.
Zermatt to Furi: You’ll first need to take a 5-minute gondola ride from Zermatt to Furi.
Furi to Schwarzsee: From there, you’ll transfer to a cable car that will take you to Schwarzsee, an 8-minute ride away.
While the cable car ride itself is a highlight, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the views along the way. You can hop off the cable car at Schwarzsee and take a short walk towards the lake for a closer look at the Matterhorn. You can also snap a photo with the Zermatt sign, or simply take a moment to appreciate the stunning surroundings.
Schwarzsee to Trockener Steg: After taking in the views at Schwarzsee, it’s time to continue your journey to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. The next stop on your journey is Trockener Steg, a 9-minute gondola ride away.
Trockener Steg to Klein Matterhorn: Once you arrive at Trockener Steg, you’ll board the futuristic Matterhorn Glacier Ride cable car for the final leg of your journey to the summit. This 8-minute ride will take you to the top of Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
In total, it takes about 30 minutes to travel from Zermatt to the summit of Matterhorn Glacier Paradise on this route, not including any time you may spend stopping for photos or transferring between gondolas. In general, it takes about an hour to make the journey from Zermatt to the summit.
Furi – Trockener Steg – Klein Matterhorn
If you want to make a quick and direct journey from Zermatt to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, this route is a great option. However, keep in mind that this route is not offered all day – in the summer, the cable car from Furi to Trockener Steg only operates during the early morning hours. Make sure to check the official website before your visit to confirm the availability of these cable cars.
To start your journey, you’ll take a 5-minute gondola ride from Zermatt to Furi. From there, you’ll transfer to a cable car that will take you to Trockener Steg in just 7 minutes.
At Trockener Steg, you’ll have the option of taking the futuristic Matterhorn Glacier Ride cable car or the red, older cable car for the final leg of your journey to the summit. This 8-minute ride will take you to the top of Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, where you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
In total, it takes about 20 minutes to travel from Zermatt to the summit of Matterhorn Glacier Paradise on this route, not including any time you may spend transferring between gondolas. In general, it takes about 40 minutes to make the journey from Zermatt to the summit.
Timetable & Ticket Price
If you’re planning a visit to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, it’s important to know how much you can expect to pay for your tickets. Round trip tickets for the cable car ride to the summit start at CHF 90.50 per person. However, it’s important to note that this price will be higher during the peak summer months – during this time, round trip tickets cost CHF 120 per person.
It’s worth noting that this price includes both the cable car ride and entrance to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, so you’ll have access to all of the mountain’s attractions once you reach the summit. However, there are several optional activities available at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise that come with additional fees. These may include things like skiing or snowboarding, guided tours, or special events.
If you’re looking to add a touch of glamor to your visit to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, you might consider upgrading to a “Crystal Ride” cabin. These four cabins are decorated with sparkling Swarovski crystals and feature a glass floor, making for a truly memorable experience.
To upgrade to a Crystal Ride cabin, you’ll need to pay an additional fee. One-way tickets for adults cost CHF 9.40, while round trip tickets cost CHF 14.50. Keep in mind that these prices are subject to the same discounts as regular tickets, so be sure to check for any promotions or discounts that may be available.
Peak2Peak Ticket
Explore the two top-notch Zermatt viewpoints on one excursion day with the Peak2Peak ticket. Your journey starts with a stop at Europe’s highest mountain station, the Matterhorn glacier paradise (3,883 m). After taking all in, you board the cable car to Riffelberg to get to the Gornergrat (3,089 m), which has a scenic cog train. Near the train station, the Gornergrat Bahn takes you back to Zermatt’s main square in superb comfort. The starting price of a ticket is CHF 142.
Attractions and Things to Do at the Glacier Paradise
Viewing Platform
Ready to take in some of the most breathtaking views in the Alps? Head to Europe’s highest viewing platform in Zermatt, the Zermatt Matterhorn. To get there, just follow the signs to the panoramic platform and take the lift to bring you closer to the almost 4000 meter altitude. From there, slowly climb the stairs to reach the viewing platform.
Once you arrive, you’ll be treated to a 360-degree panorama that offers views of 38 Alpine peaks and 14 glaciers in three different countries – Switzerland, Italy, and France. Be prepared to marvel at the stunning vistas that stretch out before you, from the snow-capped peaks to the glistening glaciers below.
The Glacier Palace
The Glacier Palace at Klein Matterhorn is an exciting destination for visitors to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. Located 15 meters below the surface of the world’s highest glacier cave, the palace is a unique and unforgettable experience.
Before you visit, make sure to dress warmly – it will be freezing inside the palace. It’s a good idea to wear multiple layers, including a quilted jacket, and bring gloves and a woolen hat. Hiking shoes are also a good choice, as you’ll be walking on ice and may encounter small crevasses.
It’s a great destination for both kids and adults alike. Inside the palace, you’ll find a variety of ice sculptures and other features that are sure to spark your imagination. The sparkling ice crystals and transparent walls add to the magic of the experience.
Whether you’re a fan of Frozen or just looking for a unique and exciting adventure, the Glacier Palace has something for everyone. Kids will love exploring the palace and discovering all of the different ice sculptures, and adults will appreciate the sheer beauty of the place.
To enter the Glacier Palace, you’ll need a ticket to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, which also gives you access to all of the other attractions at the Klein Matterhorn. You’ll need about 30 to 45 minutes to really enjoy the palace, but it’s a good idea to limit your stay to prevent getting too cold.
The Cinema Lounge
The Matterhorn glacier paradise features the highest cinema in Europe at an altitude of 3,883 meters. Located in the Breithorn tunnel, the Cinema Lounge offers a range of films about the alpine world, mountaineering, freeride skiing, flora and fauna, and more. The cinema is free for guests and is included in the price of a Matterhorn glacier paradise ticket. The tunnel has been decorated in shades of blue and features crystal elements in the walls, as well as a 3 meter high Matterhorn replica and colorful, egg-shaped seats hanging from the ceiling with integrated speakers, known as cocoons. These seats, lined with sheepskin rugs, provide a cozy atmosphere for watching films. The Cinema Lounge is a great option for families with children or for those who want to relax and watch films on a bad weather day.
Skiing
Zermatt, is home to the world’s largest summer ski area at the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. The Theodul glacier offers a variety of snow sports activities for visitors to enjoy, even in the warmer months. Located at an altitude of 3,883 meters, the Klein Matterhorn offers some of the best summer skiing conditions in the world. The glacier is well-groomed and maintained, providing a smooth and enjoyable experience for skiers of all levels. In fact, the ski area is so popular that it is often used for training by international and Swiss ski teams.
But also in winter it’s a Zermatt highlight. The ski area boasts over 40 miles of pistes, with a variety of runs for skiers of all levels. The longest descent at Klein Matterhorn stretches over 7 miles and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. In addition to downhill skiing, the Klein Matterhorn also has a cross-country skiing trail, a snow park, and several off-piste areas for backcountry skiers. With its high altitude and reliable snow conditions, the Klein Matterhorn is a top destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
If you’re looking for a change of scenery during your ski holiday in Zermatt, consider taking a trip to Cervinia, just across the border in Italy. With an international ski pass, you’ll have access to the extensive network of red pistes in Cervinia, including some of the steepest in the region. The area is also known for its long runs, with some extending all the way down to the resort village of Breuil-Cervinia. Whether you’re looking for a challenge or just want to explore a new area, Cervinia is worth a visit during your stay in Zermatt.
How Much Time for a Visit?
The viewing platform, cinema, and Glacier Palace will take about two hours to experience, but you can also add on skiing or the ascent of Breithorn mountain and spend a whole day there. Alternatively, you can use the Peak2Peak ticket to visit Gornergrat or take one of the trails starting at the cable car stations between the summit and Zermatt. With so many options, it’s easy to make a full day of your visit to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.
Good To Know
- Check the weather forecast, it’s best visited on a clear day. Generally speaking the weather is clearer in the morning with clouds tend to move in during the day.
- It is best to dress in several thin layers, so you can adapt to the changing temperatures throughout the day. Take gloves, sunglasses, possibly a hat and wear sunscreen. Sturdy and good shoes are recommended, as always, if you want to walk around a bit or combine your visit with a hike.
- Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is situated at an altitude of 3090 meters. From about 2000 m, any person can suffer from (mild) altitude sickness. Usually it helps to take it slow and sit down for a while. If the symptoms are severe, the only thing that helps is to go back to lower places. Particular precautions should be taken for children under 2 years of age, as well as for pregnant women and people in poor health: before going to areas above 2500 m, consult your doctor. In general, it is not a problem to stay at this altitude for only a few hours.
Is The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Worth It?
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise offers incredible views of the Alps and is easily accessible, making it a worthwhile excursion when visiting Zermatt. In addition, the option to spend time on the ski slopes in the summer months is a unique experience.
The excursion to Gornergrat should not be missed as well, and can be incorporated into a visit to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise or planned as a separate outing. It is highly recommended because it offers breathtaking views and a pleasant hiking trail to Riffelberg.
