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Viewpoint and mountain train · Zermatt, Valais
Gornergrat
Lookout at 3,089 m served by the rack railway Gornergrat Bahn, which departs in front of Zermatt station and climbs in about 33 minutes. From the top you can see the Matterhorn, the Monte Rosa massif and the Gorner Glacier.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Gornergrat
Gornergrat Bahn has linked Zermatt to the Gornergrat since 1898. The rack railway, electric from its opening, runs 9.3 km and overcomes almost 1,500 m of elevation. The ascent takes about 33 minutes, with stops at Findelbach, Riffelalp, Riffelberg and Rotenboden.
The upper station is at 3,089 m. From the terrace you can see the Matterhorn head-on and, on the other side, the Monte Rosa massif, with the Dufourspitze at 4,634 m. Below runs the Gorner Glacier. The panorama includes nearly 30 peaks over 4,000 m.
At the top are the Kulmhotel, with two towers housing astronomical observatories, restaurants and the multimedia exhibition ZOOOM the Matterhorn. The historic locomotive 3003, painted gold, serves as a photo spot.
The train operates year-round. In European summer the intermediate stops are trailheads, such as the one that descends from Rotenboden to Riffelsee and Riffelberg. In winter the same slopes become ski runs, and there is sledding between Rotenboden and Riffelberg.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day, including the ascent, time at the top and return; a full day if you include the hike to Riffelberg.
Best time
Early in the morning the sky is usually clearer and the Matterhorn gets front light. In European summer, from July to September, the trails at the intermediate stops are often snow-free. The temperature at the top is much lower than in the village: bring a jacket in any month.
How to get there
The Gornergrat Bahn station is in front of Zermatt's main station. The train climbs in about 33 minutes and returns in about 44. In high season departures are frequent throughout the day.
Tip
Tourist train passes often give a discount on the Gornergrat Bahn. Walk down from Rotenboden to Riffelberg, via the Riffelsee, and catch the train there. If there are clouds at the top, change the day: check operations before ascending.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Gornergrat
How long does the train take to the Gornergrat?
About 33 minutes up and 44 minutes down.
Does the Gornergrat operate in winter?
Yes. The train operates year-round, and in winter the slopes become a ski area.
What is the altitude of the Gornergrat?
The terminus station of the Gornergrat Bahn is at 3,089 m.
What can you see from the Gornergrat?
The Matterhorn, the Monte Rosa massif with the Dufourspitze, and the Gorner Glacier, among nearly 30 peaks over 4,000 m.