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Viewpoint and glacier · Zermatt, Valais
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
Cable car station on the Klein Matterhorn, with a panoramic platform at 3,883 m, the Glacier Palace carved 15 m below the glacier surface and views of 38 peaks over 4,000 m in Switzerland, Italy and France.
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 Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is on the Klein Matterhorn, a peak south of Zermatt. It is reached by a sequence of cable cars: the Matterhorn Express rises from the village to Trockener Steg, at 2,939 m, passing Furi and Schwarzsee, and the Matterhorn Glacier Ride I, a three-cable cable car, takes you to the top. The trip takes about 45 minutes.
An elevator and a staircase lead to the panoramic platform at 3,883 m. The view reaches 38 peaks over 4,000 m and 14 glaciers in Switzerland, Italy and France. To the east appears the north face of the Breithorn, a 4,164 m mountain that groups climb with a guide from the station.
The Glacier Palace is a gallery carved 15 m below the glacier's surface, with ice sculptures, a glacial crevasse you can walk through and an ice slide. It operates year-round. In the Breithorn tunnel the Cinema Lounge shows films about mountaineering and the region's nature.
From the station the Matterhorn Glacier Ride II departs, crossing to Testa Grigia, at 3,480 m, on the Italian border. Along with it runs the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing, which connects Zermatt to Breuil-Cervinia in Italy in about 1 h 30 min to 2 h. Those crossing the border need to carry their passport.
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 about 45 minutes ascending, one hour at the top and the descent.
Best time
On a clear-sky day, in the morning before the clouds rise. It operates year-round, with short stops for maintenance. It is cold at the top even in European summer, and the thin air can cause headaches: ascend slowly and drink water.
How to get there
The Matterhorn Express station is in the south of Zermatt, about a 15-minute walk from the train station, or by electric bus. From Trockener Steg, take the Matterhorn Glacier Ride I.
Tip
Bring a jacket, hat and sunglasses: the snow reflects a lot of sun. In the Glacier Palace, wear closed shoes. The Alpine Crossing to Italy is seasonal and closes for maintenance part of the year: check operations before ascending.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
What is the altitude of the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise?
The panoramic platform is at 3,883 m.
What is the Glacier Palace?
A gallery carved 15 m below the glacier surface, with ice sculptures, a glacial crevasse and a slide. It is open year-round.
Can you go to Italy via the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise?
Yes, via the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing, which goes via Testa Grigia to Breuil-Cervinia. It operates part of the year; check in advance and bring your passport.
How long does the ascent take?
About 45 minutes from Zermatt, with a cable-car change at Trockener Steg.