21. Blauherd at 2571 meters, is one of the great vantage points in the Zermatt mountains. Here, visitors have a superb view of many peaks including the Matterhorn. To get to Blauherd from Zermatt, you have to change transportation. First, take the funicular to Sunnegga before riding one of the eight-person gondolas or six-seater chairlifts up to Blauherd. This place is the starting point to many hiking trails such as marmot trails, flower walk and panorama walk. It’s not only famous for the magnificent hiking trails but also for Wolli’s adventure playground that is situated on the left of the combined gondola/chairlift. This playground is absolute heaven for children and sometimes marmots will even appear to delight children. In winter, skiers and snowboarders choose from a variety of gondolas and chairlifts as well as the cable car up to the Rothorn. This is the gateway for adventures on the sunny pistes of the whole Rothorn area. At Blauherd, the Blue Lounge has become a popular venue for sunworshippers on its terrace, contemplation of the Matterhorn has evolved into an art form. At Blauherd during summer, visitors can enjoy many hiking trails, Wolli’s adventure playground and many beautiful alpine floras which attract chamois and marmots, interesting geology and it is also paragliding launch site. During winter it has a direct access to the ski pistes, many winter hiking trails and it links to the ski pistes on the Gornergrat.
22. Riffelberg is a charming blend of history and spectacular scenery. Up on the Riffelberg at 2582 meters, visitors enjoy a grandstand view of the alpine world, complete with the Matterhorn and many other 4000 meter peaks. It was here that Zermatt’s first mountain hotel opened. The name Riffelberg refers to the high slopes between the Gornergrat. The vantage point is one of the finest in Zermatt. The summit of the Matterhorn is just 7,500 meters away as the crow flies. Visitors feel exceptionally close to the mountain, yet far enough to appreciate details of the east face, the Hornligrat ridge, parts of the north face, the hump of the Zmuttgrat ridge and admire the mountain in all its glory. The Riffelberg is home to Zermatt’s oldest mountain hotel which opened in 1855. As the Gornergrat Bahn had not yet been built, people and mules had to carry up all the building materials. In the 19th century, the world’s most famous mountain climbers stayed here, along with many members of British high society. Zermatt’s tradition of mountain guiding also has its origins here. The guides accompanied either guests to many of the surrounding peaks, such as the Monte Rosa. During summer, visitors can enjoy many hiking tails, beautiful flora and restaurants. During winter, it has direct access to the ski pistes, restaurants, many winter hiking trails and is also the end of toboggan or sledge run.
