Hey, Lykkers! Are you ready for a journey to one of Switzerland's most breathtaking spots?
Join us as we explore the captivating beauty of Riffelsee Lake, where the Matterhorn's iconic reflection creates an unforgettable experience.
Riffelsee Lake – The Perfect Matterhorn Reflection
Riffelsee Lake, nestled in the Swiss Alps at an altitude of 2,762 meters, is renowned for its mirror-like reflection of the Matterhorn. We took an early morning hike to this crystal-clear lake to catch the stunning view, and it was well worth it! The lake is accessible from Zermatt via the Gornergrat Railway, which itself offers spectacular views along the way. The lake's surface is usually calm and reflective in the early hours, creating an almost surreal image of the Matterhorn towering majestically in the background.
The Gornergrat Railway operates from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily, with round-trip tickets priced at around CHF 95 (approximately $105 USD) per. For us, the combination of scenic train ride and mesmerizing views of Riffelsee made this experience one for the books.
Gornergrat Summit – Panoramic Alpine Views
Another must-see spot is the Gornergrat summit, located above Riffelsee and offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Alps. We took the Gornergrat Railway all the way up to the top, where we were greeted by views of not only the Matterhorn but also several other peaks, including Monte Rosa and the Dufourspitze, the highest point in Switzerland. Watching the landscape stretch out before us felt like standing on top of the world.
The Gornergrat observation deck is open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Tickets for a single ride to the summit cost CHF 65 (about $72 USD). We highly recommend taking the time to go all the way up for an experience that's as thrilling as it is beautiful, especially during sunrise or sunset when the colors transform the scenery into an awe-inspiring display.
Stay at Riffelhaus 1853 – A Historic Mountain Retreat
For those of us looking to extend our stay, Riffelhaus 1853 is a historic hotel conveniently located on the Gornergrat Railway route, just a short ride from Riffelsee. Originally built in 1853, this charming hotel offers cozy rooms with panoramic mountain views, a rustic alpine vibe, and a relaxing spa area with an outdoor whirlpool overlooking the Matterhorn. After a day of hiking and exploring, there's nothing better than unwinding here with the mountains all around us.
Rooms at Riffelhaus 1853 start at around CHF 300 per night (about $330 USD) during the high season. Staying here allows us to enjoy the beauty of the Alps without the need to rush back down, giving us the perfect base for exploring both Riffelsee and Gornergrat.
Riffelsee and the Matterhorn – A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
The journey to Riffelsee and Gornergrat is a truly unforgettable experience, with views that leave us in awe of nature's beauty. From the Matterhorn's reflection in Riffelsee to the panoramic vistas at Gornergrat, this area offers some of the most stunning landscapes in Switzerland. Staying at Riffelhaus 1853 adds an extra layer of magic to our trip, making it the perfect destination for any nature lover. So, Lykkers, if you're looking for a destination that feels like a dream, Switzerland's Riffelsee and Matterhorn have all the charm you could wish for!
Riffelsee & Riffelhorn Trails | Zermatt, Switzerland | August 2020
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