Matterhorn Tour

The Matterhorn, or known in other languages as the Matterhorn, is one of the most emblematic and well-known mountains in the Alps with its 4,478 metres of altitude and its unusual pyramid shape. It is located on the border between Switzerland and Italy, more specifically between the towns of Zermatt and Breuil-Cervinia.

The classic peak of the Matterhorn or Matterhorn has inspired adventurers for generations, and this 145km tour does not disappoint. It is considerably more demanding than the popular alpine route, the Tour du Mont Blancand is a great progression for those who have already tried this type of alpine trekking and wish to broaden their experience.

The 145 km route coincides with two other long-distance routes. From Zermatt to Arolla it follows the Haute Route trail, and from Breuil-Cervinia to Grächen it takes the Monte Rosa Tour. The total ascent is 9925m with a total descent of 9925m.

Practical guide

When to go?

July/August recommended. Snow possible well into June. Huts and huts are open from late June/early July. Cable cars are open from early July to early September.

Difficulty and tips

For experienced mountaineers. Requires glacier climbing skills/equipment and good physical fitness.

The route stays mostly below 3,000m, so there is no need to fear the effects of altitude sickness, as it usually occurs above 3,000m.

The route consists of two glacier passes that are not very difficult but require caution and specialised technical equipment.

The trails are quite steep and rocky in places, and occasionally the more drastic sections have been equipped with metal steps and/or cables. These sections are short and not difficult, although in rain or snow they would be slippery.

Not to be missed

• Wildlife
• Views of Matterhorn and summits over 4000m
• Swiss and Italian traditions and cultures.
• Glacier crossings.
• Italian food in huts and lodges.

Cities & Services

Gruben, St. Nicolas, Zermatt, Breuil-Cervina, Oration, Arolla, Zinal, Les Haudères

Some stages end the route in small, remote villages in the Alps, all of which are well equipped with all types of services such as accommodation, shops, supermarkets, etc. This facilitates and considerably improves the conditions of the route.

Stages

A guide to the 145 km Matterhorn or Matterhorn Tour, described counter-clockwise from Zermatt and visiting 6 valleys via Zinal, Arolla and Breuil, offering spectacular views of 25 peaks over 4000m. The route also links up with the Chamonix to Zermatt Haute Route and the Monte Rosa Tour. Includes two glacier crossings.

The route has been divided into 7 stages following the logic of the alpine valleys, but it can take 8 to 10 days to complete normally.

Stage 1: Zermatt to St Niklaus / Alternative: Route Zermatt to St Niklaus valley /

This is the starting stage and is therefore recommended to start from the Randa train station in Mattertal. The trail runs towards Topali, on the left side of the Matternal valley. It is 10.6 km long and takes about 7.5 hours to complete.

From Topali to Jungu you will pass through glaciers and lakes. After arriving in Jungu you look for accommodation in the St.Niklaus hut. The hike is about 11.8 km long and takes about 6 hours.

Stage 2: St Niklaus to Gruben-Meiden

From Jungu to Gruben. It takes about 5 hours to reach the village of Gruben/Meiden in the Turtmann valley. The journey is about 15.5 km long and takes about 5 hours and 15 minutes.

Stage 3: Gruben-Meiden to Zinal / Alternative: Gruben-Meiden to Zinal via the Forcletta /

From Gruben to Zinal. From Gruben in Turtmanntal to Zinal in Val d'Anniviers, the mountaineer enters French-speaking territory. Crossing the Meidpass at 2,790 metres the route descends to Zinal. During this stage it is possible to rest at the historic Wisshom hut. The stage is 20.4 km long and takes 7.5 hours to complete.

Stage 4: Zinal to Les Haudères / Stage 4A: Liaison route: Les Haudères to Arolla /

From Zinal to Arolla. The route from Zinal to Sorebois is one of the most demanding on the Matterhorn tour. There are 700 metres of ascent with the Zinal-Sorebois cable. This segment is particular for its large lake, the great mountain scenery and its 3000 metres of elevation. Its 33.8 km usually take about 15 hours and 10 minutes to complete.

Stage 5: Arolla to Prarayer

From Arolla to Prarayer. This stage takes you into Italy changing country to enter the Aosta Valley, Valpelline. This area is usually very popular with mountaineers and tourists, and the Collon glacier is one of the most interesting points of the route. In terms of length, this stage is 16.9 km long and can be covered in approximately 7 hours and 35 minutes.

Stage 6: Prarayer to Breuil-Cervinia

From Prarayer to Breuil/Cervinia. At the Prarayer refuge you will find the Bionaz family. It is situated near the Place Moulin lake in Valpelline. One of the reasons to stay at this refuge is that it offers the best views of the area and the whole route. This seventh stage is about 16 km long and lasts 8 hours and 30 minutes.

Stage 7: Breuil-Cervinia to Zermatt

From Breuil/Cervinia to Plateau Rosa. It is worth noting the high altitude of 3000 metres. The Matterhorn and a view of the 4000 metre peaks around the Teodul glacier are clearly visible along the way. The duration of this segment is 8 km and usually takes about 5 hours.

From Plateau Rosa to Zermatt. Finally comes the last stretch and it is recommended to experience the experience of sleeping one night on the mountain at an altitude of over 3,300 metres. This section is somewhat shorter, with a distance of 11 km and an approximate duration of 3 hours.