Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
Schluhmattstrasse 28, Zermatt, CHE
Europe’s highest aerial cableway leads to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, beneath the north face of the mighty triangular peak made famous by the Toblerone logo. At an altitude of 12,740 feet (3,883 meters), the glacial wonderland offers incredible views over the Alps and thrilling activities year-round.
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is the highest you can go in the Alps without climbing—which is best left to experienced mountaineers. A ticket includes a return ride on the cable car and access to the viewing deck, ski area, and hiking trails. Once at the top, you can tour the Glacier Palace ice sculpture gallery, visit the Cinema Lounge, or enjoy lunch at the mountaintop restaurant; optional activities include snow tubing, snowshoeing, and skiing. Combo tickets are available that include Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and the Gornergrat railway.
Zermatt is the gateway to the Matterhorn and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, but you can also explore on a day trip from Zurich, Lucerne, Montreux, or Stresa, Italy, across the border.
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is a must-see for mountain lovers and first-time visitors.
Hiking or climbing around the Matterhorn is recommended only for experienced mountaineers, and with assistance from a certified mountain guide.
The alpine village of Zermatt is car-free, and can be reached only by train or electric shuttle bus.
A restaurant and shop are on-site.
Be sure to wrap up warm—it’s snowy and cold on the mountaintop, even in summer.
Glacier Paradise is wheelchair accessible, but some activities and attractions are not.
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is located in the foothills of the Matterhorn mountain in the Swiss Alps, just south of Zermatt. From Zermatt, take the 45-minute cable car from the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Valley Base Station up to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. At the top, a summit lift takes you to the highest observation point.
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is open year-round, and the Matterhorn is an impressive sight any time of year. The most popular times to visit are July and August for hiking, tubing, and other outdoor activities, and from December to March, when ski season is in full swing.
The open-air observation deck at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise affords 360º panoramic views, spanning 38 alpine peaks, including the Matterhorn, Jungfrau, and Mont Blanc. It’s not the only spot with a great view of the Matterhorn, though—ride the cog railway to the top of the Gornergrat for a classic view of the mighty peak; take the Sunnegga funicular to Blauherd and Rothorn for a photo-worthy view framed by alpine valleys; or look out across the Riffelsee lake for a stunning view of the mountain reflected on the water.
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