Riffelsee
Zermatt, Switzerland, 3920
The little mirror lake by the Matterhorn, Riffelsee has become the must-see site for many summertime Zermatt visitors. Catch it on a calm, cloud-free day, and it warrants an overused cliché—it takes your breath away. It’s easy to visit, too, making it a popular destination for families, hikers, photographers, and those who want a beautiful alpine view.
The basics
Many travelers visit Riffelsee independently, following the marked hiking trails from the stations on the Gornergrat railway. However, if you want to learn Zermatt and Matterhorn history, take one of the many guided tours that include visits to Riffelsee. Thrill seekers can also look at the grandeur from above by taking a paragliding flight from Zermatt or even a Matterhorn helicopter tour from Bern.
Things to know before you go
Riffelsee is a great destination for a half-day family trip, with a mountain train experience and a short walk.
The countryside around Riffelsee appeals to nature lovers. Look out for the Valais blacknose sheep and rare alpine flowers, sometimes seen near the lake.
No special equipment is needed to walk from Rotenboden, although warm, waterproof layers and sun protection are always a good idea at altitude.
The banks of Riffelsee are ideal for picnics. Be sure to take your garbage with you.
How to get there
While you can hike from Zermatt, most visitors take the train for a more leisurely trip. The easiest way is to take the Gornergrat railway from Zermatt to its penultimate stop at Rotenboden. When you disembark, follow the signposted Riffelsee hiking path, which leads you there in around 10 minutes on a short downhill trail. The whole journey from Zermatt takes around half an hour.
When to get there
The lake is generally free of snow between July and October. To capture the classic mirror image of the Matterhorn on the lake, visit it as close to dawn or dusk as you can manage. You’ll be rewarded with super clear reflections and fewer people around. The first Gornergrat trains depart from Zermatt around breakfast time, with the last one returning from Rotenboden in the late afternoon, although there are sometimes special sunrise services available.
Hiking trails around the Riffelsee
There are a few options for hiking around the lake, but if you want to catch some glacier views while hiking, aim to complete the route from the Gornergrat station. The 4-mile (6-kilometer) hike is signposted and takes in the Hohtälli ridge and the futuristic-looking Monte Rosa hut, along with the star sights of the Gorner Glacier, Riffelsee, and the Matterhorn.
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