Matterhorn Glacier Paradise or Gornergrat?
A traveler named BLINGRAHAM is planning a one-day trip to Zermatt and is deciding between Gornergrat and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. They are leaning towards Gornergrat and are looking for advice on which destination to choose. Many replies confirm that Gornergrat is a great choice, especially for the stunning views and cogwheel train experience.
- Take the cogwheel train to Gornergrat for great views and a steady ascent to help with acclimatization.
- If you start early, you can visit both Gornergrat and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise in one day, but Gornergrat first is often preferred for sunlight on the Matterhorn.
- Consider stopping at Riffelsee for an iconic view of the Matterhorn's reflection during your Gornergrat trip.
- Pack warm clothes if you visit Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, as temperatures can be low even in summer.
AI-generated summary-
Both look wonderful! We only have one day in Zermatt. Which do you recommend?
thank you!
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Hi BLINGRAHAM,
You can find information about each destination from the links below. Perhaps this will help you decide which destination appeals to you more.
- Gornergrat: http://www.myswissalps.com/gornergrat
- Matterhorn Glacier Paradise: http://www.myswissalps.com/kleinmatterhorn
I prefer Gornergrat and the cogwheel train ride up. But some people prefer cable cars and gondolas.
Regards,
Anna
Thank you, Anna! We were leaning Gornergrat so I’m glad you confirmed our thoughts! I’m sorry I can’t do both – but I’ll just have to come back!!
I have been recommending Gornergrat (better than Jungfraujoch) for 50 or so years, so I’m not changing my advice now!
A major benefit of Gornergrat is that using the rack railway gives a steadier climb therefore it is better for your health as it allows more gradual acclimatisation to the high altitude
However, you can do both Gornergrat and Klein Matterhorn in one day.
Hi BLINGRAHAM,
When I was in Zermatt I went to both the Glacier Paradise and the Gornergrat in the same day. So it definitely can be done if you want to. I got a late start, around noon, and still saw both. However, for me it worked out well because I was able to see the sun going down over the shoulder of the Matterhorn. That was actually one of the highlights of my trip. (I was there in September.) Many folks believe it is better to go to Gornergrat first as the sun is shining on the mountain for better views and pics. In my case, Glacier Paradise just so happened be the one I chose first. I prefered the Gornergrat myself. Again, one of my highlights. Hope you’re having a great trip so far.
Regards,
Danielsan
You should definitely do both.
If you have an early start, you definitely have the time to do them both.
These are two quite different experiences. They have their amazing specifics, which will imprint lasting impressions for quite a long time.
The views are different, the travelling experience is different, the environment is different. From the gondola going above the glacier you can see the cracks in the ice, and how small people are next to it, flowing rivers, you are at the foot of Matterhorn (at one of the stations where you change the gondolas), and then snow on top station. Take warm clothes for the Matterhorn Glacier experience.
I too would vote for the Gornergrat, if you can only see one. But you might consider getting off the Gornergrat train just before the top and walking over to Riffelsee for a very iconic view of the Matterhorn and its reflection.(10-15 min easy walk). You can then return to the train and continue to the top at no additional charge. It would add perhaps 45 minutes to the trip. Another option is to stop at Riffelalp on the way up or down. In my opinion the view of the Matterhorn from the front lawn of the Riffelalp hotel is the best of all due to its proximity to the hotel. As you continue up the Gornergratbahn you will be moving up but also away from the Matterhorn. You can also have a meal or a drink at the cafe on the hotel lawn and enjoy the view if you wish.(the thumbnail photo on my post was taken from the hotel room at the hotel)
Mark
Fabulous recommendation!
I can only add that when you are going up or down in the gondola from Matterhorn Glacier Paradise there is one stop where you change lifts – Trockener Steg – there you are so close at the foot of Matterhorn. It is an awesome view!
Thank you so much for your replies! We decided to take the cogwheel train and just take our time at Gornergrat. Our train to Zurich left Zermatt at 5pm and we didn’t feel like rushing so we rode to the top and watched the skiers and took a thousand pictures! We were so lucky with the weather! Some day we will return to see Glacier Paradise. We loved our time in Zermatt – the people were so friendly and helpful! I’m very grateful for all I’ve learned on the My Swiss Alps forum. It’s been so helpful!!
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