Getting to Zermatt after sunset at Riffelsee

  • danicam
    Participant
    24 posts
    27 July 2022 at 15:40:54 #827898

    Hi everyone,

    We are thinking to take some pictures at the Riffelsee lake during the sunset. The problem is to go back down to Zermatt. The sunset will be around 9, and the last train from Rotenboden is at 20.12….. it is a real pity. The only possible option would be hike back down to Rifelalp in the night time as the last train to Zermatt is at 22.58. Taking into account that we would carry torches how difficult could this be? Otherwise, is there any other place in Zermatt accessible for good sunset shots?

    Many thanks,

    Dan

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    Hughandlisa1
    Participant
    35 posts
    27 July 2022 at 20:22:40 #944834

    It’s hard to get a good reflection in the water in the afternoon … we were in Zermatt about two weeks ago nd hit some terrific shots of alpenglow on the Matterhorn from the town…if you walk all the way through town towards the Furi lift station you will see the Matterhorn…there are a few bridges that are great vintage points…additionally, if you turn around and zoom your camera, you’ll get great alpenglow shots of snow covered peaks the other way …this may not be what you’re looking for but we’re good shots, nonetheless

    EASW
    Participant
    122 posts
    28 July 2022 at 2:03:05 #944835

    It’s an interesting thought, but personally I wouldn’t hike the trail to Riffelalp in the dark. We found the trail to be fairly challenging in the mid afternoon, with some steep and rocky descents, also areas with loose gravel. Of course, only you know your skill level and capabilities.

    We actually had good luck capturing the Matterhorn reflection in Riffelsee in the afternoon. What a beautiful sight!

    Removed user
    Participant
    72625 posts
    28 July 2022 at 9:01:42 #944836

    Hi Dan,

    you can take headlamps with you for your hike down, but if you are not an experienced hiker, I do not recommend it.

    Other option is to stay at the Riffelhaus 1853 hotel, that is only 20-30 mins from the lake.

    There is also a sunrise event – yes, I know it is not sunset 🙂 – you can check it here: http://www.gornergrat.ch/en/stories/sunrise-on-gornergrat.

    I hope you’ll find a solution that fits you.

    Take care,

    Ildiko

    Learn more about how to get to Gornergrat: http://www.myswissalps.com/gornergrat/gettingthere

    danicam
    Participant
    24 posts
    28 July 2022 at 9:47:51 #944837

    Thanks to everyone for your responses.

    This has helped us to take the decision of not hiking down in the night time as we are not expert hikers… we’ll see what to do based on your ideas.

    Btw, the pictures you attached are pretty awesome!

    thanks,

    Dan

    Arno
    Moderator
    15483 posts
    28 July 2022 at 19:07:20 #944838

    Beautiful pictures EASW and Hughandlisa1, thanks for sharing!

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