IS ZERMATT FUN IN THE FALL?

During this past weekend (September 2021), our family ventured to Zermatt to visit this adorable, car-free city, as well as see the Magical Matterhorn. The Matterhorn is known for its pyramidal peak, and it’s a place that many people dream about seeing during their lifetime. The girls and I visited for a day trip last February, but we could not wait to see this amazing sight together as a family. Most people prefer to see this iconic mountain in the snow, but we chose to go in late September. So, is Zermatt fun in the fall?

OF COURSE! it’s beautiful, incredible and jaw-dropping anytime of the year! We had great weather which was in the high 60’s and partly-cloudy! We took three modes of transportation to the top of Rothorn to enjoy the views. Then, we decided to hike down from one of the stopping points on the mountain (Sunnegga). Anytime that you are surrounded by Swiss mountains, you are definitely in for a treat.

There are three main lifts to use in order to take in the views from up high in the mountains.

1. Sunnegga – Rothorn

In order to get to the top of Rothorn, you need to take a funicular train to Sunnegga, a gondola to Blauherd and a cable car to Rothorn. It seems like a lot, but it only took 25 minutes from when the funicular started until the cable car stopped. We went first thing in the morning which enabled us to avoid the crowds.

Since we love visiting the Grand Tour photo spots, we wanted to get to the top first to get our picture taken with the amazing view; the view was absolutely gorgeous. Then we wandered around, played with the snow, and watched a helicopter take off! Once we were ready, we headed back down on the cable car to Blauherd. There is a small snack and gift shop in Blauherd so we grabbed a snack and drink since the girls were suddenly starving!

Grand Tour Photo Spot of the Matterhorn - Is Zermatt Fun in the Fall

After the kids enjoyed their snacks, we took the gondola back to Sunnegga, which is at 2,288 m. During the summer, there are many hikes that begin from this point, including the Five Lakes walk, a lake (Leisee) with an awesome playground and marmot-watching stations. During the winter, beginner skiers can enjoy Wolli’s park and advanced skiers can enjoy the ski pistes.

Playground at Sunnegga - Is Zermatt Fun in the Fall

The girls spent awhile enjoying the playground at Sunnegga while Gregg and I enjoyed the beautiful Matterhorn reflection and view in Leisee. There is nothing quite like mountain air, mountain views and a lake! Once we felt up for the hike, we began the walk down to Zermatt. It was supposed to be 3.3 miles, but it ended up taking much longer than that! If you are not a fan of heights, hiking down the Swiss Alps may not be the best option for you as I had many moments in which I did not think I would finish the hike without a helicopter coming to get me!

Matterhorn Views on the Hike from Sunnegga to Zermatt - Is Zermatt Fun in the Fall

The best part of the hike included a lunch stop at Adler Hitta! We enjoyed a delicious, Swiss meal with insane views of the Matterhorn and Swiss Alps. The hike to Adler Hitta was not bad as it was probably more of a walk downhill, but it did get a lot more intense afterwards.

2. Gornergrat

The girls and I visited Gornergrat back in February for a day trip. It was quite the journey for a day trip as it took about four hours, four trains, and two trams.

After arriving in Zermatt, we hopped on the Gornergrat Bahn, or the Matterhorn Railway, to go to the top of Gornergrat. This train goes 3,089 meters, or about 10,135 feet, above sea level. It takes thirty-three minutes for the journey. On the train ride up the mountain, there are stunning views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding mountain-scape.

Top of Gornergrat

Once you arrive at the top, there is a hotel, restaurants, shopping, and so much more! We spent about an hour at the top enjoying the views, but we could have spent a lot more time there!

3. Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Unfortunately, we have not had the chance to enjoy this epic experience yet. But, it is definitely on our Swiss to-do list! At Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, there are tons of options to keep your family busy! From a real glacier palace to delicious food, a day of fun is a definite!

So, yes, please make sure to visit any of these mountain experiences if you are in Zermatt at any point throughout the year. I promise you that the views are worth it, even if there is not snow all over the ground! To see more of our time in Zermatt, make sure to check out our Youtube video below!

Would you like to visit Zermatt and see the Matterhorn? Thank you so much for wandering along with us!