Switzerland is home to some of the most stunning rail journeys in the world, but few can match the magic of the Gornergrat Railway. Departing from the picturesque mountain village of Zermatt, this iconic cogwheel train climbs into the heart of the Alps, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Matterhorn and 29 other snow-covered peaks.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned alpine adventurer, a ride on the Gornergrat Bahn isn’t just a mode of transport—it’s an unforgettable experience.
? A Journey Like No Other
The Gornergrat Railway (German: Gornergratbahn) is Europe’s highest open-air cog railway, reaching an elevation of 3,089 meters (10,135 feet) above sea level. Opened in 1898, it was the world’s first fully electrified cogwheel railway and remains a marvel of Swiss engineering over a century later.
The journey begins at the Zermatt station, just steps from the car-free village center. In just 33 minutes, the train ascends nearly 1,500 meters through pine forests, alpine meadows, and rocky terrain. But it’s not just the height that takes your breath away—it’s the views.
?? Matterhorn Views That Will Leave You Speechless
Arguably the crown jewel of the ride is the uninterrupted view of the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic mountains in the world. From nearly every window, you’ll see the pyramid-shaped peak rise dramatically above the landscape.
Once at the summit, the Gornergrat observation platform offers a 360-degree panorama of the Monte Rosa massif, the Gorner Glacier, and over two dozen 4,000-meter peaks. It’s one of the best spots in Switzerland for mountain photography, sunrise watching, or simply standing in awe of nature’s power and beauty.
? What to Expect Along the Way
There are several scenic stops along the Gornergrat line that are perfect for hiking, photography, or a peaceful alpine picnic:
- Riffelalp (2,211 m): A luxury hotel and spa resort nestled in the forest, offering great views and gentle walking trails.
- Riffelberg (2,582 m): A scenic plateau with a restaurant and access to high-mountain hikes.
- Rotenboden (2,815 m): A favorite among photographers, this stop leads to the famous Riffelsee Lake, known for its reflection of the Matterhorn—especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.
?? All-Season Beauty
The Gornergrat is open year-round, with each season offering a unique experience:
- Summer: Ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting. Alpine flowers and clear skies make it a photographer’s dream.
- Autumn: Crisp air, golden larch trees, and fewer tourists make fall a peaceful and colorful time to visit.
- Winter: The ride becomes a snowy wonderland. Skiers and snowboarders can access Zermatt’s slopes, while non-skiers enjoy snowshoeing or sipping hot chocolate at altitude.
? Why Gornergrat Over Other Scenic Railways?
Switzerland has several famous mountain railways—the Glacier Express, Bernina Express, and Jungfrau Railway among them—but Gornergrat offers a few unique perks:
- Unmatched Matterhorn views
- Shorter, more accessible journey (just over half an hour vs. hours-long rides)
- Open-air cars in summer for unobstructed views and fresh mountain air
- More stops for hiking and flexibility
And unlike the Jungfraujoch, which is largely inside a tunnel, Gornergrat gives you a completely open-air mountain experience from start to summit.
? Tips for Your Gornergrat Adventure
- Buy tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Go early in the day for fewer crowds and better lighting for photography.
- Check the weather—clouds can obscure views at the top.
- Bring layers, even in summer. Temperatures drop significantly at high altitudes.
- Don’t skip Rotenboden—the walk to Riffelsee Lake is short and rewarding.
? A Must-Do in the Swiss Alps
Whether you’re chasing mountaintop vistas, capturing that perfect reflection shot, or just soaking in some of the world’s most awe-inspiring scenery, the Gornergrat Railway offers an alpine experience that’s equal parts majestic, serene, and unforgettable.
It’s not just a train ride—it’s a journey to the top of the world.
