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Intro

A hike that combines charm and unspoilt nature from Riffelalp to Winkelmatten chapel in Zermatt, via a rural forest path.

Description

This winter hike leaves from Riffelalp, leads through the romantic snow-covered forest, along the lower slopes of the Gornergrat, and ends in the village of Zermatt at Winkelmatten chapel.

The edge of the forest in Riffelalp heralds a change of colour; this is where the winter forest begins. The gnarled arolla pines are covered with heavy snow. The chilled winter air whistles though the bare branches of the larch trees. The snow cracks under your feet. The descent into Zermatt continues to this accompaniment.

Hikers who take this winter route late in the afternoon may see a deer, standing motionless, its colour scarcely distinguishable from that of the trunks of the larch trees This hike is particularly beautiful following fresh snowfall, when the pines and larches along the way are covered with sparkling fresh snow.

An enjoyable tour includes the careful planning of the same. Please inform yourself in advance at the local information center about the route and weather conditions. Depending on the season and weather conditions, this route may be blocked or interrupted

Technical information

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Start location
Zermatt, Riffelalp
Destination
Zermatt, Winkelmatten
Ascent
40 m
Descent
580 m
Distance
5 km
Duration
1 h 40 min
Physical requirements
Difficult
Signalization
Signalisation in both directions

Map

SwitzerlandMobility Map: This element is not accessible for disabled people.

Contact

Zermatt Tourismus
Bahnhofplatz 5
3920  Zermatt

Phone  +41 (0)27 966 81 00
info@zermatt.ch
zermatt.ch

Quick Facts

Route number

No. 834

Distance

5 km

Duration

1 h 40 min

Ascent

40 m

Travel information: Zermatt