Easy round-trip hike on Riffelalp
Immerse yourself in the Swiss stone pine forest with a view of the Matterhorn
Difficulty: easy | Duration: 1h | Distance: 3 km
The hike begins at the Riffelalp station going first in an easterly direction (the signpost shows a direction towards the Grünsee lake). The trail takes walkers through the forest, below the band of rock known as ‘Laubern’ towards the Grünsee lake. After passing small alpine meadows, the path branches off to the right and goes somewhat higher back towards Riffelalp. You cross the railway tracks of the Gornergrat Railway, which has been transporting guests up to this popular excursion mountain since 1898. After around 2 kilometres the trail goes above the Riffelalp Resort. The historic Grand Hotel Riffelalp used to stand here. It made a name for itself as a ‘playground for European high society’ and was where many famous guests spent time. Sadly, in 1961 a huge fire completely destroyed the main building and it was not until the end of the 1980’s that it reopened. At the turn of the millennium it was converted into the 5-star Riffelalp Resort. The most beautiful view of the Matterhorn as well as various restaurants invite the hiker to linger. The route back follows the tram tracks of the historic Riffelberg Tramway – Europe’s highest tram line.