Glacier Paradise / Klein Matterhorn
Take an excursion to Glacier Paradise / Klein Matterhorn from Zermatt for views of the South-Eastern side of the Matterhorn and into Italy and France. Klein Matterhorn, means “Little Matterhorn”. The iconic Matterhorn itself is only accessible to mountain climbers. The Klein Matterhorn is another view point for the more famous Matterhorn, and it is known by tourists as the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. Enjoy views of the Swiss, French and Italian Alps, visit the Glacier Palace, and enjoy the Cinema Lounge. The ski area on the Theodul Glacier is open 365 days a year.
The Matterhorn glacier ride was created to complement the existing aerial tramway and offers a more comfortable and luxurious trip. A highlight certainly is its four “Crystal ride” cabins coated with Swarovski crystals. The four special cabins offer a spectacular view: after three minutes, the cloudy glass bottom clears in a matter of seconds to provide a magnificent view of the glacier landscape.
Excursion to Glacier Paradise / Klein Matterhorn
Discount with Swiss Travel Pass
Holders of a valid Swiss Travel Pass or validated Swiss Flex Pass benefit from a 50% discount for excursions up to Klein Matterhorn.
Route from Zermatt
All Glacier Paradise / Klein Matterhorn excursions leave from Zermatt towards the end of the Matter valley. The cable cars run constantly and leave every few minutes from Zermatt. Take the cable car from Zermatt to Furi, and then change gondolas in Furi to go to Trockener Steg. From this station change cars for the last time to Klein Matterhorn.
Duration of excursion
The minimum time to visit Klein Matterhorn is 4 hours including getting up there and back from Zermatt. The set of cable car takes approximately 45 minutes from Zermatt to the viewing platform at Klein Matterhorn. The return journey, via the same route, takes about the same amount of time. We recommend up to two-hours at the top, enjoying the views, having a meal, visiting the Ice Palace and the peak above the restaurant.
Timetable
Operates year-round. Cable cars depart from Zermatt every few minutes.
Preparation
Make sure to keep up with the weather and dress in layers. Note that it can be windy. Make sure to bring a wind breaker and be prepared for sudden change of weather. Bring sun glasses, a hat and gloves in the winter. Good walking shoes recommended.
Location and Map
The Glacier Paradise / Klein Matterhorn is located in the Valais canton. It is 139 km/86 miles from Montreux, and 111 km/69 miles from Interlaken. It takes approx. 4 hours from Montreux to reach the summit and approx. 3.5 hours from Interlaken