A visit on the Gornergrat Railway is a must during any trip to Zermatt. This electric cogwheel train carries passengers up the mountain to over 3,000 meters, with several scenic stops along the way. Opened in 1898, it is the oldest continuously operating electric rack railway in the world. From the train, you can enjoy lovely views of both Zermatt and the Matterhorn—especially from the right side of the train. The journey takes just over 30 minutes to reach the top station, offering one of the most iconic mountain experiences in Switzerland.
Family Stop at Riffelalp Station
During our trip, we chose to travel from Zermatt to Riffelalp Station (2,222 m). Our pediatrician advised us not to take our young daughter above 2,500 meters, making Riffelalp the perfect stop. The area offers beautiful views of Zermatt below and a playground in front of the Riffelalp Resort that’s ideal for families. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the station to the playground. On snowy days, we found it easier to pull our daughter on a sled rather than bring the stroller. If you need to warm up after playing in the snow, there’s a nearby hotel restaurant where you can relax.
Tickets and Travel Tips
Tickets can be purchased online or directly at the Zermatt ticket counter. Be sure to bring your Half Fare Card, Junior Card, or Swiss Travel Pass to receive discounts. Always check the timetable for the last descent—missing it can be tricky; our family nearly missed the final train down the mountain. We hurried to Riffelalp Station just before sunset, knowing the following day’s weather might hide the Matterhorn from view. Before your trip, check the live webcams on the Gornergrat website for current weather and visibility.
Final Thoughts
Our family truly enjoyed this experience, taking in the sunset views of Zermatt and the Matterhorn. The kids loved playing in the snow and on the playground, and we all appreciated the peaceful mountain setting. We look forward to returning and continuing up to the top station now that our daughter is older. Plan for at least a half- to full-day adventure on the Gornergrat, and always check weather conditions before purchasing your tickets for the best views.