Rothorn Unterrothorn
A majestic 3,104m summit in the Swiss Alps, offering unparalleled panoramic views and accessible via scenic cable cars.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Rothorn Unterrothorn
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic 3,104m summit in the Swiss Alps, offering unparalleled panoramic views and accessible via scenic cable cars.
"Breathtaking viewpoint with amazing views, especially during a cloud inversion!"
🎟️ Cable Car Costs
A round trip via cable car can cost around 35 CHF with a Swiss Pass or Half Fare Card. :moneybag:
🥾 Hiking Boots Essential
Wear sturdy hiking boots for trails, especially if attempting longer routes with significant elevation. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stellisee Lake Reflection
On the hike to Unterrothorn
Capture the iconic Matterhorn reflection in Stellisee, a truly magical alpine lake. A must-see for photographers!

Grand Tour of Switzerland Photo Spot
Near the summit
Pose at the designated photo spot for a memorable shot with the majestic Swiss Alps as your backdrop.

Ibex Sightings
Alpine trails
Keep an eye out for ibex grazing in their natural habitat. Spotting these sure-footed mountain goats is a unique wildlife experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing the Summit
Hiking and Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Cable Car Costs
A round trip via cable car can cost around 35 CHF with a Swiss Pass or Half Fare Card. :moneybag:
🥾 Hiking Boots Essential
Wear sturdy hiking boots for trails, especially if attempting longer routes with significant elevation. :athletic_shoe:
Europaweg + Oberrothorn detour itinerary review and feedback
📸 Iconic Photo Spot
Don't miss the 'Grand Tour of Switzerland' photo spot for that perfect alpine selfie! :camerawithflash:
☁️ Cloud Inversions
If you're lucky, you might witness a stunning cloud inversion – a truly unforgettable sight! :cloud:
Eisee - Brienzer Rothorn Cable Car
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Cable Car Costs
A round trip via cable car can cost around 35 CHF with a Swiss Pass or Half Fare Card. :moneybag:
🥾 Hiking Boots Essential
Wear sturdy hiking boots for trails, especially if attempting longer routes with significant elevation. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Iconic Photo Spot
Don't miss the 'Grand Tour of Switzerland' photo spot for that perfect alpine selfie! :camerawithflash:
☁️ Cloud Inversions
If you're lucky, you might witness a stunning cloud inversion – a truly unforgettable sight! :cloud:
🐐 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for ibex on the trails; they are often spotted in the area. :goat:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking panoramic views from Rothorn Unterrothorn, with many highlighting the iconic Matterhorn reflection in Stellisee lake as a major draw. The accessibility via cable car is appreciated, though some find the hiking routes challenging. Wildlife sightings, particularly ibex, add to the memorable experience.
"Amazing hike from Camping Aareg, but quite some climb .. approx 5600ft. We were lucky to have a cloud inversion, but wow what an amazing hike with amazing views. We were lucky to come across around 15 iBex too."
Wayne Gaskell
"Beatiful viewpoint in Zermatt.
It is one of the mountains which are easily accessible from the city center.
You would need to take Sunegga express to Blauherd and from Blauherd to Rothorn cable cars. The whole trip costs 35CHF with halbtax/swiss pass.
Do not forget to take a picture about the Grand tour of Switzerland photo spot!"
Daniel Sallai
"We were hiking to the Unterrothorn (from Zermatt). It took us about 6h (with breaks). The Stellisee on the way up was one highlight. You can take the cable car down to Zermatt."
Reto Keller
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Rothorn Unterrothorn from Zermatt, you'll typically take a series of cable cars. Start with the Sunnegga Express funicular, then transfer to the Blauherd cable car, and finally, the Rothorn cable car to the summit. This journey offers spectacular views along the way.
Yes, Rothorn Unterrothorn is easily accessible via Zermatt's extensive public transport network, primarily consisting of cable cars and funiculars. The journey itself is part of the experience.
Absolutely! You can hike to Rothorn Unterrothorn, with trails like the one from Zermatt taking around 6 hours, including breaks. The Stellisee lake is a highlight on this route. You can take a cable car down to Zermatt after your hike.
The most convenient way to reach the summit is by using the network of cable cars and funiculars from Zermatt. This allows for quick access and stunning panoramic views without strenuous hiking.
While the primary access is via cable car from Zermatt, the Brienz Rothorn Bahn is a historic steam train that ascends to the Brienzer Rothorn, offering a different but equally scenic alpine experience in another region of Switzerland.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A round trip on the cable cars to Rothorn Unterrothorn typically costs around 35 CHF. This price can be reduced if you have a Swiss Pass or Half Fare Card.
Yes, holders of a Swiss Pass or Half Fare Card can often get discounted fares for the cable car journeys to Rothorn Unterrothorn. It's advisable to check current pricing and discounts.
While specific online booking for the Rothorn Unterrothorn cable cars might vary, it's generally recommended to check the official Zermatt Bergbahnen website for the most up-to-date ticketing information and potential online purchase options.
Operating hours for the cable cars to Rothorn Unterrothorn can vary seasonally. It's best to consult the official Zermatt Bergbahnen website for the most accurate and current operating schedule.
There isn't a separate entrance fee for the summit area itself; the cost is associated with the cable car transportation required to reach it.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular hiking routes include the trail from Zermatt which passes Stellisee lake, and the option to hike from the summit down. The Eisee-Brienzer Rothorn cable car is mentioned as a potential option for descent, though information can be scarce.
Expect breathtaking panoramic views of the Swiss Pennine Alps, including iconic peaks. On clear days, the vistas are expansive, and sometimes you can experience stunning cloud inversions.
Yes, the 'Grand Tour of Switzerland' photo spot offers a designated area for memorable pictures. Additionally, the reflection of the Matterhorn in Stellisee lake is a world-renowned photographic subject.
Many visitors report seeing ibex grazing on the slopes around Rothorn Unterrothorn. Keep a respectful distance and enjoy observing these agile mountain animals in their natural habitat.
Dress in layers as mountain weather can change quickly. Sturdy hiking boots are essential if you plan to hike, and bring sun protection, even on cloudy days.
📸 📸 Photography
The Stellisee lake, with its perfect Matterhorn reflection, is a prime photography location. The 'Grand Tour of Switzerland' photo spot also offers a classic alpine panorama.
Early mornings often provide clearer skies and softer light, ideal for landscape photography. Late afternoons offer the 'golden hour' for warm, dramatic lighting.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain vistas and lake reflections. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting, like ibex.
Weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for changing conditions. Cloud inversions, while beautiful, can also obscure distant views.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in Swiss National Parks and protected areas. Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While extensive hiking might be challenging for very young children, shorter, flatter sections near the summit stations can be explored. The chance to spot ibex is often a highlight for kids, adding an element of wildlife discovery to the trip. Ensure children are dressed in layers and have sun protection, as mountain weather can be unpredictable. The iconic photo opportunities, like the 'Grand Tour of Switzerland' spot, can also be fun for family memories.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Beyond these famous spots, the ever-changing alpine light can create dramatic scenes. Keep an eye out for ibex; capturing these sure-footed creatures in their rugged environment adds a dynamic element to your portfolio. Be prepared for variable weather, as cloud inversions can create surreal, ethereal landscapes, though they may also obscure distant views. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended for the sweeping panoramas, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Ascent: Cable Cars and Trains
For those seeking a different, historic alpine experience, the Brienzer Rothorn Bahn offers a charming ride on a vintage steam train from Brienz village to the Brienzer Rothorn summit. While geographically distinct from the Zermatt Rothorn, it highlights Switzerland's commitment to preserving unique mountain transport. Planning your ticket purchases is key; a Swiss Pass or Half Fare Card can significantly reduce the overall cost of these journeys, making the experience more accessible.
It's crucial to check the operating hours and schedules for all cable cars and trains, as they are subject to seasonal changes and weather conditions. Arriving early, especially during peak season, can help you avoid the longest queues and maximize your time enjoying the alpine scenery.
Hiking Trails and Alpine Wonders
The trails around Rothorn Unterrothorn are characterized by significant elevation changes, so sturdy hiking boots are an absolute necessity. Beyond the main trails, adventurous hikers might explore options like the route to the Eisee, though information on specific cable cars like the Eisee-Brienzer Rothorn cable car can be difficult to find. Regardless of the chosen path, the opportunity to witness ibex grazing in their natural habitat adds a unique wildlife dimension to the hiking experience.
For those who prefer to descend via foot after reaching the summit, the trails offer a different perspective on the alpine landscape. Remember to pack essentials like water, snacks, sun protection, and a camera to fully appreciate the natural beauty and potential wildlife encounters.
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