Discovering Schwarzsee
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Discovering Schwarzsee

One-day hike to Schwarzsee Lake in Zermatt

1 day • Easy difficulty • Est. €160

Day 1: Discovering Schwarzsee: Lake Views and Alpine Hikes

A full day exploring the Schwarzsee area near Zermatt. This itinerary focuses on the accessible lakeside promenade, scenic hiking trails with views of the Matterhorn, and relaxing by the water. Note: This itinerary assumes the Schwarzsee near Zermatt, which is a popular day-trip destination accessible via cable car, rather than the smaller Schwarzsee near Plaffeien.

  • 08:30

    Morning in Zermatt

    Start your day in the car-free village of Zermatt. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast or coffee at a local café and prepare for the hike. Take a short walk through the village to admire the traditional chalets.

  • 09:30

    Cable Car to Schwarzsee

    Take the Gornergrat Bahn (cogwheel train) from Zermatt to Riffelalp, then transfer to the Schwarzsee cable car. This offers stunning panoramic views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks.

  • 10:15

    Schwarzsee Lake Promenade and Hike

    Upon arrival at Schwarzsee (2,583m), walk the paved promenade around the lake. The lake offers one of the best reflections of the Matterhorn. For a more active experience, hike the trail towards Rotenboden or along the ridge for closer views of the Matterhorn's north face.

  • 12:30

    Lunch with a View

    Enjoy a hearty Swiss lunch at the restaurant located directly on the Schwarzsee terrace. Try traditional dishes like Rösti or a fondue while overlooking the lake.

  • 13:30

    Rowboat on Schwarzsee

    Rent a rowboat to spend some time on the lake. This is a peaceful way to enjoy the alpine scenery up close. Alternatively, relax on the benches near the shore.

  • 15:00

    Afternoon Photography and Relaxation

    Spend the late afternoon taking photos of the changing light on the Matterhorn. The afternoon sun often provides the best lighting for photography. Relax and enjoy the high-altitude air.

  • 16:00

    Return to Zermatt

    Take the cable car back down to Riffelalp and then the Gornergrat Bahn back to Zermatt. Enjoy the sunset views from the train.

  • 17:00

    Dinner in Zermatt

    Return to Zermatt for dinner. Explore the village streets and enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants. Options range from fondue to international cuisine.

Meals: Lunch at Schwarzsee Restaurant , Dinner at Zermatt Village Center

Where to stay: Stay in Zermatt village. It is car-free, so luggage is transported by electric taxi. Recommended areas are near the train station or the Matterhorn Museum for easy access.

Getting around: The Gornergrat Bahn and Schwarzsee cable car are essential for this itinerary. Purchase a combined ticket if possible. Zermatt is car-free; use electric taxis or walk.

Practical Information

Schwarzsee in the Zermatt region is best visited between June and October, when trails are clear of snow and weather conditions are most stable. While summer offers warm days ideal for hiking, afternoon thunderstorms are common in the Alps, so checking daily forecasts is essential. The lake sits at approximately 2,552 meters, meaning temperatures remain cool even in midsummer; bring layers to adjust to changing conditions. Winter visits are possible but require specialized gear for snowshoeing or skiing, as standard hiking trails may be inaccessible or hazardous. Accessing Schwarzsee typically begins with a train ride to Zermatt, a car-free village reachable via train from Visp or Brig. From Zermatt, you can reach the starting points for hikes, such as Zmutt or Furi, using local buses or by walking. The hike from Zmutt involves an ascent through woods to the lake, while the route from Furi offers a steeper descent back to the village. Once in the area, getting around is primarily on foot or via the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn. Note that Zermatt is pedestrian-friendly, but carrying luggage requires using the train or designated porter services. Accommodation options are concentrated in Zermatt, offering everything from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Staying in Zermatt provides easy access to transport links and dining, though prices are premium due to the location’s popularity. For a more secluded experience, consider guesthouses in nearby Täsch, which serves as the parking hub for Zermatt and offers slightly lower rates. Booking well in advance is crucial, especially during peak summer and ski seasons. Budget considerations should account for the high cost of living in Zermatt. Guided hikes, such as the IFMGA-certified tours, include guiding fees but exclude meals and transport. Self-guided options are free but require careful planning. Entry to the lake area is generally free, but rowboat rentals and cable car rides incur additional costs. Pack sturdy hiking boots, waterproof jackets, and sun protection, as UV intensity increases with altitude. Bring sufficient water and snacks, as facilities at the lake are limited. Always carry a map or GPS device, as trail markers can be subtle in wooded sections. Finally, respect local regulations by staying on marked paths to protect the fragile alpine environment.

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