Anyone who has already visited the Swiss mountains can certainly confirm how cozy it is there. If you go hiking in Switzerland, you will not only be treated to beautiful mountain landscapes, but also to idyllic mountain villages, tasty tartiflette (= typical Swiss stew dish) and cozy cafes.
In this article we take a trip to the Swiss mountain village of Zermatt, a village that could have come straight out of a movie set of some magical story. We don’t drop off to Zermatt by accident. After all, it lies at the foot of one of the most iconic mountains in Europe… the Matterhorn!
The walk on the program is one to look forward to. A trail that runs through the high mountains of the Valais Alps and passes no fewer than 5 mountain lakes. And all of this under the mountains that rise above the mountains like a cathedral.
Zermatt, the base for hiking in the high mountains of Switzerland
At 1620m altitude, not so far from the Italian border, is perhaps one of the most charming mountain villages. The small alleys and authentic houses create a special atmosphere when you wander through this beautiful mountain village.
It has to be said… the most idyllic mountain village in the Alps is not the cheapest either. All major outdoor brands are represented here with a beautiful shop as well as exclusive watch brands.
A day in Zermatt and you will soon be a few euros poorer. And you don’t have to be crazy for that. For example, a single ride up with the mountain train will quickly cost you 3 times more than other mountain stations.
That does not alter the fact that a visit to Zermatt is certainly worth it. It is the Swiss Alps at their best and offers you the perfect base for hiking.
Car-free
You can’t get in by car. Zermatt is completely car-free. You have to leave your car in the last village accessible by car, Täsch.
If you are traveling with a campervan, mobile home or tent, there is a campsite on the outskirts of Täsch that offers space for about 100 places. It is wonderful to wake up between the high mountains of the valley.
From Täsch you can take the train to Zermatt. About 10 minutes later you will arrive at Zermatt station, which is also just off the main street.
Round trip +-15 euros
Are you planning to stay for a few days in Zermatt? Check the best accommodations here!
On to the top
The trail we are going to hike starts at 2600 meters altitude. If you really want to, you can in principle also hike a trail from Zermatt all the way up. You then have 900 meters to choose from before you can start the hike.
The alternative? You take the funicular from Zermatt to Sunnegga. From the station in Zermatt you cross the river where you can take the mountain train to Sunnegga.
Once at the top, you will come face to face with the iconic Matterhorn for the first time. But it gets even better! From Sunnegga, take the funicular to Blauherd, the start of the 5 lakes trail.
A ticket for the mountain train, Zermatt – Sunnegga, there and back and a single ride with the lift Sunnega – Blauherd, will cost you around 40 euros pp.
The Matterhorn 5 Lakes Trail: Hiking near beautiful mountain lakes in Switzerland
From “Blauherd” the trail leads you towards the first mountain lake on the schedule: the “Stellisee”. This beautiful mountain lake gives you a great panoramic view of the Matterhorn. When there is no wind blowing over the lake you can see the reflection of the Matterhorn in the water surface. The ideal spot for a photo with the Matterhorn!
From the Stellisee, the path descends until you come to a green oasis. Here you will find the second lake along the route, the “Grindjesee”. This beautiful lake is completely surrounded by greenery with the Matterhorn in the background. The ideal place for a picnic!
After lunch you continue walking towards the “Grüensee”. This lake also looks completely different.
The penultimate lake of the day is the “Mossjesee”. The lake has a bright turquoise color, although this is the only artificial lake of the five lakes.
From there you walk back towards “Sunnegga” but before you get there you pass the “Leissee” as the last lake on the route.
Tip: on the last part righting “Sunnegga” you pass a delightful bar/restaurant, “Paradise”, with a very nice terrace overlooking the Matterhorn. You deserve a drink here, right? 😉
Make sure you are back at “Sunnegga” in time for the last mountain train ride to Zermatt! This depends on the period of the year, so it is best to check before you leave.
For the best accommodations in Zermatt during your period check here.
Sold to go hiking in Switzerland and want to discover the same trail? Download the GPX of this route for free here!
