Views of the Matterhorn - Switzerland

The Matterhorn is one of the most easily recognised mountains in the world, sticking out above the surrounding peaks like a giant, jagged fang. Whether you are seeing it for the first or the umpteenth time, its appeal is undeniable…

Seeing it for the first time

Dave Richardson, Sales
Next time you are about to tuck into a bar of Toblerone, take a closer look at the image etched on the side of the packet; it is the Matterhorn. Each chunk is a chocolaty representation of this iconic mountain and as you pop the next one effortlessly into your mouth, do yourself a favour and make a resolution to lace up your boots and head to Switzerland to see the real thing. Not only will you enjoy high mountain scenery, the buzz of Zermatt, the whistles of marmots and glimpses of chamois, but you'll also be doing your waistline the power of good with six days trekking on ‘The Shadow of the Matterhorn’ trek.

This is a fantastic trek; some of the days will be tough but well worth the effort. The ascent to the Rothorn hut is incessant but your reward is spectacular views towards the Monte Rosa massif and the Matterhorn, with a glacier just metres away. The Matterhorn stays with you all week. It can be perfectly framed in your balcony window from the Zermatt hotel, reflected in the waters of the Riffelsee Lake or looming over you as you replenish with an Edelweisse at the Schonbiel hut. A keen pair of eyes will see mountain climbers carefully descend in the morning light after successful summit attempts. However, a sombre stroll though the climbers' graveyard in Zermatt will highlight that the beauty of the mountain has taken many a life.

Those that want to finish the week with a challenge can sign up for the Breithorn ascent. This 4164m peak is the closest peak to the east of the Matterhorn and allows you to develop crampon skills as you hike to the summit. It’s a satisfying finale to the week as you rise out of the shadow of the Matterhorn and enjoy the panoramic views below. Just remember to take a Toblerone to enjoy a well-earned chunk at the top!

Seeing it for the umpteenth time

Mark Faulkner, Tour Leader
The Matterhorn is a visual magnet; there is so much detail that staring is a necessity. Through the clear, crisp mountain air, hours can be enjoyed trying to spot climbers near the top and admiring the rock changing colour as the sun moves overhead. Although it is one of the most photogenic mountains in the world, in real life it delivers so much more. From all sides it’s a big jagged fang rising out of a panorama of other stunning mountains. How the glaciers carved it in the first place is a wonder.

I have been leading in the area for many years and have never tired of visiting and revisiting the mountain tracks that surround the Matterhorn. Exodus’ two superb treks in the area are designed to see, feel and enjoy the Matterhorn, its views, and the surrounding mountains at their very best.