Explore The Matterhorn

The Matterhorn straddles both Switzerland and Italy and is one of the most beautiful peaks you can shoot. The summit sits at 14,692 feet, making this one of the tallest peaks in Europe.

There's an abundance of mellow hikes around the area - check a map in Zermatt for a trail that suits you or just wander the hills beneath the ski lifts. If you want to get views from the Matterhorn rather than of it, try one of the most well known hikes in the area, Schwarzsee to the Hörnli Hut.

Once in Zermatt, follow signs reading "Matterhorn Bahnen" to get to the gondola that will take you up to the Schwarzsee lift station. The ride up is pretty incredible itself with sweeping views of the alps as you glide up the mountain side.

Once off the lift at the top, follow signs and the clear trail to the scenic Schwarzsee (English translation: Black Lake). Check out the ancient chapel and continue south west (towards the Matterhorn) up a steep, grassy hill. There are many switchbacking trail options to climb this hill; take your pick as they all lead to a rocky slope which you'll need to cross. Follow the path through the rocky scree all the way to the hut - there are some metal staircases to help along the way. There is one section with a large cliff edge towards the end of the hike - if heights make you uncomfortable, this may not be the hike for you.

The hut itself is a staple of the Matterhorn. Most climbers come through and spend the night here before making the summit. Hang out for a while and watch for climbers making the descent from the summit before making the trip back to the gondola and down to Zermatt.