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Gornergrat Railway in a nutshell
- Official name: Gornergrat Bahn
- Year of opening: 1898
- Height: 3,089 meters (10,135 feet)
- Duration: 33 minutes to top/ 44 minutes back
- Operated by: Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn
- Known for: Being the second highest railway in Europe after the Jungfrau, the first fully electrified cog railway and the highest open air railway in Europe
- Capacity: 2,500 people per hour from Zermatt to the Gornergrat Station
- No. of stations: 6
Plan your Gornergrat Railway experience
Where is Gornergrat Railway station?
Address: Bahnhofpl. 1, 3920 Zermatt, Switzerland [Find on Map]
Getting there
By train: Trains run to Zermatt run regularly from major Swiss cities, including Zurich, Geneva, and Bern, to Zermatt.
On foot: If you're already in Zermatt, the Gornergrat Railway is just a short walk from the train station. The walk is uphill, but there are several signs along the way to guide you.
By taxi: Taxis are available in Zermatt and can take you directly to the Gornergrat Railway.
Detailed Gornergrat Railway directions
What are Gornergrat Railway opening hours?
A train ascends to the peak of the Gornergrat Railway every 24 to 48 minutes beginning in the early morning and continuing until after dusk.
- The first train departs from Gornergrat summit around 7:35am and from Zermatt station around 7am.
- The final train departs from Gornergrat at 7:18pm.
- The final train departs Zermatt at 6:24pm.
Note: Depending on the time of year and the weather, the exact train schedule from Zermatt to Gornergrat may fluctuate.
Highlights of the Gornergrat railway experience
Be a part of the elevated experience
Gornergrat Railway elevates travelers to 3,089 meters above sea level. The views of Zermatt's log cabins with slate roofing with the Alps as a background are reminiscent of a fairy tale.
Marvel at the engineering
Europe’s highest outdoor cogwheel railway spans a total of 1,469 meters, traversing impressive bridges, tunnels, and galleries, while passing through diverse landscapes of forests, ravines, and mountain lakes.
Take in the Alpine scenery
Surrounded by an impressive ensemble of 29 towering 4,000-meter peaks, the Gornergrat has lovely sights that include the iconic Matterhorn, the Monte Rosa massif, and the Alps' third-largest Gorner glacier.
Indulge in modern comfort with historic charm
For over a century, the Gornergrat Railway has evolved from historic roots to a sleek, modern marvel. Its efficient design and expansive route map highlight Switzerland's extensive railway and cable car network, connecting scenic splendors and urban hubs seamlessly.
Opt for the NostalChic Class
A unique excursion onboard the Matterhorn Railway's nostalgic coach offers a luxurious experience, including guaranteed window seats, engaging stories by experienced guides, culinary delights featuring local specialties, and more.
See the popular Valais blacknose sheep
One of the sweetest highlights in this journey is catching sight of the adorable Blacknose sheep. These fluffy creatures, renowned for their distinctive black faces and curly horns, graze peacefully in the meadows that unfold alongside the railway tracks. Their presence adds a charming touch to an already spectacular alpine scenery, making the experience of ascending the Gornergrat even more memorable.
Infrastructure of the railway
The Gornergrat Railway is a whopping 9,339 meters long (that's 30,640 feet!), including 3,790 meters of double track (that's 12,434 feet). It climbs up a staggering 1,469 meters (4,820 feet) in altitude. What's unique about it is that it is built on a narrow gauge track (3 ft 3+3⁄8 in) and uses this unique Abt rack system all the way.
This railway is also a tech marvel because it runs on three-phase electric power. Picture this: The track itself acts like a giant extension cord along with two overhead wires. The railway usually runs trains with two railcars, capable of transporting around 2,500 people per hour from Zermatt to the mountain summit.
Frequently asked questions about Gornergrat Railways
What can I look forward to during the Gornergrat Railways journey?
Beautiful views of the surrounding Alps, including the Matterhorn, the Monte Rosa massif, and the Gorner Glacier. The railway also stops at several stations, including the Riffelalp station, which is the highest hotel in the Swiss Alps.
What is the route of Gornergrat Railways?
Gornergrat Railways offers a scenic route that starts from the town of Zermatt and ends at the summit of the Gornergrat mountain. The railway spans a distance of 9.3 miles (15 kilometers) and takes approximately 33 minutes to complete.
What are the facilities available at Gornergrat Railways?
Gornergrat Railways provides a range of facilities, including restaurants, souvenir shops, and observation platforms. Several hiking trails and skiing slopes are also available at Gornergrat mountain, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Is Gornergrat Railway wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Gornergrat Railway is wheelchair accessible. The trains have a low-floor car to help those with reduced mobility board easily. There are wheelchair friendly toilets as well at Gornergrat.
Can you see wildlife from the Gornergrat Railway?
While the primary focus of the Gornergrat Railway is the breathtaking scenery, lucky passengers might spot some wildlife during their journey. Look out for chamois, marmots, sheep and various bird species along the route, especially in the quieter early morning or late afternoon hours.
Is the Gornergrat Railway operational year-round?
Yes, the Gornergrat Railway operates year-round, and the views are amazing regardless of the season. In winter, the landscape transforms into a snowy paradise, offering a different but equally enchanting experience compared to summer months.
Can you dine on the Gornergrat Railway?
While dining is not available onboard the Gornergrat Railway itself, you can enjoy a meal at the restaurants and cafes located at the summit station. These establishments offer a variety of Swiss and international cuisine, allowing you to savor a meal while taking in views of the Alps.
Are there any hiking trails accessible from the Gornergrat Railway?
Yes, the Gornergrat area is a popular starting point for numerous hiking trails of varying difficulties. From the summit station, hikers can explore trails that lead to alpine lakes, glacier viewpoints, and even longer multi-day hikes that traverse the surrounding mountains.
