Matterhorn

Reading up

Before you visit the Matterhorn from either the Swiss or the Italian side, you may want to read Scrambles amongst the Alps by Edward Whymper — an interesting, well written book from the protagonist of the first successful and tragic ascent. It remains a classic of mountaineering literature even today, even though the motives of the author to excuse his own behavior have since been called into question.

Geography

The Matterhorn has a pyramidal shape with four faces facing the four compass points: the north and east faces overlook the town of Zermatt; the south face overlooks the resort town of Breuil-Cervinia; and the west face looks towards the mountain of Dent d'Hérens, which straddles the border. The north and south faces meet at the summit to form a short east-west ridge.

The Matterhorn's faces are steep, and only small patches of snow and ice cling to them; regular avalanches send the snow down to accumulate on the glaciers at the base of each face, the largest of which is the Zmutt Glacier to the west. The Hörnli ridge of the northeast (the central ridge in the view from Zermatt) is the usual climbing route.

History

The Matterhorn was one of the last of the main Alpine mountains to be ascended, not because of its technical difficulty, but because of the fear it inspired in early mountaineers. The first serious attempts began around 1857, mostly from the Italian side; but despite appearances, the southern routes are harder, and parties repeatedly found themselves having to turn back. However, on July 14, 1865, in what is considered the last ascent of the golden age of alpinism, the party of Edward Whymper, Charles Hudson, Lord Francis Douglas, Douglas Robert Hadow, Michel Croz and the two Peter Taugwalders (father and son) was able to reach the summit by an ascent of the Hörnli ridge in Switzerland. Upon descent, Hadow, Croz, Hudson and Douglas fell to their deaths on the Matterhorn Glacier, and all but Douglas (whose body was never found) are buried in the Zermatt churchyard.

Getting There

The Matterhorn can be visited from either side: 🌍

Zermatt on the Swiss side, or 🌍

Breuil-Cervinia on the Italian side.

See also: mountaineering

Matterhorn features scenic views and interesting sights. The local tourist information centre can provide detailed sightseeing guides.

Outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and skiing (in season) are popular in and around Matterhorn.

Matterhorn has a selection of restaurants serving Swiss and international cuisine. Local specialities include fondue, raclette, and rösti.

Swiss wine, beer, and hot chocolate are widely available. Cafés and bars in Matterhorn offer a range of local and international beverages.

Accommodation in Matterhorn ranges from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels and upscale resorts. Book in advance during peak season (July-August and December-March).

Local shops in Matterhorn offer Swiss souvenirs, watches, chocolate, and regional products. ATMs are widely available.

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