Best Winter Walks with Mountain Hut Stops: Sunnegga

For the most up-to-date details, check Zermatt official info before you go.

For current hours, prices, and announcements, start with Early Morning.

Findeln is famous for hosting some of the most celebrated mountain huts in the entire region. You should stop at Chez Vrony for a luxury lunch on their beautiful outdoor terrace. Try their famous mountain burger or a plate of traditional Swiss dried meats and cheeses. Most huts in this area operate daily from 9:00 AM until about 4:00 PM.

The walk takes approximately 45 minutes to complete if you move at a very steady pace. It is widely considered one of the sunniest winter walking routes in Zermatt 2026 has to offer. You will find many benches along the way to sit and admire the snowy peaks. The descent is easy enough for families with children or casual winter hikers.

A return funicular ticket to Sunnegga costs around 28 CHF for adults during the winter season. Ensure you wear sturdy boots with good grip to handle the snowy and sometimes slippery descent. This trail offers the perfect mix of light exercise and high-quality alpine dining experiences. It remains a favorite for locals and tourists who enjoy the finer things in life.

High Alpine Views from Rotenboden to Riffelberg

This high-altitude trail offers some of the most dramatic and expansive views in the Zermatt valley. You begin this journey by taking the historic Gornergrat railway up to the Rotenboden station. The path leads you down toward Riffelberg across wide and open fields of deep white snow. You will feel like you are walking on top of the world during this trek.

The Riffelhaus 1853 mountain hut provides a historic and very comfortable resting spot for tired hikers. Enjoy a bowl of warm barley soup while sitting on their large and sunny outdoor deck. Prices for a main course at this mountain restaurant typically range from 25 to 40 CHF. The views of the Matterhorn from this specific location are truly iconic and breathtaking.

This winter walk takes roughly one hour to finish under normal and clear weather conditions. Please remember to how to check Zermatt winter trail status before you head up the mountain. High winds or heavy snowfall can sometimes cause the temporary closure of this high-altitude route. Safety should always be your first priority when exploring the Swiss Alps in winter.

The trail is very wide and easy to follow even after a fresh fall of snow. It is the ideal location for photographers who want to capture clean and untouched mountain scenery. Make sure to carry high-quality sunglasses to protect your eyes from the intense snow glare. This route connects perfectly with the train for an easy journey back to the village.

The Matterhorn Glacier Trail Toward Furi

Start your mountain journey at the Schwarzsee cable car station for a truly unique hiking experience. This trail winds its way down the mountain toward the small and charming village of Furi. You will be walking directly at the base of the mighty Matterhorn for much of this. This route is a must-do for nature enthusiasts who want to feel the mountain's power.

Stop at the Aroleid Kollektiv hut for a modern and very fresh take on alpine cuisine. They serve excellent specialty coffee and a variety of unique dishes made from local ingredients. The atmosphere inside the hut is cozy and very welcoming for hikers and skiers alike. You should expect to spend about 30 CHF per person for a satisfying lunch.

The descent toward Furi takes nearly two hours of steady walking through varying mountain terrain. This route is featured prominently in our Zermatt winter walking paths guide for the 2026 season. The scenery changes beautifully from rugged rocky peaks to quiet and peaceful alpine pine forests. It offers a wonderful sense of solitude away from the busy ski slopes.

Always watch for the specific signs marking the official winter hiking trails in the Zermatt area. These are bright pink poles placed deeply into the snow to guide your every step. They help keep you safe and ensure you stay on the correctly groomed walking path. Following these markers is the best way to enjoy the mountain without getting lost.

Essential Gear for Zermatt Winter Hiking

Proper footwear is absolutely vital for safely enjoying these beautiful and snowy mountain walking trails. The snow can be quite slippery or surprisingly deep in some of the higher sections. You definitely need shoes with a very good grip and thick insulation for warmth. Check our expert list of winter hiking boots for Zermatt snowy walks today.

You should dress in multiple layers to stay warm and comfortable throughout the entire day. The mountain weather can change very quickly even when the sky looks perfectly clear. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep your skin dry during the walk. Add a high-quality waterproof jacket to block the cold wind and any falling snow.

High-quality sunscreen is absolutely necessary even on cloudy or foggy winter days in the Alps. The white snow reflects UV rays with great intensity and can cause quick sunburns. Protect your skin and your eyes during your entire mountain adventure in Zermatt. Pack a small and lightweight backpack to carry your water and some extra snacks.

It is also wise to carry a fully charged mobile phone for safety during your walks. Most trails have good signal but cold temperatures can drain your battery very quickly. Tell someone at your hotel which trail you plan to explore before you leave. Being prepared allows you to relax and fully enjoy the stunning Swiss mountain scenery.