02/11/2026
Riffelsee is a small mountain lake above Zermatt in the canton of Valais, Switzerland. It lies at 2,757 metres, just below the rocky Riffelhorn peak. The lake is only about 4 metres deep and smaller than a football field. But it is one of the most photographed places in the Alps. On calm days the Matterhorn is reflected in the still water like in a mirror. This view appears on many postcards, calendars and travel guides about Switzerland.
What to See
The main reason to come is the reflection of the Matterhorn. The best time is early in the morning, when there is no wind and the water is very still. At sunrise the top of the mountain often turns pink and orange. Walk along the path on the north side of the lake to find the best angle. A little lower down there is a second, smaller lake that also gives nice reflections. Around the lake you can see the Gorner Glacier, the Monte Rosa massif and many other peaks above 4,000 metres. In summer the meadows are full of alpine flowers, and you may see marmots. In winter and spring the lake is frozen and covered with snow.
How to Get There and Practical Information
Take the Gornergrat Railway from Zermatt and get off at Rotenboden station (2,815 metres). From there it is an easy walk of about 5–10 minutes down to the lake. Many visitors first go up to Gornergrat and then walk down to Riffelsee and on to Riffelberg station in about one hour. The path is well marked and easy. The best season to see the reflection is from late June to early October, when the lake is free of ice. Visiting the lake is free, but you need a ticket for the train. Bring warm clothes, because it can be cold and windy at this height even in summer.
Weather in location: Riffelsee Lake & Iconic Matterhorn View, Zermatt, Switzerland
- Today -5°…1°
- Wind 4 km/h W
- No precipitation now
Forecast data: MET Norway
