Matterhorn, Switzerland
With a height of 4,477m and its majestic pyramid shape, the Matterhorn is the epitome of a mountain and the landmark of Switzerland. Every year, around 3,000 climbers attempt to scale the summit of the Matterhorn - only two-thirds of them succeed.
The Matterhorn in Switzerland is considered by mountaineers to be the quintessential mountain. The peak above the famous mountaineering center of Zermatt is 4,477m high. Due to its natural and almost perfect pyramid shape, the Matterhorn is one of the most beautiful and probably most photographed mountains on our planet.
No other mountain can hold a candle to the majestic sight. The landmark of Switzerland is also among our top 10 sights of Switzerland and our 10 most famous and beautiful mountains in the world.
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PICTURES: Zermatt and Matterhorn
Photo gallery: Zermatt and Matterhorn
The Thrilling Ascent of the Majestic Matterhorn
Every year, a staggering number of brave climbers, approximately 3,000 in total, embark on a daring journey to conquer the summit of the iconic Matterhorn. This legendary mountain, nestled in the heart of Switzerland, lures adventurers from around the world to test their mettle against its formidable slopes.
The most popular ascent is via the Hörnligrat route, which begins in the picturesque village of Zermatt. While considered the relatively easier path, it still demands unwavering determination and physical prowess. Astonishingly, two-thirds of climbers who choose this route successfully reach the summit, basking in the awe-inspiring views that await them.
However, for the remaining climbers, the allure of this majestic peak is often subtly overshadowed by the mountain's treacherous nature. In such instances, reason often triumphs at the last moment, leading individuals to wisely choose safety over triumph and make the challenging decision to turn back. While this choice proves smart, it can't erase the fact that an average of 10 climbers tragically lose their lives during each intense summer climbing season.
Furthermore, countless others owe their lives to the selfless efforts of the dedicated mountain rescue service, who regularly perform daring missions to save those who find themselves in perilous situations while chasing their dreams on this mighty mountain.
So, as the Matterhorn continues to stand as a symbol of nature's indomitable spirit and man's ceaseless pursuit of adventure, it is crucial for climbers to approach its slopes with unwavering respect, acknowledging the risks involved and prioritizing safety every step of the way.
On your journey to face the challenge of Matterhorn, if you are looking to base yourself in a location that is both convenient and packed full of local culture, consider staying in Geneva. The city boasts a wide range of top-tier accommodation. Explore a selection of the best hotels in the area at https://www.top-hotels-switzerland.com/en/geneva-hotels-30643/.
Requirements for climbing the Matterhorn
The Matterhorn is a majestic mountain in Switzerland that attracts daring climbers from around the world. The best time to embark on this challenging adventure is from early July to mid-September, when weather conditions are most favorable. However, it's important to note that climbing the Matterhorn requires top fitness and experience in both rock and ice climbing.
Due to the difficulty in finding the normal route over the Hörnligrat, it is highly recommended to either possess excellent local knowledge or climb alongside a local mountain guide. The Alpincenter Zermatt strongly advises experienced alpinists to opt for a guide as well. Keep in mind, however, that this thrilling experience comes at a cost.
Each mountain guide takes only one climber on the rope, ensuring undivided attention and a safe ascent. The climb itself typically takes around 4-5 hours, with a similar duration for the descent. Therefore, climbers must possess an impressive endurance level of approximately 10 hours. Additionally, the daily fee for a mountain guide is around 1,000 EUR, and it's important to note that summit success is not guaranteed.
The chance of reaching the summit is also influenced by weather conditions and the significant number of climbers present during the summer season. As a result, congestion can pose a challenge to climbers aiming for the top. It is essential to consider these factors before planning an independent ascent.
Attempting the climb without a guide can be particularly challenging as orientation can be difficult in this treacherous terrain. Sadly, the Matterhorn has claimed the lives of over 800 individuals, further emphasizing the importance of careful preparation and considering all aspects of this daring endeavor.
The Matterhorn as a destination for mass tourism
Preparing oneself for the climb unfortunately entails managing large crowds, as the grandeur of Matterhorn has drawn a massive amount of tourists globally. Remarkably, its accessibility extends even to the elderly and physically impaired. Prospective climbers should anticipate frequent bottlenecks on the route.
An idyllic and serene climb is not the norm here due to the immense popularity. Alternatively, there are other peaks standing tall at 4,000 meters in the vicinity that are equally breathtaking, and present a quieter mountaineering experience for the true enthusiast.
Despite the crowds, the Matterhorn does offer a unique experience that attracts a diverse group of individuals. Additionally, though the cost of the excursion may be high, the panoramic views offered by the mountaintop justify the expenditure for many.
Relevant Resources:
Zermatt's Alpine Center Official Site
Accommodation and hotels in Switzerland
Interesting articles for holidays in Switzerland:
Zermatt
Gotthard Pass
Bernina Express
St. Moritz
Trift bridge
Chillon Castle