Walking SwitzerlandSunnegga Paradise - Fluhalp - ZermattWalk 8112
Canton - Valais / Wallis - Zermatt & the Mattertal
Author - Anna & Mark Bradley
Length - 13.0 km / 8.1 miles
Ascent - 420 metres / 1386 feet
Descent - 1000 metres / 3300 feet
Time - 6.00 hours
Grade - moderate
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There are a whole host of walks in this area starting from Sunnegga. All are clearly signed. Take the underground funicular from Zermatt to Sunnegga paradise. From here there are some fine panoramic views of Zermatt and the valley as well the mountains that surround the town.
Follow the signs to Leisee. In just a few minutes you will reach this lake with the well-known reflections of the Matterhorn. Continue to Stellisee and Fluhalp via Grindjesee looking out for sheep, goats and marmots on the way. Reaching the high and extensive morraines of the Findel glacier marks the start of the return to Zermatt.
The descent to Zermatt can be made via Grüensee, on the other side of the valley, and Findeln with its pretty barns, with the final section coming down through pine forest. The walk took just over 6 hours altogether with lots of stops for photos etc. It's a long, if not difficult, walk.
Suggested Maps
Landeskarte der Schweiz - 1:50000 - Sheet SW 5006 - Matterhorn/Mischabel
Recommended Books
Walking in the Bernese Oberland
This walking guidebook to the Bernese Oberland describes 113 day walks. Routes range from 2 to 24km and offer breathtaking scenery of the classic Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains, around Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Gsteig and Meiringen. There are routes suitable for all abilities from short flat walks to adventurous treks.
The Tour of the Bernina
Guidebook describing a 9-stage (119km) route around the Piz Bernina massif in the Alps on the Swiss-Italian border near St Moritz, and the 8-stage (94km) Alta Via Valmalenco exploring the Valmalenco valley, in the shadow of Monte Disgrazia. The Tour of the Bernina is suitable for first-time trekkers but the Alta Via needs some experience.
Stay Safe
Do enjoy yourself when out walking and choose a route that is within your capabilities especially with regard to navigation.
Do turn back if the weather deteriorates especially in winter or when visibility is poor.
Do wear the right clothing for the anticipated weather conditions. If the weather is likely to change for the worse make sure you have enough extra clothing in your pack.
Do tell someone where you are planning to walk especially in areas that see few other walkers.
Do take maps and other navigational aids. Do not rely on mobile devices in areas where reception is poor. Take spare batteries especially in cold weather.
Do check the weather forecast before leaving.
Do do not exceed your capabilities.
Please Note - These walks have been published for use by site visitors on the understanding that Walking Sitzerland is not held responsible for the safety or well being of those following the routes as described. It is worth reiterating the point that you should embark on a walk with the correct maps at the most detailed scale where possible. This will enable any difficulties with route finding to be assessed, and corrective action taken if necessary.