Stage 1: Zermatt –
Theodulpass
13.3 km
Mountain hiking trail
Mountain hiking trail
+1'712 m / -11 m
Metres in altitude
Metres in altitude
3’300 m
Highest point
Highest point
This stage at a glance
This stage at a glance
The first stage of the Monte Rosa tour starts in Zermatt and takes you up to the Theodul Pass at 3’300 m. The route follows alpine glacier trails and offers spectacular views of the Valais mountains, including the iconic Matterhorn and many surrounding 4’000-metre peaks.
What to expect on this stage:
- On the way you pass the Gandegg Hut, ideal for a break with views of the mountain landscape
- Parts of the route are demanding and require sure-footedness and experience in alpine conditions
- In the glacier section, rope protection or a mountain guide is necessary
- You can shorten parts of the stage by taking the Klein Matterhorn cable car
- At the Theodul Pass on the border between Switzerland and Italy, you reach the Theodul Hut, an ideal place to stay overnight before the next stage
Practical information
Practical information
Zermatt
Location: Mattertal
1’606 m a.s.l.
Getting there by public transport:
Train to Visp or Brig:
- Basel – Bern – Brig – Visp
- Zürich – Brig – Visp
- Chur – Andermatt – Brig – Visp
- Genf – Lausanne – Sion – Visp
From Visp or Brig:
- Matterhorn Gotthard Railway to Zermatt
Getting there by car:
- Zermatt is car-free. You can drive as far as Täsch
- From Täsch, you can reach Zermatt by shuttle train
More information on getting to Zermatt
Accommodation