Schwarzsee is a mountain lake near the foot of the Matterhorn, reached by the Zermatt mountain railway from Furi. Its colour changes with the light, and a walk around the shore is possible in any season. The small chapel Maria zum Schnee stands beside the lake, and mountaineers often stop there to give thanks after climbing the Matterhorn. From Schwarzsee, hiking routes lead onto the Matterhorn Trail, the Matterhorn Glacier Trail from Trockener Steg and the path towards the Hörnli hut, and winter walking trails are also marked. In summer there is mountain biking and a dirt scooter route down to Zermatt. In winter the lift station opens directly onto ski slopes. The lift sections change over between the summer and winter timetables, and the station can be closed in the gaps between seasons. The tourist board lists daily hours of 08:00 to 17:00 for the station, but status changes, so check before you go. It is a rewarding stop on the way up or down from Glacier Paradise.
Schwarzsee earns its place by proximity. Few places in Zermatt put you so close to the Matterhorn without a technical climb. From the lift station a short path leads to the lakeshore and the chapel, where the north face of the mountain fills the view on a clear day. On calm mornings the lake can give a reflection, and in winter the contrast of snow, dark water and rock is memorable.
The route up is by the Zermatt mountain railway, with a change at Furi. Note the seasonal rhythm: in the gap between summer and winter operation, parts of the lift chain can be closed. When it runs, first departures from Furi are in the morning and the last return rides leave in the late afternoon. Always check the live lift status before you leave the village, because wind and snow conditions can change the timetable.
Walkers should respect the weather and the terrain. The Matterhorn Trail and the path to the Hörnli hut are mountain routes and can hold snow outside summer, so stay on cleared or marked winter trails unless you are properly equipped. Dress for cold, carry water and sun protection, and take a hot drink at the nearby mountain restaurants if they are open on your day. Combined with a trip to the glacier, Schwarzsee gives you a second, quieter view of the mountain in the same day.
What to expect
The experience
A cable car ride from Furi to Schwarzsee, then a self-guided stroll to the lake and chapel, with optional marked trails.
Best time
A clear, calm morning for views and reflections, whenever the Furi to Schwarzsee lift is running.
How long
Two to four hours with walking time.
Tips
Check lift status before you go, wear warm waterproof footwear and stay on marked winter trails if there is snow.
Quick picks
- Best for
- A close-up Matterhorn view that is easier than a full hike.
- Families
- The lakeshore walk is short and gentle, but keep children away from steep ground and dress them warmly.
- Couples
- Go for the morning light at the chapel and lake.
- Pair with
- Matterhorn Glacier Paradise above, or a ski lesson on the nearby slopes.
- Time needed
- Half a day with lift connections.
Good questions
Is Schwarzsee open between seasons?+
The station can be closed in the gap between the summer and winter timetables, when the Furi to Schwarzsee section changes over. Check the live status before you travel.
What is at Schwarzsee?+
A mountain lake beneath the Matterhorn, the small chapel Maria zum Schnee and trail connections including the Matterhorn Trail and the path to the Hörnli hut. In winter the station opens onto ski slopes.
Can I walk around the lake?+
A walk around the shore is possible in any season, though snow and ice may be present outside summer. Wear shoes with good grip.
How do I get there?+
Take the Zermatt mountain railway to Furi and continue by cable car to Schwarzsee. The route also forms part of the way up to Glacier Paradise.
Can I ski from Schwarzsee?+
Yes, in winter the lift station gives direct access to the slopes. The main ski area runs on the winter timetable through the ski season.
