The Sunnegga side of Zermatt is reached from a valley station on Matterstrasse by the Sunnegga funicular, then by gondola to Blauherd and cable car to Rothorn. In summer its signature outing is the Five Lakes Walk, a gentle route from Blauherd down to Sunnegga that passes Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee and Leisee. The tourist board lists it at around two and a half hours and describes it as suitable for children from six. Three of the lakes can mirror the Matterhorn in calm, clear weather, which is why it is among the most photographed walks in the Alps. In winter the same lifts serve the Sunnegga and Rothorn ski sector and the Leisee area. The lakes walk itself is a summer and early autumn activity: snow cover makes it unreliable outside the walking season.
Outside the walking season, treat Sunnegga and Rothorn as a viewpoint ride rather than a hiking day. The funicular and upper lifts run on a winter timetable, with first rides from Zermatt in the morning and the last rides up and down in the late afternoon, which means you can ride up for the panorama and a coffee, then return. The tourist board warns that some mountain railways are not operating or run only as far as Sunnegga at certain times of the year, so check the status before you set out.
When the walking season is on, the route is straightforward. Ride up to Blauherd, follow the signed path past the lakes, and finish at Sunnegga, then take the funicular down. Allow about two and a half hours at an easy pace, longer with photo stops, and carry a rain layer and sun protection. The lakes sit at altitude, so weather can change quickly. Families with young walkers will find the trail forgiving, and the Leisee area near Sunnegga has an adventure playground in summer.
If you are planning around the season, the practical split is simple. Summer and early autumn belong to the lakes and the high trails. Winter belongs to skiers, snowshoers and view-seekers, and the main ski area runs on the winter timetable from late autumn into spring. Ask the lift ticket office or check the operator website for which sections are running on your day, and always check the snow and trail report before leaving the lifts.
What to expect
The experience
A funicular, gondola and cable car sequence from Zermatt, then in summer a self-guided walk from Blauherd to Sunnegga past five lakes.
Best time
Summer to early autumn for the lakes walk. Outside that window the lifts run but the trail is not a dependable plan.
How long
About two and a half hours for the walk itself, plus lift time.
Tips
Check which lifts are running, carry layers and a rain jacket, and go early on a calm morning for Matterhorn reflections.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Easy lake walking with Matterhorn photographs in summer.
- Families
- The route suits children from about six and the Leisee playground helps in summer.
- Couples
- Start early on a still morning for the best reflections and finish with lunch at Sunnegga.
- Pair with
- The Gornergrat railway on another day and a visit to the Matterhorn Museum.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
Which lakes are on the Five Lakes Walk?+
The five are Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee and Leisee. Three of them can reflect the Matterhorn in calm weather.
How long does the Five Lakes Walk take?+
The tourist board gives about two and a half hours from Blauherd to Sunnegga. Allow more time for photographs and a lunch stop.
Can I do the walk in winter or late autumn?+
The walking season is summer to early autumn, and snow makes the route unreliable outside it. The lifts run on the winter timetable, so you can still ride up for the view.
Is it suitable for children?+
The tourist board describes it as suitable for children from age six. Bring warm and waterproof layers because weather at the lakes can change quickly.
When does the Rothorn sector close for the winter season?+
Confirm with the operator closer to your dates.
