Ultimate Sunnegga Hiking Experience: Trail Guide and Highlights

Posted on by Marta

Hiking in the Swiss Alps is a bucket-list adventure for many, and for good reason. The combination of dramatic mountain peaks, serene alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife creates an unforgettable experience for anyone who ventures onto its trails. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or just someone looking to immerse yourself in nature, the trails around Sunnegga offer something for everyone. In this post, I’ll take you through a step-by-step guide of my hike, sharing not just the route but also the hidden surprises, breathtaking views, and challenges I encountered along the way. Ready to lace up your boots? Let’s dive into the adventure!

*Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, if you click through to make a purchase, I earn a small commission – at no extra cost to you!*

Overview

Hike at a Glance: Key Details to Know

  • Location – This scenic hike takes place in the stunning mountain town of Zermatt, Switzerland.
  • Difficulty – The difficulty of this hike mainly stems from the first few kilometers. The initial section involves some steep inclines of over 25%, with stretches of rugged Alpine soil that can be quite challenging. If you’re up for the challenge, you’ll be rewarded with incredible scenery. However, if you’d prefer to avoid the steep ascent, there’s an easier option! After June 15th, you can take a cable car directly to Blauherd, skipping the tough uphill portion. From there, the hike becomes far more manageable, with mostly easy, straightforward paths.
  • Distance and Elevation – The hike spans 7.59 km (4.72 miles) in length, with an elevation gain of 370 meters (0.23 miles). It’s not overly long, but the steep inclines at the beginning can make it feel more intense—unless you opt for the cable car route.
  • Time Required – Plan for 3 to 4 hours to complete this hike, depending on your pace and whether you stop to take in the views (which you’ll definitely want to do!).
  • Best Season to Visit – In winter I’d say that this hike is impossible. Spring and Summer are the winners for this. JUST BE SURE TO BRING SUNSCREEN!

How to get to Sunnegga?

Once you’ve made your way to the charming alpine village of Zermatt—perhaps by hopping aboard one of Switzerland’s world-renowned scenic trains—getting to Sunnegga is incredibly straightforward. Sunnegga, often called the “Sun Terrace,” is a gateway to some of the most beautiful hikes and viewpoints in the region.

From Zermatt’s train station, it’s just a short 10-minute walk to the entrance of the Sunnegga Funicular. This underground funicular railway is your ticket to spectacular views in mere minutes. Tickets for the funicular can be conveniently purchased at the station itself. Alternatively, you can grab them from the nearby tourism office, though, from personal experience, the lines there tend to be longer.

The Sunnegga Funicular will whisk you up the mountain in just a few minutes, where you’ll be greeted by breathtaking panoramas and a cozy mountain restaurant—a perfect starting point for your hiking adventures. If you’re planning your Swiss adventure, don’t forget to check out my previous blog post where I detail an incredible interrail itinerary through western Switzerland, including how to reach Zermatt.

Essential Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Journey

Embarking on an adventure in the Swiss Alps is an exhilarating experience, but before you set off on this incredible journey, there are a few essential tips to keep in mind for both your safety and enjoyment.

  • Invest in Good Hiking Boots – Mountain trails can be rugged and unpredictable, so having proper hiking boots with excellent grip is non-negotiable. Sturdy footwear with good traction helps prevent slips and ensures your feet are well-supported, especially on steep or uneven paths. I used these Timberland boots (in yellow) and they worked great.
  • Stay Focused on the Trail – While the mesmerizing views might tempt you to constantly gaze around or snap endless photos, it’s crucial to stay focused, particularly on mountain sections. Paying attention to the path underfoot reduces the risk of accidents, even if it means postponing those perfect Instagram shots until a safer point.
  • Don’t Forget Sunscreen – It can’t be stressed enough: wear sunscreen! Even if the cool mountain air and snow-capped peaks make it feel like the sun isn’t a threat, the higher altitudes absorb less UV rays. The snow’s reflection intensifies exposure, so applying sunscreen is a must to protect your skin from harmful burns—yes, even in June! You even have specialized Alpine sunscreen due to these reasons.
  • Safety Comes First – We all want that breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime photo, but no picture is worth risking your safety. Make sure you’re in a stable spot before posing for that epic shot. Always prioritize your wellbeing and avoid dangerous positions on the trail.
  • Stay Hydrated and Well-Fed – Long hikes require energy, so bring enough water and food to keep yourself fueled. Fresh Alpine water might be available along the way, but ensure it’s safe to drink. To be further assure the safty of the water you can also bring some bottle with water purifier. Dehydration or hunger can quickly ruin your day, especially during strenuous activity, so plan ahead.
  • Pack Layers – Weather in the mountains can change in the blink of an eye. One moment you could be basking in the warmth of the sun, and the next, standing in chilly winds or even snow. Carrying layers will keep you comfortable regardless of the conditions.
  • Download Offline Maps – Mobile signals can be spotty in the mountains, and you don’t want to rely solely on a live connection. Download offline maps ahead of time (I recommend the Komoot app) so you can navigate confidently without worrying about connectivity. This tip is doubly important for Europeans accustomed to free roaming, as Swiss mobile data can be quite costly!
  • Know the Local Emergency Number – While we hope you won’t need it, it’s always good to be prepared. In Switzerland, the emergency contact number is 144. Knowing this could make all the difference in an emergency situation.
  • Bring a Charged Power Bank – Running out of battery is the last thing you want when you’re in the middle of nowhere. Carrying a fully charged power bank ensures that you’ll always have a way to communicate or access vital information on your phone.

Step-by-Step Guide: What to Expect on the Trail

Now that we’ve covered the practical side of things, let’s dive into what you came here for – how breathtaking and unforgettable a hike in the Swiss Alps truly is! Spoiler: it’s absolutely stunning.

I mapped out this adventure using the Komoot app, downloading the route to use offline. With Swiss roaming prices through the roof, this strategy allowed me to navigate the trail and track my GPS without burning a hole in my pocket. This hike was part of my couple of days in Zermatt during my interrail around (west) Switzerland, about which you can read on the blog.

The Challenging Start: Sunnegga to Blauherg

The first section of this hike is, without question, the most demanding. I decided to tackle this steep ascent first, as I prefer climbing up rather than navigating steep descents. Your journey begins at the Sunnegga viewpoint, just outside the restaurant, where you’ll step out of the cool funicular tunnel and immediately be struck by the jaw-dropping scenery. The majestic Matterhorn towers behind you, but you’ll be facing the climb ahead – a challenging trek to your left.

Starting at an elevation of about 2200 meters (1.37 miles), you’ll ascend roughly 400 meters (1 312 feet) over a 2 km (1.24 miles) stretch. This section has inclines ranging from 10 to 30%, making it tough and at times, risky. The path winds through ski trails, with narrow passages, cliffs on one side, and gusty winds adding to the challenge. There’s even a memorial cross to remind you just how serious this trail can be. While the views here are jaw-droppingly beautiful, you’ll need to focus more on each step to stay safe.

I encountered a few hikers along the way, but it wasn’t crowded. If you’re hiking after June 15th, you’ll have the option of skipping this grueling section by catching a cable car – a great choice if you’re looking for an easier start.

The Rewarding Ascent: Blauherg Summit

Reaching the top of Blauherg is a huge relief. You’ll find a spacious area with picnic tables, perfect for a well-earned break. Here, you can finally take in the full glory of the surroundings without worrying about steep drops or windy conditions. The panoramic views from this point are nothing short of spectacular, and the open space offers a chance to relax before you head into the next, much easier, section of the hike.

The Serene Descent: Stellisee and Marmots

From Blauherg, the trail becomes significantly more relaxed, with a gentle descent for most of the remainder. The next major highlight is Stellisee, a picturesque alpine lake. When I visited, it was half-frozen, creating a surreal, almost magical reflection of the Matterhorn on the icy surface. Even though the iconic mirrored perfection was interrupted by the ice, the moment felt uniquely special.

Continuing down, I had an unexpected encounter with some marmots. I spotted one darting across the path and clumsily jumping onto nearby rocks. Later on, I heard an odd but adorable squeak, and before I knew it, three marmots were scampering in different directions. It felt like something straight out of a wildlife documentary! While I felt incredibly lucky, I suspect that these playful creatures are fairly common in this area.

The Grand Finale: Lakes and Waterfalls

As you near the end of the trail, you’ll pass the Green Lake and a series of three waterfalls. At this point, the path narrows again with a few more cliffside sections, but it’s greener, flatter, and generally less daunting than the earlier climb. On your left, you’ll catch glimpses of the briight blue Mosjesee, a sight that adds a dash of color to the landscape.

After crossing paths with more marmots, you’ll come across Leisee – a surprisingly warm alpine lake. If you’re feeling adventurous, pack a swimsuit and take a dip! Finally, you’ll loop back to the Sunnegga viewpoint, completing your journey with a sense of triumph and wonder after this incredible hike through the heart of the Swiss Alps.

This trail is not for the faint-hearted, but the rewards are immense: stunning views, wildlife encounters, and the sheer satisfaction of conquering one of the most beautiful hiking routes in the world.

Highlights That Make This Hike Unforgettable

Sunnegga Viewpoint
Sunnegga to Blauherd
Blauherd
Stellisee
Marmotes

Hiking the Sunnegga trail in the Swiss Alps was an adventure filled with unforgettable moments and awe-inspiring scenery. From the tough ascent to Blauherg to the peaceful beauty of Stellisee and the surprise encounters with marmots, every step brought something new and exciting. Though challenging at times, the trail offers the perfect mix of physical effort and natural reward. Whether you’re drawn by the stunning views, the chance to spot wildlife, or simply the thrill of exploring the Alps, this hike delivers an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left the mountain. Ready for your next adventure? The Swiss Alps are calling!

In case you are wondering, all these pictures were taking with the following equipment:

Pin for later!

More blog posts that you may like:

Leave a comment