Take the trail instead of the train.

Statistics

4 - 5

hrs

1,886

m

1,706

m

25

max°

Difficulty

FATMAP difficulty grade

Moderate

Description

You could catch the train all the way into car-free Zermatt, or you could enter in style by running from Randa.

After all, it would be a shame to miss what is considered one of the most beautiful trails in the Alps.

The Swiss rail system (SBB) makes it possible to conveniently organise sending luggage from station to station.

You can drop bags in Randa to meet you in Zermatt, providing an opportunity to frolic the scenic Europaweg, catching glimpses of the Matterhorn as the trail unfolds deeper into the Matter Valley.

To begin, ascend straight up from Randa, either heading to the Europahütte for a night of altitude and boardgames or head directly towards Zermatt.

Shortly after the big climb, cross the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the world at almost 500 metres in length, before continuing along a piece of incredible singletrail traversing the eastern side of the Matter Valley.

The trail ascends over 1800 vertical metres but is surprisingly runnable after the initial climb.

If you enjoy this route, consider taking on the Ultra Tour Monte Rosa – possibly the toughest 100 mile race in the Alps.

Circumnavigating the mountain after it’s own name, Monte Rosa, by traversing the Europaweg before crossing the Theodul glacier over into Italy and then climbing Monte Moro to pass back into Switzerland via the Saastal.

This is the most playful section of the route and begins from the beautiful village of Grächen, where the finish line also resides.

For more information on luggage shipping services from station to station, visit https://www.sbb.ch/en/station-services/before-your-journey/luggage/luggage/station-to-station.html Take a look at the Ultra Tour Monte Rosa if you like a challenge: https://www.ultratourmonterosa.com/