Riffelhaus 1853

The staff were consistently friendly and helpful throughout the stay, always willing to assist when needed. Upon arriving in Zermatt and taking the Gornergrat Bahn, it is highly recommended to call the hotel in advance so they can arrange luggage pickup at Riffelberg station. Pulling luggage by yourself can be quite challenging, as the path involves walking through snow and crossing ski areas. One of the highlights of this hotel is the breathtaking and unobstructed view of the Matterhorn. The mountain is clearly visible from the hotel area, and there is truly no need to go elsewhere just to enjoy this iconic view. The outdoor jacuzzi is a wonderful feature; however, on some days the water temperature was not warm enough, making it comfortable to use only on certain occasions. Dinner is served as a set course menu. Each evening, there are two main dish options: one meat dish (which changes daily, such as beef, pork, or fish) and one vegetarian option. The food quality is very good and tasty, but the service is relatively slow — completing the full course takes around two hours. The hotel is well equipped with an elevator that provides access to all floors, which is very convenient, especially when carrying belongings.

Location – 10/10 Nestled high above Zermatt, the Riffelhaus 1853 is accessible via the Gornergrat railway, making the journey itself an adventure. Once you arrive, you’re greeted by panoramic mountain views in every direction, with the iconic Matterhorn standing proudly in front of you. The setting is perfect for ski-in/ski-out access in winter and stunning hiking trails in summer. Rooms – 9/10 The rooms are cozy, modern, and well-equipped while still maintaining a classic Swiss alpine charm. Many rooms come with Matterhorn views, and waking up to this scenery is an experience in itself. The beds are comfortable, and the rustic wooden decor gives a warm, welcoming feel. Some rooms have balconies, which I highly recommend booking for the full experience. Service – 9/10 The staff is friendly, professional, and attentive. Despite the hotel’s remote location, the service is top-notch, with staff going out of their way to accommodate special requests. From seamless check-in to helpful local recommendations, they make the stay even more special. Dining – 8.5/10 The on-site restaurant serves delicious Swiss cuisine, including traditional dishes like fondue and rösti. The breakfast is generous, featuring fresh bread, cheeses, meats, and eggs cooked to order. The only downside is that, due to the remote location, dining options are limited to the hotel restaurant, but the quality makes up for it. Wellness & Spa – 10/10 The outdoor hot tub with a view of the Matterhorn is an absolute highlight! There’s also a sauna and steam bath, perfect after a day of skiing or hiking. Soaking in the warm water while surrounded by snow-capped peaks is an experience worth every penny. Activities – 10/10 Winter: Perfect for skiing, as the hotel is directly on the slopes. The ski room is convenient, and the access to the Gornergrat ski area is unbeatable. Summer: Incredible hiking trails with direct access to the Gornergratbahn for easy excursions to higher altitudes.