Riffelberg, Zermatt with view of the Matterhorn by Thomas Bugdoll

The name Riffelberg refers to an area on the Gornergrat. The viewpoint is one of the most beautiful in Zermatt. As the crow flies, the summit of the Matterhorn is only 7500 metres from here. You are close to the mountain, but still far enough away to be able to view the Matterhorn in its full effect with the east face, Hörnligrat, parts of the north face as well as the hump of the Zmuttgrat. The "Hore" (name of the Matterhorn in the local language) towers some 1500 metres above the horizon. The Matterhorn stands alone on the horizon - which is why its sight is so impressive. Zermatt, in the southern Swiss canton of Valais, is a mountain resort popular with skiers, climbers and hikers. The town lies at an altitude of 1,600 m at the foot of the famous pyramid-shaped Matterhorn. Zermatt's main street, Bahnhofstrasse, is home to boutiques, hotels and restaurants as well as a lively après-ski scene.

At 4,478 metres above sea level, the majestic Matterhorn - arguably Europe's most famous mountain - stretches out in a breathtaking Alpine panorama. Switzerland's freestanding landmark lies on the border of the western Swiss canton of Valais - between Zermatt and Breuil-Cervinia in Italy.