Tomorrow I have a full day in Zermatt. Meteo blue weather forecast shows fully sunny until about 1:00 when it’s gonna be partly cloudy.
I was gonna start my day early , probably around 7 or 8 am.
Is there one that is more preferable to do when views are guaranteed?
Views will be great from either, but if the Bergbahn Lift is involved take that one before most other folks get there.
What I did when I got to Zermatt for the day in June, was walk through the old town towards the Matterhorn. I got some great pictures of the Matterhorn with all the wildflowers. Then, I went and did the Gornergrat. From the Gornergrat side, it was just all mountains, no flowers or anything else. So, if possible, I’d suggest seeing both sides/views.
I prefer Gornergrat, but either one will give you good views. Check out the webcams and you will see the different views from each place. For me, the Gornergrat view highlights the unique look of Matterhorn better. I also like the walks from the Gornergrat mid-stations.
There is also an easy, hour-long walk just above the village that offers great photo opportunities. Don't be put off the by name, it is a great walk and I've taken some of my best Matterhorn photos from this trail.
https://www.zermatt.ch/en/Media/Planning-hikes-tours/Pensioners-Trail-Lower-High-Altitude-Trail-Nr.-4a
Enjoy!! Views look awesome right now!
Views from the Gornergrat will be the iconic Matterhorn profile, but more distant. You could hike down to the Stellisee for the classic view across the lake:
https://www.zermatt.ch/en/Media/Attractions/Stellisee
Then catch the train at the nearest stop and ride back down to Zermatt. Then walk through the village to the lift up to Glacier Paradise. The Matterhorn is so close, you may see it from the top there even is the clouds roll in.
To me, the highlight of Glacier Paradise is not the Matterhorn view, but the broad panorama towards most of the western Alps, all the way to Mount Viso on a clear day. It is an impressive viewpoint, but perhaps less 'iconic' than the postcard-perfect view of the Matterhorn from Gornergrat. Also, if there are clouds south and west of Aosta, you won't see as much.
I have only been to Zermatt in the winter, though, so summer experiences may differ.
Appreciate the advice folks! I went to Gornergrat and it was awesome. Then went to Glacier paradise and it was fairly cloudy at the observation deck. I also felt pretty light headed and since I wasn’t traveling with anyone I felt scared in case I passed out so I left early.
