If I had to choose between Zermatt and the Matterhorn or Lauterbrennen Valley and Schilthorn in early June for my Swiss Alps visit, which would it be (for you… Your thoughts?)
Thanks in advance, GG
Posted by
Bend, OR
1334 posts
We did both areas last summer. Both were spectacular mountain scenery and we were lucky enough to view the Matterhorn with clear blue skies on all 3 days. It all depends on what YOU want to see. Just be aware that it’s better to spend 2 or 3 days in Zermatt, Mother Nature isn’t always cooperative for viewing the mountain.
Posted by
The Heartland USA
9245 posts
My opinion. The Matterhorn is something you want to look at from below. The Schilthorn is something you go up to see the view from above. Two different things.
Posted by
Chicago
8361 posts
I actually accomplished a day trip from Lauterbrunnen to see the Matterhorn; but that decision was made the night before when I saw the weather report clear sky's forecasted. If it is your first time to Switzerland I'd stay in that Lauterbrunnen Valley area to start over Zermatt. The tourists on the way and in Zermatt are a little more pushy in a bad way than in Lauterbrunnen.
Posted by
Nashville, TN
833 posts
I think you should decide based on what else you want to do on your trip. They are different areas with different types of views, so it’s not exactly comparing apples to apples. What’s your full plan, as maybe 1 fits your itinerary more than the other.
Posted by
OP
Seattle
8 posts
Thank you, everyone.
Your comments and thoughts have been helpful. We have decided to take our time in Lauterbrennen and skip Zermatt this trip.
This will give us a day of buffer and a more relaxed, therefore, deeper overall experience. It is our goal, to learn, understand and appreciate the communities we have the privilege of visiting. Mahalo,
GG
Posted by
Minneapolis
110 posts
The Matterhorn is very impressive to view. However, the Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald valleys have more attractions including the Aletsch Glacier viewed from Jungfraujoch. There are neighboring valleys to see additional attractions and lakes. You will have to do some research for early June as some trails and trains may not be open. It took me two trips to experience both areas.
Posted by
317 posts
We also did both last year and I couldn't agree more about having a few nights in Zermatt.
We had three. When we arrived on the first evening, late, it was cloudy.
The first day was absolutely perfect, we had spectacular views from our balcony and then from up at Gornergrat.
The second day was cloudy and we couldn't see the Matterhorn at all, and it was the same on our final morning.
There is no way I would recommend going with less than three nights.
Posted by
Los Angeles
5011 posts
Stan's point is well taken