The making of Riffelalp Resort 2'222m
History
For over 140 years, our alpine hotel has stood in the lee of the Matterhorn. Through the decades, the resort has undergone restoration, expansion and renewal, evolving with the times without losing sight of its extraordinary heritage. Here are some of its most significant milestones.
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1856
The first Riffelalp plot is acquired by Swiss hotelier Alexander Seiler, who recognises the growing appeal of alpine tourism. His early investment lays the foundations for this remarkable high-altitude retreat.
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1878
Construction begins on the 150-bedroom Riffelalp Grand Hotel and progresses over six years through challenging alpine conditions.
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1884
The Riffelalp Grand Hotel officially opens. Located high above the village of Zermatt, it quickly becomes a summer destination for Europe’s cultural and aristocratic elite.
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1890
The popularity of the hotel continues to grow. Capacity increases to 200 beds. In the years that follow, two annexe buildings are acquired, expanding accommodation to 280 beds.
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1899
The Riffelalp tram begins operation, linking the Gornergrat railway station with the hotel. At 675 metres, it was and remains the shortest and highest tramway in Europe.
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1961
The original Grand Hotel Riffelalp building is destroyed by fire, marking the end of its first chapter.
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1986
Alterations are carried out to the two surviving annexe buildings, leading to the launch of the 40-bed Berghotel Riffelalp and Alpenresidenz Augstkumme with holiday apartments. This marks the first sustained return of accommodation since 1961.
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1988
Riffelalp resumes operations, welcoming visitors to the mountain. During this ten-year period, guests stay in the Berghotel and apartment residences.
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1998
A comprehensive new construction and renovation programme begins, leading to the development of the present-day Riffelalp Resort 2'222m.
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2001
The Riffelalp tram reopens after forty years. The original 675-metre route is retained, and the carriages are rebuilt according to their original appearance. Now battery-powered, the tram operates during the summer season only. The journey takes approximately five minutes.
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2003
The wellness area of the suite building is enlarged, expanding its indoor spa facilities, plus an additional five suites and two rooms are added.
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2007
Ristorante Al Bosco opens, adding a further dining venue to the resort.
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2016
The entire hotel undergoes a renovation. Guest rooms, public areas and infrastructure are updated, and a new deluxe ski room is created with modern equipment storage and heated boot systems.
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2017
Ristorante Alexandre, the Banquet Room, the Bar and the Smoker’s Lounge are renovated.
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2023
The Spa 2'222m undergoes a general renovation.