A journey through history
The Riffelalp Tram
More than a way to reach the resort, the Riffelalp Tram is part of the Riffelalp experience.
First introduced in 1899, it has welcomed generations of guests arriving in this unique corner of the Swiss Alps, high above Zermatt. When Riffelalp Resort 2'222m was rebuilt, preserving this cherished tradition became an obvious choice. While the original tram could no longer meet today's technical and safety standards, it inspired a new generation of vehicles that entered service in 2001.
Today, Europe's highest tramway quietly connects Riffelalp Resort 2'222m with Riffelalp railway station on the Gornergrat Railway. Battery powered and surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery, it offers a peaceful journey with unforgettable views of the Matterhorn—one that feels every bit as special as the destination itself.
Summer timetable
The Riffelalp Tram
The Riffelalp Tram operates daily during the summer season between the resort and Riffelalp railway station.
Departures from the hotel:
11:20 a.m. / 11:44 a.m. / 12:08 p.m. / 12:32 p.m. / 12:56 p.m. / 1:20 p.m. / 1:44 p.m. / 2:08 p.m. / 2:32 p.m. / 2:56 p.m. / 3:20 p.m. / 3:44 p.m.
Departures from Riffelalp railway station:
11:34 a.m. / 11:58 a.m. / 12:22 p.m. / 12:46 p.m. / 1:10 p.m. / 1:34 p.m. / 1:58 p.m. / 2:22 p.m. / 2:46 p.m. / 3:10 p.m. / 3:34 p.m. / 3:58 p.m.
Europe's highest tramway
Where heritage meets innovation
Reintroduced on 15 June 2001, today's Riffelalp Tram combines the heritage of the original tramway with modern battery technology, ensuring a quiet and sustainable journey through the Swiss Alps.
Specifications
- Opening: 15 June 2001
- Overall line length: 675.31 m
- Terminal loop: 190.36 m
- 2 stops
- 2 switches
- Rail gauge: 0.80 m
- Rail type: Vignole
- Steel sleepers (approx. 40 kg each)
- Depot for two trams with battery charging station
- Battery-powered operation (80 V, 320 Ah)
- Maximum speed: 10 km/h