Questions & Answers

2. How long does it take to reach Zermatt from the airport?

As a guide, the journey by train takes around 3½ hours from Zurich Airport and around 4 hours from Geneva or Basel Airport. Please check the timetable for your specific connection. For Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP), check the onward train or transfer connection for your travel date; journey times depend on the route and connections.

3. How do I get to Zermatt?

Zermatt is car-free and can be reached by train. If you are driving, park in Täsch and continue to Zermatt by shuttle train or an authorised taxi.

4. Can I drive directly to the hotel?

Private cars cannot drive into Zermatt. Drive to Täsch, park there and continue to Zermatt. For mountain properties, an additional mountain railway, cable car or walking route may be required; see the property-specific arrival information.

5. How long does the train from Täsch to Zermatt take?

The shuttle journey takes approximately 12 minutes. Trains normally run every 20 minutes; please check the current timetable for your travel date.

6. How do I get around Zermatt?

Zermatt is easy to explore on foot. Electric taxis and local electric buses are also available. Your hotel can advise on the best route from the station.

7. Where can I buy ski passes or mountain railway tickets?

You can buy them through the company “Zermatt Bergbahnen” directly. You may find the link here.

8. How do I reach Riffelhaus 1853 from Zermatt?

Take the Gornergrat Railway from the station directly opposite Zermatt’s main railway station and get off at Riffelberg. The train journey takes approximately 25 minutes. Riffelhaus 1853 is close to Riffelberg station. If you arrive by car, you must park in Täsch and take the shuttle train to Zermatt first, as Zermatt is car-free.

9. Is the Gornergrat Railway ticket included in my reservation?

No. The journey to Riffelberg is not included in the hotel rate. Please purchase a valid ticket for your journey with the Gornergrat Railway. If you are travelling with a ski pass, check its validity for your planned route before boarding.

10. Which train should I take to arrive in time for check-in or dinner?

Your room is available from 15:00. Choose a train that reaches Riffelberg in good time for your arrival and evening meal. Train times change by season, so please check the official Gornergrat Railway timetable for your travel date. If you expect to arrive late, contact us before taking the train on +41 27 966 65 00.

11. How far is the hotel from the station, and is the route suitable for rolling luggage?

The hotel is a short walk from Riffelberg station. As this is a mountain location, the route may be affected by snow or other conditions. We recommend luggage you can carry or handle comfortably.

12. Is luggage transport available?

Yes, however only on request and only during several times.Please contact us on +41 27 966 65 00 or at [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) before travelling with large or heavy luggage.

13. What should I do if mountain transport is interrupted?

Check the Gornergrat Railway’s current service information and contact us immediately on +41 27 966 65 00 if a disruption affects your arrival or departure. Our team can advise you based on the conditions and your reservation. Please do not set out on an unplanned mountain route as an alternative.

Booking, opening dates and tourist tax

14. Is there a tourist tax?

4.00 CHF per adult
2.00 CHF per child (9 – 15.9)

Dining and included meals

15. Which meals are included in the room rate?

Yes, our room rates always include dinner & breakfast.

16. Can non-residents visit the restaurant or terrace?

Yes. Day visitors can enjoy lunch in the restaurant or on the terrace. The published lunch hours are daily from 12:00 to 15:00; the regular evening service is listed for hotel guests. We recommend booking a table, especially during busy periods. Please check the mountain railway timetable when planning your return to Zermatt.

17. Is there fine dining at the hotel?

The regular restaurant (Lusi Walker Stube) serves classic mountain cuisine and local specialities. For a more elaborate experience, the also advertises a seven-course Chef’s Table gourmet dinner, which can be booked by hotel guests and external visitors. Please reserve this experience in advance and check availability for your preferred date.

Facilities, activities and practical information

18. Is access to the spa or outdoor wellness area included, and does it require a booking?

Riffelhaus 1853 has an outdoor Jacuzzi, sauna, steam bath and relaxation room. Robes and towels are provided for hotel guests. The Jacuzzi is open daily from 10:00 to 20:00, and the sauna area from 15:00 to 20:00. External guests may book spa access in advance between 10:00 and 16:00 for CHF 45.

19. Is the hotel ski-in, ski-out?

Yes. It is a ski-in, ski-out hotel and provide guests with a personal ski locker. Access to particular slopes still depends on snow conditions and which lifts and pistes are open. The hotel does not offer ski rental; equipment can be rented in Zermatt.