Furi Glacier | Zermatt

Furi Glacier is a stunning glacier located in the Swiss Alps, near Zermatt, in the Valais region of Switzerland. It lies at the base of the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic peaks in the Alps, and is part of the larger Matterhorn Glacier area. Known for its beautiful landscapes, Furi Glacier offers incredible opportunities for skiing, hiking, and mountaineering, as well as breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain ranges.

Key Features of Furi Glacier

1. Location and Access

• Furi is located at an altitude of around 1,867 meters (6,125 feet), just above the village of Zermatt. The glacier is easily accessible by the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise network of lifts and cable cars, with visitors typically reaching it via the Matterhorn Glacier Express or the Zermatt-Furi Cable Car.
• Once at Furi, visitors can take advantage of numerous hiking trails, enjoy spectacular views of the Matterhorn and the Gorner Glacier, or even continue upward to higher-altitude areas like the Gornergrat and the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.

2. Glacier Views and Surroundings

• Furi Glacier offers some of the most stunning views in the region. Visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas of Gornergrat, Zermatt, and the surrounding glaciers, including the massive Gorner Glacier, which is one of the largest glaciers in the Alps.
• The glacier itself is a beautiful sight, with its shimmering ice and crevasses, set against the towering peaks of the Matterhorn, Breithorn, and Lyskamm. This breathtaking backdrop makes it an ideal location for photographers and nature lovers.

3. Skiing and Winter Sports

• As part of the Matterhorn Glacier Ski Paradise, Furi is well-known for its excellent skiing conditions in the winter months. While the glacier itself is not typically used for downhill skiing, the surrounding slopes offer a wide range of ski runs, with access to the Matterhorn Glacier and other higher-altitude areas.
• Furi is a starting point for skiers and snowboarders who wish to access some of the highest-altitude ski slopes in Europe, including the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, which features year-round skiing, even during the summer months.
• In addition to downhill skiing, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities in the area, with designated trails that allow visitors to explore the beautiful wintry landscapes of the glacier.

4. Hiking and Nature Trails

• Furi Glacier is also an excellent base for hiking in both summer and winter. There are several hiking trails that pass by or around the glacier, offering visitors the chance to explore the alpine meadows, glacial moraines, and forested valleys of the region.
• The Furi to Zermatt hike is particularly popular, providing a scenic descent through the Swiss Alps and offering views of the glacier and the surrounding mountain peaks. It’s an ideal route for those who want to experience the natural beauty of the region up close.
• Winter hiking is another option in the area, with designated paths that allow visitors to walk along snow-covered trails while taking in the stunning surroundings.

5. Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

• Furi is an important gateway to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise (also known as Klein Matterhorn), the highest cable car station in Europe, which stands at an altitude of 3,883 meters (12,740 feet).
• From Furi, visitors can take the cable cars up to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, where they can enjoy activities like glacier skiing, exploring the Ice Palace, and taking in the 360-degree panoramic views from the highest point accessible by cable car.
• The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is a year-round attraction, allowing visitors to experience snow sports even in the summer months and enjoy the extraordinary views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.

6. Furi and the Gorner Glacier

• The Gorner Glacier is one of the largest glaciers in the Alps and is directly linked to the Furi area. From Furi, visitors can enjoy impressive views of the Gorner Glacier, which is over 26 kilometers (16 miles) long and covers a vast area of the Valais region.
• Hiking along the Gorner Glacier offers a unique opportunity to witness the effects of glacial movement and the dramatic landscapes shaped by the ice over centuries.
• The glacier is a popular destination for glacier trekking and mountaineering, with routes that lead to higher altitudes for those seeking more challenging outdoor adventures.

7. Mountain Restaurants and Dining

• Furi is home to several mountain restaurants and chalets, where visitors can enjoy traditional Swiss cuisine, including fondue, raclette, and hearty alpine dishes. These restaurants provide a warm and welcoming environment for guests to relax and take in the spectacular mountain views.
• The restaurant at Furi offers a great spot for visitors to enjoy a break during their outdoor activities, providing a cozy ambiance and a chance to enjoy locally-sourced food with a view of the glacier and surrounding peaks.

8. Wildlife and Flora

• The area surrounding Furi Glacier is home to diverse alpine flora and fauna. In summer, the alpine meadows around Furi come alive with a variety of wildflowers, including edelweiss and gentian, creating a colorful contrast against the icy expanse of the glacier.
• Wildlife in the region includes ibex, chamois, marmots, and golden eagles, among other species. It’s common for hikers and skiers to encounter these animals as they explore the area.
• The flora and fauna of Furi and its surroundings contribute to the richness of the local ecosystem, making it a great destination for nature enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Furi Glacier is a stunning and versatile destination that offers something for everyone, whether you are visiting to enjoy skiing, hiking, or simply to marvel at the breathtaking alpine landscape. Its proximity to Zermatt, easy access via cable cars, and its location within the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise make it a convenient and attractive base for exploring some of the most spectacular regions of the Swiss Alps. Whether you're seeking adventure on the slopes, quiet hikes through the alpine landscape, or just a peaceful retreat with incredible mountain views, Furi Glacier is a must-visit for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience the true beauty of the Swiss Alps.