Information
Landmark: Furi GlacierCity: Zermatt
Country: Switzerland
Continent: Europe
Furi Glacier, Zermatt, Switzerland, Europe
Overview
Furi Glacier lies in the Swiss Alps near Zermatt, its bright ice catching the sun high in the Valais region of Switzerland.It sits at the foot of the Matterhorn, that jagged giant of the Alps, and belongs to the wider sweep of the Matterhorn Glacier.Furi Glacier, with its sweeping white slopes and jagged peaks, is a haven for skiing, hiking, and mountaineering, and it treats you to sweeping views of the mountains all around.Notable features of the Furi Glacier include its jagged blue ice and windswept ridges.Furi sits about 1,867 meters up-6,125 feet-perched just above the quiet rooftops of Zermatt.You can reach the glacier with ease thanks to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise lifts and cable cars, most often by riding the Matterhorn Glacier Express or the Zermatt–Furi Cable Car.From Furi, wander onto winding trails, pause to take in the jagged face of the Matterhorn and the sweep of the Gorner Glacier, or ride higher still to places like Gornergrat and the Glacier Paradise.The Furi Glacier rewards you with some of the region’s most breathtaking views.From Gornergrat, visitors can take in sweeping views of Zermatt and the vast surrounding glaciers, including the mighty Gorner Glacier-one of the largest in the Alps-its silver-blue ice fractured by deep crevasses and framed by the soaring Matterhorn, Breithorn, and Lyskamm.With its stunning backdrop of snow-dusted peaks, it’s a dream spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.In winter, Furi-part of the Matterhorn Glacier Ski Paradise-draws skiers and snowboarders for its crisp slopes and reliable conditions.The glacier itself isn’t usually a spot for downhill skiing, but the slopes around it open up to a variety of runs, with routes leading toward the Matterhorn Glacier and other high-altitude terrain.From Furi, skiers and snowboarders can set out for some of Europe’s loftiest slopes, including the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, where you can carve turns even under a bright July sun.Beyond downhill runs, the area draws fans of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with marked trails winding through crisp, snow-laden pines.Furi Glacier also serves as a great starting point for hikes in every season.Several hiking trails wind past or around the glacier, leading visitors through alpine meadows bright with wildflowers, over rugged glacial moraines, and down into shaded forested valleys.The Furi to Zermatt route is a favorite, tracing a scenic descent through the Swiss Alps with sweeping views of the glacier and jagged mountain peaks.This route is perfect if you want to get close to the region’s natural beauty, whether you’re hiking through alpine meadows or following winter trails lined with fresh, powdery snow.From Furi, the gateway to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise-Europe’s highest cable car station at 3,883 meters-you can ride up to glacier ski, wander through the glittering Ice Palace, or take in sweeping 360-degree views of jagged peaks and shimmering ice fields.Open all year, it offers snow sports even in summer.Nearby, the vast Gorner Glacier, one of the largest in the Alps, stretches out in direct connection to the Furi area.From Furi, you can take in sweeping views of the Gorner Glacier, a 26-kilometer ribbon of ice stretching across the Valais.Hike its edge and you’ll see how centuries of slow movement have carved deep crevasses and jagged ridges into the landscape.Trekkers and climbers come here for routes that climb higher into the mountains, testing their skill and stamina.Afterward, settle into a cozy chalet in Furi for steaming fondue, raclette, or other hearty alpine fare.These restaurants offer a warm, welcoming space where guests can unwind and soak in the sweeping mountain views.At Furi, you’ll find a perfect stop for a mid-adventure pause-think steaming soup made with local herbs, a crackle of firewood, and a clear view of the glacier framed by jagged peaks.Around the Furi Glacier, alpine flowers burst with color, and marmots dart between the rocks.In summer, the alpine meadows near Furi burst with wildflowers-edelweiss, gentian, and others-spilling bright color against the glacier’s white sweep.Ibex pick their way along the slopes, marmots whistle from the rocks, and golden eagles circle high overhead.Hikers and skiers often spot these animals while exploring, sometimes catching sight of a flash of fur between the pines.The plants and wildlife in Furi and its surrounding hills bring a vivid richness to the ecosystem, drawing nature lovers from near and far.In the end, Furi Glacier delivers-whether you’ve come for fresh powder, winding trails, or to stand in awe of its sweeping alpine views.Close to Zermatt and just a quick cable car ride away, it sits in the heart of the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, making it an easy and appealing base for setting out into some of the Swiss Alps’ most breathtaking terrain.Whether you’re chasing thrills on snowy slopes, wandering silent trails through crisp alpine air, or simply soaking in jaw-dropping views of jagged peaks, Furi Glacier belongs on your list if you love nature, live for the outdoors, or want to feel the Swiss Alps in their purest form.
