On 22 July 2021, Zermatt – Matterhorn is celebrating the 150th anniversary of the ascent of the Matterhorn by British climber Lucy Walker, the first woman to climb the Matterhorn. As part of the anniversary, Zermatt Tourism has put together a varied programme in recognition of the mountaineer.
A day full of highlights
Early risers can take part in the new themed hike "Get up with the mountain climbers". The hiking group will set off at 6.45 am, taking the train to Gornergrat to hike from the Riffelalp to Grünsee with local guides. A mountaineer's breakfast awaits here, accompanied by thrilling anecdotes from hut warden Kurt Lauber. The hikers then continue via Grindjisee to Findeln and enjoy an aperitif at the Restaurant @Paradise.
Additional highlights of the day include the Geissenkehr goat parade at 9 am through the Bahnhofstrasse and an alphorn workshop at 10.30 am – your chance to try this traditional instrument with help from an expert. Photography enthusiasts can enjoy an exhibition by Tanja Summermatter on the Riffelalp at 11 am. An hommage to Lucy Walker, she is showing a selection of her Matterhorn images – Z'HORE – a mountain full of energy that only comes to rest at night. The exhibition is a 20-minute walk from the Riffelalp station.
At 4.30 pm the goats from the Geissenkehr parade return, signally the start of the themed village walk "In the footsteps of Lucy Walker". The anniversary celebration will end with an "Abusizz" in the historic Hotel Monta Rose, where Lucy Walker stayed overnight.
Festivities in the village
The official opening ceremony takes place in the village at 3.30 pm. Food will be available at the festival site near the church square (Kirchplatz), with musical entertainment provided. This will be followed by the main event of the day: Federal Councillor Viola Amherd, together with our Mayor Romy Biner-Hauser and Director of Tourism Daniel Luggen, will honour the achievement of Lucy Walker from 150 years ago on Museumsplatz and unveil the tribute to the women of the mountain. Visitors will be welcome to stay and enjoy an aperitif at Kirchplatz after the official celebrations.