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Monte Cervino
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Monte Cervino, widely known as the Matterhorn, is one of the most iconic and recognizable peaks in the world, straddling the border between Italy and Switzerland. Rising to 4478 meters in the Pennine Alps, it is famous for its nearly symmetrical pyramidal shape with four steep faces facing the cardinal points. Geologically, the mountain is an ophiolite, with its upper portion consisting of rock from the African tectonic plate pushed over the European plate during the Alpine orogeny. The first successful ascent took place in 1865 by Edward Whymper's team, an event that ended in tragedy when four climbers fell to their deaths. On the Italian side, the town of Breuil-Cervinia serves as the main gateway for climbers tackling the challenging Lion's Ridge. The Matterhorn remains a definitive symbol of high-altitude mountaineering and is a central figure in the cultural and sporting identity of the Western Alps.
- Location: Italy
- Top sights: Matterhorn · Picco Muzio · Pic Tyndall
- Nearby: Breuil-Cervinia (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -10 | -10 | -6 | -1 | 4 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 6 | 2 | -4 | -9 |
| Rain mm | 63 | 50 | 63 | 70 | 109 | 97 | 96 | 99 | 68 | 72 | 91 | 68 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
On the Italian side, access is most commonly through Breuil-Cervinia in the Aosta Valley. Various cable cars lead up to Plateau Rosa on the border with Switzerland, facilitating reach to high altitudes.
Best season
For hikers and mountaineers, mid-summer is the best time when the paths are mostly snow-free. On the glaciers, skiing is often possible almost year-round, provided that the conditions allow for it.
Terrain & paths
This is high-alpine terrain with glaciers, steep rock faces, and scree slopes. Beyond the hiking trails, the terrain is technically very demanding and requires significant experience in high mountains.
What to bring
Complete high-altitude gear including crampons and ice axes is necessary for glacier crossings. Hikers should ensure warm clothing, high UV protection, and footwear that provides absolute sure-footedness.
Parking
In Breuil-Cervinia, there are several large parking lots and parking garages available for day visitors. Many hotels also offer private spots, as the town is a significant center for mountain tourism.
Safety
Altitude sickness and sudden weather changes are serious hazards at this elevation. A summit ascent should only be undertaken by experienced alpinists or accompanied by a professional mountain guide.
Time needed
Hikes in the surrounding area can take a few hours, while glacier tours often require a full day. A summit ascent usually takes two days, including an overnight stay in a high-altitude mountain hut.
Geography
Facts
- Summit elevation of 4478 meters
- First successful ascent on July 14, 1865
- Distinctive pyramidal shape with four faces
- Geologically part of an African plate fragment
- Italian normal route via the Lion's Ridge
- Main Italian access town is Breuil-Cervinia
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Monte Cervino (3)
Pic Tyndall
Mountain shared by Switzerland and Italy.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the mountain called in German?
Monte Cervino is known worldwide as the Matterhorn.
How high is the summit?
The summit stands at an altitude of 4478 meters.
Between which countries is the mountain located?
It is located on the border between Italy and Switzerland.
Which town is on the Italian side?
Breuil-Cervinia is the main town at the foot of the mountain.
When was the first ascent?
The first successful ascent took place in 1865.
Monte Cervino: where is it located?
Monte Cervino is located in Italy.
Monte Cervino: what is there to see?
Highlights include Matterhorn, Picco Muzio, Pic Tyndall.
Monte Cervino: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Monte Cervino: why is it worth visiting?
Monte Cervino, widely known as the Matterhorn, is one of the most iconic and recognizable peaks in the world, straddling the border between Italy and Switzerland.
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