Plizio Visual Lab

Breithorn

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

peak

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The Breithorn is a heavily glaciated mountain massif in the Pennine Alps, situated on the border between Switzerland and Italy. With its main summit at 4,164 meters, it is widely considered one of the easiest 4,000-meter peaks to climb in the Alps. This reputation is primarily due to its proximity to the Klein Matterhorn cable car station, from which the ascent proceeds over moderately steep snow slopes. The massif comprises five summits stretching across a long ridge from west to east. The first recorded ascent took place in 1813 by Henry Maynard and his companions. Despite the relative ease of the standard route, the high altitude and presence of crevasses necessitate full mountaineering gear and experience. The panoramic view from the summit includes some of the most famous alpine peaks, such as the Matterhorn, Monte Rosa, and the Bernese Alps. For many alpinists, the Breithorn serves as an introductory peak before tackling more demanding summits in the Zermatt region.

Location: Switzerland
Top sights: Klein Matterhorn · Castor · Pollux
Nearby: Zermatt (10 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	-7	-7	-3	2	7	11	13	13	9	5	-1	-6
Rain mm	55	56	72	101	143	125	113	125	90	101	131	71

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Access is usually gained from Zermatt via the cable car to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise (Klein Matterhorn), from where the final ascent across the Plateau Rosa begins for climbers.

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Best season

The best time for an ascent is mid-summer from July to September, when weather conditions are most stable and the snow on the glacier is typically frozen firm for easier walking.

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Terrain & paths

Although the Breithorn is considered a technically easy 4000-meter peak, the route crosses crevassed firn and glacier terrain with an average slope inclination of about 35 degrees.

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What to bring

Essential gear includes high-altitude equipment such as crampons, ice axe, harness, and rope, along with warm, windproof functional clothing and high-quality sun protection for your eyes.

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Parking

Zermatt is car-free. Visitors must leave their vehicles in the large parking garage in Täsch and take the shuttle train into the village to reach the valley station of the mountain lifts.

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Safety

Never underestimate the altitude of over 4,000 meters or the danger of hidden crevasses; inexperienced climbers should only attempt the ascent accompanied by a certified mountain guide.

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Time needed

From Klein Matterhorn, the actual ascent takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours, but you should budget at least 3 to 4 hours for the entire tour including the return trip to the lift station.