Summer hike to Furi
The Perfect Half-Day Hike from Cove Zermatt: Furi, Gorner Gorge, Zum See & the Ricola Herb Garden
One of our favourite walks from Cove Zermatt starts right at the front door. Whenever we're in Zermatt, we love taking this route to Furi before wandering through the spectacular Gorner Gorge, enjoying a long lunch at Zum See, and finishing with a stroll through the Ricola Herb Garden. It's the perfect way to spend a summer afternoon.
Stop 1: Walk from Cove Zermatt to Furi
Leave Cove Zermatt and follow the well-marked path towards Furi, a picturesque mountain hamlet surrounded by forests and alpine meadows. The gentle climb rewards you with increasingly impressive views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks.
Along the route you'll cross traditional wooden bridges, hear mountain streams rushing through the valley, and enjoy peaceful woodland paths away from the crowds.
Furi is also a popular stopping point with mountain restaurants serving classic Swiss favourites including rösti, raclette and homemade cakes.
Stop 2: Explore the Spectacular Gorner Gorge
From Furi continue towards the Gorner Gorge, one of Zermatt's hidden natural wonders.
Formed over thousands of years by glacial meltwater, the gorge features towering rock walls carved by the Gornera River. Wooden walkways suspended above the rushing water allow visitors to admire the incredible rock formations from unique viewpoints.
This section of the walk is especially popular with families and photographers thanks to its dramatic scenery and cooling mist during warm summer days.
Stop 3: Lunch at Zum See
After leaving the gorge, continue to the charming mountain hamlet of Zum See, one of Zermatt's most beloved dining spots.
Surrounded by centuries-old wooden chalets and flower-filled gardens, Zum See offers authentic Swiss cuisine made from regional ingredients. Relax on the sunny terrace and enjoy specialties such as rösti, fresh trout, homemade desserts, and local wines while soaking in magnificent mountain views.
Many visitors consider this one of the best lunch locations in Zermatt thanks to its peaceful atmosphere away from the busy village centre.
Stop 4: Visit the Ricola Herb Garden
On the return journey towards Zermatt, take a short detour to the Ricola Herb Garden.
Here you'll discover the famous 13 alpine herbs used to create Switzerland's iconic Ricola herbal sweets. Informative displays explain each herb while visitors are encouraged to smell, touch, and learn about the plants growing naturally in the alpine environment.
It's a delightful stop that both adults and children enjoy.
Return to Cove Zermatt
After your visit, it's an easy walk back into Zermatt and on to Cove Zermatt, completing a memorable half-day adventure that combines nature, local culture, and excellent food.
Hiking Information
Starting Point: Cove Zermatt
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Duration: Approximately 3–4 hours including lunch
Best Time: June to October
Suitable For: Families, couples, photographers and casual hikers
Highlights:
Matterhorn views
Furi mountain village
Gorner Gorge
Lunch at Zum See
Ricola Herb Garden
Beautiful forest trails
