VALAIS BLACKNOSE SHEEP in ZERMATT 🐑
You've probably seen them on postcards and Instagram: the cuddly Valais Blacknose sheep with their iconic black faces, ears, and spiral horns! Today I'm taking you to their summer home in Zermatt—the alpine meadows between the Gornergrat and the Riffelberg.
From July to September, a herd of around 120 of these unique animals grazes here against the absolutely majestic backdrop of the Matterhorn. A sight you won't find anywhere else!
Meet the Sheep:
What's special here? The sheep are wearing GPS trackers! You can track the herd's location live via the Gornergrat Bahn website. This makes the "sheep hunt" a little adventure on your hike.
Riffelberg/Rotenboden location:
The sheep often roam the Riffelberg area and the Rotenboden station, primarily in search of shade, as their thick fur quickly becomes too warm.
Hiking & Meeting:
I leisurely hiked the panoramic trail from the Gornergrat via Rotenboden to Lake Riffelsee and further to Riffelberg. The bleating of the sheep and the sight of these friendly animals in the midst of the high Alpine landscape are an incredibly peaceful experience.
Tip for travelers:
The best time to visit the sheep is between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. If you'd like to learn more about the sheep farming and life in the high mountains, look out for Shepherdess Deborah (or Shepherd Jacob, depending on the season). They usually offer exciting insights from Tuesday to Sunday between 1:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Whether you're an animal lover or simply looking for an unforgettable nature experience, an encounter with the Blacknose sheep in the impressive Zermatt mountains is an absolute highlight of any trip to Switzerland. 🐑🏔️
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Hey, I'm Noemi, a passionate traveler and storyteller who loves traveling solo to explore authentic places and cultural experiences at her own pace. From charming towns to nature-based adventures, this channel is all about the joy of travel and discovering special places.