Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn: A 2-Day itinerary through the Goms Valley and Andermatt
Article updated on 06.08.26
The Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn crosses some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Swiss Alps. Its 144-kilometre railway network connects Zermatt, the Goms Valley, Andermatt and Disentis, passing mountain passes, valleys and glaciers along the way.
Over two days, we explored the Goms Valley and the Andermatt region by combining hiking, a historic steam train journey and great local addresses, all using public transport only.
To make getting around easier, we travelled with the Matterhorn Gotthard Pass, which offers unlimited travel across the network along with discounts on a range of activities.
Here are the experiences we tested during our two-day trip.
The Matterhorn Gotthard Pass
If you’re planning several journeys in the region, the Matterhorn Gotthard Pass is well worth considering.
It offers unlimited travel for 2, 3 or 5 days (to be used within one month) across the entire Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn network, as well as selected BLS, SBB and PostBus routes in Upper Valais.
In addition to unlimited train and bus travel, the pass also includes:
- 50% off many cable cars and mountain lifts
- 50% off various attractions, including thermal baths, museums and leisure activities
It’s a convenient option if you’re planning to combine hikes, excursions and travel between destinations such as Andermatt, Goms or even Zermatt.
Arriving in the Goms Valley
From Visp, the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn reaches Münster in just over an hour. The journey gradually climbs the Rhône Valley before entering the Goms Valley, one of the most beautiful alpine valleys in Upper Valais.
The region is known for its traditional villages, historic wooden houses and countless hiking opportunities. Each village is connected by train, making it easy to start and finish hikes without needing a car.
Where to stay in the Goms Valley ?
Berglodge Goms
Located just a short walk from Münster station, Berglodge Goms is an excellent base for exploring the Goms Valley.
The hotel was built using local materials, regional craftsmanship and traditional know-how. This focus on local heritage also extends to the restaurant, which serves entirely vegetarian cuisine prepared with vegetables from the hotel’s own garden and ingredients sourced from small local producers. We highly recommend trying the Cholera, a traditional Valais specialty made with potatoes, cheese, leeks and apples baked in a pastry crust.
The warm welcome from Michèle, Patrik and the entire team is also part of what makes staying here so special. From the moment you arrive, everything is designed to make you feel at home. Between the friendly conversations, thoughtful details and cosy atmosphere, that’s exactly how we felt throughout our stay.
Hiking to Hungerberg from Oberwald
📍 Oberwald → Hungerberg
⛰️ 9 km | +630 m
⏱️ 3 h 30
🍽️ Hungerberg Mountain Restaurant
🚞 Accessible by Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn
From Münster, it takes around fifteen minutes by train to reach Oberwald.
The Hungerberg hike begins in the Geren Valley, a quieter and more remote area above Oberwald. The trail climbs gently alongside the river before reaching the mountain restaurant.
Once higher up, beautiful views open over the Goms Valley and the surrounding peaks. The return follows the Galenweg, creating a pleasant loop with varied scenery.
The trail has no technical sections and is suitable for almost everyone, making it a great hike for families with children.
Take a break at Hungerberg Restaurant
Hungerberg Restaurant sits roughly halfway around the loop and offers a beautiful terrace overlooking the valley.
It’s the perfect place to stop for lunch before continuing back down to Oberwald.
The Hungerberg hike on Swisstopo
You can find the complete route on Swisstopo below.
If you’re using a mobile device, you can open it directly in the Swisstopo app by clicking here.
Ride the Furka Steam Railway
After the hike, continue your journey aboard the legendary Furka Steam Railway, travelling from Oberwald to Realp.
This historic railway follows the original mountain route across the Furka Pass. Unlike today’s Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn, which passes through the Furka Base Tunnel, the steam train climbs over the mountain, winding through dramatic alpine scenery along the historic line.
Travelling aboard vintage carriages behind a steam locomotive offers a unique glimpse into the golden age of railway travel, with stops at charming mountain stations along the way.
The journey lasts over two hours and is an experience in itself.
Seats can sell out quickly during the summer season, so booking in advance is recommended.
Once you arrive in Realp, simply walk around five minutes to the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn station and take the train to Andermatt, which takes only a few minutes.
Where to stay in Andermatt ?
Radisson Blu Hotel Reussen
The Radisson Blu Hotel Reussen is located in the Andermatt Reuss district, around a ten-minute walk from the train station.
The hotel offers modern rooms, a wellness area and a restaurant. Its location makes it an ideal base before heading to the Oberalp Pass the following morning.
Take the cable car to Schneehüenerstock from Oberalp Pass
📍 Andermatt → Oberalp Pass → Schneehüenerstock → Lake Luter → Gütsch
⛰️ 4 km | -250 m
⏱️ 1 h
🍽️ Schneehüenerstock Panorama Restaurant
🚞 Accessible by Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn
From Andermatt, the train reaches the Oberalp Pass in around twenty minutes. At 2,033 metres, it is the highest point on the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn network.
The railway winds through the mountains before arriving directly at the base of the Schneehüenerstock Express gondola, which quickly brings you to the summit and the panoramic restaurant.
From the top station, you’ll enjoy sweeping views over the Andermatt mountains, the Oberalp Pass and the peaks of Graubünden.
Hike from Schneehüenerstock to Lake Luter
This easy hike links Schneehüenerstock to Gütsch via the beautiful Lake Luter.
The trail is accessible to almost everyone. After an initial downhill section, it gradually reaches the lake, which is the perfect place to take a break.
The hike then continues towards Gütsch. We recommend taking the path that passes above the lake, as it is both more scenic and easier than the alternative route.
Once you arrive at Gütsch, the Gütsch Express gondola takes you directly back down to Andermatt. If you’re looking for a longer adventure, you can also continue hiking all the way back to the valley.
The Lake Luter hike on Swisstopo
You can find the complete route on Swisstopo below.
If you’re using a mobile device, you can open it directly in the Swisstopo app by clicking here.
A Car-Free escape between the Goms Valley and Andermatt
In just two days, this itinerary lets you discover two very different alpine regions while travelling entirely by public transport.
The Goms Valley offers peaceful villages, accessible hiking trails and authentic local cuisine, while the Andermatt region makes it easy to reach high alpine landscapes thanks to its efficient railway and cable car network.
The historic Furka Steam Railway adds a unique heritage experience, while the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn makes travelling between each activity simple and enjoyable.
It’s a fantastic way to combine hiking, scenic train journeys, mountain landscapes and great local experiences between Valais and Central Switzerland.
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