Breithorn, Mountain summit in Pennine Alps, Switzerland.
The Breithorn is a mountain in the Pennine Alps with five separate summits all covered by glacial ice. It rises to approximately 4,164 meters and sits between the Matterhorn and Monte Rosa in the Valais region.
The mountain was first climbed in 1813 by Henry Maynard along with local guides including Joseph-Marie Couttet. This successful ascent established the peak as a recognized mountaineering objective.
The name comes from German words meaning broad and peak, referring to the mountain's distinctive wide shape that stands out from surrounding Alpine valleys. Local communities have long recognized this landmark by its characteristic profile.
The Klein Matterhorn cable car reaches approximately 3,820 meters, cutting the remaining climb to the summit into a manageable section. Visitors should be prepared for snow and glacier conditions year-round, as these affect routes and require proper equipment.
The Breithorn Plateau features marked tracks during summer that guide climbers across steep snow slopes efficiently. These prepared pathways make navigation to the summit straightforward compared to technical climbs on neighboring peaks.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
