Illhorn
Ascend to the majestic Illhorn for unparalleled 360° alpine panoramas and serene glacial lakes. A hiker's and photographer's dream.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, best hiking conditions
Illhorn
Best Time
Clear skies, best hiking conditions
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend to the majestic Illhorn for unparalleled 360° alpine panoramas and serene glacial lakes. A hiker's and photographer's dream.
"The ambiance is superb, and the food is very good. It's perfect. Yes, it's great for having lunch and enjoying the sun and the beautiful view."
Pack for all weather
Alpine weather changes fast! Bring layers, rain gear, and sun protection. :cloud: :umbrella: :sunwithface:
Check trail conditions
Especially for ski touring or early/late season hikes. Snow can linger! :snow_cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Illhorn Summit Panorama
Summit of Illhorn
Breathtaking 360° views of the Val d'Anniviers and surrounding Swiss Alps. A true alpine reward.
Lac d'Illsee
Near Illhorn
An emerald alpine lake offering serene beauty and a perfect spot for a picnic or rest.
Lac Noir
Near Illhorn
A tranquil, dark alpine lake providing a stark contrast to the vibrant Lac d'Illsee.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Views & Fewer Crowds
Hiking & Ski Touring Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for all weather
Alpine weather changes fast! Bring layers, rain gear, and sun protection. :cloud: :umbrella: :sunwithface:
Check trail conditions
Especially for ski touring or early/late season hikes. Snow can linger! :snow_cloud:
Bring snacks & water
While there are places to eat, having your own is always wise. :apple: :water_wave:
Enjoy the terrace
Comfy chairs offer a great spot to relax and soak in the views. :chair:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for all weather
Alpine weather changes fast! Bring layers, rain gear, and sun protection. :cloud: :umbrella: :sunwithface:
Check trail conditions
Especially for ski touring or early/late season hikes. Snow can linger! :snow_cloud:
Bring snacks & water
While there are places to eat, having your own is always wise. :apple: :water_wave:
Enjoy the terrace
Comfy chairs offer a great spot to relax and soak in the views. :chair:
Be patient for service
Sometimes ordering can be a bit confusing, but the staff are friendly. :smiley:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Illhorn for its breathtaking alpine scenery, particularly the summit panoramas and beautiful lakes. The friendly service and delicious food at the mountain restaurants, combined with the comfortable terrace seating, are also frequently highlighted as major positives. Some minor points of confusion regarding service ordering and occasional overcrowding during peak times were noted.
"A single overnight by myself was great. Thanks for the personal service and great location. Everything is so new, the rooms are well configured and the food was delicious."
Aaron Roller
"I have eaten at this place several times, and I love it. The ambiance is superb, and the food is very good. It's perfect. Yes, it's great for having lunch and enjoying the sun and the beautiful view. Personally, I don't ski much, so I often go there on foot, making it accessible for both skiers and hikers. Definitely a must-do! 👍"
Kim Schmid
"I’ve visited it for an after-hike snack. Loved the atmosphere (the chairs on the terrace are magnificent), staff is very friendly but we had to wait to be served: you arrive, sit down and have no idea whether you have to go inside to order or to wait… was a bit confusing. We wanted to have some dinner-like food but they could offer only a meat and cheese plate. We also took an apricot pie that was delicious. Even though there were those imperfections, I think this place deserves 5 stars."
Jenya
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Illhorn is primarily accessed via hiking or ski touring routes, often starting from Chandolin in the Val d'Anniviers. The journey involves an ascent, so be prepared for a trek. 
No, Illhorn itself is not directly accessible by car. The final approach is on foot or skis, typically from nearby villages like Chandolin.
You can drive to Chandolin and then begin your hike or ski tour. Public transport options to Chandolin are also available.
While not explicitly mentioned, guided tours for hiking and ski touring in the Val d'Anniviers are common and could be arranged for Illhorn.
The terrain is mountainous, involving ascents and descents. Trails can be rocky and uneven during summer, and snowy or icy during winter.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no specific entry tickets required to access Illhorn itself, as it's a natural mountain peak and surrounding area. However, if you use ski lifts to get closer, those will have associated costs.
Generally, hiking trails in the Swiss Alps are free to use. Enjoy the natural beauty without an entrance fee.
As a natural mountain area, Illhorn is accessible year-round, though conditions vary greatly. The associated mountain restaurants or huts will have their own operating hours.
You don't need to book anything for the natural landscape. If you plan to dine at a mountain restaurant, checking their availability or making a reservation, especially during peak times, might be advisable.
There isn't a dedicated visitor center at the summit of Illhorn. Information can typically be found at tourist offices in nearby villages like Chandolin.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The main attractions are the panoramic summit views, the beautiful alpine lakes like Lac d'Illsee and Lac Noir, and the overall wild alpine ambiance. It's ideal for hiking and photography.
Yes, the area is described as pleasant for families, though the hikes can be challenging depending on the route chosen.
There are mountain restaurants or brasseries offering food and drinks, often with terraces providing great views. Facilities like restrooms are usually available at these establishments.
Hiking times can vary significantly based on your starting point and fitness level, but expect several hours for a round trip to the summit.
Cell service can be spotty in mountainous regions. It's best to download offline maps and inform someone of your plans before you go. Wi-Fi is likely only available at mountain restaurants.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can expect fresh, tasty food, often described as magnificent. Options can range from meat and cheese plates to apricot pie and more substantial dishes. +1
While specific menus aren't detailed, many Swiss mountain restaurants offer salads, cheese dishes, and baked goods that can cater to vegetarians.
Prices at mountain restaurants can be higher due to their remote location and logistics. Reviews suggest the food is worth it, but it's not typically budget dining.
Absolutely! Many visitors enjoy picnics with the stunning views. It's a great way to save money and enjoy the scenery.
Lunch is a popular time to enjoy the terrace and views. Some places might also be open for snacks or early dinners.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit panorama, the vibrant Lac d'Illsee, the dramatic Lac Noir, and the surrounding mountain landscapes offer incredible photo opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for landscape photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the beauty. However, a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-angle lens can enhance landscape shots.
The summit itself offers a 360-degree view. The shores of Lac d'Illsee and Lac Noir also provide excellent vantage points.
Be mindful of changing weather conditions, which can affect light and visibility. Also, respect the natural environment and wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the summit hike can be challenging, there are often easier routes or areas around the lakes that are more manageable for younger children. Packing plenty of snacks and water is key, and taking breaks at the mountain restaurants can be a welcome treat. Focus on shorter loops or sections of trails that offer great views without extreme exertion. The chance to see alpine flora and fauna can also be a big hit with kids. Ensure everyone is dressed in layers and has appropriate footwear for the terrain.
⛰️ Avid Hikers & Mountaineers
Consider combining the ascent with visits to the nearby alpine lakes for a more comprehensive exploration of the area. For those interested in ski touring, Illhorn is a prime destination, especially during the spring season for its potential for excellent snow conditions.
+1 Always prioritize safety by checking avalanche reports and carrying the necessary backcountry equipment and knowledge. 📸 Photographers & Scenery Lovers
The summit provides an incredible vantage point for capturing the vastness of the Swiss Alps. Lac d'Illsee, with its striking emerald hue, and the darker Lac Noir offer contrasting yet equally beautiful subjects. Aim for the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon – for the most dramatic lighting. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather, which can add to the photographic drama. Wide-angle lenses are excellent for capturing the expansive scenery, but telephoto lenses can be useful for isolating mountain peaks.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking and Trekking Routes
These hikes provide spectacular panoramic views of the Val d'Anniviers and the surrounding peaks. Be prepared for significant elevation gain, and always check trail conditions, especially outside of peak summer months, as snow can linger. For those seeking a more challenging adventure, longer treks can be incorporated, linking Illhorn with other peaks or valleys in the region. Sturdy hiking boots are essential due to the rocky and sometimes uneven terrain. Carrying sufficient water and snacks is also highly recommended, as facilities can be sparse on some routes.
Many visitors describe the experience as rewarding, with the combination of alpine lakes and summit vistas making the effort worthwhile. The trails are well-marked in most sections, but having a map or GPS device is always a good precaution.
Winter Adventures: Ski Touring and Snowshoeing
+1 Chandolin serves as a common starting point for these winter excursions. The ascent provides a challenging yet exhilarating experience, culminating in breathtaking views from the summit, often under clear blue skies. It's crucial for winter visitors to be well-equipped and knowledgeable about avalanche safety and mountain conditions. While the area is popular, it's still a backcountry environment. Proper gear, including avalanche transceivers, probes, and shovels, along with the knowledge to use them, is paramount.
Even for those not skiing, snowshoeing to viewpoints or accessible areas around Illhorn can offer a magical winter experience. The tranquility of the snow-covered landscape and the crisp mountain air are unparalleled.
Culinary Delights with a View
The terraces of these eateries are a particular highlight, featuring comfortable seating that allows guests to relax and enjoy the panoramic views.
Despite minor service hiccups, the overall consensus is that the food is very good and the experience is highly recommended, especially for enjoying the sun and the beautiful surroundings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit