Zermatt in September 2019: Part 2

After lunch in the hamlet of Findeln,

we set off down the steep path back to Zermatt.

I loved these dark coloured chalets against the blue of the sky.

Looking back and noticing snow on the mountains in the background.

The path is very steep in parts, like this one here down to the next hamlet.

I was wearing appropriate mountains boots,

but walking poles would have been a great help too,

especially where there were rocks and tree roots on the path.

The striking Matterhorn mountain appears to us many times during our way down.

Another mountain range and chalets dotted on the slopes.

The cows were mostly lying down at this point of our journey.

There were no enclosures to keep them in one pasture

and I wondered why.

I went a bit closer and then zoomed in even further to capture the cow bell.

The narrow paths downwards and plenty of rocks, 

so it's best to look where we place our feet.

A bit further down on the same path. 

The lower one with the barrier is for hikers

and the one above had a signpost saying it was for mountain bikes!

There were sometimes small cabins along the way

and benches to rest awhile and drink some water.

Best to choose a bench in the shade as it was a rather hot day.

The shady parts were extremely welcome!

As we neared the town of Zermatt, there were many more chalets.

I was happy to catch these two grey horses and a carriage.

No ordinary cars are allowed in Zermatt and all local vehicules are electric.

Some of the bigger hotels have horses and carriages to transport visitors.

It had taken us much longer than expected to hike down to the town again.

It took us over three hours.

It's true that I stopped often to take photos

and once or twice we left the beaten track!

This house on the top of a rock always fascinates me.

One day I must go up there to see what it's like.

On our last morning, I got dressed early and went outside just after 6 am.

I wanted to catch the first rays of sun as they hit the peak of the Matterhorn.

Time: 6:48 a.m.

The first sun illuminates the summit.

Time: 7:01 a.m.

The mountain is fully illuminated, but not yet the surrounding area.

Time: 7:12 a.m.

On the other side of the sky a tree silhouette against the purple and pink

looks equally lovely. 

The time here is 6:41 a.m.

Ten minutes later, the sky looks completely different.

A cut-out silhouette of the mountains at sunrise

The last shot of this iconic mountain, showing the surrounding areas.

Going back to the train station with our suitcases and enjoying the flower laden window boxes

and the flag from the Canton of Valais.

A lovely photographic souvenir of these beautiful days spent in the mountains.

Click on the link below if you would like to see Part 1 of this stay

Zermatt in September 2019: Part 1