Meet the Sheep – White Wool, Black Noses
Visit the famous Valais Blacknose Sheep on the Gornergrat
Every summer, from July to August, you can enjoy a truly special encounter: Around 125 Valais Blacknose sheep graze the alpine meadows near the Alpine Garden – high above Zermatt, with a breathtaking view of the Matterhorn.
Accompanied by our shepherd Jakob, you'll have the opportunity to meet the animals up close – calmly, respectfully, and with plenty of fascinating facts about life as a mountain sheep.
Alpine Originals with Character
Valais Blacknose sheep are perfectly adapted to life in the high Alps: loyal to their terrain, undemanding, and true climbing experts – even steep, rocky slopes pose no challenge for them. With their spiral horns, striking black markings, and exceptionally soft, curly fleece, they’re not only hardy but also charming to look at. Their nature is gentle and friendly. They live in family groups and are sensitive to noise and sudden movements.
Tracking the Blacknoses
The sheep move around the mountain each day – always in search of the best grazing spots. Thanks to modern technology, it’s easy to locate them: some animals wear a GPS collar. As long as the flock remains in the Gornergrat area, you can check their current location daily between 9:00 am and 3:30 pm via your smartphone.
The wellbeing of the animals is our top priority. The sheep are protected by a mobile pasture fence, which ensures they always have undisturbed retreat areas. Please respect these boundaries and only enter the area if invited by the shepherd – this ensures a relaxed, stress-free experience for both humans and animals.
Introduction by our Shepherd
Before meeting the sheep, our shepherd Jakob will give you a short introduction. He’ll explain how to approach the animals respectfully, share interesting insights into their behaviour, care, and life in the high mountains – and will be happy to answer your questions.
Shepherd, student, sheep fan. This summer, I’m swapping lectures in Lausanne for blacknose sheep on the Gornergrat. Most people go to the mountains for peace. I go for the sheep.
To make sure the sheep enjoy your visit too, please keep the following in mind:
Visiting Times
Daily from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Please note: Visits outside of these hours are not permitted. The animals need their rest too – thank you for your understanding and consideration.
Bring a Sheep to Your Phone – with Augmented Reality
Would you like to take a bit of the Blacknose charm home with you – or even bring it to the middle of your city? With our augmented reality app, you can experience a virtual Blacknose sheep right on your smartphone. Place it in your living room, on a hiking trail, or next to the Matterhorn – wherever you like.
Simply scan the QR code, follow the instructions – and be amazed. Perfect for anyone who can’t visit the Gornergrat in person or wants to extend the experience.
