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 during visiting hours 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.
To make sure the sheep enjoy your visit too, please keep the following in mind:
Visiting Hours
Daily (except Tuesdays), from July 4 to August 29, 2025, between 10:00 a.m. and no later than 4:00 p.m.
⏰ Important: You're welcome to visit between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm – but please plan your visit so that your time with the sheep ends by 4:00 pm at the latest.
👉 Our tip for the best experience: Try to come in the morning, ideally between 10:00 am and 12:30 pm. Temperatures are more pleasant then, and the sheep are especially playful, curious, and cuddly.
In the afternoon, things become noticeably quieter: The animals retreat, and the visitor program ends at 4:00 pm.
📌 Please note: Visiting outside official hours is not possible. The sheep need their rest – 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.