Breithorn
The Breithorn is a mountain range of the Pennine Alps in Switzerland and Italy. It is located on the border between Valais (Switzerland) and Aosta Valley (Italy), and is part of the Monte Rosa massif. The Breithorn actually comprises several distinct peaks along a ridge, the highest of which is the Breithorn Central (Breithorn Central summit), standing at 4,164 meters (13,661 feet).
The Breithorn is considered one of the easier 4,000-meter peaks in the Alps to climb, especially the Breithorn Central summit. This accessibility, largely due to the Klein Matterhorn cable car which ascends to a high altitude, makes it a popular destination for mountaineers and tourists seeking high-altitude experiences. However, even though considered "easier," it still requires appropriate mountaineering skills, equipment, and acclimatization to the altitude. Crevasses, changing weather conditions, and objective dangers exist, necessitating careful planning and execution of any ascent.
Other notable peaks within the Breithorn range include the Breithorn West (4,165 m), Breithorn East (4,141 m), and the Roccia Nera (Schwarzfluh) (4,075 m).
The area around the Breithorn offers stunning views of the surrounding Alps, including the Matterhorn, Monte Rosa, and other prominent peaks. The glaciers that cover the Breithorn, like other glaciers worldwide, are experiencing significant retreat due to climate change.