planning a ski trip to zermatt

Travel Guide to a Zermatt Ski Vacation & 4-Day Itinerary

Zermatt is a charming ski village tucked in the swiss alps with world-class skiing and an amazing town center. Follow this Zermatt Switzerland guide to learn about getting there, what to do, what to eat and most importantly- how to hit the slopes for the perfect Zermatt ski vacation.

I have visited Zermatt twice and will likely be back someday. My first time was a father-daughter trip where we hit Christmas markets around Europe then spent a few days skiing the alps. As a life-long skier, I was hooked by the beautiful groomed runs and adorable ski village. I returned with my family a couple years later and it was as amazing and I remembered. Keep reading to learn how to plan your own Zermatt Switzerland ski vacation.

Some links on this blog are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through them. All opinions are my own, and I only recommend products and services I personally use and believe in. Thanks for your support!

Zermatt Skiing Guide – How to Ski in Zermatt

Now, the whole reason you are going on a Zermatt ski vacation is to ski the alps. The mountain is huge with many high-tech lifts, stunning lodges and beautifully groomed runs.

The resort is expansive with primarily groomed blue to black level runs. Expect to get many runs in each day with the quick slopes and efficient lifts.

A unique aspect of Zermatt compared to other high end European ski resorts is that the slopes straddle Switzerland and Italy. It’s very cool to be able to ski back and forth between two countries throughout the day.

Many hotels will allow you to purchase you lift pass directly from the concierge. If not, tickets are available at the base of the mountain where you will catch the gondola.

I recommend getting a multi-day international pass, so you aren’t limited to certain areas of the mountain and you won’t have to wastes time getting new passes daily.

Planning your Ski Day

The weather on the mountains in Zermatt can be temperamental and unpredictable. I recommend checking with your front desk or ski concierge each morning to decide where to go.

There are multiple base locations that will take you up to different areas of the mountain and it is best to have a local direct you to the best conditions each day.

Most of the runs are perfectly groomed blues. Intermediate skiers should feel confident navigating the entire mountain safely.

There are also some off-piste areas for people who prefer rougher terrain or powder. My biggest piece of advice is to explore the mountain at your leisure and have fun!

Pro tip : if you see the Matterhorn- take a picture with it! The majestic mountain peak only comes out from behind the clouds for a short amount of time.

Things to Do in Zermatt in the Winter (Besides Skiing)

I recommend staying in Zermatt three to four nights depending on how much skiing you plan to do. The day you arrive, explore the village and browse the local shops.

After the long travel day, it is unlikely you will have energy for much else.

The rest of the trip will likely be spent on the mountain. However, for non-skiers, or those who plan to take a rest day from the mountains, some non-skiing winter activities include:

If you want to get up on the mountain but aren’t an avid skier, snowshoeing is a great option to enjoy the crisp mountain air and get some exercise.

Cable Car Observation Deck

For some of the best views in Zermatt, take the Mountain Paradise Cable Car from Zermatt town to Europe’s highest mountain station. The ride goes over the Theodul Glacier.

At the top, you can climb to the observation deck for amazing views of the alps.

Shop in the Village

The town of Zermatt is so charming with a ton of luxury shopping, ski shops, and souvenirs. Be sure to take some time to explore the village.

What to Eat in Zermatt

When in Switzerland, you must try fondue (at least once). My favorite fondue restaurant in Zermatt is Say Cheese which is located in the Grand Hotel Zermatterhof .

It is below ground in a stone room and has great ambience, friendly service and tasty food.

Be sure to order fondue and raclette to get the full swiss experience. My favorite dipper is the bread but potatoes, crudité and meat can also be ordered.

To round-out the meal, take advantage of the delicious chocolate fondue paired with cookies and fruit.

Some other Zermatt restaurant recommendations:

Grampis – This casual loft restaurant features homestyle Italian cooking and tastes especially good after a long day on the slopes. I recommend ordering a pasta and a pizza and sharing among the group.

Le Gitan Grill – A higher-end option for delicious meat and fish. The tables in this restaurant are tucked into stone inlets, creating a cozy and private ambiance.

The best part of this restaurant is the piping hot potato gratin they serve tableside.

Where to Stay in Zermatt Switzerland

There is no denying that Switzerland is an expensive country. Zermatt, as a luxury ski village, is even more expensive than some other areas.

However, there are many fantastic luxury hotels and resorts that are well-worth the price tag.

Grand Hotel Zermatterhof – This is where I have always stayed when I visit Zermatt. It is a grand building in the center of Zermatt. The rooms are cozy and have a luxury cabin design.

Another benefit to this hotel is the friendly and helpful ski concierge that will manage your gear and help you plan your ski days.

Riffelalp Resort 2222m – The location of this resort is fantastic with ski in/ ski out access while still being close to town. There are also clear Matterhorn views from the rooftop pool.

4 Day Zermatt Ski Itinerary

Day 1: arrival in zermatt.

Morning : Arrive in Zermatt, Switzerland, and check into your chosen accommodation. Zermatt is a car-free town, so be prepared to take the train into Zermatt.

Lunch : Have a delicious traditional Swiss lunch at Restaurant Walliserstube, known for its hearty Alpine cuisine.

Afternoon : Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Zermatt. Explore the village, visit local shops, and soak in the picturesque views of the Matterhorn.

Dinner : For your first evening, indulge in fondue at Say Cheese.

Day 2: Skiing and Mountain Exploration

Morning : Head to the Zermatt Bergbahnen station and take the Gornergrat Railway. Take in the breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks.

Late Morning : Hit the slopes of Gornergrat and explore this high-altitude skiing region.

Lunch : Enjoy a scrumptious lunch at the Gornergrat Kulmhotel, where panoramic views complement a variety of cuisine.

Afternoon : Continue skiing and exploring the fantastic runs and terrain of the Gornergrat region.

Dinner : Return to Zermatt and treat yourself to a mix of Swiss and international flavors at Whymper-Stube.

Day 3: More Skiing and Igloos

Morning : Ride the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car, the highest cable car in Europe. Take in the incredible views as you ascend.

Late Morning : Spend the morning skiing on the glacier slopes at Klein Matterhorn.

Lunch : Experience something truly unique by having lunch at the Igloo Village, where you can dine in an igloo.

Afternoon : After lunch, explore the fascinating Ice Palace at Klein Matterhorn, filled with intricate ice sculptures.

Dinner : Return to Zermatt and savor a cozy and authentic Swiss chalet dining experience at Le Gitan Grill.

Day 4: Local Culture and Departure

Morning : Visit the Matterhorn Museum to delve into the history and culture of Zermatt and its iconic mountain.

Lunch : Enjoy a final meal at Restaurant du Pont, a classic Swiss eatery.

Afternoon : Explore the beautiful Hinterdorf area of Zermatt, known for its traditional wooden houses.

Late Afternoon : Before you depart, consider taking a relaxing dip in the thermal pools of the Zermatter Bad.

Evening : Gather your belongings and bid farewell to the enchanting Zermatt as you embark on your onward journey.

This four-day itinerary for Zermatt offers a perfect blend of skiing, local culture, and dining experiences, ensuring a well-rounded trip. Tailor this itinerary to your own preferences and weather for the best vacation.

What to Wear in Zermatt

The above collage shows an idea of what to wear in Zermatt in the winter. If you want a complete guide to packing for a ski trip and outfit ideas, check out my complete guide here .

Skiing Outfits – The temperature on the mountain can vary each day. To be prepared, I recommend packing a few options for base layers and a good quality ski suit.

Casual Outfits – During the day, you can’t go wrong with jeans, a sweater, and a cute jacket. However, be sure your jacket is both cute and warm.

Night Outfits – Compared to US ski towns, people tend to dress up a bit more in Zermatt. At night, elevate your warm look with a fun leather pant or long sweater dress and a heeled snow boot.

Getting to Zermatt

Fun Fact : Zermatt doesn’t allow any cars

This makes the streets perfect for pedestrians and maintains the fresh mountain air but makes getting to the town a little bit challenging.

Flying to Zermatt

First, fly into a nearby airport- either Geneva or Zurich. This was the second leg of our trip following an Iceland stopover and we chose to fly into Zurich.

We made this choice to be able to spend a day exploring the Christmas markets. If you are planning your trip in December, I would highly recommend doing the same.

Train to Zermatt

From one of these cities, catch a train to Zermatt. If coming from Zurich, you will take two different trains, with a transfer in Visp. The second train is one of the most scenic train rides in the world.

Coming from Geneva will be a similar experience with roughly the same travel time.

The train ride to Zermatt is around 4 hours but goes by quickly with the scenic views.

Around an hour away from Zermatt, you will begin to wind through some small mountain towns- catch pictures if you can! The train passes snowcapped mountains, small villages and beautiful valleys.

Getting Around Zermatt

Once you arrive in Zermatt, you can either walk to your hotel, if it is close, or catch an electric taxi. Since the town is small, you will be able to walk to most accommodations in 10 minutes.

If your hotel is a bit further, they will likely offer complimentary shuttle pickup.

If you stay at the Grand Hotel Zermatterhof , you can even arrange for a horse-drawn carriage.

FAQ – Planning a Ski Trip to Zermatt

I recommend planning 3-5 days for your Zermatt ski itinerary. This will allow around three days of skiing and two days for exploring the town of Zermatt.

The Zermatt ski resort is quite large. There are 322 km of slopes and 38 km of ski runs. In addition, there are 53 lifts.

There is a wide range of skiing difficult in Zermatt. There are plenty of green runs, and there are also double black runs. In general, I would consider the majority of the ski resort to be comparable to blue runs in the US, and most of them are groomed daily.

Summary of Planning a Zermatt Ski Trip

Overall, Zermatt is one of the best luxury ski resorts in Europe. The unique ability to ski between two countries is something you wont be able to find many places in the world.

Since there are no cars allowed in Zermatt, it is one of the best ski villages for walking around, shopping, and relaxing.

While many ski resorts in Europe can be a bit pretentious, Zermatt strikes the perfect balance between luxury and comfort.

Related Posts:

• What To Pack For A Ski Trip – Cute Ski Gear And Outfit Ideas For A Winter Vacation
• Guide To Visiting Steamboat Springs In Winter: Skiing And Other Fun Things To Do  
• Skiing In South Lake Tahoe: Guide To Heavenly Mountain Resort

Pin for Later:

• Quick Guide to a Weekend in San Diego: What to Do & See
• What to Wear to Disney World in December: Winter Outfits
• 88 Unique Couple Travel Captions for Instagram

3 Week Europe Itinerary: Planning the Perfect Europe Trip

Lauren is the creator of The Traveling Moore blog. She's travel obsessed, having been to nearly 50 countries and all 7 continents. She has a full time corporate job, and loves showing others that it's still possible to travel the world with limited PTO hours. Lauren is also travel hacking obsessed, finding every way to travel more often and more luxuriously.

Similar Posts

Share via: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Copy Link More This 3 week Europe itinerary explains how to plan a trip,…

Best European Countries to Visit in November: 28 Trip Ideas

Share via: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Copy Link More November is one of the most underrated times to visit Europe….

The 11 Best Things to do in Tirana Albania in Two Days

Share via: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Copy Link More Follow this guide to the best things to do in Tirana…

Day Trips from Dubrovnik- where to go Near Dubrovnik Croatia

Share via: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Copy Link More Planning a trip to Croatia and looking for the best day…

One Day in Venice Italy:Quick Travel Guide & Itinerary

Share via: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Copy Link More I have a bit of a controversial opinion- I think Venice…

Epic 4 Day Rome Itinerary For First Time Visitors

Share via: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Copy Link More This 4-day Rome itinerary will allow you to see all the…

Ultimate blueprint for a perfect ski vacation in Zermatt

On a pre-Christmas afternoon, we are among a few privileged vacationers to be headed to Zermatt.

The one-hour train ride from Visp follows the Matter Vispa river upstream; we are negotiating nearly 1000 meters of altitude. Outside the panoramic windows is a veritable Winter Wonderland!

Few remember that Zermatt originally had a different name: Praborno , meaning "meadow among natural springs." The reason for this name was the dozens of natural springs at the foot of the Matterhorn. Our home during this ski vacation in Zermatt will be in the hamlet of Winkelmatten where many of those springs are still alive. Located on a sunny hillside outside of Zermatt, Winkelmatten is about as close to the Matterhorn as you can get.

Front-row views of the Matterhorn at Chalet Altesse

Chalet Altesse offers three generous rental apartments as well as a top-floor penthouse. At the taxi drop-off, we are welcomed by the chalet manager, Nikki. She kindly helps us with all the luggage and ski gear, then gives us a property tour. During our stay, we would opt for the free shuttle bus service to get around. (The Wichje bus stop of the red line is a five-minute walk away.)

Our first-floor apartment has modern amenities you would only expect from an upscale rental: a jacuzzi bathtub, fireplace, designer furniture, and even a steam oven.

All apartments share a top-notch spa in the basement featuring a Finnish sauna and a steam room. Due to the pandemic, we are asked to sign up for a two-hour slot ahead of time. This private time in the spa only adds to the luxurious experience.

Knowing that we would cook our own dinners, we shop for groceries in Zermatt before heading to Chalet Altesse. There is a small store in Winkelmatten, but we want to enjoy each day on the slopes without worrying about supplies. On top, Nikki has set us up for breakfast by stocking the fridge with milk, butter, and homemade apricot jelly…

As a couple, we have ample space here at Chalet Altesse. The floorplan with its open kitchen, living and dining rooms seems ideal for groups of friends or for families with three generations. Each apartment houses up to six adults, as there are three bedrooms with private baths.

Skiing in Zermatt in December

Without realizing it, we timed our ski vacation in Zermatt extremely well. During this mid-December week, the sun is out, and there are no crowds. We learn that the town by the Matterhorn gets busy a week before Christmas. This is when vacationers from near and far would arrive for the holidays, when trains increase frequencies, and when many slope-side restaurants open up.

Zermatt is already covered under a powdery blanket, but the heavy snow has not arrived yet. Yet at these high altitudes, no less than 200 kilometers of ski slopes are being groomed every night - even with moderate amounts of snow. The numerous runs are an open invitation to ski as much as possible.

But the question remains: where to begin?

Zermatt has three main ski areas:

Matterhorn glacier paradise - schwarzsee, sunnegga - rothorn.

Each ski area has its own character, level of difficulty, and sun exposure. Some slopes offer generous space for carving. Others have steep inclines for schussing, and yet others are ideal for beginners making their first attempts. But all the ski areas in Zermatt have one thing in common: unrivaled views of the mighty Matterhorn.

We have tested each of the main ski areas in Zermatt during this week, hoping to help you decide on which one suits you best. Starting with the slopes closest to the Matterhorn, we gradually moved further away as the days passed. Here is what we have found out about each ski area in Zermatt:

• In a nutshell: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise offers year-round glacier skiing from Europe’s highest mountain station next to the Matterhorn.
• How to get to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise from Zermatt: take the gondola to Furi and transfer onto the cable car to Trockener Steg. Finally, the Matterhorn glacier ride cableway will take you from Trockener Steg to Klein Matterhorn at 3883 meters above the sea. The trip takes roughly 45 minutes from the valley to the peak.
• What’s unique: the slopes are at the base of the towering Matterhorn. With a single pass, skiing is possible in Switzerland and across the border in Italy. Many tell us that the Italian side is sunnier - and that restaurants are less expensive.
• Where to eat and drink: the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise restaurant is Europe’s highest mountain restaurant with stunning views, Restaurant Schwarzsee
• Insider tipp: on your final descent from Furi to Zermatt, swing by Restaurant zum See for a slice of cremeschnitte custard.

• In a nutshell: Gornergrat is all about powdery slopes with sweeping views that hit the sweet spot for all levels of skiers.
• How to get to Gornergrat from Zermatt: just outside the Zermatt train station is the Gornergrat Railway station. In just 33 minutes, reach the top of Gornergrat at 3089 meters above sea.
• What’s unique: at these high altitudes, the snow quality remains perfect almost by definition. Reaching the Gornergrat by train is a must, at least once, but we find the chair lifts from Riffelberg more ideal for repeat ski runs. (Slope 36 all the way!)
• Where to eat and drink: Panorama Self Restaurant on Gornergrat, Chämi Hitta and Riffelhaus 1853 for Swiss fare, Restaurant Riffelberg for self-service food with perfect Matterhorn views
• Insider tipp: arrive by gondola from Zermatt via Furi if the train is too crowded. Those vacationing with non-skiers will enjoy the Gornergrat side for its many sun decks and winter hiking trails.

• In a nutshell: Sunnegga - Rothorn offers the easiest-to-reach ski slopes with lots of sun exposure and panoramic Matterhorn views.
• How to get to Sunnegga - Rothorn from Zermatt: from the green line bus stop, enter the Sunnegga Express station and take the funicular to Sunnegga. Transfer onto the gondola to Blauherd, and finally, take the cable car to Rothorn at 3103 meters above the sea.
• What’s unique: the Blauherd and Sunegga ski runs are ideal for beginners who are content with a few good slopes. For advanced skiers, Rothorn offers some amazing long downhill runs.
• Where to eat and drink: Restaurant Fluhalp is a charming mountain inn with a sun deck, Chez Vrony on piste 6 is a Zermatt meme, Rothorn Ristorante Pizzeria , Sunnegga Buffet Bar
• Insider tips: the photo spot at Rothorn offers the best panoramic views of the entire mountain range of Zermatt. Avoid the ski run from Sunnegga to Zermatt, as the slopes are steep and often narrow. Lock your ski gear for 2 francs at the base station of the Sunnegga Express. 

Après-ski experience in Zermatt

No skiing day is complete without a so-called après ski experience. You will undoubtedly come across this term when skiing in Switzerland. It literally means “after skiing”, but it stands for the culture of unwinding after a day on the slopes.

One of the favorite spots for après ski in Zermatt is Hennu Stall , a former barn that has been converted into a ski-in/ski-out bar. Located at the bottom of the Furi to Zermatt slope, this is where you can expect to find quite a genuine setting where many locals hang out.

We decide to end our last day on the slopes across the valley at Sunnegga. As the name indicates, this “sunny” ski area is ideal for catching a Matterhorn sunset. After the last sunray has disappeared, we catch the funicular back to Zermatt.

Within less than five minutes, we descend to street level through a long tunnel. The red line shuttle bus takes us back to Winkelmatten where we store our gear in the ski room of Chalet Altesse one last time.

Our verdict about pre-season skiing in Zermatt

The experience of skiing in Zermatt right before the season starts has us planning for next year already. Knowing about some of the small drawbacks helps: the Gornergrat Railway operates on a limited schedule, many of the Zermatt mountain restaurants remain shut, and there might not be enough snow for skiing to the chalet’s front door.

But the benefit of fewer crowds by far outweighs any of these minor factors. We devised a few simple solutions to make it all work: instead of just showing up, we made it a point to study train and bus schedules. And with few restaurants open on the slopes, we gained flexibility by packing our own healthy snacks and hot beverages.

More information for your ski vacation in Zermatt

• Follow Chalet Altesse Zermatt on Instagram
• Install the Skiguide Zermatt app for Android or iOS
• View all the open ski lifts in Zermatt

Dimitri Burkhard

As the founder, editor, and community manager of Newly Swissed, Dimitri owns the strategic vision. He is passionate about storytelling and is a member of Swiss Travel Communicators. Dimitri loves discovering new trends and covers architecture, design, start-ups and tourism.

Add comment

Cancel reply, you may also like.

The La Val Hotel & Spa is ideal for hikers (and foodies)

We've recently packed our bags to discover Brigels and hike to the Val Frisal valley. Read about our experience at La Val Hotel & Spa...

Here are 7 good reasons to love Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt has more to offer than an iconic mountain top (= Matterhorn). This Alpine valley features lots of hiking trails with scenic vistas...

7 compelling reasons to visit Grindelwald

We know a quaint village tucked in a valley below the majestic peaks of the Bernese Alps: Here are seven reasons why you should visit Grindelwald...

Newly Swissed GmbH Langrütistrasse 1A, 8635 Dürnten Switzerland +41 78 949 03 53

Copyright © 2024 - Newly Swissed GmbH. All rights reserved.

• Everyday Life
• Food & Wine
• Travel & Tourism
• Book Reading
• Concert/Dance/Musical
• Food/Gourmet
• Stand-up/Theater/Movies
• Workshop/Seminar/Tour
• Add an Event
• What We Like
• Meet the Team
• Press Coverage
• Advertising
• Contact us or book us

Download our e-book: 77 Facts about Switzerland

Skiing In Zermatt | Complete Guide With Map & Pricing 2024

Planning To Go Skiing In Zermatt?

Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip!

For over 6 years, Zermatt was the place I called home. Although I still travelled extensively during this time, it was always where I wanted to come back to again and again, especially during the ski season. 

As well as great skiing, incredible restaurants and easy access to Italy, Zermatt village has a magical feel in the winter months. In this post, I’ll share everything you need to know for the perfect Zermatt ski trip. From maps and lift info to accommodation tips and insider advice, this guide is designed to help make your visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

After living in Zermatt for 7 winter seasons and returning annually to ski and snowboard, let us break down for you why skiing in Zermatt is our favourite winter activity and destination.

If you’re looking for the best ski in ski out Zermatt hotels and chalets, click here!

No time to read now or prefer a white background?

Download this article as a pdf, pop the kettle on and read at your leisure.

Skiing In Zermatt: Overview 

Zermatt is a great place to ski, no matter what level of skier you are and the unique thing about this resort is that you can ski and snowboard 365 days of the year. In the winter, there are 3 main ski areas as well as links to 2 Italian ski resorts, which can all be accessed on one international ski pass.

The Matterhorn Ski Paradise is the highest ski area in Switzerland, sitting at 3,883m on the border of Italy, this area is shared by Zermatt and Breuil-Cervinia. The combined amount of skiable area is 360 km of slopes, that is A LOT of mountain to explore! One of my favourite things about visiting Zermatt during the winter, is being able to say “Shall we ski to Italy for lunch?”

Things to know before you go:

• There are no green slopes in Zermatt.
• 74 km Blue Slopes – Beginner (easy)
• 227 km Red Slopes – Intermediate (medium)
• 20 km Black Slopes – Expert (hard)
• 36 km Yellow Slopes – Marked Off-Piste (expert only)
• Zermatt can make artificial snow on 75% of the pistes – this is a great advantage when Europe is facing a low snow year.
• While some lifts operate from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm others close earlier, be aware of your connection times and make sure to not get stuck over in Italy, that’s a pricey taxi back to Zermatt, not to mention a 4-hour drive. 
• Zermatt has some of the best mountain restaurants in the world.
• Music lovers will have plenty of choice of amazing après ski spots, live bands and even a festival during April called Zermatt Unplugged .
• Zermatt is a car-free village, access is by train, transfer or helicopter. The nearest place to park is in Täsch. For more info about How to Get To Zermatt check out our blog here!

Booking Your Ski Holiday?

Use our favourite travel resources to save on your next trip: ❄️ Book your hotel using Booking.com ❄️ Save a huge amount on flights with Faredrop ❄️ Book your activities and guides using Viator ❄️ Save on car rental with Discover Cars

note: While Discover Cars have the best deals, their ratings can be off, double check your hire company in Google to be sure of the best deal with the best company.

Zermatt Ski Passes 

Which ski pass to choose will depend on your budget, length of stay and ability. The more consecutive days you buy on one pass, the more the overall ticket price is reduced, however, be mindful that there are no refunds if you choose not to use the pass. Booking in advance can also give you the best deal. 

For a more flexible pass option, choose the Flex Ski Pass . All ski passes include free use of the electro busses in Zermatt, those under 16 receive a discount and children under 9 years old can ski for free with an appropriate ID.

Ski Pass and Ski Care insurance can also be purchased to cover you in the case of an accident or illness.

Beginners Ski Pass 

Complete beginners will want a Beginners Ski Pass , which gives you access to the following:

• Sunnegga funicular
• Sunnegga-Blauherd combi cableway
• Leisee Shuttle
• Eisfluh chairlift 
• Findeln chairlift 
• Wolli’s Beginners Park

The Wolli Park itself is free to enter, however, you will require a pass for the Sunnegga funicular and Wolli’s Park lift to be able to access it. This lift pass is CHF 57.00 per day for adults.

Zermatt Ski Pass

For access to all of the slopes between Sunnegga – Rothorn, Gornergrat and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise – Schwartzsee, you need the Zermatt Ski Pass . This pass gives you a total of 200 kilometres of pistes consisting of a wide range of Blue, Red, Black and Yellow slopes. For Adults, this pass starts at CHF 83.00.

The Zermatt Ski Pass has an optional bolt-on to include a daily return journey on the Zermatt shuttle train to Täsch and Randa for CHF 17.00.

International Ski Pass 

Added onto the Zermatt Ski Pass for CHF 14.00 per day, the International Ski Pass gives you access to an additional 160 kilometres of pistes in the Italian ski resorts of Breuil-Cervinia and Valtournenche. That’s a total of 360 kilometres of skiable area! Lunch in Italy, anyone? 

Matterhorn Alpine Crossing 

If your skiing ability isn’t up to tackling the red slopes to access Italy, then don’t worry. You can still lunch in Italia by taking the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing . A return ticket will take you from Zermatt to Cervinia and back again, allowing you to stop en route to enjoy the views and enter the Matterhorn Glacier Palace.

Skiing at Sunnegga – Rothorn 

The Sunnegga ski area is mostly South to South-West facing, meaning that it receives more sunshine than any of the other slopes. This is why it is aptly named Sunnegga which translates to Sunny Corner. Here, you’ll also find some of our favourite mountain restaurants, Flualp, Chez Vrony and Findlerhof, which are all great spots to stop for alfresco dining.

Beginner skiers and snowboarders will start their skiing journey in Wolli’s Park just below the Sunnegga lift station. Being the sunniest area means that it is often the warmest, which makes those early phases when there’s a lot more slow movement, more comfortable. From the beginner area, there are linked blue runs to help with your next progression.

As well as blue slopes, the Sunnegga – Rothorn ski area also offers red, black and yellow pistes, as well as off-piste skiing in good conditions for those with experience or a qualified guide. The yellow pistes are off the back of Rothorn towards Tuftern, from Blauherd to Eja and Hohtälli to Gant. The Hohtälli lift also gives you access to the Gornergrat Ski area.

Getting to Sunnegga – Rothorn 

Take the Sunnegga funicular train from Vispastrasse in Zermatt to reach the Sunnegga – Rothorn ski area. 

The Green Line bus runs from the main train station in a there-and-back route, stopping at all of the ski lift stations. The Red Line bus runs via Winklematten stopping near the Snowboat for access to the Sunnegga funicular train.

Night Skiing In Zermatt

In the Sunnegga – Rothorn ski area you can also take part in the Moonlight Descent. This is one of my favourite activities in Zermatt.

The Moonlight Descent in Zermatt is a unique skiing experience that takes place under the glow of the full moon. This event usually happens once a month from December to April, with the starting time typically around 7 pm.

Upon arrival at Rothorn, participants are treated to an Aperitif before embarking on their descent. As you glide down the almost deserted slopes, you’ll be surrounded by peaks shrouded in mystery, gleaming under the moonlight. The winter forest adds to the enchantment of the experience.

You’ll be accompanied by the Zermatt Bergbahnen piste and rescue service during your descent. Upon arrival at CERVO you’ll be greeted with a mulled wine before sitting down to a traditional Swiss Fondue, during which you will be entertained by some local live music.

Skiing at Gornergrat 

The Gornergrat Ski area is great for all abilities. There are nice wide cruisy blues, between Gornergrat and Riffelberg and challenging reds that flow back to Zermatt. In good conditions, Gornergrat is a great place to introduce off-piste skiing for those with the right expertise, equipment and guide.

Learn more about Off-Piste Skiing Here .

From Schweigmatten you’ll find a scenic yellow, which is great for more confident skiers, but not as challenging as a lot of the long, steep yellow pitches. It does have some fast corners, bumps and narrow paths, so be sure to know your ability before venturing down it, yellow runs are marked for expert skiers for a reason. 

One of our favourite places to stop for a hot chocolate is the Iglu Dorf which is on Blue Run 45. The best lunch spot in this area is Alphitta at Riffelalp, if you’re not up to tackling the red runs, you can take the train from Riffelberg to Riffelalp and walk along the path to reach the restaurant. They offer great food, amazing views, friendly banter and often live music.

Getting to Gornergrat 

There are two ways to access Gornergrat from Zermatt village. There’s the Gornergrat Railway, whose station is situated opposite the main train station. And there’s the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car near the Hotel Focus – change at Furi for the Riffelberg cable car.

Both the Red and Green Line buses take you to these stations. Check which one you require based on your starting location.

Skiing at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise – Schwarzsee 

The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise – Schwarzsee ski area is best for intermediate to expert skiers. There are very few blue runs in this region. The pistes are made predominately of red runs, with a couple of blues, a couple of busy steep blacks and a handful of challenging yellow pistes.

The off-piste skiing in this area can be great fun if the conditions are safe, for those who are experienced, equipped and have a qualified off-piste guide. Please take extra care with off-piste skiing in this area as it is largely glacial and littered with crevasses. 

With an international Ski Pass, you can also access the slopes of Cervinia and Valtournenche from Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. While the skiing into Italy is mostly red runs, you can take the lifts to the blue area at Plan Maison. Or not ski at all and take in those rays while dining alfresco, Cervinia is a South to South-West facing resort and receives a lot of sunshine.

Our favourite restaurants in the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise – Schwarzsee area are Stafelalp, Aroleid and Zum See. In Italy make a booking at Chalet Etoile or head to Cervinia following Blue Run 5 for Pizza and Aperol at Pizzeria La Grotta. For a unique experience, watch the sun disappear behind the Alps, from Rifugio Teodulo, with a sharing board and glass of wine.

Note: a regular ski instructor is not allowed to take you off-piste in Switzerland. Only off-piste qualified instructors or mountain guides can do so. 

Never Ski Off-Piste Without The Appropriate Knowledge, Experience And Equipment. 

Getting to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise – Schwarzsee 

To reach the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise – Schwarzsee ski area, take the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car from Zermatt. Both the Red and Green Line buses take you close to the lift station, be sure to know your starting point to choose the appropriate bus.

Zermatt Skiing Map

Here is an Interactive Map Link to see where all of the ski lift stations are located in Zermatt.

Zermatt Piste Map

Here is an Interactive Map Link to the Zermatt Piste Map. This link allows you to view the live piste map or download a pdf version.

Best Zermatt Skiing Apps

Live Lift Status – Skiguide Zermatt – Apple / Android

This app gives you real-time information on open and closed pistes, as well as a handy interactive piste map. 

Best Weather App – MeteoSwiss – Apple / Android

Keeping track of the weather can be difficult in mountain regions, Meteo Swiss is often the most reliable. 

Best Time To Ski In Switzerland

The busiest and most expensive times to ski in Switzerland are during school holiday periods over Christmas and New Year and February half-term. If you’re not tied to school holidays, I would avoid February for sure! If you aim to be on the slopes during the festive period, you’ll have to accept that it will be busy, but without a doubt, a magical experience.

For the best snow conditions and fewer crowds, January is the best time to ski in Switzerland. The downside with this time of year is that it is also the coldest, but if you’re happy to wrap up warm, it can pay off. For warmer temperatures, slushy snow and longer days, look at skiing in Switzerland in March-April, avoiding the Easter school holidays if you can. 

If you’re interested in visiting Zermatt in Autumn, check out our blog here!

Where To Stay 

As Zermatt is a relatively small town with good electro bus and electro taxi services, nowhere is really too out of the way. For the most convenient access to the ski bus, rental shops, train station, bars and restaurants, aim to stay in the centre of town close to Bahnhofstrasse and Hinterdorfstrasse. 

If you plan to do most of your skiing in the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise area, you might find it more convenient to stay in Winklematten or near Oberdorfstrasse. Just be mindful that the bus services don’t run late into the evening, so any late-night adventures into town will require a brisk, frosty walk or a taxi back to your accommodation.  

📍 Best Budget Spot: Hotel Bahnhof

The best budget and location accommodation in Zermatt is Hotel Bahnhof. Conveniently located opposite the main train station, the supermarket, the taxi rank and the Gornergrat Railway, you’ll find it hard to find a hotel in a better spot than this.

📍 Best Mid-Range Spot: Dent Blanche  

For mid-range prices, flexibility and comfort , Dent Blanche is the perfect option. Located on Hinterdorfstrasse you’ll be immersed in Zermatt’s old town as well as being conveniently located to the supermarket, bars, shops and a bus stop.

These self-catering apartments allow you to come and go as you please without the worry of making it down in time for breakfast.

📍 Best Luxury Spot: BEAUSiTE

For the ultimate luxurious experience , Parkhotel BEAUSiTE has stunning rooms, a relaxing spa, some of the best dining experiences in Zermatt and is conveniently located in the centre of the village. 

For more in-depth information on where to stay in Zermatt, check out 17 Best Zermatt Switzerland Hotels .

Best Things To Do In Zermatt

Although the number one activity in Zermatt during the winter months is skiing, there is also a wide range of other snow and non-snow activities on offer. Why not give snowboarding or sledging a go? 

Ever wanted to jump off the mountain and soar back down to the ground? – Paragliding is another popular activity in Switzerland. 

If all that adrenaline is just a bit much, there are some great spa packages, walking tours, dining experiences and shopping adventures to be had instead.

✅ Private Ski Lesson 

For first-timers, people who want to improve and nervous skiers, we always advise hiring a ski instructor . It really can be the difference between you loving or hating this activity and the speed at which you improve.

With customised lessons, private or group instruction and a team who speak Russian, English, Italian, French or Spanish, this is our go-to for ski lessons in Zermatt. 

✅ Paragliding 

One of the most exciting experiences you can have in Zermatt is Paragliding above the village , with the stunning backdrop of the Matterhorn. This is an experience I will never forget.

Hire an experienced guide to take care of your safety on a tandem flight in one of the most magical locations in the world.

✅ Zermatt Village Walking Tour 

Journey back in time on this walking tour of the beautiful Zermatt village . Stroll down Hinterdorfstrasse and learn about the history of these well-preserved mountain huts that were built between the 16th and 18th centuries.

Learn about the first ascent of the Matterhorn and how Zermatt came to be what it is today.

Let’s dive into some frequently asked questions about skiing and snowboarding in Zermatt.

How Difficult Is The Skiing & Snowboarding In Zermatt? 

Zermatt is generally seen as a slightly more difficult resort to ski or snowboard, especially for beginners. With a small beginner area and limited blue runs, Zermatt is not always the ideal place for first-time skiers and snowboarders. 

However, if you’re a fast learner and eager to get to those red pistes, Zermatt is the perfect place for you. It is the ultimate intermediate-level resort, with great progression options for more advanced skiing and snowboarding.

Is It Expensive To Ski In Zermatt?

With 360 kilometres of slopes, you certainly get bang for your buck in Zermatt. But what creeps up the budget is accommodation, transport and dining costs. Switzerland as a whole is known as one of the more expensive skiing destinations, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be done affordably.

With careful planning and advance booking, there are many ways to make a ski trip to Zermatt more affordable.   

Can Beginners Ski At Zermatt?

Yes, beginners can ski in Zermatt, the beginner area is called Wolli’s Park, dedicated to all first-timers. The only downside is the progression is straight to blue runs as Zermatt does not have any green slopes, this however, should not deter you if you are feeling confident enough to tackle those relatively easy blues.

Is Zermatt Ski Resort Crowded?

Zermatt ski resort can get crowded during peak weeks, which fall on school holidays in December and February. Outside of these times, on weekdays, the slopes can be pretty quiet. Weekends can also get quite busy due to local tourism. 

January is probably the quietest time to visit Zermatt and a great opportunity to lap those well-groomed pistes.

The Wrap-Up: Skiing In Zermatt 

If you’re looking for a Christmas escape, your first venture into snowsports, great live music and après ski, a challenging adventure or a good combination of skiing and dining, Zermatt caters to everyone. 

With stunning vistas, extensive slopes, a charming alpine village and the opportunity to venture into two Italian ski resorts, it’s no wonder Zermatt is our favourite skiing destination. The blend of tradition and modernity, combined with its commitment to sustainability, makes Zermatt an exceptional choice for a ski trip.

So, if you haven’t experienced the magic of Zermatt’s slopes yet, it’s time to plan your next winter adventure in this picturesque Swiss resort. Get ready to carve your way through pristine powder, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and create memories that will last a lifetime in the breathtaking Swiss Alps of Zermatt. Thinking about a Campervan Trip to Switzerland? Here’s our Vanlife Switzerland Guide!

Teri-Anne is the owner and author of An Aimless Walk, a blog that helps travellers, adventure sports enthusiasts and vanlifers navigate their way through unique travel destinations and experiences on any budget.

When not writing about travel, Teri-Anne can be found skiing, snowboarding, hiking, climbing, backpacking, surfing, diving and motorbiking her way around the globe.

Ski Zermatt, Switzerland

• Accomodations
• Lift Tickets
• Getting There
• Snow Report

About Zermatt

A ski vacation at Zermatt Matterhorn is a fantastic opportunity to dive into this Swiss mountain village’s unique culture. Zermatt has a rich history as a mountaineering and skiing destination, and visitors can explore the town's traditional architecture, local museums and galleries. The village also has a vibrant après-ski scene for those looking to keep the fun going once they’re off the slopes for the day, with over 50 bars and clubs, many of which offer live music and dancing.

The first thing you’ll notice when arriving in Zermatt is a remarkable, and probably welcomed, lack of noise. Since 1891, the local doctor is the only person allowed to have a car in Zermatt. So, you, and everyone else, will be traveling to and from Zermatt by train, which is a highly enjoyable and convenient experience. The only in-town transportation is by horse-drawn sleighs, electro-taxis or ski buses.

Fortunately, Zermatt is a destination resort, meaning the village is difficult enough for weekend skiers to reach and keeps the crowds to a minimum. Plus, the vast terrain – more than 223 miles of marked ski trails (including Breuil-Cervinia) and a resort lift capacity of nearly 92,000 people per hour – easily absorb any crowds. Even during the busiest holiday season, lift lines are not impossibly long and uncrowded slopes are there for the taking.

at one of the many luxury hotels in Zermatt with views of the Matterhorn.

by flying into Geneva, Zurich, or Sion

glaciated terrain beneath the famed Matterhorn.

yourself and others to a one-of-a-kind après experience at several spots in Zermatt. Hennu Stall is a popular cozy pub, transformed from a barn, with ski-in, ski-out access and is a favorite among locals for its live music. Brown Cow Pub serves up some of the best local beers and offers a fun atmosphere for those looking to dance and the Broken Bar offers a stylish lounge atmosphere, complete with a fireplace and exceptional views of the Matterhorn. Get ready to say Prost!

from Switzerland to Italy and back in a single day.

prisitine pistes and challenging, expert terrain.

multi-national cuisine options from France, Italy, and Switzerland.

Experience...

A guided tour of Zermatt village to explore the charm and best spots of the area. Learn about the history and culture of the area, including the traditional architecture and customs of the local people. Walking through the narrow streets of the village, you’ll pass by some of the best chocolate shops and restaurants with options to stop and taste some of the local delicacies along the way.

BEST SELLERS

Grand Hotel Zermatterhof

Hotel Continental

Hotel Monte Rosa

Is zermatt difficult to ski.

Zermatt is known for having some of the most challenging terrain but does have a range of options to appeal to more than just skiers looking for an extreme experience. An overview of the terrain breakdown is 22% intermediate runs, 57% advanced runs and 10% expert runs.

Intermediate to the most advanced skiers will find a variety of runs to choose from along with the gorgeous views while exploring the mountain. Ski.com always recommends skiing with a guide in European destinations. Focus on where you’d like to stop for lunch or an afternoon espresso (although a guide can provide recommendations too), leave navigation to an expert and connect with a local to get a real feel of the area. The experience of skiing Zermatt is once in a lifetime and visitors can cater how difficult their routes down the slopes are to their preferences.

What is the best time of the year to ski Zermatt?

What is the best ski area in zermatt, can you ski zermatt as a beginner, what is zermatt switzerland known for.

Zermatt Switzerland is best known as a skiing destination. The views of the Swiss Alps and 120+ miles of ski runs are what draws in visitors from all around the world, particularly for the extreme terrain. Thanks to the high altitude and the Matterhorn Glacier, skiing can be done in Zermatt 365 days a year, another factor making it a standout ski destination.

The village is also well-known for its picturesque scenery and outdoor activities. During the summertime, Zermatt becomes a popular destination for hiking, mountain biking, and other alpine adventures. Visitors are drawn to the area for its stunning views of the iconic Matterhorn Mountain, which is often regarded as one of the most recognizable peaks in the world.

In addition, the village is home to many traditional Swiss mountain chalets that offer visitors a cozy and authentic Alpine experience.

Top Zermatt Hotels + Accommodations

Best sellers.

Open Trails

Skiable Acres

Snowfall Summary

Latest Snowfall

Forecasted Snow

Percentage Groom: 0

Base Depth: 55"

Season Total: 0"

Weather Forecast

Wind Speed: N/Ami

17°F / 31°F

11°F / 33°F

Wind Speed: 3mi

12°F / 16°F

Wind Speed: 4mi

Mountain Stats

Vertical Drop

Base Elevation

Summit Elevation

Total Acres

Total Lifts

Longest Run

Intermediate

TerrainPark

Night Skiing

Zermatt Ski Vacation Package

As one of the best experiences to be had in the Alps, there’s no reason you shouldn't start planning your Zermatt ski vacation today. Ski.com is a one-stop shop to book your entire Zermatt ski vacation, including lodging, flights, ground transportation, car rentals, lift tickets, lessons, equipment rentals and activities. Call or chat now with one of our knowledgeable Mountain Travel Experts.

CUSTOMER REVIEWS (15)

Overall customer experience*, what the experts are saying.

Impressive Swiss ski resort and a chance to ski to Italy for lunch

Trip of a Lifetime!! I cannot say enough about what an amazing trip we had in Zermatt. The runs last forever with sight lines that do not compare to anywhere I have skied in the past. Although lift lines can get crowded at the gondola in the morning, we took the earliest train to the top for first runs. If possible we would have stayed forever!

Zermatt-nothing like it in the world The location is spectacular. The Matterhorn is the background from almost every location on the mountain.The size of the ski complex is huge-you can put 3 Whistler Resorts in the same amount of space. 90% of the skiing is above the timberline with glaciers surrounding you everywhere.

Big Mountains are big fun The mountains fill your eyes are far as you can see and many of them are big over 14,000 feet high! Skiing there are many options and there is always a blue groomed trail to follow off of every peak.

Town of Zermatt review Loved everything about this town. Expensive vacation but worth it.

Beautiful village and runs A simply incredible time. With the Matterhorn towering over the village, Zermatt offers quick access to about three major different areas to ski: Rothorn/Sunnegga, Gornergrat, and, of course, the epic Matterhorn glacier paradise, which also offers run into Italy. Unlike most North American ski resorts, their aren't major lodges on the mountain for food, drinks, etc. Instead, small cottages dot the landscape, each offering a unique experience. The runs are groomed and, for the most part, wide. This is a great experience for skiers who enjoy turns and cuts, rather than steep, breakneck speeds. Be sure to visit Chez Vrony for lunch or apres ski when you're enjoying Sunnegga. For the village itself, you'll want to enjoy the local lamb at Restaurant Julen (reservations recommended). For a fun apre ski bar, you can't miss with the Brown Cow. If you have time, be sure to visit the Matterhorn museum; it's surprisingly intricate and impressive.

Had a great time Very easy to navigate the town. Large ski area to navigate so took a little bit to get orientated. Enjoyed the terrain. Would not recommend for a beginner skier but would highly recommend for intermediate and above. Went para-skiing for the first time and it was crazy.

everyone should do once Zermatt is the quintessential Swiss ski village, the real deal that US ski resorts try to emulate. Cute village, breathtaking views, expansive skiing. Definitely ski on the Italian side too.

Perfect trip!! We spent 7 days in Zermatt, skiing 5 of those days. We had a few days of challenging weather but the clear days were amazing. There really is terrain for every level of skier. If you are an avid skier and love the mountains you won't be disappointed. Best way to enjoy the experience is to 'be in shape'. It's a very physical trip all around and this is coming from a person who skies 90 days a year at and elevation of 9,000 feet. We absolutely loved it!!

A Trip of a Lifetime When you think of Switzerland, you think of the perfect town of Zermatt and the Matterhorn. Because it is only accessible by train, getting there is not the easiest of ski areas to visit. My husband and I were there for a week and felt we didn't even have time to ski everything. There is so much terrain to cover. Zermatt is about the whole experience - the skiing, the scenery, the restaurants along the trails, the wandering in town and eating in so many fabulous restaurants and meeting so many wonderful people from around the world.

Great Location Fantastic Hotel. Ski.com made everything easy to lodge. location is excellent. Highly recommended. Older type rooms but over all very nice hotel

EXPERT REVIEWS (4)

• 4.3 Nightlife
• 2.8 Budget Vacation
• 4.3 Activities
• 3.3 Beginner Skiing
• 2.7 Ski-in Ski-out
• 5.0 Accommodations
• 4.0 Intermediate Skiing
• 4.8 Shopping
• 5.0 Luxury Vacation
• 2.7 Terrain Park
• 4.8 Expert Skiing
• 4.0 Family Vacation
• 5=Excellent

Zermatt, the quintessential Switzerland ski town 3.7 Good 3.0 4.0 4.0 5.0 3.0 3.0 5.0 2.0 3.0 5.0 1.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 3.0 When you think of skiing the Swiss Alps, Zermatt is what comes to mind. The terrain can be challenging here, so beginner skiers beware.  But, if you are just coming for the après-ski, you won't be disappointed! The village of Zermatt is as charming as the Matterhorn is breathtaking. Take the Glacier Express to the Gornegrat or tour the village on foot! Don't worry about getting lost in Zermatt...the village is a manageable size. Zermatt has a variety of hotels ranging from moderate to luxury and everything in between, so it will work on most budgets.

The resort with something for everyone! 4.1 Good 4.0 4.0 5.0 5.0 3.0 4.0 5.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 NR 4.0 5.0 5.0 NR If you try to picture skiing in Switzerland, I bet you’re thinking of Zermatt – huge runs on a gigantic ski area, stunning peaks surrounding the world-famous Matterhorn, and a thriving, lively town with tons of quirky, gorgeous chalets as the base area. The town is undeniably Swiss, but is also becoming quite cosmopolitan, with lots of high-end hotels and chalets to choose from, and some spectacular on-mountain dining just a quick gondola ride away. And speaking of those mountains, it’s hard to beat Zermatt in terms of expansive terrain and amazing views, as this is the home of the Matterhorn, the most photographed mountain in the world. The Zermatt ski area has tons of areas to explore for intermediates, experts, and off-piste lovers alike. With quick lifts and so much terrain to cover, any skier would be delighted with a week-long stay in Zermatt. On my recent trip to Zermatt, I also chose to spend a day off the slopes, exploring the nonskier activities, the best of which was the scenic ride up to the top of a glacial valley via the Gornergrat. You have the option to stop at a number of stations before you reach the top, many of which offer amazing dining options (highly recommend the Riffelhaus for unbeatable Matterhorn views and tasty cuisine!). The views from every angle atop the mountains here is simply gorgeous. But all this beauty doesn’t come cheap – the lift pass can be pricey, and it’s easy to drop a wad of Swiss francs shopping at all the stores that line the streets. But in the end, Zermatt truly is a paradise – amazing vistas everywhere you look, numerous pistes to both provide variety and challenge your skills on the mountain, and plenty of activities and shopping to entertain the entire family.

Impressive Swiss ski resort and a chance to ski to Italy for lunch 4.2 Good 4.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 2.0 5.0 5.0 4.0 5.0 5.0 3.0 5.0 5.0 3.0 2.0 Breathtaking scenery is everywhere you look in Zermatt. My first trip to Zermatt was wonderful, but the weather was cloudy and we only saw a partial view of the Matterhorn for about 10 minutes. This latest trip the end of March was sunny, warm and offered picture-perfect spring skiing. I couldn't stop taking pictures, the views were so stunning! The town offers great shopping, nightlife and lots of different lodging options. The food is top notch, and taking advantage of the half board dinner options at our hotel was the way to save some money. Train travel from the airport takes a while, but travelling by train in Switzerland is easy, comfortable and relaxing. Once you get the hang of it and the scenery is amazing. Plan to stay several days, there is so much terrain to ski,and if you get the right weather conditions take the time to ski to Cervinia, Italy for lunch. We booked a ski guide with Matterhorn Diamonds and our guide made the day so easy for us, showed us the best way to get there and back and the best restaurant for outdoor dining with views of the backside of the Matterhorn  too. It was a highlight of my trip.

Zermatt - Picture Postcard Village in the Alps 4.6 Excellent 5.0 4.0 5.0 5.0 3.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 4.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 3.0 ZERMATT – PICTURE POSTCARD VILLAGE IN THE ALPS Zermatt was a relatively unknown agricultural community until the 1860’s. Located at the upper end of the Matter Valley in the canton of Wallis in Southern Switzerland, it is surrounded by a wide array of mountains of more than 4,000 meters elevation, including the iconic Matterhorn. It was the first successful ascent on the Matterhorn in 1865, as well as the deaths of 4 of the 7 summiteers on their way down, that led to Zermatt becoming internationally known. A year-round destination for skiers, climbers, hikers and sightseers, Zermatt is a beautiful, picture postcard village of wooden chalets, quaint shops and stylish hotels. The village itself is fairly small and flat enough that you can easily walk from one end to the other in a matter of minutes. Like many Swiss resorts, it is a carless village – so the greatest “danger” to pedestrians are the extremely quiet electric vehicles which zip around the village. The ski area is huge with over 7,400 vertical feet of terrain, 52 lifts and 225 miles of runs. The area encompasses both Zermatt and Cervinia, on the Italian side of the border, so bring your passport when you ski or ride. From Zermatt village, the terrain is accessed from 3 different lift base areas: Sunnegga, Gornergrat and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. All are in different areas of the village so, no matter where you stay, there is ski access fairly close by. You can get to all of the other lifts in the ski area from each of the three base areas in the village. As soon as you cast your eyes on the Matterhorn, your visit to Zermatt is already a success. The mountain is unforgettably spectacular and dominates the skyline from almost every vantage point. Getting there: You should fly into either Zurich or Geneva. Zurich is slightly closer to Zermatt (135 miles) than Geneva (145 miles) but both have excellent train service directly from the airport railway stations. Both trips take approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes, are very scenic and require a train change in Visp. Visp is a very small station and the platform change is clearly marked and easy to negotiate. If your clients opt for a private transfer service, they will be driven to the shuttle depot, which is adjacent to the Zermatt train station. Most hotels have electric shuttle vans which will pick up guests and take them to their hotel. Useful things to know: Navigating around the village can be a little confusing at first. Some of the streets are difficult to locate and all have very long, Germanic names. The best point of orientation is the Catholic Church. It is very centrally located and, if your guests can’t find it they should listen for a few minutes - the bells ring every quarter hour during the day. The main street is Bahnhofstrasse (Station Street) and the church is located at the corner of Bahnhofstrasse and Kirchstrasse (Church Street). There is free resort shuttle service which runs in a loop from the train station, along the river, as far as the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise lift. Stops are clearly marked and shuttles run every 8 minutes. The cemetery, located next to the church, is the resting place for many famous mountaineering figures and, together with the nearby Alpine Museum, is a really interesting diversion. For après-ski, Elsie’s Bar (opposite the church) is an institution in Zermatt. Serving cocktails and tasty snacks since 1961, it is small but full of history. It opens daily at 4pm and fills quickly. Hotels: Alpenhof (4 stars superior): I love this hotel. From the moment you see the beautiful woodwork in the lobby, you know you are in a very nice hotel. It is located on Matterstrasse (on the river) and is basically right across the street from the Sunnegga lift. It is one of the larger properties in Zermatt – it has 62 rooms – so it will often have availability. Rooms are contemporary in décor and of very high quality. The Alpenhof is one of the few properties in Zermatt to have air conditioning. BB and HB (5 course dinner) are possible. Rooms are large. The junior suite (sleeps 4) is 650 sq ft, the superior room is 440 sq ft and the design room is 330 sq ft. The hotel has some nice features including a beautiful garden/deck area where they show movies during the season. Albana Real (4 stars): Located on Schluhmattstraase (just across the river from Matterstrasse), the Albana Real is only 20 meters from the shuttle stop. It has 38 rooms, most of which are in the entry-level comfort category or in the superior (sleeps 4) category. They also have some larger junior suites. BB and HB (in the hotel restaurant) are possible. There is also a Japanese restaurant on property. Overall the hotel is nice and has good amenities such as pool, sauna, ski room etc. Walter, who gave us the tour, is very friendly and they are very flexible regarding length of stay for our guests. Hotel Europe (4 stars): This hotel is slightly more difficult to find. Located on Riedstrasse (Church Street becomes Riedstrasse after you cross the river), it is in the Steinmatte neighborhood. The shuttle stop is a 3 minute walk from the property. The hotel has 38 rooms, of which 12 have a Matterhorn view. Rooms are situated in two different buildings – Traditional and Design. Overall, the hotel features contemporary décor and is very nice. A couple of things to note: the family room is the same price as the design room but is a little bigger; four of the design rooms have open bathrooms so you should check specific availability with the hotel if your guests might not want this type of set-up.

Let’s explore Zermatt

Zermatt ski resort guide

The first time you visit Zermatt, I have no doubt that your immediate reaction will be one of awe. Believe me when I say that it’s an impossibly beautiful ski resort.

I love that Zermatt combines the charm of a traditional Alpine village with the atmosphere and infrastructure of a thriving town. I have such wonderful memories of skiing in Zermatt and its surrounding mountains, and I can see why it’s such a popular Swiss ski resort .

Author Bio: Jessie Moore

Jessie Moore is a luxury ski & travel expert with years of experience adventuring in the mountains to find the best resorts and hotels.

The epitome of a picture-postcard town, pretty car-free Zermatt has surely been lifted from the pages of a storybook. Looming over the town with grace and grandeur is the iconic Matterhorn, forming the beautiful backdrop of the resort. The streets are lined with wooden chalet-style buildings, while horse-drawn carriages meander through the centre.

Outside of the town, kilometre after kilometre of perfectly pisted slopes await. Undoubtedly one of the  best places to ski in Europe , the ski area straddles two countries and is linked to nearby Cervinia in Italy. Encounter unforgettable mountain vistas from every angle while you explore the expansive ski area. Foodies will be in their element too, with a wonderful selection of mountain eateries to choose from – each combining world-class cuisine with breathtaking scenery.

An impressive offering of  world-class hotels , designer shops and fine dining have established Zermatt as one of the  best luxury ski resorts in Europe . Yet despite its luxury status, Zermatt still retains a relaxed feel, lacking the stuffy pretentiousness of other high-end ski resorts. It oozes laid-back luxury executed with class and charm.

Want to save up to 25% on hotels?

Subscribe to the Pocket Wanderings newsletter and get immediate access to my guide on how to save money on flights and hotels. Our weekly emails are filled with adventure inspiration, insider travel tips and exclusive discounts.

At a glance

• Nearest airport: Zurich, Geneva
• Transfer time: 3.5-4 hours
• Height: 1,620m
• Ski area altitude: 1,620-3,883m
• Good to know: Highest slopes in Europe
• For beginners: Poor
• For intermediates: Excellent
• For advanced: Good
• For freestyle: Good
• For après: Good

This page contains affiliate links.

How to get to Zermatt

There are several options for getting to Zermatt, with the most popular being by plane and train. Given the car-free nature of the town, options are a little more limited in terms of driving or getting a taxi.

• The nearest airports are Zurich, Geneva, Sion and Milan. The best way to get from the airports to the resort is by train. Alternatively, you can make use of a specialist ski resort transfer service. These will generally drop you at Täsch station, after which you can complete the final stretch by cog railway. Hiring a car is likely to be the most expensive and inconvenient option, given the car-free nature of Zermatt.
• It takes around 3 hours 40 minutes to travel by train from Zurich or Milan airport to Zermatt. It takes just under 4 hours to travel from Geneva airport to Zermatt, or two hours to travel from Sion airport to Zermatt. With great connections to many nearby cities, towns and airports, travelling to Zermatt by train is the best option. Train tickets are relatively cheap too (well, if you’re used to train prices in the UK that is!). Plus, it’ll be one of the most scenic train journeys you’ve ever experienced.
• Driving to Zermatt is possible but not ideal. Those travelling by car will need to leave their car at Täsch, which is a 12 minute train ride away from Zermatt. It doesn’t really make sense to hire a car, given that you won’t need to make use of it while in Zermatt. Private taxi to Täsch is another viable option, but this is likely to be expensive, depending where you’re travelling from. You’d be better off paying for a first class ticket on the very comfortable, efficient and scenic trains.
• For those lucky enough to travel by helicopter, Zermatt has its own heliport. Operated by Air Zermatt, a helicopter ride takes 45 minutes from Geneva and one hour from Zurich. Other options include Sion, Locarno, Bern, Lugano/Agno and Basel.

How to get around Zermatt

As a car-free ski town, the centre is easily explored on foot. Other options for getting from A to B include electric taxi, electric bus or bike hire. Some of the more luxurious hotels in Zermatt offer horse-drawn sleigh as a means of getting around – perfect for fulfilling all your fairytale fantasies. 

If your accommodation is higher up in the town then I recommend making use of the electric taxis. These cute little vehicles look like mini milk floats, zooming up and down the hilly roads so you can save your energy for skiing.

In terms of getting up the mountain, options include a cable car, funicular, or train. The famous Gornergrat mountain railway takes skiers and non-skiers alike on a scenic journey from the heart of Zermatt to 3089m high.

SHOP SKI GEAR

Skiing in zermatt.

The Zermatt ski area is called the Matterhorn Ski Paradise and it comprises 360km of runs. The expansive ski area includes nearby Cervinia in Italy – another popular ski resort in Europe. Modern, high-speed lifts ensure minimal queues, while the train from the town centre to Gornergrat offers an unforgettably scenic train journey.

The four key areas within the Matterhorn Ski Paradise are Rothorn, Gornergrat, Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and Schwarzsee. Intermediates will love the plethora of wide, cruisey red runs against the backdrop of the Matterhorn. With some of the highest slopes in Europe, Zermatt ski resort offers snowsure skiing throughout the season. In fact, the snow is so reliable that Zermatt is one of the few places in Europe to offer summer skiing on the glacier.

What lift pass do I need?

There are a number of different options for lift passes and tickets – to be specific, there are 23 options listed on the Matterhorn Paradise website!

For any non-skiers just looking for one-off trips up the mountain, it makes sense to buy the specific ticket you need for the place you’re heading to. For example, to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Schwarzsee, Riffelberg, Furi, and more – much like you would a standard train ticket.

For those looking to ski, you’ll need the Winter Ski Pass . This gives you access to all 360km of pistes across both the Zermatt and Cervinia ski areas. If you’d like the flexibility of choosing which days you’d like to ski, check out the Flexi Winter Ski Pass .

Beginners can benefit from the reduced price of the Beginners Ski Pass , which offers access to the Sunnegga-Blauherd beginners area. Get your lift pass from the Zermatt tourist office .

Best ski runs

Zermatt ski resort is a haven for intermediate skiers. In particular, the routes from Rothorn to Gant provide enjoyable long crusing red runs. Breitboden to Riffelalp offers gorgeous alpine stretches atop a sheer cliff for a scenic run against the backdrop of the Matterhorn.

Advanced skiers can discover the various freeride runs; for example, from Blauherd down to Findeln. Beginners are better off heading over to the Italian side of Cervinia, which is also a more family-friendly place to ski. Discover the best hotels in Cervinia .

Off-piste & backcountry

With lots of north facing slopes, there is powder in abundance in Zermatt – even days after it has fallen. The ski area offers a compelling amount of off-piste ski opportunities. Much of it can be reached from the lifts, while the more untouched areas may require some ski touring.

As always, do your research before you head out, or hire a guide to find the best spots. Alternatively, there are 38km of ungroomed pistes for freeriders and experienced skiers.

There are two snowparks within the ski area: one in Zermatt and one over in Cervinia. The Gravity Park in Zermatt features a Slopestyle line with three rails and three jumps, as well as a Beginner Line with 12 jumps and 12 boxes. There’s also a Rail Garden with eight rails.

Freestyle skiers and snowboarders will also love the Cervinia snowpark, which is considered to be one of the best terrain parks in Italy.

Heli-skiing

Unlike France, it is possible to go heli-skiing in both Switzerland and Italy. For those seeking the freshest powder, there is no feeling quite like heli-skiing. Be whisked up in the air, surrounded by the snow-capped mountain peaks of the Alps, then pass by the majestic Matterhorn which feels within touching distance. The best part is yet to come – glide down untouched slopes atop the freshest, fluffiest powder imaginable.

Any heli-skiing tours will be run by experienced mountain guides. They will choose the safest routes so you can enjoy this unforgettable experience with peace of mind. Air Zermatt is the go-to company for heli-skiing in Zermatt, with a choice of five peaks: Alphubeljoch (3,782m), Äschihorn (3,562m), Monte Rosa (4,200m), Testa Grigia (3,480m) and Unterrothorn (3,103m).

Beginners & ski school

Beginners are a little more limited in Zermatt ski resort, although there is a beginners area at Sunnegga-Blauherd with some gentle blue runs. Those just starting out will be better off heading over to Cervinia, which has more options for beginners.

Anyone new to skiing and snowboarding – or those looking to hone their skills – won’t be short of ski schools and instructors. Join one of the prestigious ski schools or reap the benefits of private tuition. Some great ski school options include the Alpine Ski School, European Snowsport Ski School, and Summit Ski & Snowboard School.

Let’s connect on Instagram

pocketwanderings

Other things to do in Zermatt

Zermatt is not just a ski resort. It offers plenty of things to do for non-skiers – or for those who fancy something different. In fact, it’s still worth visiting the beautiful Swiss town of Zermatt even if you don’t intend to do any skiing.

1. Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Zermatt’s Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is Europe’s highest mountain station at 3,883 metres above sea level. It features a 360 degree viewing platform that offers spectacular mountain vistas. Spot 14 glaciers and 38 peaks over 4,000 metres, including Mont Blanc in France and Gran Paradiso, Italy’s highest peak.

Another key attraction is the magical Glacier Palace, which is full of stunning ice sculptures. Once you’ve been enchanted by the Glacier Palace, stop by Europe’s highest picture house at the Cinema Lounge, located in the Breithorn Tunnel. Learn about the area with fascinating short films about different aspects of alpine life in Zermatt.

Finally, refuel with traditional Valais specialities at Restaurant Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.

The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise can be reached by a series of gondolas and cable cars: Zermatt – Furi – Trockener Steg – Summit.

For an extra special experience, take the Crystal ride gondola from Trockener Steg to the summit. These gondolas are adorned with Swarovski crystals and fitted with a glass floor for uninterrupted views of the glistening glaciers below.

2. Snowshoeing

There is no better way to experience the magic of the mountains than on a snowshoe tour. Hike along the snowy plains, soak up the silence of the mountains, and stimulate the senses as you immerse yourself in nature.

Zermatt offers a number of breathtaking snowshoeing trails:

• No.141: Challenge Trail from Gornergrat to Rotenbodn
• No.142: Panorama Trail from Rotenboden to Riffelberg
• No.145: Discovery Trail from Sunnegga to Riffelalp
• No.146: Winter Wonder Trail from Sunnegga to Riffelalp via Gant 

3. Matterhorn Museum

Gain some fascinating insight into the history of Zermatt and the various summit attempts of the Matterhorn at the intriguing Matterhorn Museum. Learn how the town progressed from a simple village for mountain farmers to a world-renowned luxury ski resort. Then discover the triumphs and tribulations of the first ascent of the Matterhorn in 1865.

Entry to the museum costs 10 CHF for adults, 8 CHF for seniors and students, and 5 CHF for children aged 10-16. Children under the age of 10 can enter for free. The Matterhorn Museum is open 15:00-18:00 every day.

4. Iglu Dorf

Situated just below Rotenboden, Iglu Dorf is an enchanting igloo village. Stop by for a mulled wine or an indulgent cheese fondue while you soak up the gorgeous views of the Matterhorn. Don’t miss the Home of Winter igloo for the dreamiest photo opportunity.

For a more immersive and once-in-a-lifetime experience, book to stay the night in one of the igloos. Step into the hot tub and gaze at the stars for the most romantic of stays. 

5. Tobogganing

Zermatt is home to the highest toboggan run in the Alps. The Rotenboden toboggan run offers a thrilling descent against the panoramic backdrop of the Matterhorn. Suitable for all ages, including families with children, it’s an utterly joyous way to spend time in the mountains

This particular run can be accessed via the cog train at Rotenboden. Once you’ve purchased a Sledding Ticket and hired a sled, you can enjoy the toboggan run as many times as you like.

6. Paragliding

What better way to take in the spectacular mountain vistas than by flying through the air. Book with Zermatt Paragliding and choose from several different flights. Prices range from 170-380 CHF, depending on the flight chosen.

Experience the initial rush of adrenaline as you take off into the air, then sit back and relax as you enjoy breathtaking views.

Subscribe to my newsletter and get immediate access to my guide on how to save money on flights and hotels. Our weekly emails are filled with adventure inspiration, insider travel tips and exclusive discounts.

Best hotels in Zermatt

Zermatt is awash with ultra luxury five-star hotels. Many Zermatt hotels are complete with sumptuous spas, breathtaking mountain vistas, and exquisitely stylish interiors. Here are some of the best hotels in Zermatt.

CERVO MOUNTAIN RESORT

RIFFELALP RESORT

MONT CERVIN PALACE

GRAND HOTEL ZERMATTERHOF

HOTEL ALPENLODGE

Best chalets in Zermatt

CHALET TUFTRA FINDELBACH

CHRISTIANA PENTHOUSE

CHALET ELBRUS

HEINZ JULEN LOFT

CHALET DENALI

THE ZERMATT LODGE

Best restaurants in Zermatt

As you would expect from a luxury Swiss ski resort, Zermatt offers an impressive selection of restaurants both on and off the mountain. From Michelin-starred fine dining to traditional alpine eateries, here are the best restaurants in Zermatt.

Mountain restaurants

An award-winning mountain restaurant at 2,130 metres in Findeln, Chez Vrony offers a warm welcome and stunning views of the Matterhorn. Tuck into organic, local produce on the lively and inviting restaurant terrace.

RESTAURANT ZUM SEE

RESTAURANT FINDLERHOF

Town restaurants

SCHÄFERSTUBE

OMNIA RESTAURANT

AFTER SEVEN

Zermatt nightlife & après

HENNU STALL

HARRY’S SKI BAR

PAPPERLA PUB

ELSIE’S WINE BAR

BROKEN BAR DISCO

Ski inspiration

Planning a ski trip? Have a read of these ski & snowboard travel articles to help you plan your adventure.

7 highest ski resorts in France for a snowsure getaway

If you’re looking for some snowsure skiing for your next winter (or spring!) getaway, you’ll be pleased to know that France is home to some of the highest ski resorts in the world. With our

10 amazing ski resorts in Switzerland 

We may be coming to the end of the current ski season as I write this, but let me tell you that booking a trip to the Alps is always on my mind! One of

5 brilliant ski resorts in Austria for beginners

Going skiing for the first time can be both extremely exciting and inevitably daunting. If you’ve got your sights set on an Austrian ski trip then I’ve got you covered with the best ski resorts

Pocket Wanderings is a luxury travel and lifestyle brand run by London-based content creator, Jessie Moore. Here you’ll find a community of fellow wanderlusters and adventurers.

Quick Links

About Contact Privacy Policy

Want up to 25% off hotels?

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes

This Stunning Swiss Town Has Cozy Chalets, Epic Skiing, and One of the Highest Mountains in Europe

Come to Zermatt for the Matterhorn, stay for the shopping.

XU BO/Getty Images

The Matterhorn is one of the world's most dramatic mountains. Its sharply pointed peak attracts visitors around the world to the Swiss Alps to glimpse it for themselves, and there is perhaps no better place to do so than Zermatt. Not only is this southern Swiss resort town special for its views and ski slopes, but it's also famously car-free. This means it takes a little more effort to travel there and get around by train, electric taxi, or even — if you're romantically inclined — a horse-drawn carriage .

Whether or not you visit for the winter season, this place is an outdoor lover's paradise. It also doesn't hurt that there's plenty of culture, food, and shopping to be enjoyed. Here’s where to eat, see, and play on your next trip to Zermatt. 

What to Know Before You Go

Jordan Lye/Getty Images

Located high in the mountains, Zermatt has upheld its ban on combustion vehicles since the 1960s. The only way to arrive is by train, taxi, or helicopter. If you're driving through Switzerland, you can park in the garages in the nearby town of Täsch and take the shuttle to Zermatt. There are also adorable blue electric buses to help visitors get around town upon arrival. 

Best Times to Visit Zermatt 

Suttipong Sutiratanachai/Getty Images

If you’re looking to visit Zermatt when the weather is warm and the birds are chirping, it may be best to look into a trip between June and September, when the average daily high hits above 69 degrees Fahrenheit. However, those in search of snowy scenery will want to come between December and March, when the average high consistently falls below 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

The Best Things to Do in Zermatt

Aumphotography/Getty Images

See the Matterhorn.

If you’re going to Zermatt, odds are you already have plans to see the Matterhorn. If you don’t, you should add it to your itinerary immediately. This mountain is one of the highest in Europe, and it's a gorgeous sight to behold. You can admire it from town, but you should also plan to get a closer peek by taking the Gornergrat Railway , which brings passengers to the best viewpoint. Tip: sit on the right side for a stellar view along the entire journey.

Pascal Gertschen/Courtesy of Zermatt Tourism 

Shop the Bahnhofstrasse.

Zermatt may be a small town, but it packs a major punch when it comes to shopping. Visit the Bahnhofstrasse, its main street area, to shop for clothing at Bijou les Boutiques, jewelry at Atelier Marcus Marienfeld, and ceramics souvenirs at Zermatt Keramik.

If you come in the winter, you simply must ski. Everyone from beginner to pro can find a trail that’s right for them on the mountain, which is home to more than 200 miles of trails. One slope, the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, goes on for a whopping 15.5 miles, so you could spend all day on just this one.  

Korawee Ratchapakdee/Getty Images

Take a hike.

Visiting in the summer? Spend time on those same trails by hiking through the verdant landscape. There are more than 100 trails to explore, according to AllTrails , which lists the Five Lakes Walk as the top community recommendation. This 6.8-mile trail is classed as moderate. Give yourself an entire day to complete it, so you can stop and enjoy the views for as long as you’d like. 

The Best Restaurants in Zermatt

Fuchs bakery.

Get a delicious start to the day by visiting the Fuchs Bakery , which produces freshly baked goods using locally sourced ingredients. This includes plenty of sweet treats alongside croissants and breads.

Courtesy of CERVO Mountain Resort

Madre Nostra

Grab a slopeside lunch or dinner at Madre Nostra , located at the Cervo Mountain Resort. On Mondays, meat eaters can enjoy a special three-course BBQ dinner and pescatarians, vegans, and vegetarians can still order the regular menu for Italian-style salad, pasta, and fish dishes.

3100 Kulmhotel Gornergrat

Enjoy dinner with a view at 3100 Kulmhotel Gornergrat , the highest hotel and restaurant in the Swiss Alps. Its restaurant, Vis-à-Vis , offers Swiss-centric meals made with local ingredients, including salmon trout, fondue, and pork cordon bleu.

The Best Hotels in Zermatt 

Courtesy of Alpen Resort Hotel

Alpen Resort Hotel

Consider booking a classic Swiss chalet-style room at the Alpen Resort Hotel . Located close to both the town train station and the Gornergrat Railway, it’s a convenient property that also comes with all the bells and whistles one would want on a mountain getaway, including a full-service spa, sauna, pool, hot tubs, and more. 

Courtesy of THE OMNIA

Visitors seeking a little luxury on their Zermatt getaway should book a few nights at The Omnia . This upscale hotel features a massive wall of windows that look out onto the Matterhorn. With just 30 rooms, it’s a boutique offering that provides guests with ultra-personalized service, sustainable dining, lounge areas with spectacular views, and a gorgeous spa. 

Unique Hotel Post

Feel the history of Zermatt when you book a stay at the Unique Hotel Post , which first opened in 1875. Though the building may be old, its interiors are thoroughly modernized, and now include four restaurants, a small spa, and rooms overlooking the town. 

The-Ski-Guru

Ski News at your fingertips!

Zermatt Must-READ Guide

This article may contain affiliate/compensated links. For full information, please see our disclaimer here .

Zermatt’s History:

Zermatt is all what you have thought of and more….it is a chocolate-box village – quintessentially Swiss, that have been hosting guests for many years – mainly those trying to reach the peak of the Matterhorn. The area had human traces from 8,000 to the 1,800 BC with the “Schwarze Tschugge” shelter at Schwarzsee, a cup-marked stone at Ofenen, above Zmutt and a stone axe blade from the Theodul Pass. The Theodul Pass was used as a crossover and trade route for the Romans for finding coins and the Romanised Celts.

On the 8 th century the Alemannic took possession of Upper Valais and German replaced Latin. But speed the time forward to 13 th August 1792 when Genevese scholar Horace Bénédict de Saussure climbed the Klein Matterhorn. From the Theodul glacier, he determined the height of the Matterhorn to be 4,501.7 m (today 4,477.5 m) using a 50-foot-long chain spread out on the glacier and a sextant.

In 1813 the Breithorn is the first four-thousand-metre peak to be climbed.

In 1839 Zermatt surgeon Lauber opens the first inn (hotel Cervie) with three beds. Today is Hotel Monte Rosa.

It is not until 1852 that State councillor Jos. Anton Clemenz from Visp builds his Hotel Mont Cervin with 14 beds. A post office was opened and the post was carried back and forth to Visp by foot.

In 1853-54 Alexander Seiler, originally from Blitzingen in the Goms Valley, leased Lauber’s inn. He purchased it in 1854 and expanded it into the “Hotel Monte Rosa” with 35 beds.

In 1858 the Zermatt Mountain Guide Association (Berfgführerverein Zermatt) was founded.

On 14 th July 1865, together with Zermatt mountain guides Peter Taugwalder senior and junior (father and son), the mountain guide Michel Croz from Le Tour near Chamonix and the Englishmen Rev. Charles Hudson, Douglas Robert Hadow and Lord Francis Douglas, Edward Whymper was the first to reach the top of the Matterhorn via Hörnligrat.

Croz, Hudson, Hadow and Douglas perished in an accident during the descent.

American author Mark Twain composed the comic story “Combing the Riffelberg” while visiting Zermatt in 1878.

In 1879, the citizens opened the Hotel Zermatt, what today is the Grand Hotel Zermatterhof- which was partially constructed using forced labour.

In 1884, after six years of construction, the Hotel Riffelalp with 150 beds was opened.

It was on 6 th July 1891 that the steam-operated Visp-Zermatt railway (VZ) went into operation. Until 1933, it only operated in summer, from May 1 st to October 31 st . The first train to leave on schedule from Zermatt took along the coffin with the corpse of Alexander Seiler.

Getting there:

Arriving via the Glacier Express to Zermatt, in a slow and pleasant ride going up the mountain- in a train with big windows to absorb all the views and awe at the landscape, you get into a town boxed in the mountains. Zermatt lays in a narrow valley with the towering Matterhorn crowning it, viewable from all points.

The train station is located at the beginning of the Bahnhofstrasse , the main drive in Zermatt, where hotels, restaurants and shops stand elbow-to-elbow trying to catch your attention.

Cars are not allowed in Zermatt, and if you drive, you need to leave your car in Täsch – the first town down valley, and jump into the train to arrive to the main station. Then in town, all hotels and some apartments have these electric cars that pick you up from the station and shuttle you to your property – these cars are a mixture of golf carts with a proper chassis – produced in Zermatt and über expensive to buy first hand. When you walk, you have to watch your back for them. They are silent and they drive like the clappers! Second time around, I was a bit more used to these mad cars, so I was not so stressed about them.

Go to Bahnhofstrasse to binge in jewellery and watch stores, sports clothing, boutiques, chocolate and delicatessen shops, and bars and restaurants where to hang out. That is the place to be.

Food glorious food

There are more than 58 restaurants to eat in the village, with choices to all tastes.

Some to take into consideration are:

– Restaurant Schäferstube, excellent for Swiss food (cheese) and amazing lamb.

https://www.julen.ch/en/schaeferstube/welcome/

–          Restaurant Chez Heiny also very well known for its lamb, and its entertainment. Mr Heiny is a well-known entertainer in Zermatt: https://www.chezheini.com/

–          Restaurant Grampi’s: Best restaurant for Italian food. Also great for spare ribs with a cool atmosphere:  http://grampis.ch/

–          Restaurant Avena: Best Tatar in town  http://www.avena-zermatt.ch/

–          Restaurant Le Gitan: Very well known for its Grill and potato gratin:  https://www.legitan.ch/

–        1818 Eat & Drink, belongs to the Seiler hotels (owners of the Mont Cervin Palace and Hotel Monterosa). Tucked away on a side street, it boasts a lovely terrace for aperitivo and some light food. The restaurant is lovely decorated in a rustic chic style, over two floors. Go for a hot Josper charcoal grill with a carefully composed selection of wines and spirits and a unique atmosphere. http://www.1818zermatt.ch/en

Eating on the pistes

Fast food / Self Service:

–          Restaurant Sunnegga:  http://www.matterhorn-group.ch/en/restaurants/rothorn/buffet-bar-sunnegga/

–          Restaurant Riffelberg:  http://www.matterhorn-group.ch/en/restaurants/gornergrat/berghaus-gruensee/

–          Restaurant Trockener Steg:  http://www.matterhorn-group.ch/en/restaurants/matterhorn-glacier-paradise/ice-buffet-bar-pizzeria/ice-buffet-bar/

Good Pizza:

–          Restaurant Rothorn:  http://www.matterhorn-group.ch/de/berghaeuser-restaurants/rothorn/restaurant-rothorn/

Great view and amazing food. You need reserve beforehand!

–          Restaurant Fluhalp, Fluhalp:  https://www.fluhalp-zermatt.ch/

–          Restaurant Paradise, Findeln:  https://www.paradies-zermatt.ch/

–          Restaurant Chez Vrony, Findeln:  http://www.chezvrony.ch/de/restaurant/index.php

–          Restaurant Enzian, Findeln:  https://www.zermatt.ch/en/Media/Restaurants-bars-clubs/mountain-restaurant-Zermatt-Enzian

–          Restaurant Findlerhof, Findeln:  http://www.findlerhof.ch/

–          Restaurant Blatten, Blatten:  https://blatten-zermatt.ch/welcome/

Après on the pistes

–          Igloo villlage:  http://www.iglu-dorf.com/en/standorte/zermatt

–          Hennustall:  https://www.hennustall.ch/

Après in town

–          Papperla Pub Bar:  https://www.julen.ch/en/papperla-pub/welcome/

–          Cervo Terrace:  https://www.cervo.ch/de/restaurants/

–          Harry’s bar:  https://www.matterhornlodge.ch/de/matterhorn-lodge/harry-s-skibar

–     Restaurant Bar Snowboat: http://zermattsnowboat.com/

Try Cuckoo Club, Vernissage (Bar), the Broken Bar Disco, the Loft Club clubbing 25+ or the Pink Live Music Bar.

If being surrounded in smoke is your thing, there are several cigar bars in Zermatt: the Alex Lounge and Cigar Bar, the Alpenroyal, Bar 55, Berghof, Cervo Bar Lounge, the Cuckoo Club, Davidoff Lounge, Joseph, Restaurant Alpenhof – Cigar Lounge and Stats Bar,

Other entertainment in town

For those that don’t ski/won’t ski there are other things to do in town: from snowshoeing, hiking, normal winter hiking, sledging, ice skating, curling and paragliding. https://www.zermatt.ch/en/active-in-winter

I had the chance to go up to Furi and had dinner there and following we were given old wooden sledges and headlamps and off we went sledging down into town, in a very long and winding road. This was such a laugh… it took me half of the run down to figure out how to turn the sledge, I seemed to do it the other way around. We were a bunch of people from all over the world and I really don’t know how we did not have an accident, more as we all had a couple of drinks up in the mountain! Maybe be careful if you attempt it yourself!

Or if you prefer something more leisurely, there are great spas with swimming pools opened to external guests from hotels. More information here: https://www.zermatt.ch/en/wellness

The Ski Area

Slopes in Zermatt – 200 km slopes of all difficulties; 21 km slopes in the summer.

Slopes in Cervinia/Valtourneche: 160 km slopes of all difficulties.

Slopes in the Matterhorn ski paradise: 360 km slopes of all difficulty levels.

Longest slope: 25 km (Matterhorn glacier paradise – Zermatt)

Black/yellow slopes: 64.1 km/ 17.9%

Red slopes: 220 km/61.4%

Blue slopes: 74.2 km / 20.7%

Lifts Zermatt Bergbahnen AG: 32

Lifts Cervinia/Valtourneche: 20

Lifts Matterhorn ski paradise: 52

Freestyle Zermatt (Summer & Winter): 1 Superpipe & 1 Freestyle-park “Snowpark Zermatt:

Artificial snow: 75% of slopes are covered in artificial snow or situated on glaciers.

Highest point: 3,899 m (Gobba di Rollin)

Lowest point: 1,620 m (Valley stations)

Vertical drop: 2,279 m.

How to ski the mountain depending your level of skiing.

For Beginners

As a beginner, these are the best places in the mountain for beginners

–          Wolli park at Sunnegga

–          Beginner park at Riffelberg

–          Beginner park at Schwarzsees

For Intermediates

The best blue slopes are in the Sunnegga region as well as at the Gornergrat (Gifthitli lift). Please find the yellow marked area below.

For Advanced

The rest of the mountain is perfect for the advanced. Some great options for advanced skiers are the red slopes at Sunnegga / Rothorn: numbers 4,9 and 11.

For Experts – 

Freeskiing or free boarding areas

The best free skiing areas if there is enough snow, are the following:

All yellow marked areas plus the glacier at Monte Rose massive. Heli-skiing in Zermatt is AMAZING!!

https://www.air-zermatt.ch/wordpress/en/fly/tourist-flights-zermatt/heliskiing-zermatt/

Ski schools: 

There are several ski schools in Zermatt. Here you can get an overview here: https://www.zermatt.ch/en/ski-schools

The 3 official schools are the Swiss certified schools: Zermatters, Stoked and Brato Borni

You can also check the CheckYeti app or website and pre-reserve your ski/snowboard school lessons, just click Zermatt in the search area and you’ll see all the different ski schools and what they are offering for group and private lessons and voilà! You will reserve your lesson in no time!

Mountain Guides contact

The mountain office is at the Alpine Center:  https://www.zermatters.ch/winter/guides/ski

Zermatt is a very long valley and the chance that you are ski in/out is very slim. So the best you can do is rent a locker by any of the three departures points and leave your equipment overnight there. The lockers are at rental shops: the Dorsaz at the Matterhorn Express, the Bayard at Sunnegga and Gornergrat.

A great solution is to use the overnight storage facilities located at the hire shops at all three of the ski departure points.

Rental shops:

If you don’t bring your own skis, I would suggest using the same shops for your rentals, for me the important is that equipment is good and you can leave your equipment next to the lift!

Zermatt in the summer:

Zermatt is amazing in the summer; it is a very big playground for hiking/trekking, mountain climb, mountain biking and even summer skiing on the glacier. There is also a 9-hole course in the upper Matter valley between Täsch and Randa, framed by Switzerland’s highest mountains.

A visit up the Gornergrat is a must in any season. The highest open-air rack railway in the world takes you to the top of the Gornegrat with magnificent views of the Matterhorn and all the surrounding mountains.

Where to sleep:

Mont Cervin Palace 5*:  

A quintessentially 5 stars deluxe hotel located in Bahnhofstrasse. Rooms are in the main building, Villa Margarita, another outbuilding called Le Petit Cervin and the family rooms are at Le Residence. All buildings are interconnected.

Dine at Le Restaurant; at the Grill Le Cervin offering special meat dishes with 14 Gault-Millau points; be a guest at the Kitchen Chef’s table and see how it all works on the go; eat Japanese at Myoko,; enjoy the Italian flavours at the 17 Gault-Milliau points and Michelin star Ristorante Capri; or eat a fondue at the cellar of Le Petit Cervin at the Carnotzet.

Check out more on the Mont Cervin Palace

Grand Hotel Zermatterhof 5*:

Very traditional 5* hotels centrally located in the Zermatt village. Arrive in style in a carriage drawn by horses (same as the Mont Cervin Palace), enjoy the luxurious rooms, spa and restaurants: from the Alpine Gourmet Prato Borni, showcasing the produce from the Valais region with a new and imaginative twist. This restaurant has been awarded 15 points from Gault-Millau. A more relaxed option is the Brasserie Lusi, uncomplicated French cuisine as well as classic international dishes.

If you are looking a classical Swiss fondue, just go to “ saycheese !”. Maybe you want to go before or after dinner to the Ruden Bar for an aperitif or digestif!

More on the Zermatterhof

Riffelalp Resort 2222m 5* :

Reach this delightful hotel taking the train up the Gornegrat and get off at the second stop: Riffelalp at 2211 m., and from there either you can walk for 10’ or wait for the red little tram to take you to the door of the resort. Settled at 2222m with unobstructed views of the Matterhorn and surrounded by sheep, this is a beautiful spot where to stay. From here you can have an early start and ski before the pistes get crowded, and later soak in the pool with views of the Matterhorn. What else could be better?

Beautifully decorated, it has some sheep sculptures in different colours all over the hotel. The hotel counts with 65 rooms, 5 suites plus 2 apartments, with a total of 140 beds. Chef Luigi Lafranco is in charge of the menu at the Ristorante Al Bosco and the bar 2,222m during the day time and at night time in both sites plus at the Restaurant Alexandre- a 5 star restaurant to chill out.

The Wellness area has an indoor and outdoor pool (Europe’s highest with a superb view to the Matterhorn), massage area, sun deck, steam bath, Finnish sauna, Shönbiel Cave, Chriiter-Grotta with saline baths and waterfalls, a whirlpool, a relaxation room, an organic sauna and a mini fitness area with solarium.

More on the Riffelalp.

Cervo Zermatt 5*:

Located in a ski in location, at the end of the Untere National and Ried red pistes, just across from the lift that takes you down into the village or to take the Sunnega funicular up to Sunnegga (2288 m), the Cervo has a main building with its amenities and 6 chalets with own spas, complimentary alcohol free minibars, some rooms offer balconies and pitched ceilings with views of the Matterhorn. The bar at the Cervo is very lively for the après ski or at any time, featuring an inviting terrace with amazing views of the Matterhorn. Decoration features wood and stone, and the hotel is a mixture of a skiing and a hunting lodge.

Cervo Puro restaurant mixes a cosmopolitan and alpine cosiness feel, with a new menu every week. It boasts 14 Gault-Millau points. Ferdinand serves Swiss and international dishes. It is a place to go for fondue, and you’ll have amazing mountain views.

More on Cervo Mountain Boutique Resort

The Omnia 5*

Perched on a rock, very nearby the 1818 restaurant, turning right from the Hotel Monterosa towards the mountain, you have to access the Omnia through an elevator carved in the rock – it made me feel as if I was in a James Bond movie! You have the option to get up the long winding staircase outside, if you prefer that.

The hotel is pretty modern and net, with design furniture and amazing views of the Matterhorn. Designed by NY architect Ali Tayar (1959-2016), it offers 30 rooms including 12 suites, a library with a fireplace, restaurant with fireplace, a lounge bar, a Cavern-club, cinema and Wellness Center. It also boasts a very inviting terrace, where I enjoyed some aperitivos. I could imagine I could be sold anything at that terrace, just watching the views of the Matterhorn and the town beneath my feet!

More on The Omnia Zermatt.

Hotel Monte Rosa 4*:

  The first hotel in Zermatt, founded in 1839 by Surgeon Lauber and first called Hotel Cervie. It had at first three rooms; then it was leased in 1853 and bought in 1854 by Alexander Seiler who named it “Hotel Monte Rosa” and expanded it to have 35 beds. It oozes history and invites you in with its original floor – which is pretty uneven and makes you watch your step, more if you had a tipple or two – and lovely details all over the hotel. The 41 rooms are spacious and generous; some have views of the Matterhorn or over town of Zermatt.

It was from the Hotel Monte Rosa that Edward Whymper set out to conquer the Matterhorn in July 1865. His conquer of the summit got overshadowed as in the descent, four of the men in his tour fall to their deaths from the north face of the mountain.

The Hotel Monterosa hosts the Restaurant Belle-Époque, the Edward’s Bar Café, named after Edward Whimper with its lovely original stonewall, invites you to an aperitif, a coffee or a night drink.

More on the Monte Rosa Zermatt

Many of these five stars hotels have made an agreement to offer a Dine-Around to their guests – the following are included if you want to purchase this option when staying at any of them:

• Mont Cervin Palace & Le Petit Cervin
• Riffelap Resort 2222m
• Myoko Teppan-Yaki & Sushi Restaurant
• 1818 Eat & Drink
• Cervo Mountain Boutique Resort
• Ferdinand by Cervo Mountain Boutique Resort
• Restaurant Whimperstube
• Restaurant Sonmatten.

Hotel Europe and Spa 4*:

Tucked away on the streets as you cross the river from the Zermatt cemetery, you find the Hotel Europe and Spa, a 4* alpine modern hotel with lovely decoration full of wood and stone with lots of pictures of the sheep of Zermatt. Run by the Julen family.

The hotel has been modernised and offer 28 rooms – 14 with Matterhorn view/south facing. It offers a very nice breakfast buffet, a restaurant a la carte and gourmet with a half board option and the small but complete spa area is in the lower ground floor.

More on Hotel Europe and Spa.

Hotel Alex 4*:

Nice cosy hotel off the Bahnhofstrasse, with lovely bar, completely different to what you see elsewhere in Zermatt. To me the bar area seems more British than Swiss, and there are lots of different quaint rooms opening into another. The spa is very attractive; all rooms have views of the Alps. The personnel is very attentive and people come back year after year.

There is the lounge and cocktail bar, an outside Terrace and Bar, the Alex Grill with meat and fish specialties, and the Bodega Bachus.

More on Resort Hotel Alex Zermatt

Chesa Valese 4:

Tucked away in a tranquil place in Zermatt, crossing the river from the town cementery, you find the Chesa Valese. From the Julen family (another part of the family), this four stars had its rooms refurbished in 2015 and will refurbish its common areas for the starting of the 2018/19 ski season.

It has a small but fine wellness where to unwind, with a whirlpool, steam bath, sauna, emotional shower and solarium.

The hotel serves a very good breakfast, with hot and cold choices.

More on Chesa Valese Zermatt

Chalet Zen: 

Chalet Zen is the new address in Zermatt. This luxurious, yet cosy and privately-owned chalet is located 100 meters from the piste and main lift up to the glacier, providing access to all of Zermatt and Cervinia ski areas. The chalet is located in an unrivalled position looking up to the majestic Matterhorn and is also a short stroll from the village.

The Chalet Zen offers sleeping accommodation for 8 + 2 in a bunk suite.

Classically furnished, chalet Zen retains the feel of an authentic Swiss chalet and yet caters for all the modern après ski necessities including massage and steam rooms, an outdoor hot tub, WI-FI, satellite and cable TV channels. The chalet can accommodate 8 + 2 guests in our bedrooms and a bunk-room that can be combined with a 5 th  bathroom to form a family suite. Three of the four bedrooms have south facing balconies with Matterhorn views and the five luxurious marble bathrooms (4 en-suite) have under-floor heading. There are two spacious living and dining areas with fireplaces along with a small study and well-stocked library of books, DVDs and games to suit all ages. Lift access to all floors.

With a charming, professional manager and concierge, dedicated housekeeping team with chef available on request, Chalet Zen combines supreme comfort and privacy with service of the very highest standard.

www.chalet-zen.com

PENHTOUSE ZEN  (sleeps 6) Penthouse Zen is situated adjacent to Chalet Zen in the same discreet location just 100m from the piste and main lift up to the glacier. With uninterrupted views of the Matterhorn, Penthouse Zen provides access to all Zermatt and Cervinia ski areas yet is merely a short stroll into the village.

The penthouse can accommodate 6 guests in 3 bedrooms. The spacious master bedroom with study area opens onto the south facing balcony with stunning Matterhorn views. There is an en-suite bathroom with large Jacuzzi bath and shower. There are two further en-suite double bedrooms, with a Jack and Jill spa bathroom with jacuzzi bath and steam shower also accessible from the hall for all to enjoy. There is a very large family style living room with double height windows, stairs up to a gallery over the sitting area, central hanging steel fireplace, bar, open plan kitchen and dining area, also opening onto the balcony running the length of the penthouse.

Daily cleaning and a mid-week linen change is included, making Penthouse Zen the perfect choice for guests needing housekeeping but preferring to take advantage of Zermatt ‘s wonderfully varied restaurants, bars and night life. Or combine Chalet and Penthouse if your party is larger than 8-10 guests.  

Matterhorn Chalets:

The company counts with some chalets, run by a couple of Brits that moved to Zermatt many years ago.

Chalet Ulysse caters 8 to 12 people. Located 5 minutes from the Matterhorn Express gondola. Great to go in the morning, but if I was staying there, I would leave the skis in the base of the Matterhorn Express in some lockers, because coming back home the road is all the way up. The chalet is fully catered, and has a spa in the lower floor.

More on Chalet Ulysse

Chalet Banja and Chalet Binna are two semi-detached luxury chalets. They are located 5 minutes from the Mattehorn Express gondola, and when you come skiing back, you can ski 100 meters from the door for much of the winter.

The two chalets have fantastic views of the Matterhorn and the level of design and comfort is amazing. The chalets include a private 100 meters swimming pool, a sauna and a gym. These chalets are fully catered.

More on Chalet Banja

More on Chalet Binna .

Check our Must Read Guide to Crans Montana .

If you fancy staying in the Italian Alps, I have a ski apartment in the Valdigne, great to ski in Courmayeur, La Thuile and Pila: Il Cuore della Valdigne in Morgex, just outside Courmayeur

Being in the middle of Morgex, just 10’ outside Courmayeur, 3 minutes from the Pré Saint Didier terme (natural hot springs) and 20’ from La Thuile, and to the other side, 25’ to Aosta and the gondola of Pila, the chalet is located in a great strategic location for going skiing, cross country skiing (in Arpy, Val Ferret or Cogne), mountain biking, snow shoeing, winter walking, white water rafting and relaxing in the hot springs.

The apartment has two bedrooms and two bathrooms with showers in two floors, a living room with a double-sided chimney that also opens to the dining room. The wooden kitchen with the slate kitchen top is a delight, with all you need if you fancy doing a big meal. If you don’t, no worries, you are a stone throw away from many bars and restaurants in Morgex: Mont Blanc Café, Café de l’Archet, La Locanda, Trattoria da Bepe, and if you fancy something much more deluxe, the renown Casa Quinson, all within two blocks from the apartment.

The apartment has a garage box for one car, it can be a high car with a roof box but is a bit tight. Our C4 Grand Picasso makes it in just!

This apartment is for four, but can accommodate up to 6 passengers, with one extra bed on the double twin bedroom that can be pulled out, and a sofa bed in the living room.

It has lovely details as lots of wood and stone, the roofs of the living room and kitchen and shower room in the first floor are made of  pan-de-bois , and the ones of the second room have lovely beams.

It is located 200 m from the bus stop to Courmayeur, Pré Saint Didier and La Thuile and 100 m from the bus stop to Aosta/Pila.

If you want to holiday in this home, click  here .

Start planning your next trip!

You can search for your own accommodation in the snow for your next ski holiday through our  Accommodation Search tab .  Or if looking to stay in the heart of the Mont Blanc Valley in the Aosta Valley, check Il Coure della Valdigne review  here .  This is our own  family home in the mountains , that I am renting out when not using, you can always write me a private message if interested to  [email protected]

You can book directly through  Airbnb   through this  link

Or check  Booking.com  on this  link .

If you want to take your family skiing and you don’t know where to start, read  here . And search for your ski transfers from all airports to the Mountains  here . And for those that are like me, that are lazy to cook, you can get your food, even gourmet  mountain food delivered to your home with Huski .

If renting equipment (skis or snowboards)  check our agreement with  Skiset – you can get up to 50% off ski or snowboard rental rates. I have been using them for years every year when I go to America  and Europe and they are great!

Shop for the Alpine Look with The-Ski-Guru HOME 

Already selling some alpine design items for your house. #bringthemountainshome with The-Ski-Guru HOME and put a smile in your face. These are hand-paintings done by me, applied to cushion covers, coasters and mugs.

To keep on reading Ski News at your Fingertips, keep on visiting  The-Ski-Guru ,  subscribe to our newsletter  and follow us on Social media through our hashtags #skinewsatyourfingertips and #theskiguru.

The-Ski-Guru Travel can help you organise your bespoke trip – just email us to  [email protected]  or send as a message  here .

You can start thinking about your trip, by reading the articles on the  Planning your Ski Trip tab.   Or you may choose to read the  Ski Resort News ,  Ski Passes News , and the Must-Read Guides to  Courmayeur ,  Val di Fiemme  and  Crans-Montana . Coming soon will be the guides to Lech and St Anton. Or see an amazing heli flight over the  Mont Blanc Massif . Also see tips on  how not to be scammed when booking a ski chale t.

You can also read what’s new at  Les Trois Vallées  and the last article on what is new at the  Tirol ski areas,   in  3 Zinnen Dolomites , and in the  Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn.

Or if interested in these high-prone avalanche resorts and how they deal with the avalanche danger, read this interview to Coco Torres , former Head of Operations of Las Leñas, Argentina.

Featured Image: Zermatt Village – Zermatt Must-READ Guide. Photo copyright: Leander Wenger – Zermatt Tourist Board. 

Share this:

• Share on Tumblr

2 Replies to “Zermatt Must-READ Guide”

Thanks for sharing this post, is very helpful article.

Thanks Jessica! Glad you liked it!

Share your comments. Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Live & Book

Weather forecast

day after tomorrow

Lift tickets

Live panorama map, timetables & prices, mountain excursions, accommodation.

• Booking in only 3 minutes
• Maximum protection & excellent assistance
• Real guest reviews
• 97% customer satisfaction

Holiday flats

Tickets & Shop

Ski tickets, train tickets, accomodation, tuesday, 30. april 2024, your perfect ski day.

• print version
• Share the current page on Twitter
• Share the current page on Facebook
• Share the current page on Google+

In Zermatt, every ski day has the potential to become perfect. Use our tips for your inspiration and experience your perfect ski day!

Guaranteed snow, many piste kilometres and long downhill runs – your ski day is only perfect when your skiing enjoyment matches it. 

Pure enjoyment! Your perfect ski day promised fantastic downhill runs, a place in the sun and the best selection of local specialties. 

Fun for young and old! The right piste and the perfect mountain restaurant make the difference for a perfect ski day for the entire family.

Room / Appartment 1

Room / Appartment 2

Room / Appartment 3

Room / Appartment 4

Luxe Adventure Traveler

Adventure Travel With a Glass of Wine

The Perfect 3-Day Weekend in Zermatt in Winter

By Jennifer Dombrowski 15 Comments

Zermatt and its’ Matterhorn Ski Paradise is Switzerland’s most famous ski resort, and justifiably so. Zermatt is home to the highest ski resort in the Alps, has 360 kilometers of pistes linked across two countries, offers year-round skiing and the world’s most photogenic mountain towers above it all. Zermatt is winter should undoubtedly be on any skier’s bucket list.

But Zermatt isn’t only a dream for skiers and snowboarders. With an abundance of winter hiking trails, unique experiences from sleeping in an igloo under the Matterhorn to a progressive dining tour through some of the best restaurants in Zermatt, and world-class spas, there’s plenty to do in Zermatt for non-skiers. Zermatt is even a fantastic destination to bring along your furry family members with a plethora of dog-friendly attractions and activities.

Between outstanding alpine scenery and a magnetic atmosphere and old world charm, Zermatt is undisputedly the jewel in Switzerland’s crown. It’s why I couldn’t resist the lure of Zermatt in winter, and have visited the charming alpine village multiple times. When it comes to considering how many days in Zermatt, I think a 3-day Zermatt itinerary is just perfect. Make the most of your holiday in one of the world’s best ski resorts and discover all the best things to do in Zermatt in winter with my itinerary.

Day One: Explore the Village of Zermatt and Iglu Dorf

Zermatt is a car-free village and the only way to arrive is via train or helicopter, so part of your first day is the journey through the mountains just getting to Zermatt. Geneva is a gateway for skiers arriving to Switzerland, and the closest major airport. Geneva to Zermatt trains can carry Zermatt bound passengers to the alpine village in 3.5 hours. Since the village is car-free, horse drawn carriages and little electric taxis await outside the railway station to whisk new arrivals and luggage off to their hotels.

The village of Zermatt is an idyllic place to wander around and even though you’ve come for the world-class skiing, there will be time for that later. Skiing is always best in the morning when the pistes are freshly groomed, so take advantage of your mid-day arrival to first explore the village.

Walking Tour of the Village of Zermatt

Zermatt is nestled in a deep valley and surrounded by some of Switzerland’s highest mountains. The tall pyramid-shaped Matterhorn stands silent watch over the village below, made famous after seven British climbers first ascended the deadly mountain in 1865.

Just 40 years ago, transport in Zermatt was almost exclusively by horse drawn carriages. And there are plenty of horse carriages waiting to take visitors around the village. Or stretch your legs after the journey for a walk around.

The main street, simply known as Main Street, is a great place to begin your walking tour of Zermatt. It runs through the village and is lined with restaurants, bakeries and shops to pop in and out of.

Be sure to visit the part of the village known as the Old Town. Here you’ll find old farm buildings built of logs called Gädini, the oldest surviving in the village center. Some of the buildings are over 300 years old.

Their sun-beaten wooden walls are made of larch wood and stand on stilts with round stone slabs on top to prevent rodents and insects from entering. The roofs of these typically Valais-style buildings are covered with shingles made of flat stone slabs.

People would live on the top level and their sheep, pigs and cows lived in the barn beneath the house. The heat from the livestock would rise, making the top level a nice, cozy home.

Sadly, many of the Gädini fell into decline around the 1960s and their cultural heritage and value was not realized until many years later. Restoration projects have seen the outsides of the Gädini preserved in the traditional style and the insides have been modernized and converted into chic pubs and even holiday apartment rentals.

Stroll by the Monte Rosa, Zermatt’s oldest hotel before also checking out the church, and the fountain dedicated to Ulrich Inderbinen. Inderbinen was famous Swiss mountain guide who had ascended the Matterhorn over 370 times and made his last ascent when he was 90.

Visit the Matterhorn Museum

Zermatt is what it is today thanks largely in part to the Matterhorn. When it comes to attractions in Zermatt, the Matterhorn Museum – Zermatlantis is a must visit to learn more about the famous mountain’s history and the effect it had on the small farming village.

The Matterhorn Museum is a sunken underground world in the heart of Zermatt that instantly transports you back to the small agricultural village that was forever changed by the first ascent of the Matterhorn in 1865.

The Matterhorn was relatively unknown until the 1800s and was the last of the Alpine mountains to be ascended. But the rush of mountaineers to Switzerland’s most famous mountain would play an important role in developing Zermatt into the world-class mountaineering and ski resort it is today.

The museum is made up of fourteen small houses that include a church, hotel, huts and granaries. As you wander through the reconstructed village, the stories of the history and development of Zermatt unfold before you.

On July 14, 1865 a group of seven English climbers led by Edward Whymper were the first to successfully reach the summit by ascent of the Swiss side. Tragically upon the descent, four of the climbers: Robert Hadow, Michel Croz, Charles Hudson and Lord Francis Douglas, fell to their deaths on the Matterhorn Glacier. All but Douglas, whose body was never found, are buried in the Zermatt churchyard.

Edward Whymper wrote of the accident:

“As far as I know, at the moment of the accident no one was actually moving. I cannot speak with certainty, neither can the Taugwalders, because the two leading men were partially hidden from our sight by an intervening mass of rock. Poor Croz had laid aside his axe, and in order to give Mr. Hadow greater security was absolutely taking hold of his legs and putting his feet, one by one, into their proper positions. From the movements of their shoulders it is my belief that Croz, having done as I have said, was in the act of turning round to go down a step or two himself; at this moment Mr. Hadow slipped, fell on him, and knocked him over.”

The weight of the falling men dragged Hudson and Douglas down the face of the mountain. Whymper and the father and son Taugwalders were spared when the rope linking Douglas and the elder Taugwalder severed. You’ll gaze upon that very rope in the Matterhorn Museum…

Just three days after Whymper’s ascent, the Matterhorn was ascended from the Italian side via an indirect route by Jean-Antoine Carrel and Jean-Baptiste Bich on July 17, 1865.

As news of that tragic first ascent made its way round the world, mountaineers from far and wide rushed to the village to test their skills on one the of deadliest peaks in the Alps. The museum continues to tell the story of the evolution of mountaineering on the Matterhorn with relics from the earliest climbs on display.

The Matterhorn Museum is open differing times depending on the season. Check the opening times here .

Watch a Curling Match

It’s no secret that Zermatt is known as a world-class skiing destination, but did you know it also has a long history of curling? Curling actually traces its roots back to Scotland in the 1500s, and in the 1920s, Scotsmen had to pack those stones in their luggage and haul them all the way to Zermatt to be sure not to miss out on curling fun.

Since then, Zermatt has been the place for curling. Perhaps it’s because of the allure of the stunning setting with the Matterhorn standing watch over the village’s two curling rinks. The Curling Club Zermatt is the most successful curling club in Switzerland, and world-class curlers train on the ice in Zermatt. The Horu-Trophy, one of the largest and best open air curling tournaments in Europe, also takes place here with around 60 teams competing in it.

Basically two teams of four players each slide polished granite stones weighing between 38 – 44 pounds each across the curling sheet toward a target, called a house. Points are scored for the stones resting closest to the center of the house.

Two sweepers run along the ice and use their brooms to feverishly polish the ice so that the stone gains speed and slides further. The stone must touch at least the outer ring of the target in order to score any points. The players wear a special shoe, called a Teflon Slider shoe, on only one foot to help glide down the ice when delivering the stone.

A typical game lasts about 2 hours and is definitely a social sport.

There’s a tent selling glühwein, beer, sausages, and ironically, aspirin (for the hangover curlers are surely suffering the next day). Grab some sausages and a mug of glühwein, settle in at the picnic tables alongside teams taking a break, and enjoy the action.

Clutching our own steaming mugs of glühwein, we laughed and watched in fascination as 16 games unfolded before us. The players each strategize like they’re playing a game of chess on ice. The team of four would gather, pointing as they determined the best path for their stone to reach the house. One team member would launch the stone and then the sweepers were off, feverishly brushing the ice to keep the stone from “curling.”

If you’re keen to give curling a go, equipment rental is available from several shops in Zermatt such as Bayard Sport and Fashion , Glacier Sport or Julen-sport . You can also book a curling lesson with a guide and all the equipment, which ends with glühwein and a meal of cheese fondue, a traditional Wallis charcuterie plate and Swiss white wine from Wallis.

Ride the Gornergrat Bahn

In the late afternoon, make your way from Zermatt up to the Gornergrat at 3100 meters on the highest open-air cogwheel railway in Europe. It’s one of the best places to visit in Zermatt. And since you need a ticket on the Gornegrat Railway to access Iglu-Dorf Zermatt anyway, including a trip all the way to the top first for Matterhorn views is a no-brainer.

The 33-minute ride up to Gornegrat is a Zermatt sightseeing experience in and of itself. You’ll want to choose a seat on the right side of the train for the journey from Zermatt to Gornegrat for Matterhorn views. The train twists around curves of the mountainside as you climb, giving riders the most incredible views.

There are several stops along the train journey, and you can hop on and off at as many stops as you like. I recommend first taking the train all the way to the top at Gornergrat, then heading back down to the Rotenboden station for Iglu-Dorf Zermatt.

Spend a Night in the Most Unique Accommodation in Zermatt: Iglu-Dorf Zermatt

An unforgettable experience, you can sleep in artfully decorated igloos in a snow village that is re-constructed each winter under the watchful peak of the Matterhorn. As luxe an experience of quite literally sleeping in the snow can be, a night at Iglu-Dorf is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Zermatt.

To reach Iglu-Dorf Zermatt, you need a ticket on the Gornegrat Railway . Though you can purchase a discounted ticket just to the Rotenboden station, where you meet the guides for the Iglu-Dorf adventure, I recommend first taking the cog wheel train to Gornergrat at the very top.

From the Rotenboden station, you make a short 15-minute trek to the Iglu-Dorf Zermatt igloo village. You’ll want to just pack a small backpack with essentials for your overnight stay in Iglu-Dorf.

After a briefing and run-down of the night’s events, our group excitedly hiked back up the steep hill and hopped back on the train to whisk us up even higher to 2727 meters (8947 feet). The wind swirled snowflakes around us as our group set off on another short downhill hike to Iglu-Dorf. An electric buzz went through our group as we were all welcomed into the snowy enclave with hot mulled wine and popcorn.

With eyes wide, we followed the guides through the long candle lit tunnels of the igloo village on a tour of the artfully crafted rooms, each one different from the next.

The common room has tables and hot water with a selection of teas always available to keep hydrated throughout the overnight stay. There were also fixings to make a noodle soup to snack on until dinner. The ice bar serves a variety of wine and drinks (at an additional charge). The igloo village also has two outdoor jacuzzi, and everyone got signed up for 30 minute time slots while chatting over snacks and drinks.

Soon a communal dinner of piping hot cheese fondue was served. Tim and I had our fill and our guides invited us to use the jacuzzi early. No way were we turning that offer down! We quickly stripped down and pulled on our bathing suits in the heated changing room. Having forgot to pack flip-flops, I sprinted down the snowy path to hop into the swirling hot water. The jacuzzi was sort of sheltered by a wall of snow, but the wind was picking up and it was an odd sensation to have most of our bodies toasty hot in the bubbling water yet feel an icy blast of tiny snow crystals on our backs and necks. We’d laugh as we both sort of cringed at unwelcome momentary blast of cold.

We actually both got quite hot and took turns taking pictures of each other as we had refreshing rolls in the snow, quickly hopping back in to the jacuzzi a few minutes later.

Soon it was time for bed and we stripped down to just one layer of long underwear and climbed into our -40F expedition sleeping bag for two. It’s recommended to sleep with a hat on since your head is partially exposed, but I was actually pretty toasty and just pulled the hood of the sleep bag up around my head.

Tip: Place your clothes for the next day inside your sleeping bag with you and they’ll be nice and warm for the morning.

Unfortunately, all that tea to stay hydrated had done its job and I had to race across the windy courtyard of the igloo village to the bathroom 3 times throughout the night. The wind was really blowing snow drifts around each time I got up, but Tim got lucky and found a calm, cloudless night when he had gone out. With no moon, it was too dark to spot the Matterhorn though.

Our wake-up call came with a serving of hot tea in bed and notice we’d be meeting to head back down to Hotel Riffleberg in 15 minutes. Unfortunately, it was still very cloudy so a view of the Matterhorn wasn’t in the cards. After a 20 minute hike downhill to the hotel, a hot breakfast spread of eggs, bacon, sausages, fruit, cheese, and bread awaited us. What a delicious way to end a chilly adventure at Iglu-Dorf.

Day Two: Explore Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

With more than 360 kilometers of marked slopes in the Matterhorn Ski Paradise , today’s the day to hit the slopes. Or, if like me, you’re not a skier, then head out to explore some of the best Zermatt attractions like Matterhorn Glacier Paradise before ending the afternoon at one Zermatt’s day spas.

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Located on the Klein Matterhorn, or Little Matterhorn as it translates in English, Matterhorn Glacier Paradise sits at 3883 meters (12,740 feet). The highest cable car in Europe whisks visitors up to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise , where you’ll find 360° of the Swiss Alps. The breathtaking views are undoubtedly why visiting Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is one of the best things to do in Zermatt.

Generally the mountains are clearest in the morning, so you’ll want to head up to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise first thing. Not only is the best time of day for the weather, it is also generally less crowded as skiers like to hit the slopes for the best snow conditions first thing.

There’s actually several routes you can take since it takes a series of cable cars to reach Matterhorn Glacier Paradise from Zermatt. No matter which route you choose, the first leg of the 45-minute journey takes you from Zermatt to Furi. Many visitors then transfer to the cable car to Schwarszee in Furi, since this is the most scenic route up offering unique Matterhorn views.

We even recommend you allow some time for a stop in Schwarzsee. Here you can walk the short distance from the cable car station to the popular Matterhorn photo spot with the Zermatt sign. Then can hop back on the cable car to Trockener Steg, and change to the cable car called Matterhorn Glacier Ride for the final ride up to the summit.

Once at the summit of Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, you can admire one of the best views in Switzerland. The viewing platform looks out over 38 mountain peaks and 14 glaciers across Switzerland, Italy, and France.

And don’t miss out on the ice sculptures in the Matterhorn Glacier Palace, located 15 meters below the surface and accessible via a lift. If you’ve been to Chamonix’s Mer de Glace , the Glacier Palace is similar to explore with both naturally formed ice shapes and sculptures created by artists each year. It’s a perfect place to spend some time taking unique photos.

There’s also a restaurant, where you can find international cuisine from burgers to pizza along with Swiss specialties like rösti.

Visit a Day Spa

After a day spent exploring Europe’s highest cable car station, you might want to spend some time relaxing with a little self-care at one of Zermatt’s day spas. Your hotel might have some spa facilities for guest use like a sauna or jacuzzi. There’s also a number of Zermatt hotels with fabulous spas that offer a day pass.

Head to CERVO Mountain Resort , which sits just a little above the village of Zermatt. It’s easily accessible via a lift. The hotel’s spectacular setting blends in to the surrounding nature, and offers magnificent Matterhorn views. Not only that, 90% of the CERVO’s energy is generated by geothermal and solar sources making it a sustainable choice.

You don’t have to be a guest of the hotel to enjoy it, either. CERVO Mountain Resort offers a day pass for their Mountain Ashram Spa. The day pass includes use of the spa facilities like the pools and saunas, scheduled activities like yoga and meditation in the ritual room and use of the climbing wall.

Where to Stay in Zermatt

For a relatively small village nestled in the Swiss Alps, Zermatt offers quite an array of accommodations. From boutique hotels in Zermatt offering Matterhorn views to ski chalets, the choice can almost seem overwhelming when choosing your accommodation. Many accommodations offer luxury amenities onsite including wellness centers and fine dining restaurants. We’ve stayed at several different places and can recommend these Zermatt hotels for your trip.

CERVO Mountain Resort

CERVO Mountain Resort is one of the best ski-in, ski-out hotels in Zermatt. Practically its own little village, CERVO Mountain Resort is perched on a hill overlooking Zermatt and with impressive Matterhorn views and considered one of the best places to stay in Zermatt. But despite its size, it is still a family-run boutique hotel.

There are just 36 rooms spread over seven different chalets on the property, which were all just renovated in 2020 and all are mountain facing with balconies. Entire chalets can be rented to accommodate a family or group trip.

There’s also the Mountain Ashram Spa, a sought after wellness center which does offer day passes for purchase to non-guests. And there are several onsite restaurants. CERVO Kitchen is one of those restaurants, and during the daytime it offers a ski-in outdoor terrace serving an array of the best dishes from CERVO’s collection of restaurants. CERVO Kitchen is one of the best places to try Swiss fondue in Zermatt .

There’s a public elevator to easily get up and down to the village. And the resort is also dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry family members along on your Zermatt holiday.

Hotel Bristol Zermatt

Hotel Bristol Zermatt is a family-run hotel right in the center of Zermatt. Close to a bus stop and a short walk to the various cable car stations, Hotel Bristol Zermatt offers a convenient location to all Zermatt has to offer.

Room options include everything from singles to suites, apartments and a chalet. Some rooms have a Matterhorn view, which can be chosen during booking. The accommodation is dog-friendly for a fee of 10 CHF per night.

Hotel Bristol Zermatt also has a spa with relaxation room, Finnish sauna, steam bath, waterfall showers and an infrared cabin. Note that as is often traditional, the spa is a nude area.

The hotel also has a luggage room and will even allow guests to store luggage for a few days if you’re also staying at Iglu-Dorf Zermatt or up on the mountain. They also operate a free shuttle from the train station between 8am – 5pm for guests.

Hotel Schaller’s Tannenhof

One of the newest boutique hotels in Zermatt, Hotel Schaller’s Tannenhof is located right in the center with convenient access to both village and mountain attractions. The hotel has a focus on sustainability.

Rooms are a Swiss modern style and comfortable with a variety of amenities from heated floors to tv with Netflix. Some rooms also have balconies and accommodations are dog-friendly for a fee of 20 CHF per night.

The hotel also has an Italian restaurant onsite with pasta dishes, pizzas and an original locomotive right in the center of the restaurant.

Rent a Ski Chalet

If you’re staying longer than just a few nights, another option is renting a Zermatt ski chalet . The Luxury Chalet Company offer a variety of luxury ski chalets that can accommodate anywhere from just the two of you for an intimate ski getaway to large groups for a family holiday or even a ski bachelor/bachelorette weekend.

Getting to Zermatt

One of the charms of Zermatt is that it is car-free, and there’s no airport. The only way to get to Zermatt is either by train or by helicopter. But even so, it’s still fairly easy to get to Zermatt. I’d say even more so than many other European ski towns, since Zermatt is accessible by train from anywhere in Switzerland.

If you’re traveling to Zermatt internationally, Zermatt is easily accessible from both Geneva and Zurich airports since you can travel by train directly from either airport in around 3.5 hours.

How to Get to Zermatt by Train

The best way to get to Zermatt is by train, and there’s any number of options from within Switzerland, or even via destinations in France, Italy or Germany. If Zermatt is just one stop on your Switzerland itinerary, I recommend playing around with the best train routes using Trainline . This app makes it incredibly easy to see multiple train operators in multiple countries. Trainline makes it very easy to book multi-connection train trips and is always my go-to for train travel.

Note that if you use Trainline but are traveling with a dog, like me, you’ll have to purchase a ticket for your dog directly on the Swiss rail site SBB . Dogs require either a 2nd class ticket at the half-fare price or a Dog Day Pass, so work out which is the better price depending on your route (*small dogs that remain in a carrier placed under your seat do not require a ticket). Purchasing either a Dog Day Pass or a dog ticket is very easy, and can even be done online in advance on SBB.

Typical Train Travel Times to Zermatt

No matter where you depart to Zermatt from in Switzerland, you’ll have at least one connection typically in Visp. But the train ride from Visp to Zermatt is one of the prettiest train routes in Switzerland.

It’s also possible to drive to Zermatt via Täsch. Täsch is located 5 kilometers from Zermatt, then the road is closed for public traffic. In Täsch, you’ll have to park your car at either the Matterhorn Terminal or in a private parking. You can then either take the train from Täsch to Zermatt, which takes just 12 minutes, or book a private taxi transfer service to Zermatt. Note that over the Christmas period and on weekends from from February to April, there is a minimum 3-day parking stay.

It is also possible to arrive to Zermatt by helicopter with Air Zermatt . As well as offering sightseeing flights, Air Zermatt offers a helicopter taxi service to Zermatt from a number of destinations in Switzerland. Helicopter transfer is obviously a luxury option, and the most expensive way to get to Zermatt. But you can arrive from Geneva, Zurich or even Milan in 60 minutes or less.

Know Before You Go

Zermatt can also be reached by air; fly to either Geneva or Zurich airports and then take the train.

• Be sure to wear warm water-proof layers suitable for winter activities like you would wear skiing. We were comfortable with our thermal underwear and ski pants and parka. Bring gloves and a hat. Wear good winter boots.
• Bring a bathing suit and a towel for the jacuzzi. Bring flip flops if you don’t want to sprint barefoot across the snow.
• Bring a headlamp.
• Prices start at 159 CHF (around $170) per person for a standard shared igloo. The railway lift ticket to Gornergrat is not included.

Our trip to Zermatt was in partnership with Zermatt Tourimus in order to bring you this story. However, Luxe Adventure Traveler maintains full editorial control of the content published on this site. As always, all thoughts, opinions, and enthusiasm for travel are entirely our own. This article contains affiliate links. When you shop on Amazon  or book on Viator , GetYourGuide or Booking through our affiliate partner sites, we earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Loved this post? We love when you share our content! ~ Jen & Tim

About Jennifer Dombrowski

Jennifer Dombrowski is an independent travel publisher and an American expat who has lived in Bordeaux, France since 2016. She previously lived in Northern Italy in a small village near Venice for seven years where she fell in love with wine and wine tourism. She is an award-winning travel writer. She is also a travel correspondent on Traveling on the American Forces Radio Network. Luxe Adventure Traveler was named one of the top travel blogs to watch by the Huffington Post and TripAdvisor, and has been featured by top publications such as National Geographic, CNN, Buzzfeed, and Business Insider. Jennifer's photography has also been featured on publications such as USA Today and Travel + Leisure and on the Travel Channel.

February 26, 2013 at 3:41 PM

Oh it’s soooo beautiful!!!! I wish I was there now in one of those cottages drinking hot chocolate. 🙂

Jennifer Dombrowski says

February 26, 2013 at 6:52 PM

The village is very beautiful, Andi! An it is lovely to pop into one of the many cafes for a hot chocolate or hot cup of tea.

February 26, 2013 at 4:54 PM

Ahh, this is so good. Thanks for the story and info. Love those snow caps on the roofs of Gädini buildings.

February 26, 2013 at 9:39 PM

The Gädini buildings were my favorite too and the way they were snow capped was so beautiful. Like a postcard!

Sharon Bijo says

February 26, 2013 at 9:49 PM

I’ve been going to Zermatt every year to ski and it’s definitely the gem of the Swiss Alps. Not only does the ski resort have the best slopes I’ve ever seen in the country, but it also has great restaurants, lots of history and culture (like you mentioned) and a lot of activities to do besides skiing. I once went up to the top of a mountain at night for a fondue, and then came down sledding through the darkness with only a flashlight guiding the path. It was an amazing experience — highly recommended.

Jennifer says

February 27, 2013 at 10:54 AM

That sounds like so much fun, Sharon! What an adventurous way to get back to the village.

Andrew says

February 26, 2013 at 10:43 PM

This is pretty high on our list being not so far from Freiburg and on Ali’s check off list. I like the explanation of the double decker houses. The farmhouses from the BlackForest are wider, but similar shaped. The roof sheds the snow nicely. I don’t think the livestock live under the houses, but neat anyway.

February 27, 2013 at 12:21 AM

You and Ali should definitely visit Zermatt! We saw many of the Valais style houses on the drive to Tasch and wondered about them. So it was definitely interesting to learn about their heritage.

Sharon says

February 26, 2013 at 10:50 PM

Shalu Sharma says

February 27, 2013 at 10:42 AM

The village of Zermatt seems very interesting. The only place I have been to Switzerland is Zurich but hope to visit some other places and the village of Zermatt seems like a place going. These log buildings are amazing to look at. Its amazing how only 40 years ago transport to the Zermatt was mainly by horses.

February 27, 2013 at 2:18 PM

We also liked Zurich, but we love the smaller Swiss towns and villages. We’d love to do some hiking in the area and even hike the 40 kilometer long wine road in the Valais region.

Andrea says

February 27, 2013 at 5:52 PM

How delightful! I love Switzerland and a car-free village sounds charming…

February 27, 2013 at 7:52 PM

Most definitely charming, Andrea! Only 5500 people live in the village, so it is very homey feeling and everyone knows everyone.

Lu-Gerda says

March 6, 2013 at 10:47 AM

Hi, Zermatt is beautiful with the snow everywhere. I loved the village when we visited in the summer of 2011 but I think I must start planning a winter trip to Switzerland.

March 7, 2013 at 9:53 PM

Too funny, Lu-gerda! We want to plan a trip back in summer to go hiking around Zermatt.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Adventure News

14 Tips for Zermatt and Skiing the Matterhorn

Published by David Abramowitz

Time to Cool Off.

• #Alpine skiing
• #Backcountry skiing
• #Matterhorn
• #Skiing Tips
• #Switzerland

Products In This Article

How to plan the perfect ski weekend in Zermatt, Switzerland

A ski trip to the Alps is high up on many bucket lists, and a popular place to tick off the adventure is in Zermatt, Switzerland. Located along the Italian border and just a couple hours from France, Zermatt is a beautiful little town tucked into a valley surrounded by dense, green forests and soaring mountain peaks.

WATCH: Skiing in Zermatt, Switzerland

The Gornergrat Bahn climbs 3,089 metres in 33 minutes, affording fantastic views of Zermatt spread out below, thick forests, steep cliffsides and of course, the famous Matterhorn peak. Don’t worry about trying to snap photos, as you’ll get better shots on the hill, and the reflection off the glass windows means your pics won’t turn out anyway.

After you snap some selfies and manage to tear yourself away from the mesmerizing scene, it’s time to strap on those skis. Bright blue skies, pristine, sparkling snow and an abundance of runs stretch out before you, practically daring you to fly straight down the hill so as to not waste another moment of the glorious day.

To maximize how much of the resort you can explore, start off by tackling the Riffelberg and Riffelalp sections. Their slopes are wide open and long with very few hazards like rocks or trees to get in the way, meaning you can head down at full speed and it still seems to take forever to get back down to the lift. Better yet, you’ll have a perfect view of the Matterhorn the whole time.

Spend a couple of hours there, then make your way back in the direction of Zermatt to the Rothorn and Sunnegga areas. This is where you’ll find the locals, who love how close it is to town meaning they don’t waste any of their snow-day sitting in a gondola. This part of the resort is also popular with hikers year-round, because of its scenic trails.

By now you’ve surely worked up an appetite, so ski over to Adler Hitta ( Eagle Hut ), which is perched 2,200 metres high on the Findeln Alp. The gorgeous lunch spot is so luxe that you’d expect to find it somewhere like Miami Beach or Las Vegas —other than the fact that everyone is wearing snowpants instead of swimsuits. Plush loungers are spread out invitingly on multi-level platforms, fuzzy blankets are draped over chairs, and champagne chillers are scattered around just begging to be filled with a bottle of Moet.

Depending on how long you enjoy your leisurely lunch, there will likely only be time for a couple more runs before you have to head back to Zermatt. Fortunately the slopes on this part of the mountain aren’t quite as spread out, so you’ll be able to get at least a few in before hopping on the gondola for a lift into town.

A great spot to go is called Snowboat , a cozy yet lively bar with a wood-burning fireplace which is also home to the Zermatt Yacht Club restaurant. Oh, and just so happens to be in an old ship. Snowboat is packed, 90s hits blare over the sound system and the beer is flowing—what more can you ask for? Throw back a couple, then grab dinner in town before tucking into bed at one of the luxury chalets in Zermatt , resting up ahead of day two.

Sunday fun day! The second day of your Zermatt ski weekend will have you exploring the opposite side of the hill and even crossing into Italy—no passport required.

After breakfast and grabbing your equipment, hop on the gondola towards Furi as you mentally prepare yourself for the second leg up to the Matterhorn glacier paradise. Spoiler alert: hope you’re not scared of heights.

You’ll get to a large platform likely packed with people waiting for the cable car, which is the highest in all of Europe as it traverses a steep 3883 metres. When it arrives, you’ll be amazed at how many people pack into it, creating a game of sardines where the reward for playing is an epic, unforgettable view.

Together, you’ll soar thousands of feet over icy glaciers, snow covered slopes and come face-to-face with sheer rock faces just as the cable car crests over a mountain peak, safely depositing you at the Matterhorn glacier paradise.

Those with a fear of heights will be tested again as they make their way up the metal steps, but it’s worth it for the breathtaking panoramic view at the top.

Since this is the last night of your getaway, make it count with a walk through town to check out sites like the church, the old part of the village known as the Hinterdorf with its rustic timber buildings, and the shops along the main strip.

Cap off the weekend by grabbing dinner at Cafe du Pont Zermatt which is well-priced by Swiss standards and famous for its fondue (reservations recommended), before ending the night at the Unique Hotel Post . With a sleek interior, four restaurants and five bars including Pink which has live music, it’s the perfect place to end to end a ski weekend in Zermatt.

PRACTICALITIES: When to go: February and March are considered the best times to visit Zermatt, as the days are longer, the weather is warmer, and the snow conditions are still good. Music lovers will want to time their trip for the annual Zermatt Unplugged acoustic festival, which has hosted artists including Melissa Etheridge, James Blunt and Lauryn Hill. If visiting in December, be aware that many runs, hotels and restaurants might not be open for the season yet.

Insider tip: There are usually less people on the hill on Saturdays, as many tourists visiting Zermatt on a week-long vacation check in or out of hotels that day. How to get there: Zermatt is car-free, which means you can either take a special shuttle or hop on the train in the town of Tasch, which is about five kilometres away. There are lots of parking stalls in and around the train station if you arrive by vehicle, and it’s only a 12 minute ride to Zermatt.

Lift tickets: Passes for the Matterhorn Ski Paradise can be purchased at the resort or ahead of time online . There are a few different options, including the Ski Pass International which allows you to ski in both the Swiss and Italian sides of the resort. Lift tickets include free rides on any of the electric buses in Zermatt.

Where to stay in Zermatt

Bella Vista Hotel – You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back into time when staying at this cozy hotel, where homemade goods are baked every morning for breakfast. After a long day of skiing, guests can relax those sore muscles with a soak in the jacuzzi or with a visit to the sauna. Click here to book

Hotel & Solebad Arca – This hotel has amazing amenities like amenities like a large lap pool and sauna, yet still focuses on the tiny details like the fresh squeezed orange juice at breakfast. It’s walking distance from the train station, and the Zermatt Beer House is across the street which makes it easy to stumble home after an apres-ski session. Click here to book

Hotel Chesa Valese – The rooms here at Hotel Chesa Valese are large and comfortable, and guests love the unobstructed views of the Matterhorn, and cozy fireplace to curl up in front of. Click here to book

YOU MIGHT ALSO ENJOY:

• How to visit Zermatt, Switzerland on a budget
• Exploring lovely Lucerne, Switzerland after a rough start
• Just how expensive is Switzerland?

This post may contain affiliate links, which Globe Guide receives compensation for at no additional cost to you.

About The Author

Tamara Elliott

7 thoughts on “how to plan the perfect ski weekend in zermatt, switzerland”.

Pingback: Globe Guide’s travel bucket list

Pingback: The ultimate list of après-ski spots in Alberta’s Rocky Mountains

Pingback: How to visit Zermatt, Switzerland on a budget

Pingback: Top 5 destinatii de ski | Surorile Calatoare

Pingback: Top 5 ski destinations | Surorile Calatoare

Pingback: Ski Utah 3 ways: The best resorts for every type of skier - Globe Guide

Pingback: Switzerland - Top 6 Mind-blowing Tourist Attractions you Shouldn't Miss - TheUnblog

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Ultimate Travel Guide to Zermatt

Zermatt is a small ski village and region on the southern border of Switzerland neighbouring Italy and is the very essence of the term ‘winter wonderland.’ It’s so perfect and pristine that it resembles a film set rather than real life.

Everywhere you look in Zermatt, all you can see is snowy peaks, pine trees and cosy wooden ski chalets with everyone either relaxing with a hot chocolate in hand or pounding down mountains having the time of their lives.

Most visitors heading to Zermatt will want to see the Matterhorn mountain, which is famous for several reasons, including being the mountain on the wrapper of Toblerone chocolate bars and a ride at Disneyworld but there are plenty of other Zermatt winter activities and fun things to do.

Aside from all the amazing adrenaline-inducing winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding and hiking, there are some epic panoramic viewpoints, shopping streets and attractions.

Zermatt is the perfect option for an idyllic wintery break, especially if you feel like splashing out and treating yourself to a trip you’ll never forget. 

This ultimate Zermatt travel guide will include a Matterhorn guide as well as what to expect when visiting Zermatt, where to stay in Zermatt and what to do in Zermatt which will help you in planning a trip to Zermatt Switzerland.

Plan your trip?

Avoid hidden fees in the exchange rate while withdrawing from millions of ATMs abroad, paying in restaurants and shops, and buying your accommodation and flights using the Wise Card . You can hold up to 40+ currencies at once to spend in in over 150 countries, and convert them in real time with the free Wise app.

Need help planning your trip from start to finish? Check out these helpful links:

• Cheap flights
• Savings on accommodation from hostels to luxury hotels
• Affordable car rental options
• Affordable sightseeing tours and day trips
• Travel Adapter – All in one so you don’t have to carry a bunch around
• Don’t be silly and forget Travel Insurance ! Get hurt and you’ll regret it…

This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy. You can also read our content/editorial policy here .

Table of Contents

How to get to Zermatt

The nearest airports to Zermatt in Switzerland are Geneva and Sion (though Sion is very small) or it might be convenient to fly into Milan or Turin in Italy depending on your location.

Geneva has ski resort shuttle services to Zermatt for those on a budget which take around 3 hours. Others opt for private transfers, though some will only be able to take you as far as Tasch, whereas the shuttle service can take you into Zermatt. 

Zermatt is a car-free region, so if you’re wondering how to get to Zermatt without a car then the answer lies in Switzerland’s uber brilliant, efficient and modern public transport and rail network, though all trains to Zermatt change at the city of Visp.

If you are driving to Zermatt, you can leave your car at Tasch station. The journey from Tasch to Zermatt is very short and the scenery is beautiful. 

What to expect in Zermatt

Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in the world for visitors, so definitely save as much as possible for your trip. And you might find Zermatt to be even pricier due to its remoteness. 

The currency in Switzerland is the Swiss Franc and there are a few ATMs in Zermatt if you need to withdraw cash, but Switzerland is a fairly cashless country. A service charge is generally automatically added to restaurant bills in Switzerland and tipping elsewhere is welcomed but it’s not expected.

Switzerland is not a member of the EU, but it does have many agreements in place, plus it is a part of the Schengen zone. Switzerland has three main languages – Italian, German and French – spoken in different regions and Zermatt is in the German-speaking region.

Fortunately, English is spoken widely in Switzerland, so you’ll have no problem communicating with locals in Zermatt.

How to get around Zermatt

As previously mentioned, Zermatt is an entirely car-free region so walking or public transport are your two options. The village of Zermatt itself is very small and walkable, especially since you won’t have to watch out for cars!

There are a few ways to get around the wider region of Zermatt. Firstly, there are a few taxi services that are able to operate within the region including electric taxis and fully accessible cabs.

There is also bike rental but the most popular method of travelling around the region are the eBuses, of which there are around 500 in the area because Zermatt is very sustainability focused. 

If you already have tickets to some of the bigger attractions in the area (e.g. Matterhorn Glacier Paradise or Gornergrat Valley station) then the eBus is free. Otherwise, there is a range of travel passes available to purchase from afternoon tickets to season passes.

The best time to visit Zermatt

If you want a mix of skiing or snowboarding up in the mountains (though some pistes/lifts aren’t open in summer) and strolls/bike rides around Zermatt village in the sun then peak season, from June-September, is the best time to visit.

Though don’t expect summers to be too warm as temperatures usually fluctuate between 12-25 degrees Celsius.

Zermatt in December and January around Christmas and New Year is also a popular time for visitors who want to enjoy the winter sports and après ski during the holidays. Of course, ski resort prices will reflect these particularly busy periods.

There isn’t much of an off-season in Zermatt as the ski season runs from November-May and the summer crowds descend not long after. It’s just such a beautiful place to visit year-round! If you do want to visit the Swiss region in the quietest/cheapest possible period, head to Zermatt after the Easter break. 

Things to do in Zermatt

• Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

There’s absolutely no way you can visit Zermatt without taking the 40-minute gondola/cable car ride up to Klein Matterhorn and witness the panoramic views of Zermatt from the top at the viewing platform. At least you can if there isn’t too much fog, which unfortunately happens quite often on Matterhorn!

There are lots of things to do on Matterhorn: ski, hike and even dine at the world’s highest mountain restaurant. Definitely check out the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise where you can go inside an actual glacier on Matterhorn mountain.

Glacier Paradise has a display of beautiful ice sculptures and you could spend an entire afternoon exploring this icy maze. Don’t forget to dress warmly if you’re heading up Matterhorn as it can be very chilly, even in summer!

Matterhorn Museum

Though a museum about a mountain might seem a bit dull, the Matterhorn museum is actually super interesting as there are lots of fascinating stories about the people who have attempted to climb the mountain and about Matterhorn’s importance to the local people.

The underground exhibit also looks at the history of Zermatt in general, too, and how it developed from a remote farming community into a world-class ski resort town.

Monte Rosa Massif

Matterhorn Mountain may be the most notable mountain in the Zermatt region but there are other impressive peaks, too.

The Monte Rosa Massif is the highest mountain range in the Swiss Alps with 10 of its peaks climbing higher than 4,000m.

They’re so high that they’re pretty unscalable in winter but in summer you can take guided hikes and you can admire them from afar in any season.

Black Nose Sheep Farm

If you love local experiences when you travel and interacting with as many cute animals as possible, then you’ll love visiting this family farm and learning about how they run their businesses.

The Julen family open up their barn every Wednesday from June-October and December-April so that visitors can see their 300 Alpine-raised Black Nose Sheep up close.

You can see the fields where the sheep are raised and learn about how they are specifically suited to the Alpine life. Afterwards, you can join the Shepard for an aperitif and eat some of the cured meat from the sheep themselves.

Five Lakes Walk

Hiking is one of the top activities to do in Zermatt and there are so many routes and trails with different views and for different skill levels.

One of the most popular is the Five Lakes Walk because it’s an easy hike with some slightly tougher sections that you can easily complete in one day.

As the name suggests, the walk takes you past the beautiful scenery of five lakes: the Stellisee, Grindjisee, Moosjisee, Grünsee, and Leisee lakes.

This walk will be especially appealing to photographers because, on clear days, the Matterhorn is perfectly reflected in no less than three of the lakes, so you’re bound to get some epic shots for your Instagram feed.

Zermatt Matterhorn Viewpoint

Within the village of Zermatt itself, there will be lots of places where you can see Matterhorn mountain perfectly, even outside your hotel window if you’re lucky.

But during your trip, it’s worth visiting the specific Matterhorn viewpoint where you can see across the entire village with the mountain sitting perfectly in the centre.

The ideal time to go would be just as the sun is setting so you can still see the mountain, but all the chalets are lit up like a Christmas tree below.

Hinter Dorf

Even though there is so much to see in the region of Zermatt, there’s plenty to do in the village itself. The ‘Hinter Dorf’ neighbourhood of Zermatt (meaning ‘rear village’) or Old Town is a real-life time capsule that gives you a glimpse into what Zermatt would have looked like before it developed into a ski resort town. 

The charming, solid timber buildings are around 500 years old, but they still look perfectly preserved. Some of the structures were barns, stables and storehouses and they all line up against cobbled streets that only a horse and cart would be able to fit through!

Bahnhofstrasse

An alternate universe to Hinter Dorf is the Bahnhofstrasse, which is Zermatt’s main shopping street/hub. Zermatt is such a tightly packed town that everything is close by and it’s centred around this main street which is full of restaurants, bars, cafes, ski supply and clothing shops and gift stores.

If you’re not sure where to go next or where to eat dinner, head to Bahnhofstrasse and you’re bound to find what you’re looking for.

What to eat in Zermatt

Because many of the visitors who head to Zermatt have a bit more money to spend, the village isn’t short of amazing fine- dining experiences and Michelin-starred restaurants. Though there are still many affordable restaurants and family-friendly places in Zermatt too, and everywhere offers their own version of après ski. 

Du Pont is one of the best restaurants in Zermatt and not only is it one of Zermatt’s most established businesses, but it’s also budget-friendly and serves traditional Swiss food too. At Du Pont, you can tuck into an authentic fondue, raclette or Swiss sausage and order apple strudel for dessert and there really is nowhere better for value for money.

If you do want an all-expenses-spared experience, then you’ll definitely get that at After Seven , a Michelin-starred restaurant in Zermatt that offers diners a set movie and dinner menu where you can actually watch a film in the restaurant while you eat.

And don’t forget to nibble on a Toblerone bar or another kind of local Swiss chocolate, too!

Where to stay in Zermatt

Budget – Thankfully, even a village as small as Zermatt has a few fantastic hostels for travellers on a budget. From the outside, Youth Hostel Zermatt looks just like any other ski resort and inside there are cosy yet spacious dorms with all the amenities and no bunk beds.

Mid-range – Zermatt can be quite pricey, so while hostel rooms are approximately €50-75 a night, midrange hotels are around €150 per night. The Hotel Excelsior is a great mid-range option because it’s really near Zermatt train station and has bright, colourful rooms, some even have views of the Matterhorn!

The Hotel Parnass , literally across the river from The Hotel Excelsior, is great for families with huge rooms, some even have outside decks and dining tables and it has a rustic vibe with wooden ceiling and wall panels. 

Luxury – And if you have a bit more to spend, you’ve chosen the right place for a ski holiday. One fantastic option is Hotel La Ginabelle Zermatt which is an absolutely gorgeous 4-star hotel with a spa, swimming pools and a dining room which wouldn’t have looked out of place on the Titanic.

Or if you’re celebrating a special occasion like a honeymoon, you should check into CERVO Mountain Boutique Resort , a 5-star hotel with separate chalets for every guest and every amenity you could possibly want. Hot tubs, bike hire, huge windows and they even allow dogs!

Tours to do in Zermatt

Winery tour.

One of the most enjoyable ways to get to know a region is through its food and drink, and this winery tour set in the heart of the Valais Alps has some breath-taking scenery as well as some fantastic wines.

Tour around a local winery and learn all about the regions’ local grapes and wines with a tasting session.

Zermatt has some amazing internationally renowned chefs and restaurants, so many that you can’t possibly visit them all in one trip.

If you love tasting new dishes when you travel, then this food tour (which is more of a ‘behind the scenes’ experience) of some of the best restaurants in Zermatt is a can’t-miss.

Try dishes from at least four different kitchens, serving both international and local cuisine, allowing you to make the most out of your limited time in Zermatt.

Hardcore foodies will love being able to talk to the chefs and learn their secrets.

Paragliding

Sure, you can see the epic views of the mountain ranges that encircle Zermatt from viewing platforms and cable cars, but nothing beats an adrenaline rush like paragliding from those mountains where you’ll be able to see 360-degree panoramic views.

It’s an awesome, bucket list-worthy activity that you’ll never forget, and you’ll definitely get your money’s worth in a place as stunning as Zermatt.

Day trips from Zermatt

Mix a local, Swiss food tour experience with visiting Grimentz, a remote village in the Swiss Alps.

You will be treated to some phenomenal scenery as you travel through Zermatt, but you’ll be able to make your own local rye bread in a rustic, communal oven that is actually booked and used by the entire community!

You can then use the rye bread to eat Swiss cheese fondue with a knowledgeable, local guide.

The only downside to ascending Matterhorn is that you’re not able to see Matterhorn or include this iconic pyramid-shaped mountain in any of your photos.

This is just one of the reasons why so many travellers want to head up to the summit of Gornergrat, and this day trip is an ideal way to head up Gornergrat on the mountain railway and learn more about the whole area.

Day Hike around Zermatt

For those who are short on time or simply don’t want the hassle of planning and navigating a day hike themselves and want the safety and knowledge that comes with a local guide , then this day hike around the outskirts of Zermatt is perfect for large groups and families.

Recommended tours in Zermatt

• Zermatt – Rothorn: Enjoy the classical view of the Matterhorn
• Private Ski & Snowboard Zermatt
• Cellar visit and tasting
• Sion Wine Tour / Valais Wine tour – from vineyard to bottle
• Vacation Photographer in Zermatt
• Long fly in Zermatt 35 min
• Skip the Line: Admission Ticket to Alter Gasthof
• Standard fly Zermatt 20 min. Matterhorn view

If you’d like to save it for later, please save it to Pinterest.

Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

View all posts

Similar Posts

16 Things to do in Zermatt

Zermatt, Switzerland is a picturesque village in the Swiss Alps that is known for its stunning scenery and world-class…

17 Things to do in Interlaken

The scenic paradise of Interlaken, Switzerland is a nature lover’s dream. Meaning “between lakes” in German, Interlaken is fittingly…

Unique Swiss Experiences (To Make Your Friends Jealous)

Switzerland is a stunning country with so much to offer. With such a diverse landscape, you can do almost…

Where to stay in Lucerne [Best Places to Stay for 2024]

Lucerne is a beautiful town in Switzerland, perched on the shores of Lake Lucerne and surrounded by the Swiss…

Best Day Trips from Zurich

Located at the foothills of the magnificent Swiss Alps, known world-wide for the exquisite chocolate and the tranquil lake…

Ultimate Travel Guide to Interlaken Switzerland

The beautiful town of Interlaken sits within the wider Interlaken region in the achingly beautiful Swiss Alps. As its…

• Massachusetts
• Pennsylvania
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Washington D.C.
• Washington State
• Niagara Falls
• Playa Del Carmen
• Paris, France
• Rome, Italy
• Venice, Italy
• Florence, Italy
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Madrid, Spain
• Barcelona, Spain
• Seville, Spain
• London, U.K
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Cayman Islands
• Saint Lucia
• Turks and Caicos
• United Arab Emirates
• Cartagena, Colombia
• New Zealand

• All Inclusive
• National and State Parks
• RV Vacations
• Skiing/Winter Activities
• Summer Vacation
• Winter Travel
• Spring Break
• Animal Encounters
• City and Culture
• Virtual Vacations
• Weekend Getaways

• Packing Tips
• Road Trip Tips
• Family Travel Tips
• Travelling With Babies
• Travelling With Toddlers
• Gifts and Gear -Travel Gift Ideas
• Submission Guidlines

FUN Things to Do in Zermatt with Kids in Winter

A re you planning a winter holiday in Zermatt with your family and looking for a list of the best things to do in Zermatt with kids in winter ? You’re in luck, you’ve come to the right place!

Skiing is one of the most popular winter activities in Zermatt, but rest assured, this guide will also introduce you to all the best things to do in Zermatt for non-skiers , too. 

Zermatt is an exceptional family-friendly destination in Switzerland, thanks in no small part to the Wolli Card for Children – granting free access on trains and lifts, free child accommodations in many hotels, and exemption on visitor tax to children under 9 when accompanied by an adult that purchases a multi-day ski pass. 

So, are you ready to discover all the amazing things to do as a family in Zermatt this winter? Let’s go!

Best Zermatt with kids winter activities

Whether you are teaching your little ones to ski or just want to see one of the world’s best winter wonderlands when it is draped in snow, there are plenty of things to do in Zermatt with kids during the winter months to keep everyone entertained.

Skiing and Snowboarding 

Skiing in Zermatt is one of the major draws to visiting this wonderful Swiss destination during the winter. With guaranteed 365 days of snow at the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and over 320 kilometers of skiable runs, Zermatt is a skiing and snowboarding hotspot in the Alps. 

Despite being such a popular place to ski, the runs are very spread out and accessible via a whopping 53 different ski lifts. This means you will very rarely have to queue for the lifts, and the runs won’t be too crowded, allowing plenty of space for the kids to practice their turns without you worrying about other skiers bumping into them. 

FLYING TO SWITZERLAND FOR YOUR SKI TRIP? ALSO READ: HOW TO FLY WITH SKIS

Is Zermatt good for beginners?

Zermatt has no green runs , which isn’t ideal for first-time skiers. With that said, however, it is home to the wonderful Wolli Park , a beginner-friendly learning area found at the top of the Sunnegga-Rothorn Funicular. 

The park features a number of flatter runs, accessed by 5 easy-to-use magic carpets. This makes the ideal place to begin your day with the little ones so they can get their skiing legs back or take private ski lessons before challenging them with something a little bit trickier. 

For the easiest, most gradual ski runs, stick to the Sunnegga-Rothorn Ski Area, where there are several wide, cruisy blue runs that are great for beginner skiers. 

FIND MORE ON SKI RESORT RATING SYSTEMS AND OTHER SKIING EXPRESSIONS HERE

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise 

The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is home to Europe’s highest cable car station and is one of the best places to visit with kids in Zermatt. 

The adventure begins at the Klein Matterhorn Cable Car Station in Zermatt Village. The cable car takes around 40 minutes from here, with a transfer in the middle. 

As is typical in Zermatt, the views during the journey are absolutely incredible, with the iconic Matterhorn peak featuring prominently throughout. 

The last ascent up to the final cable car station is very steep, so it may be a good idea to distract your kids at this stage if you think they may get a little nervous. 

Once at the top, spend some time in the immersive Cinema Lounge , which offers a great introduction to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, before heading up the lift to the main highlight – the 360° Viewing Platform. Countless 4,000+ meter peaks can be seen from the viewing platform, and on a clear day, you can see 3 different countries – Switzerland, Italy and France.

BOOK YOUR MATTERHORN GLACIER PARADISE TICKETS 

Glacier Palace 

Another highlight of the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, and arguably the best thing to do with kids in winter in Zermatt, is the Glacier Palace. 

A small elevator takes you 15m down, directly into the glacier itself. Underground, you will be welcomed by an icy paradise that is home to deep crevasses and intricately carved ice sculptures. 

Entry to the palace is included with any Zermatt ski pass or free for kids under 9 with a valid Wolli Card. 

Top tip: Towards the back of the palace, you will find a ‘Glacier ice slide’ that’s amazing for kids and big kids alike. Grab yourself a ‘sliding mat’ each, and head to the top of the slide. It’s great fun, and the kids will love it!

Gornergrat Cog Railway 

Perhaps the most famous winter activity in Zermatt, the Gornergrat Cog Railway is Europe’s highest open-air cog railway and has been transporting eager visitors up and down the mountainside for over 125 years. 

The world’s first fully electric railway was built back in 1898 and to this day, remains one of the highlights of any winter visit to Zermatt for families. 

The 33-minute journey takes you from the Zermatt-Gornergrat station at 1600m above sea level all the way to the summit of the Gornergrat at 3089m. 

At the top, you are treated to unrivaled views of the Matterhorn and surrounding mountain peaks. For an extra fun game for the kids to play, encourage them to try and find the ‘Golden Carriage’ at the top. It may take them a while, but the photos will be worthwhile!

Top tip: For the best views of the Matterhorn, make sure to sit on the right-hand side of the train as it trundles its way up the mountain. 

ZOOOM the Matterhorn

Found at the Gornergrat Summit Station is the immersive, interactive ‘Zooom the Matterhorn’ experience.  

There are 3 separate exhibitions for the kids to enjoy. The first contains periscopes overlooking the various mountain peaks in the area. The second is an interactive 3D Cinema experience showcasing the different landscapes of the Matterhorn throughout the seasons. And the third zoom stage is a virtual sightseeing paragliding flight across Zermatt. 

Entry to ZOOOM the Matterhorn is free with a valid Gornergrat train ticket or with a Wolli Card for children up to 9 years old. 

Snowshoeing 

Look no further than snowshoeing for a fantastic, family-friendly winter adventure in Zermatt. The whole family can enjoy this magical endeavor with multiple dedicated snowshoeing trails to be found in Zermatt. 

The easiest and most enjoyable for families is the Rotenboden-Riffelberg trail commencing from the Rotenboden Station on the Gornergrat Cog Railway line. 

You can rent your snowshoes directly at the station, strap them to your feet, and head straight onto the trail for a spot of snow-filled family fun. 

The Panorama Trail (No. 142), as it is known, is almost exclusively downhill, and the 2.5km trail takes you across the frozen Riffelsee Lake. The trail itself is signposted with bright pink poles, and while the guidebooks tell you it will take 1.5 hours, it is recommended to factor in a 2-hour walk when snowshoeing with kids. 

Take plenty of stops along the way to catch your breath and to take as many panoramic photos of the Matterhorn as possible. 

Another great thing to try in Zermatt with kids this winter is sledding or tobogganing and, once again, the best place to experience this winter thrill is from Rotenboden station, the 5th stop on the Gornergrat Cog Railway. 

Great fun for any age group, you can rent your sleds from the station and head to the dedicated Rotenboden toboggan run. The course itself is around 1.5km long and, depending on your speed, can take anywhere between 10-20 minutes. 

Not long enough for the kids? Well, the great thing is that the train ride from Riffelberg back up to Rotenboden only takes 5 minutes, so you can do as many laps of the course as you like, provided you have a valid ski pass that allows unlimited entries. 

Worth noting: The rentable sleds from Rotenboden don’t have brakes. Instead, you dig your feet into the snow to control your speed. For this reason, it is advisable to share a sled with younger children so they don’t go careering down the mountain.  

Matterhorn Museum 

If you want to introduce your kids to some of the area’s history while you visit Zermatt in winter, the best place to head is the Matterhorn Museum in the center of Zermatt Village. 

The Museum’s exhibits showcase early life in the village and document the village’s rise to being a major global alpinist destination. 

There is a fascinating recount of the ill-fated first ascent of the Matterhorn by Edward Whymper and his team and a tribute to the Gornergrat Cog Railway to celebrate the iconic train’s 125th anniversary in 2023. 

Ice Skating 

The village of Zermatt is home to a free-to-enter ice rink, open daily throughout the winter from 9am-7pm. 

It is possible to rent ice skates in the village nearby and bring them directly to the rink. Some rental places also provide mini penguin skate-aids to help younger children balance while on the ice.

Ice-skating is a great, family-friendly activity and one of the best things to do in Zermatt with kids in winter. 

Family-friendly Accommodations in Zermatt

Because Zermatt is a popular winter destination for families, you’ll find no shortage of accommodations and hotels that offer family suites and other amenities like indoor swimming pools.

Here are three great hotel options with rooms large enough for families for your Zermatt winter trip:

• Tradition Julen Hotel
• Hotel Alpenroyal
• Schweizerhof Zermatt

Tips for visiting Zermatt with Kids in Winter

Zermatt is a car-free village, but watch out for the electric taxis/shuttles – despite being a car-free village, Zermatt still has many electric taxis/shuttles weaving in and out of pedestrians, so make sure to keep an eye on your little ones, particularly on Bahnhofstrasse (Zermatt’s main street).

Make restaurant reservations ahead of time – booking restaurant reservations as early as possible is super important. Particularly when traveling as a family, it is unlikely you’ll be able to find a walk-in booking to fit the entire family. 

Be mindful of the altitude – the village of Zermatt is only 1600m above sea level, but as you progress up the slopes, the altitude increases. Just be mindful of this when traveling with young ones. 

Buy a Toblerone and recreate the iconic photos – for an extra fun activity to do with kids in Zermatt, why not buy a Toblerone chocolate bar and take a photo with the logo of the Toblerone over the Matterhorn peak? The kids will love it!

FAQs about Visiting Zermatt in Winter with Kids

If this is your first time visiting Zermatt, here are a few of the most frequently asked questions about planning a family trip to Zermatt in winter.

What is the best way to get to Zermatt in winter?

Zermatt is an entirely car-free destination, so the closest you can get to the village by car is by parking in the nearby town of Täsch and catching the train from there. 

Alternatively, the easiest way to visit Zermatt in Winter is by catching the train directly from the airport you fly into. Remember that the Swiss Travel Pass can save you money on all train travel in Switzerland. 

Does the Swiss Travel Pass cover Zermatt? Thankfully, yes, it does, but be sure to double-check whether it is necessary for your family because in some instances, it is actually cheaper to skip buying the pass as sometimes children can travel free on trains in Switzerland.

How long should you plan to visit Zermatt in the winter?

Four days is the minimum amount of time recommended to spend in Zermatt, as it is just enough time to enjoy a magical 4-day winter itinerary in Zermatt that covers the main highlights. 

In general, though, if you don’t want to be rushed and have time to factor in a couple of relaxing mornings for the kids, 1 week is perhaps the best length of time to visit Zermatt in the winter. 

To extend your Europe trip, tack on some additional cities in Switzerland, like Zurich or Lucerne, particularly if visiting during the holidays as these are among some of the best places in Europe to spend Christmas .

What is the best time to visit Zermatt in the winter?

Zermatt is a very popular winter destination in Switzerland, but the busiest times are around the festive period (Mid-December to early January). 

Any other time in the winter is great to visit Zermatt and remember that the ‘snow-sure’ resort has guaranteed snow 365 days a year, so you’ll be able to ski as a family regardless of when you visit. 

During winter the high temperatures are only around freezing so be sure to dress like you’re going skiing even if you aren’t planning to hit the slopes.

What is the best family-friendly restaurant in Zermatt? 

Luckily, there are many options for family-friendly restaurants in Zermatt, particularly along the Bahnhofstrasse (Zermatt’s main street). 

A particularly popular choice is the Schweizerhof Kitchen, which serves a number of kid-friendly meals like pasta, pizza and burgers. 

As mentioned earlier, remember to book a table in advance to avoid being disappointed.

Conclusion | A fun winter in Zermatt with kids

There we have it, folks, a conclusive round-up of the best things to do in Zermatt with kids in winter. This lovely alpine village is one of the best family-friendly destinations in Switzerland and is guaranteed to create cherished memories for you and your family.

Whether you’re a family planning the perfect ski holiday in Europe or simply want to experience Zermatt in winter, a trip to this Swiss mountain village promises an unforgettable adventure. 

Do you have any questions about visiting Zermatt with kids during the winter season? We’d love to hear from you! Leave your thoughts or questions in the comments below. 

Like it? Pin this guide to winter in Zermatt with kids to save it for later!

Did you know….

When you make a purchase or book hotels, tours, or other travel services, through our links, we receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. We only EVER recommend service providers, websites, or products we personally use when booking our own travels. Your support enables us to keep producing helpful travel content. Thank you!

• Book a HOTEL
• Book a RENTAL CAR
• Purchase TRAVEL INSURANCE
• Book guided tours or excursions at GET YOUR GUIDE or VIATOR
• Book TRAIN TRAVEL IN EUROPE
• Book BUS TICKETS IN EUROPE
• Book a FERRY IN EUROPE
• Book a DESTINATION PHOTOGRAPHER
• Buy TRAVEL GEAR on Amazon
• Buy a PRIORITY PASS MEMBERSHIP for airport lounge access

Unveiling the Ultimate Guide: When to Ski in Zermatt?

Looking for the perfect time to hit the slopes in Zermatt ? With its stunning Alpine scenery, unparalleled skiing experience, and charming town, it’s no wonder Zermatt is one of the most popular skiing destinations in the world. But, when is the best time to visit? We’ve got you covered.

Firstly, let’s talk about the snow . Zermatt’s ski season runs from late November to early May, and the resort boasts a fantastic snow record. January and February typically see the most snowfall, while March and April are known for sunny days and great skiing conditions. Keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to check the forecast before you hit the slopes.

Secondly, let’s talk about the crowds . Zermatt is a popular destination, so if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit outside of peak season. Christmas and New Year’s, as well as February half-term, are the busiest times. If you’re looking for a quieter experience, consider visiting in early December or late April.

Ultimately, the best time to ski in Zermatt depends on your preferences. If you love fresh powder and don’t mind the crowds, peak season might be for you. If you prefer quiet slopes and sunny days, consider visiting during the off-peak season. Whatever your preference, Zermatt is sure to deliver an unforgettable skiing experience. Keep reading for more insider tips and expert recommendations.

Discover the Best Time to Hit the Slopes in Zermatt

If you’re planning a skiing trip to Zermatt, Switzerland, you may be wondering when the best time to visit is. Zermatt is a world-renowned ski resort that offers stunning alpine views and an extensive network of ski runs suitable for all skill levels. In this article, we’ll explore the best time to hit the slopes in Zermatt so that you can plan the perfect ski vacation.

Winter Skiing in Zermatt

Winter is the peak ski season in Zermatt, and it typically lasts from late November to early May. During this time, Zermatt receives a considerable amount of snowfall, making it an ideal destination for skiers and snowboarders. The skiing conditions are typically the best from late December to early March when the snow is at its deepest and freshest. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so expect crowds and long lift lines. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, plan your visit for late January or early February.

Spring Skiing in Zermatt

Spring skiing in Zermatt is an excellent option for those who want to enjoy milder temperatures and longer days. The ski season usually continues until early May, and the crowds thin out significantly after mid-March. Skiing conditions can be hit or miss in the spring, but you can expect plenty of sunshine and beautiful weather. If you’re an intermediate skier , spring is an excellent time to visit as the ski runs are less crowded and the snow is typically softer and easier to navigate.

Summer Skiing in Zermatt

• During the summer months, Zermatt transforms into a hiking and mountain biking paradise, but it’s also possible to ski on the glacier. The ski season usually begins in early July and lasts until early September. Skiing on the glacier is a unique experience that offers breathtaking views and excellent skiing conditions. However, it’s worth noting that the ski area is limited during the summer, and the snow quality can vary depending on the weather.
• If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and experience something unique, summer skiing in Zermatt is an excellent option. Plus, with plenty of other activities to enjoy, it’s a great time to visit with non-skiers as well.

Now that you know the best time to hit the slopes in Zermatt, it’s time to start planning your ski vacation. Whether you’re looking for fresh powder or sunny spring skiing , Zermatt has something to offer skiers of all levels. Don’t wait – book your trip today and experience the ultimate ski vacation!

Get Insider Tips on Weather and Snow Conditions in Zermatt

As a world-renowned ski resort, Zermatt is known for its breathtaking views, challenging ski runs, and reliable snow conditions. But with ever-changing weather patterns, it can be difficult to know when the best time is to hit the slopes. Here are some insider tips on weather and snow conditions in Zermatt:

When planning your ski trip to Zermatt, it’s important to keep in mind that the ski season typically runs from late November to mid-April. During this time, the resort’s 360 kilometers of ski runs are fully open, providing endless opportunities for skiers and snowboarders alike.

Snow Conditions

• For optimal snow conditions, the best time to visit Zermatt is typically between January and March. During this time, the resort receives the most snowfall, creating ideal conditions for skiing and snowboarding.
• However, Zermatt also boasts a state-of-the-art snowmaking system, which allows for high-quality snow throughout the season, even during milder weather.
• It’s always a good idea to check the weather and snow reports leading up to your trip, as conditions can vary.

Weather Patterns

• Zermatt is situated in the heart of the Swiss Alps, which means that it can experience a wide range of weather patterns.
• While the winter months typically bring colder temperatures and snowfall, it’s not uncommon for there to be sunny days throughout the season as well.
• It’s important to be prepared for varying weather conditions, including snow, wind, and sun. Dressing in layers and bringing the appropriate gear is key to a comfortable and enjoyable day on the mountain.

Peak Season and Crowds

As with any popular ski resort , Zermatt can experience peak season crowds during holidays and weekends. If possible, it’s best to plan your trip during non-peak times to avoid long lift lines and crowded runs.

That being said, even during peak season, Zermatt is a vast ski resort with plenty of runs to explore. With some insider knowledge on weather and snow conditions, you can make the most of your trip and enjoy all that Zermatt has to offer.

Explore the Pros and Cons of Skiing in Peak Season

Planning a skiing trip is an exciting time for any avid skier. However, choosing the right time of year to visit can make or break the experience. Peak season, typically from mid-December to late February, offers an abundance of snow, lively atmosphere, and a range of events. But is it the best time to visit? Let’s explore the pros and cons.

Pros of Skiing in Peak Season:

Ideal Snow Conditions

Peak season is known for its ideal snow conditions, making it perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities. With an average of 360 inches of snowfall each year, skiers can expect a fresh layer of powder almost daily, providing an unforgettable experience.

Festive Atmosphere

Peak season brings a lively and festive atmosphere to the ski resorts . From Christmas markets to New Year’s Eve parties, there is always something to enjoy, making it a memorable experience for families and friends alike.

Range of Activities

Peak season is not just about skiing. There are plenty of activities to choose from, including snowshoeing, ice-skating, tobogganing, and even paragliding. This provides the perfect opportunity to try something new and make unforgettable memories.

Cons of Skiing in Peak Season:

Peak season means a high volume of skiers, which can lead to long lift lines, crowded slopes, and a lack of accommodation availability . For those looking for a peaceful skiing experience, it may not be the best option.

High Prices

Peak season means high prices. From accommodation to lift tickets, prices are often inflated, making it an expensive time to visit. Additionally, prices for flights and transportation can also increase during this time, adding to the cost.

Limited Availability

With high demand comes limited availability. Accommodations and ski rentals often sell out quickly, leaving visitors with limited options. It is important to book well in advance to ensure availability.

In conclusion, skiing during peak season can be an unforgettable experience. Ideal snow conditions, a festive atmosphere, and a range of activities make it the perfect time for many visitors. However, high prices, crowds, and limited availability may deter some from choosing this time of year. Ultimately, it depends on personal preferences and priorities when it comes to choosing the best time to hit the slopes.

Why Spring Skiing in Zermatt Should Be on Your Bucket List

If you’re an avid skier or snowboarder, you’ve probably heard about the Swiss resort town of Zermatt. Located at the base of the Matterhorn, Zermatt is a world-renowned destination for winter sports enthusiasts. But have you ever considered visiting Zermatt during the spring season?

Spring skiing in Zermatt offers a unique experience that is worth adding to your bucket list. Here are some reasons why:

Perfect Weather Conditions

• Spring sunshine: During the spring season, Zermatt experiences some of the sunniest days of the year. The clear skies provide breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain range.
• Soft snow: The warmer temperatures during the day create softer snow conditions, making for a more enjoyable skiing experience.
• Extended lift hours: With the longer days, you’ll have more time to enjoy the slopes as the lifts stay open later into the evening.

Fewer Crowds

• Less busy: Unlike the peak winter season, springtime in Zermatt is a quieter and more laid-back experience. You’ll be able to enjoy the slopes and resort amenities with fewer crowds.
• Lower prices: With fewer visitors, many hotels and restaurants offer discounted rates during the spring season.

Diverse Activities

• Off-slope activities: Springtime in Zermatt offers a wide range of off-slope activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and golfing. You can also enjoy the town’s world-class spas and shopping.
• Festivals and events: Zermatt hosts several festivals and events during the spring season, including the Zermatt Unplugged music festival and the Horu Trophy ski race.

Overall, spring skiing in Zermatt offers a unique experience that combines great weather, fewer crowds, and diverse activities. So if you’re looking for a ski vacation with a twist, consider adding Zermatt to your bucket list.

Uncover the Beauty of Summer Skiing in Zermatt

If you think skiing is only a winter sport, think again. Summer skiing in Zermatt is a must-do for any skiing enthusiast. Not only does it offer a unique experience, but it also lets you enjoy the stunning scenery of the Swiss Alps in a different season.

Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced skier, there’s something for everyone in Zermatt during the summer months. The resort has some of the highest and longest ski runs in Europe, and with over 20km of pistes open during the summer, you won’t run out of slopes to explore.

Experience the Thrill of Skiing in the Sunshine

While skiing in the winter has its charm, skiing in the summer has its own unique appeal. Imagine skiing down the slopes in warm sunshine and a clear blue sky. It’s a feeling like no other. You can also take advantage of longer days and ski until the sun sets, which is a truly unforgettable experience.

Enjoy Stunning Views of the Matterhorn

• Mountain : The Matterhorn is the most famous mountain in Switzerland, and you can enjoy breathtaking views of this majestic peak while skiing in Zermatt during the summer.
• Scenery : The beauty of the Swiss Alps is not limited to the winter season. In fact, the summer months provide an opportunity to witness the stunning green valleys and blooming wildflowers that blanket the mountainsides.
• Landscape : Skiing in the summer allows you to witness the changing landscape of the Alps as the snow melts and the mountains come alive with vibrant colors.

Combine Skiing with Other Summer Activities

• Hiking : Zermatt has over 400km of hiking trails, and summer skiing can easily be combined with hiking for a full day of outdoor activities.
• Cycling : Zermatt is a paradise for cyclists with endless trails and roads to explore. You can even cycle up to the glacier to start your day of summer skiing.
• Relaxation : After a long day of skiing, you can unwind and relax in the beautiful alpine village of Zermatt. The town is car-free and offers a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.

If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable skiing experience, summer skiing in Zermatt should be at the top of your bucket list. With its stunning scenery, excellent skiing conditions, and wide range of summer activities, Zermatt is the perfect destination for any adventurous traveler.

What to Expect When Skiing in Zermatt During the Holidays

If you’re planning on skiing in Zermatt during the holidays, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s important to note that the holidays are one of the busiest times of the year in Zermatt, so be prepared for large crowds and long lift lines. However, the festive atmosphere and beautiful decorations around the village make it a special time to visit.

Secondly, the weather conditions during the holidays can vary greatly. It’s not uncommon to experience both sunny and snowy days, so it’s important to bring a variety of ski gear to prepare for all weather conditions.

Skiing Conditions During the Holidays

• Powder: Due to the higher number of skiers during the holidays, powder can get tracked out quickly. However, if you’re willing to go off-piste, you can still find some fresh powder.
• Groomers: The pistes are meticulously groomed during the holidays, providing great skiing conditions for all levels.
• Weather: As mentioned earlier, the weather can be unpredictable during the holidays. Be sure to check the forecast regularly and bring appropriate gear for all conditions.

Apres-Ski Activities During the Holidays

Aside from skiing, there are plenty of apres-ski activities to enjoy during the holidays in Zermatt. The village is beautifully decorated with lights and Christmas markets, offering a festive atmosphere for visitors. There are also numerous restaurants and bars offering special holiday menus and drinks. For those looking for a more unique experience, try ice-skating or snowshoeing.

Travel During the Holidays

When traveling to Zermatt during the holidays, it’s important to book accommodations and transportation well in advance. The village can get booked up quickly during this busy time, and transportation options may be limited due to heavy snowfall. Be sure to plan ahead and be flexible with your travel arrangements.

Expert Recommendations on Off-Season Skiing in Zermatt

If you’re a skiing enthusiast, you know that the off-season can be a great time to hit the slopes in Zermatt. However, planning a ski trip during the off-season can be a bit tricky. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve compiled some expert recommendations for skiing in Zermatt during the off-season.

First and foremost, it’s important to keep in mind that the off-season typically runs from April to November. During this time, you’ll experience fewer crowds and lower prices, but you’ll also need to be prepared for changing weather conditions. Here are some expert tips for off-season skiing in Zermatt:

Check the Weather

The weather in Zermatt during the off-season can be unpredictable, so it’s important to check the forecast regularly and be prepared for any conditions. Be sure to bring layers and clothing that will keep you warm and dry, even in wet or snowy weather.

Plan Your Itinerary Carefully

During the off-season, not all lifts and slopes are open, so it’s important to plan your itinerary carefully to make sure you can access the runs you want to ski. Check with the resort in advance to determine which lifts and slopes will be open during your visit.

Consider Hiring a Guide

If you’re unfamiliar with the terrain in Zermatt or are not confident skiing on your own, consider hiring a guide. A guide can help you navigate the mountain and find the best runs for your skill level, as well as help you stay safe in changing weather conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can you ski in zermatt.

You can ski in Zermatt from November through April. The best time to ski is during December and January when the snow is fresh and the slopes are less crowded.

What are the ski conditions like in Zermatt?

The ski conditions in Zermatt are usually excellent. The resort has a high altitude, which means there is usually plenty of snow. However, it’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before hitting the slopes.

Are there any beginner-friendly slopes in Zermatt?

Yes, there are plenty of beginner-friendly slopes in Zermatt. The Gornergrat area is particularly good for beginners, with gentle slopes and stunning views.

Can you ski off-piste in Zermatt?

Yes, Zermatt is known for its fantastic off-piste skiing . However, it’s important to hire a guide if you’re planning to ski off-piste as the terrain can be challenging and dangerous.

What is the best way to get to Zermatt?

The best way to get to Zermatt is by train. The town is car-free, so you’ll need to park your car in Täsch and take the train to Zermatt. The journey takes around 10 minutes and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Are there any après-ski activities in Zermatt?

Yes, Zermatt has plenty of après-ski activities. You can enjoy a drink at one of the many bars or cafes, or indulge in a spa treatment to relax after a day on the slopes. Zermatt also has a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of restaurants and clubs to choose from.

Privacy Overview

2-FOR-1 GA TICKETS WITH OUTSIDE+

Don’t miss Thundercat, Fleet Foxes, and more at the Outside Festival.

GET TICKETS

BEST WEEK EVER

Try out unlimited access with 7 days of Outside+ for free.

Start Your Free Trial

Powered by Outside

Which Season Pass Offers the Best Alps Access?

Read the fine print on the major multipasses or risk getting turned away in the lift line..

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

There are some ski trips that can be pulled off last minute, but a big trip to the Alps is rarely one of them. Skiing in Europe is the type of bucket-list experience that you want to start planning up to a year in advance, giving yourself plenty of time to track the best prices on airfare and choose the multipass with the most resorts on your itinerary.

       Know Before You Buy : Read SKI’s Complete Season Pass Buyer’s Guide

Most ski resorts across the pond join the U.S. multipasses as partner resorts, so the access rules differ from at an owned hill. There may be additional restrictions that we’re not used to here in the States, including needing to book specific lodging properties to unlock your lift access, using your days consecutively, and stopping at the ticket off to show your pass and get a local card to use on lifts. That’s why it’s imperative to take the time to understand all the rules around skiing in Europe with your pass. You don’t want to get turned away in the lift line because you didn’t read the fine print.

Here’s a breakdown of the European skiing on tap next season on all of the major multipasses.

Ikon Pass features some of the heaviest hitters in European skiing, including Zermatt, Chamonix, and new for next season, St. Moritz. It also has the most straightforward access at its Alps partners, with five days on the Ikon Base or seven days on the Ikon Pass with no limitations or blackout dates at any of the resorts. So if you’re traveling over the holidays or trying to coordinate with your kids’ spring break dates, you don’t have to worry about not being able to use your days.

Today (April 18) is the last day to get the Ikon Pass at its lowest price.

Ikon Pass European Resorts

• Chamonix Mont Blanc, France
• Dolomiti Superski, Italy
• Grandvalira Resorts, Andorra
• Kitzbühel, Austria
• Zermatt Matterhorn, Switzerland
• St. Moritz, Switzerland

As is common in Europe, these larger resorts are composed of several smaller ski areas, and your Ikon Pass gets you five or seven days to split between all of them. For example, St. Moritz comprises three main resorts, with another six smaller ski areas rounding out the offerings. You get five days on the Ikon Base and seven on the Ikon Pass to use in total at all of the ski areas under the larger St. Moritz umbrella.

The Fine Print

You can go straight to the lifts at Chamonix, Kitzbühel, Zermatt, and St. Moritz. At Grandvalira, Ikon Pass holders need to visit the ticket window and show their pass in exchange for a local lift ticket. And while your Ikon Pass is direct-to-lift at Dolomiti Superski, all skiers need to have proof of liability insurance to ski there. Go without, and risk a fine and possible pass confiscation. More info on that here .

Finally, the Friends & Family discount is not applicable at any of the European resorts on the Ikon Pass. The resorts are also not accessible on the Ikon Session Passes.

Unlike the Ikon Pass, Vail Resorts owns two Swiss resorts—Andermatt-Sedrun and Crans Montana (the Crans Montana sale is expected to close later this year). That means that Epic Pass holders wanting to ski in Europe get unlimited, blackout-free access to both of these resorts for the 2024-’25 ski season, and Epic Local pass holders get five days at each with no blackout dates.

On top of that, Epic Pass also has partnerships with four additional European resorts. (They count it as 26 ski areas on the website , but as noted above, the larger resorts each encompass a number of smaller slopes, and the designated number of days you get with your pass includes all of the ski areas that comprise each resort.) Note that the partner resorts are not available on the Epic Local pass, so plan accordingly if you want to ski at any of the resorts on the second set of resorts listed below.

Epic Pass European Resorts

Owned by vail resorts.

• Andermatt-Sedrun
• Crans-Montana

Epic Pass Partner Resorts

• Verbier 4 Vallées, Switzerland
• Skirama Dolomiti, Italy
• Les 3 Vallées, France
• Ski Arlberg, Austria

Access varies at each of the Epic Pass Alps resorts, so don’t make any assumptions when making your plans. There are lots of hoops to jump through, especially if you want to use your Epic Pass at the partner resorts, to read carefully. Also, Buddy Tickets and Ski With a Friend discounts can’t be used at the Alps partner resorts.

Andermatt : Unlimited access with no blackouts on the Epic Pass, and five days with no blackouts on the Epic Local. You have to visit a ticket office to show your pass and get a local access card. At that time, pass holders will have the option to add seven-day Matterhorn access via the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn train for $50 CHF ($55 at press time).

Crans Montana : Unlimited access with no blackouts on the Epic Pass, and five days with no blackouts on the Epic Local. More details will be shared after the sale closes.

Verbier 4 Vallees : You have to book five days of qualifying lodging to get your five days at Verbier. The stay must consist of consecutive nights, meaning that you can’t book two nights at one point in the season, and then another three nights on a different trip. See the list of approved hotels here .

Skirama Dolomiti : Epic Pass holders get seven consecutive days of skiing at the eight resorts that comprise Skirama Dolomiti. They must be booked in a row, with no rest days, to get all of them. Stop at a ticket office to show your Epic Pass and get a local access card. Expect to pay a $5 deposit, which will be refunded when you return the card.

Les 3 Vallées : Epic Pass holders get seven consecutive days of skiing at the seven ski areas that comprise the largest ski resort on the planet. Like in Italy, they must be skied in a row to use all seven. Also, you have to book at least 10 days in advance, then stop a ticket window to show your Epic Pass in exchange for a local pass.

Ski Arlberg : Stay at least three nights at an approved accommodation and get three days of skiing with your Epic Pass. Some hotels might require a longer minimum stay, but still only offer three free lift tickets, which must be used on consecutive days. Stop by a ticket window with your Epic Pass for a local lift card. You can find the list of 20-plus hotels here .

Mountain Collective

There’s only one European resort on the Mountain Collective, but it’s a biggie. Mountain Collective pass holders get two days at Chamonix Mont Blanc, plus 50 percent off additional days, AND can add on one bonus day (at Cham or any of the other MC destinations) if they purchase by May 13, 2024. Chamonix, known as the extreme-skiing capital of the Alps, is a place steeped in authentic mountain culture. It’s also a true bucket-list destination that all skiers should visit during their lifetime, whether it’s to ski the famed Haute Route, ride the L’Aiguille du Midi, or just take in the vibe in the town that hosted the first-ever Winter Olympics in 1924.

You can’t go straight to the lifts at Chamonix; stop by a ticket office with your ID to redeem your two days, and make sure you have access to your Mountain Collective proof-of-purchase email. You’ll get a Chamonix Valley pass, which includes Grands-Montets, Flégère, Brévent, Les Houches-Saint-Gervais, Montenvers-Mer de Glace Train, Aiguille du Midi, and Tramway du Mont-Blanc.

Currently, the Indy Pass offers one lone Alps ski area, Austria’s Ski Welt . The independently-owned slopes outside of Salzburg serve up a respectable 82 lifts and 279 trails for all levels, but especially beginners and intermediates. Use your Indy Pass for two free days here with no blackout dates, plus 25 percent off additional days. It’s worth noting that day tickets in Europe are usually far less expensive than in the States. A one-day Ski Welt ticket is only around $66, so adding on a couple extra days isn’t a big expense.

Bottom Line

Both Ikon and Epic include some of the most coveted European ski resorts among their ranks. That said, the Ikon Pass is easier to use across the pond, and has fewer requirements. If you have your heart set on any specific destination, just be sure to do your research before you lock in any travel plans.

Popular on SKI

Testing skis and winter gear is hard work (just ask our boot testers)—but someone's gotta do it.

• 2023 gear reviews
• 2023 ski reviews

Related content from the Outside Network

The snow report show reveals snowbird’s shiny new toy, the snow report show takes a deep dive into pond skimming, the snow report episode starring seriously sendy animals, the snow report episode where everyone has a good time.

Where to Ski Around The World to Ski in Summer

April 16, 2024 | OnTheSnow Staff

Summer skiing may seem like an oxymoron. But thanks to high-elevation ski resorts and glaciers, and a Southern Hemisphere ski season that runs from June to October, skiers and riders can enjoy year-round laps. In North America and Europe, summer skiing means glacier skiing, and heading to the highest peaks as the weather warms up. If it’s powder you’re after, then you’ll want to travel to the Southern Hemisphere, to countries like New Zealand , Australia , Chile , and Argentina , where their winter season goes until nearly the start of North America’s ski season. Check out our picks of the coolest ski resorts around the world for skiing and riding in summer.

The best summer ski resorts

Hintertux , austria.

The Hintertux is one of the few remaining glaciers that’s open for skiing 365 days a year, clearly making it one of the longest seasons in the world. Hintertux Glacier has up to 20 km (nearly 12.5 miles) of slopes open for summer skiing, with runs accessible via 10 lifts, including the Glacier Bus 3, which is capable of transporting 3,000 skiers per hour. The Hintertux offers a good range of runs for all levels of skiers are riders, but is famous for its steep, challenging terrain. Freestyle fans have their choice from five lines—Pro Line, Medium Line, Easy Line, 2 Jib Lines—at Betterpark Hintertux. Betterpark is open from April to the beginning of June, during the spring, and then open again from mid-September.

The Tuxer Sportbus is a free bus service, which operates year-round transporting guests from Vorderlanersbach, Lanersbach, Juns, or Madseit to the bottom of the glacier.

» Check out summer lodging options at Hintertux .

Kitzsteinhorn , Austria

Austria’s Zell am See-Kaprun region has an unreal 250-plus miles of groomed ski terrain. And while a lot of it isn’t accessible in the summer, the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, above Kaprun, has a large, nearly year-round ski area boasting varied runs and a terrain park. Guests take a cable car ride 3,000 meters (nearly 10,000 feet) high for unparalleled views and a unique ski experience. Intermediate skiers and riders will feel particularly at home here, with a lot of terrain to play on, while skiers and riders of all abilities will find something to love. Non-skiers can take free guided panoramic hikes across the glacier.

» Check out summer lodging options in Kaprun .

Tignes , France

The Grande Motte Glacier has varied terrain—blue, red and black runs—accessed by chairlifts and drags. The summer ski area is open from late June to late July, depending on snow conditions, and serves up 20 km of downhill skiing, plus freestyle terrain, cross-country skiing, and a restaurant with a view. The glacier closes early afternoon, which is a perfect time to start aprés-ski early, or to head down to the water to experience the stunning Lac de Tignes.

» Check out summer lodging options at Tignes .

Zermatt , Switzerland

Open year-round, Zermatt boasts 21 km of summer skiing on its Theodul Glacier, the highest and largest summer ski area in Europe. In addition to snow-sure pistes, Snowpark Zermatt provides the ultimate summer terrain park for snowboarders and freestyle skiers, and features one of the best views of the iconic Matterhorn. Zermatt visitors can enjoy a variety of summer ski school experiences as they share the slopes with ski teams in training. Summer skiing at Zermatt is available until noon.

» Check out summer lodging options in Zermatt .

Saas Fee , Switzerland

The Allalin Glacier above Saas Fee offers summer and fall skiing from mid-July to late October. The lifts typically run until early afternoon, depending on the day of year, so double-check times as you’re planning your ski day. Arrive early to avoid the slush.

The 20-kilometer ski area, just edged in size by Zermatt’s glacier, is well suited to intermediates and is particularly popular with freestylers and race teams. The snowpark has a half-pipe, kickers, rails, boxes, and transitions in all shapes and sizes to suit all skill levels. Take a break at the Chill Out Zone, located below the pipe, where you can kick back on comfy couches while enjoying music. The glacier also has a restaurant and sun terrace serving lunch and drinks.

» Check out summer lodging options in Saas Fee .

Timberline Lodge , Oregon

Located about an hour and a half from Portland, Timberline Lodge runs the longest ski season in North America. The Palmer Express high-speed quad lift allows the mountain to operate from June until August. Mountain maintenance is usually scheduled for September with lifts reopening in November, weather permitting.

Timberline grooms several lanes across Palmer Snowfield, located on the south face of Mt. Hood. It is the summer site for the U.S. Ski, Freeskiing and Snowboarding teams, and is primarily used for summer ski racing and freestyle camps. Additionally, the Freestyle terrain parks are a major draw for snowboarders and freestyle skiers in the summer months. Nonetheless, advanced skiers and riders can enjoy lapping Palmer for hours. Note that Timberline is really for advanced skiers and riders during the summer.

After a morning of lapping Palmer, head down to Wy’ East Day Lodge, to the entrance of the Timberline Bike Park, which features tons of green, blue, and black-diamond mountain biking trails.

» Check out summer lodging options at Timberline Lodge .

Mammoth Mountain , California

Mammoth, located about 350 miles north from Los Angeles, has long been the favorite of skier and riders from Southern California. Unlike the glaciers, your window for early summer skiing is sometimes short and sometimes a bit longer, depending on the winter snowpack.

Locals refer to this time as the ‘Second Season,’ with the longest closing date for Mammoth being Aug. 6 in the 2017-18 and 2022-2023 seasons. Packages are available and the ski school continues to operate late into the season. Hit any number of great Mammoth Lakes biking or hiking trails after your morning of skiing.

» Check out summer lodging options at Mammoth .

Palisades Tahoe , California

The best bet for a long spring into the summer season around California’s beautiful Lake Tahoe is at Palisades Tahoe, the site of the 1960 Winter Olympics. Palisades Tahoe often makes its way into July with soft bumps, corned snow and some groomed runs.

Our pro tip: Ski or ride in the morning and then enjoy Lake Tahoe in the afternoon. Alternatively, High Camp, at 8,200 feet, is a popular spot for snow sports in the morning and activities like disc golf, hiking, and swimming in its outdoor pool in the afternoon.

» Check out summer lodging options at Palisades Tahoe .

Las Lenas , Argentina

Once summer begins in the Northern Hemisphere, head to the Southern Hemisphere for a full season of skiing. Here, the ski season begins at the start of the North America summer, in June, and goes until fall. Las Leñas is one of the highest ski resorts in Argentina and boasts reliable snow. The mountain’s 43,000 acres (17,500 hectares) of skiing is suited to skiers and riders of all levels.

Advanced and expert skiers come for the deep off-piste powder. Some of the best powder can be found on the steep bowl and long couloirs accessed from the Marte chairlift. Various ski instruction programs can keep your skills at a high level. More advanced skiers can embark on an adventure into untouched powder with a guide.

Three on-mountain restaurants and plenty of accommodations make for a complete ski resort experience at Las Lenas.

» Check out summer lodging options at Las Leñas .

Cerro Catedral , Argentina

Cerro Catedral is one of the biggest ski areas in South America, featuring 120 km (75 miles) of runs, 34 lifts, and beautiful views of Nahuel Huapi Lake. Its slopes are sprinkled with numerous mountain huts for food and drinks. For non-skiers, the mountain offers a multitude of non-skiing activities, including various tours, a snowcat ride, tubing, sledding, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.

» Check out summer lodging options at Cerro Catedral .

Valle Nevado , Chile

Valle Nevado has plenty of sunshine and snow, making it a paradise for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. Miles of terrain is served by some of the most modern lifts in South America, including the very first and only gondola in Chile. The ski area links with neighboring El Colorado and La Parva to make up the Tres Valles of the Andes for a combined 7,000 acres of skiable terrain with 14 lifts. Other highlights include hike-to backcountry terrain and world-class heli-skiing, with runs that feature up to 6,000 feet in vertical. Valle Nevado’s cozy village is home to three hotels, several restaurants, and a number of great bars for après-ski. Finally, it’s also part of the Ikon Pass, Power Pass, and The Mountain Collective.

» Check out summer lodging options at Valle Nevado .

Ski Portillo , Chile

Ski Portillo’s owners have strived to keep its ski area small and intimate, so you’ll find no town, shopping center, or even ubiquitous franchise restaurants or coffee shops here. There’s just its famous big yellow hotel, which accommodates 400 people. The bonus is that you’ll rarely experience lift lines and crowded slopes.

Portillo features 1,235 acres of skiable terrain, 14 lifts, and 35 trails with long groomed runs accessed by chairs and drags. For advanced/expert skiers, it’s the freeriding that is the major draw with its abundance of steep off-piste faces. Heli operations are available to take you to even higher elevations and descents. Portillo also has countless hike-to backcountry areas.

» Check out summer lodging options at Portillo .

Coronet Peak , New Zealand

Coronet Peak is one of the most popular ski resorts on the South Island of New Zealand, and just 20 minutes away from Queenstown. Its varied terrain offers something for everyone. Beginners and intermediates have wide blue and red runs while more advanced skiers can hit the terrain park or test their stamina on the longest run, the M-1, stretching 2.4 km (1.5 miles). The resort is known for its efficient high-speed chairlifts and night skiing that is offered on select evenings..

The mountain’s Skiwiland program is a fully licensed Early Learning Centre with the NZ Ministry of Education, catering to children 3 months to 5 years old.

» Check out summer lodging options at Coronet Peak .

Treble Cone , New Zealand

Treble Cone, in Lake Wanaka, covers two basins, the Saddle and Home Basin. Both provide some of the best freeriding in New Zealand. Fans of steep and challenging terrain claim Treble Cone has some of the best in the country, with close to half the mountain dedicated to advanced terrain. Expert riders can take guided tours out to the Motatapu Chutes. Beginners and intermediates are not left out, however, with plenty of long, uncrowded runs.

» Check out summer lodging options at Treble Cone .

Perisher , Australia

Perisher, in New South Wales, is the largest ski area in Australia (and the Southern Hemisphere, for that matter). It is made up of four villages: Perisher Valley, Blue Cow, Simiggins Holes and Guthega, all of which are connected and offer varied terrain.

It’s about a six-hour drive from Sydney, and you’ll find plenty of skiing on 7 mountain peaks accessed by 47 lifts, including a high-speed eight-seater. Most of the area is intermediate, but beginners and advanced skiers will also find their spots. Freestyle fans will love the five terrain parks and a super pipe.

» Check out summer lodging options at Perisher .

Thredbo , Australia

Thredbo, in New South Wales, has been named the best ski resort in Australia by the World Ski Awards on several occasions. It’s home to Australia’s longest runs, and nearly double the vertical of any resort in Australia. Thredbo also has the country’s only alpine gondola. There’s generally plenty of snow for all ages to play on with a large array of lessons and special programs and events. For those feeling adventurous, you can reach Mt. Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest point, via the Kosciuszko Express chairlift. Thredbo has an exciting village right at the base of the mountain so there’s plenty to do when you’re off the mountain.

» Check out summer lodging options at Thredbo .

Related Stories

The Best Ski Towns to Visit in Summer

Great Summer Festivals and Events at Ski Resorts

Where to Ski During the Summer in North America

Ski or Ride These Glaciers During the Summer