Between Alpine legends and Swiss mountain romance

Zermatt: the must-see place close by the Matterhorn

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WHERE IS THE MUNICIPALITY OF ZERMATT LOCATED?

The municipality of Zermatt lies at 1620 metres at the upper end of the Matter valley in the western Swiss canton of Valais, just across the border from its neighbour Italy. In other words: holidays in Zermatt are on the sunny side of Switzerland. Where the high Alps meet homely mountain romance.

Nothing against Italy, but Zermatt’s best-known neighbour is the legendary Matterhorn. The legend surrounding the first ascent is omnipresent in the village today – a good reason for guests from near and far to visit Zermatt all year round. On top of that: almost one-third – to be precise 38 – of the 4000-metre peaks in the whole Alpine range are located in the region of Zermatt.

Reason enough to put Zermatt on anyone’s itinerary? Certainly! But there are a number of other reasons to visit the pretty village at the foot of the Matterhorn ...

Seven reasons to come to Zermatt

1. Mountain romance


Around 300 sunny days a year, with the Matterhorn seemingly within reach, and the other surrounding peaks calling for adventure – no wonder people from all over the world are drawn to Zermatt. The village has retained its original charm to this day. The past is just as present in the narrow twisting streets as it is in the Hinterdorf district with its traditional wooden barns built from larch. By the way: wintertime is especially romantic in Zermatt.

Pure mountain air! Did you know that only electric vehicles without combustion engines are allowed in Zermatt? Hard to believe, but the village was “petrol- and car-free” as early as 1947.

2. The Matterhorn

Zermatt and the Matterhorn – the names have been inextricably linked, at least since the first ascent of this most famous of Swiss landmarks. The imposing peak towers over the valley, reaching a proud 4'478 metres in altitude. For some it represents a sporting challenge; for others it is the favourite motif for photos in the region.

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3. Diversity of experience

The mountain world around Zermatt seems to tell you there are no limits to the adventures waiting among the peaks. Skiing, snowboarding, freeriding, climbing, hiking, kick-biking, mountain biking, walking, riding dirt scooters or mountain carts, playground activities, discovering, exploring – all this is possible. And more. Between relaxed fun on family outings and adrenaline-charged Alpine adventures, every guest is sure to find their own idea of a great time here.

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4. Guaranteed snow

The highest skiing area in the Alps – Matterhorn Ski Paradise – has the advantage of guaranteed snow. With 360 kilometres of pistes, it is not only one of the best-developed ski areas, but also renowned as the world’s steepest ski resort. Highlights: Snowpark Zermatt, Wolli Beginners Park, secured freeride pistes, Heliskiing and much more ...

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gastronomy at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

5. Culinary highlights

Rösti or fondue? Chocolate or cheese? Admittedly, Switzerland has such a variety of gastronomic delights on offer it’s not easy to decide. The choice of gourmet national dishes is as varied as the selection of cafés, bars and restaurants in Zermatt. Don’t miss tasting one of the Valais specialities. Attend a culinary event or try one of the gourmet experiences on offer such as the Sunset Dinner with a view of the Matterhorn. Another must: après-ski.

6. Top accommodation

Hospitality, quality, comfort, tradition. That’s why the accommodation in Zermatt is so sought-after. Top ratings and high levels of guest satisfaction confirm it year in year out. Whatever your choice: holiday apartment, mountain hut, chalet, spa, campsite, ski hotel or bike hotel: In Zermatt, every holiday requirement is catered for.

7. Shopping

For anybody who loves shopping, Zermatt’s Bahnhofstrasse is the place to be. What about a Swiss watch? A cute souvenir for a loved one? Or top-quality hiking gear? Stroll around and be inspired. 

Zermatt: the all-year destination on the Matterhorn

Zermatt Bergbahnen serves the most beautiful and remote corners of the Valais Alps, with fun and thrills for guests all year round. What to do and the best time of the year to do it. The team at Zermatt Bergbahnen AG has made a list of some great ideas for you:

View from a blooming meadow to the Matterhorn. | © Marco Schnyder

Spring

  • discover rare, protected plant species on the themed hiking trails
  • skiing or hiking – you can do either!
  • Forest Fun Park tight-rope garden
  • paragliding or helicopter flights
  • family outings to Wolli Fun Park on Sunnegga
     

Summer

  • rambling, hiking, rock climbing and mountaineering to your heart’s content
  • discover marmots and chamois on the themed hiking trails
  • 21 kilometres of pistes for summer glacier skiing
  • bathing in mountain lakes such as Leisee
  • mountain biking for beginners and old hands
  • Funventure activities: mountain carts, kickbiking, dirt scooters, etc.
© Pascal Gertschen

Autumn

  • explore the Gorner Gorge – ideal in September, with fascinating light effects
  • rambling on quiet autumn trails
  • Schweifinen via ferrata (fixed-rope route)
  • varied programme for rainy weather, e.g. Cinema Lounge at Matterhorn glacier paradise
skier on fresh slopes at the ski resort Zermatt

Winter

  • skiing, snowboarding and freeriding in Matterhorn Ski Paradise.
  • cross-country skiing at Täsch
  • winter hiking and snowshoe trekking
  • ice sports such as curling, ice stick sport (Bavarian curling) and skating
  • tobogganing, for example fun ride from Furi
  • Zermatt Unplugged music festival

The best thing of all in Zermatt: you can experience something new and extraordinary 365 days a year! Any questions? Get in touch with the experienced team at Zermatt Bergbahnen AG!