Zermatt 
Switzerland
The experience of being in Zermatt is truly special right from the time you arrive. Only small electric taxis and horse-drawn carriages are allowed to circulate through the village, where just over five thousand inhabitants live. On the way to the hotel, you will pass small streets, lined with typical alpine chalets – some of them, built more than 200 years ago. Isolated from the surrounding elevations is a peak that stands out from every angle: the Matterhorn, whose slightly sloping tip is featured on the wrapper of every Toblerone chocolate bar. At about 14,691 feet, this is one of the main symbols of Switzerland and serves as the backdrop for the descents.
Famous for the abundance and quality of its snow, Zermatt is divided into three distinct areas – Sunegga-Rothorn, Gornergrat-Stockhorn and SchwarzseeMatterhorn – and connects to Cervinia, Italy. Switzerland’s largest heli-ski operation is located here and it’s possible to ski from January to January on the Theodul glacier at the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. It’s no wonder this resort is adored among the most experienced, while there are also dedicated areas for beginners and the little ones.
At the end of the day, skiers will find comfort at the boutique hotels, lively nightlife and a considerable amount of gourmet restaurants, four of which were awarded Michelin stars. Everything reinforces the feeling of being in an exclusive resort in the middle of the Alps.
SEASON
Northern Hemisphere December to March
MOUNTAIN
Base - 5314 feet
Top - 12,791 feet
59 SKI RUNS
Lift
70
SERVICES
GASTRONOMY
In the village: In Zermatt there are some Michelin starred restaurants such as The Omnia and After Seven. Most of the city's restaurants serve fondues and raclettes, typical dishes from the region. The most famous are Pöstli Stübli and the Saycheese. Thanks to the proximity to Italy, there is good pasta and pizza in places like Pizzeria Ristorante Molino. On the mountain: The mountain also has several options for gourmet restaurants that are part of the local history, such as Blatten, which has been serving typical alpine dishes since 1850 - among the desserts, the apfelstrudel is a must. In a 16th-century wooden house, Zum See is one of the few restaurants on the mountain that serves quality seafood.
WHAT TO DO BEYOND THE SKIING
The Gornergrat is a great place to admire and photograph the mountains that surround Zermatt. Other tour options are Igloo Dorf, an igloo village where visitors can wine and dine at an ice bar. There are also curling games on the rink in the center of Zermatt. If you have more time, you can board the Glacier Express, the emblematic alpine train that takes you to St. Moritz.
ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS
In the Riffelberg ski area, the Snowli Kids Village is exclusively dedicated to children aged 3 to 5 years old, who learn to ski with the help of magic carpets. At Wolli Park, the space for little ones has games and other recreational activities, in addition to having the presence of the mascot of the season, the Wolli sheep. In town, children can also have fun on the skating rink.
SHOPPING
The best place to shop in Zermatt is on Bahnhofstrasse, which is lined with shops. Scattered around the city there are big brands like Montblanc, Omega, The North Face, Moncler and Timberland. In terms of local products, Arnold Walker is one of the most traditional cheese producers in the region, Destination Home sells wool pillows and blankets and Matterland Souvenirs is full of miniatures, plush toys and wooden toys.
NIGHT LIFE
On the mountain, the Champagner Bar and Hennu Stall are always lively during après-ski. In town, the Papperla Pub has an Irish pub vibe and live music. For those looking to stretch out into the early hours, the Cuckoo Club and the Broken Bar are true local institutions.
HOW TO GET HERE
MAP
Lodging Options
Cervo Mountain Resort
The Cervo Mountain Resort is a ski-in/ski-out hotel nestled within the mountains, close to ski slopes, hiking trails, and cable cars. The hotel comprises 7 chalets with contemporary Alpine décor. Each chalet boasts its own wellness center equipped with two different types of sauna, a hot tub, a lounge area…
Hotel Albana Real
A family-run boutique hotel located in the center of the village of Zermatt, featuring a touch of Art Deco with both refined and relaxed atmosphere. It offers three restaurants – Italian, Japanese and Thai cuisine – and a wellness area equipped with pool and jacuzzi, perfect for relaxing after a…
Hotel Monte Rosa
Among the historic buildings of Zermatt stands the Hotel Monte Rosa, one of the first hotels since the ascent of the Matterhorn. The hotel combines the charm and style of a 150-year-old building with luxurious and modern spaces, overseen by the Seiler family for 5 generations. Each of its 41…
Hotel Schweizerhof Zermatt
The Schweizerhof Zermatt is both alpine and urban. In a central location where luxury and simplicity, relaxation and sophistication, zeitgeist and tradition come together. It has 95 rooms and suites, most with terrace or balcony and view of the Matterhorn. The three restaurants with international concepts, indoor pool and jacuzzi…
Mont Cervin Palace
Opened to the public in 1851, Mont Cervin Palace is one of the finest luxury hotels in Zermatt, offering stunnnig views of the Matterhorn. Situated in the heart of the village and close to the train station, it is an ideal place for those seeking comfort, glamour, and convenience. Upon…
