Zermatt ski resort is the most famous ski resort in Switzerland and one of the most popular resorts in Europe.
The small town is blanketed in a thick blanket of snow during the winter, although what makes Zermatt so popular is that it can be skied all year round, thanks to its remote location in the Alps and the help of artificial snow machines. For many, Zermatt is simply the most comprehensive ski resort in the Alps. With varied slopes, magnificent mountain scenery, snow and charming villages, not to mention world-class mountain restaurants, vibrant nightlife and much more...
The highest peak of the Matterhorn in Zermatt. Photo: @jennasilver
Where is Zermatt ski resort?
Zermatt is located in the southern canton of Valais (Wallis) in southwestern Switzerland, close to the Italian border. The Zermatt ski area is linked to the Cervinia ski area just across the border. The nearest airports are Zurich and Geneva.
The best way to get from the airport to the resort is by train. Alternatively, you can use a professional shuttle service to the ski resort. These will usually drop you off at Täsch station, where you can then complete the final leg by rail. Renting a car can be the most expensive and inconvenient option due to the car-free nature of Zermatt.
Zermatt ski resort. Photo: @AMA Selections
It takes around 3 hours and 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 from Sion airport to Zermatt. With excellent connections to many nearby cities, towns and airports, traveling to Zermatt by train is the best option. Plus, it will be one of the most scenic train journeys you will ever experience.
For those lucky enough to travel by helicopter, Zermatt has its own heliport. Operated by Air Zermatt, the helicopter ride takes 45 minutes from Geneva and an hour from Zurich.
Skiing in Zermatt ski resort
The diversity and beauty of the Zermatt ski area is exceptional. There are three main mountains, each with its own distinct character and enough to satisfy most skiers for days on end. The Zermatt ski area is known as the Matterhorn Ski Paradise and includes 360km of runs.
For great views of the Matterhorn, head to the Sunnegga-Rothorn area, which is home to one of the most spectacular ski runs in the Alps, called Kumme. This wild and beautiful 5km red run drops off the top of Rothorn and out of sight of the lifts before dropping down to the Patrullarve hiking trail.
Skiing in Zermatt. Photo: @AMA Selections
The Gornergrat area is also a skier's paradise, but expert skiers will be drawn to Triftji, which has some of the most challenging terrain in the Alps. It can take until February for the snow to open – due to the rocky nature of the terrain – but for experienced skiers it's a real treat.
Zermatt’s largest ski area is the Schwarzsee-Klein Matterhorn, which connects across the border to Cervinia. The glacier area at the top may be relatively flat, but it’s scenic and offers much better views of the Matterhorn. The snow here is almost always pristine – these are the highest ski runs in the Alps and can be skied all year round.
Zermatt ski resort offers all-season skiing. Photo: @National Geographic
From the top of the Klein Matterhorn (3820m), you can ski down to Zermatt in one fell swoop, from 2200m – the steepest vertical drop on a ski run in the Alps.
Zermatt Resort
Within the Zermatt ski resort is a resort that combines the charm of a traditional Alpine village with the atmosphere and infrastructure of a thriving town. The epitome of a beautiful car-free town, it looks like it was taken straight out of a fairy tale. The iconic Matterhorn looms gracefully and majestically over the town, providing a stunning backdrop to the resort. The streets are lined with chalet-style buildings, while horse-drawn carriages meander through the centre.
Zermatt resort. Photo: @pocketwanderings
Take in unforgettable mountain views from every angle as you explore the vast ski area. Foodies will also have a great time with a choice of mountain eateries – each combining world-class cuisine with breathtaking scenery.
Photo: @Kelly Prince Writes
A host of world-class hotels, designer boutiques and fine dining have made Zermatt one of the best luxury ski resorts in Europe. Yet despite its upscale status, Zermatt retains a laid-back feel, showcasing laid-back luxury executed with a touch of class.
Zermatt is the best luxury ski resort in Europe. Photo: @Travel + Leisure
Zermatt is no longer the simple farming community it once was, but it retains its unique charm and vibrancy, drawing international visitors back year after year.
Lined with quirky bars and chic boutiques, the bustling main street here is perfect for an early evening stroll. However, just off the main road you’ll find a maze of narrow streets and back alleys, many with centuries-old wooden barns and houses.
Photo: @pocketwanderings
Early winter is a particularly magical time to visit Zermatt – the air is crisp, the light is low and the snow-covered streets are a festive place.
Other activities in Zermatt
Zermatt is more than just a ski resort. It offers plenty of things to do for non-skiers – or for those who fancy something different. It's still worth visiting the beautiful Swiss town of Zermatt even if you don't plan on skiing.
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
Zermatt's Matterhorn glacier paradise is Europe's highest mountain station at 3,883 metres above sea level. It has a 360-degree viewing platform that offers spectacular mountain views. See 14 glaciers and 38 peaks over 4,000 metres, including Mont Blanc in France and Gran Paradiso, Italy's highest peak.
Restaurant on the Matterhorn. Photo: @Guidle
Another major attraction is the magical Glacier Palace, filled with stunning ice sculptures. Once you’ve been mesmerized by the Glacier Palace, check out 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 specialties at the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Restaurant.
You can reach the Matterhorn glacier paradise by a series of cable cars and cable cars: Zermatt – Furi – Trockener Steg – Summit.
Glass-bottom cable car for panoramic views. Photo: @fullsuitcaseFor an extra special experience, take the Crystal gondola from Trockener Steg to the top. These gondolas are decorated with Swarovski crystals and feature glass floors for uninterrupted views of the sparkling glaciers below.
Snowshoeing
There is no better way to experience the magic of the mountains than on a snowshoe tour. Walk along the snowy plains, soak up the silence of the mountains and stimulate your senses as you become one with nature.
Snowshoeing and sightseeing. Photo: @adventuresatfranklin
Matterhorn Museum
Get some fascinating insight into the history of Zermatt and the various attempts to summit the Matterhorn at the fascinating Matterhorn Museum. Learn how the town grew from a humble village of mountain farmers to a world-famous luxury ski resort. Then discover the triumphs and tribulations of the first ascent of the Matterhorn in 1865.
Matterhorn Museum. Photo: @VecteezyAdmission to the museum costs 10 CHF for adults, 8 CHF for seniors and students, and 5 CHF for children aged 10-16. Children under 10 can enter for free. The Matterhorn Museum is open daily from 15:00-18:00.
Iglu Dorf
Located just below Rotenboden, Iglu Dorf is an enchanting igloo village. Stop in for a delicious mulled wine or cheese fondue while taking in the stunning views of the Matterhorn. Don’t miss the Home of Winter igloo for the best photo opportunities.
For a more intimate and once-in-a-lifetime experience, book an overnight stay in one of the igloos. Step into the hot tub and gaze up at the stars for the ultimate romantic getaway.
Iglu Dorf. Photo: @pocketwanderings
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