Boasting snow-covered slopes in winter and wildflower meadows in summer, Zermatt is a take-your-breath-away setting whatever the season. With the mighty Matterhorn on the horizon and 365 days-a-year skiing on the doorstep, it’s little wonder this resort town has long attracted mountain (and social) climbers. Whenever you choose to visit, have your camera at the ready.
SKI
Strap on your skis – or your snowboard – and get ready to explore 360km of the highest altitude skiing in Europe. Zermatt’s wide-open glacier runs give novices a chance to find their snow legs, while the Triftji mogul run is a thrilling challenge for the more advanced and adventurous. The region’s ski area is shared with Cervinia, so you can simply cruise over the Italian border to enjoy an authentic pizza for lunch.
NATURE
Whether snow-drenched or dotted with wildflowers, Zermatt looks straight out of a fairy tale. Some of the highest mountains of the Swiss Alps tower over the town, including the Matterhorn, Weisshorn and Monte Rosa. To see them in all their glory, hotfoot it to Europe’s highest cable car station. Or climb to the Gornergrat viewing platform for a once-in-a-lifetime panorama. If you don’t have a head for heights, the Five Lakes Walk gives a different perspective of the majestic mountains.
FOOD & DRINK
Foodies savour fine dining with a view in Zermatt. You could find yourself having lunch on the mountain slopes, beside a funicular railway. Or dipping into fondue on a cable car gondola journey past the peaks at dusk. Après-ski menus are filled with warming dishes such as Wagyu beef and traditional rösti – ideal after a day spent on the slopes.
Follow trails past waterfalls and discover the turquoise waters inside the caves of Gorner Gorge. Lesser-known but no less beautiful than Zermatt’s more famous natural spectacles, it’s just a short walk from the town.