Zermatt

Nestled at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn, Zermatt is a car-free alpine village that feels like a postcard come to life. With its charming chalets, world-class skiing, and jaw-dropping mountain scenery, this Swiss resort is a must for outdoor enthusiasts and luxury seekers alike.

Highlights & What to See

• Matterhorn Glacier Paradise – Europe's highest cable car station at 3,883 m, offering 360° views of Monte Rosa and the Matterhorn. The glacier palace inside is a surreal ice world.
• Gornergrat Railway – A scenic cogwheel train ride to the Gornergrat summit, with panoramic views of 29 peaks over 4,000 m. Best at sunrise or sunset.
• Hiking & Skiing – Over 360 km of pistes and 400 km of hiking trails. The Rothorn and Sunnegga areas are perfect for intermediate skiers and summer walks.
• Zermatt Old Village (Hinterdorf) – Wander through narrow lanes of centuries-old wooden barns and stables, a UNESCO World Heritage site in spirit.
• Matterhorn Museum – Housed underground, this museum tells the story of the first ascent of the Matterhorn and the tragic 1865 accident.

Suggested Time to Spend

Spend at least 3–4 days to fully experience Zermatt's highlights. Day 1: ride the Gornergrat and explore the old village. Day 2: take the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and go skiing or hiking. Day 3: choose a longer hike (e.g., the 5-Seenweg trail) or a heli-sightseeing tour. If you're a keen skier, a week allows you to explore all slopes and relax in the village's excellent restaurants and spas.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Täsch – The car park town just below Zermatt, where all visitors leave their vehicles. A shuttle train runs up to Zermatt every 20 minutes.
• Saas-Fee – Known as the 'Pearl of the Alps', this glacier village is 30 minutes by car (or train+bus) and offers year-round skiing on the Fee Glacier.
• Montreux – A 2.5-hour train ride via Visp, this lakeside town on Lake Geneva is famous for its jazz festival and Chillon Castle.
• Interlaken – About 2 hours by train, this adventure hub between two lakes is great for paragliding, Jungfraujoch excursions, and boat trips.
• Matterhorn Glacier Trail – A stunning 2-hour hike from Schwarzsee to Hörnlihütte, right at the base of the Matterhorn's north face.

Please check official sources for current details.