Recent, and ongoing, improvements to the lift system have dramatically improved accessibility and links between the peaks which make up the Zermatt ski area.
The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise (previously named
Klein Matterhorn) has snow all year round, with wide, gentle glacier slopes and long flattering red runs, that lead to tougher runs at Schwarzsee.
It's also the access point to Cervinia, on the Italian side of the Matterhorn.
Gornergrat, accessible by a traditional mountain railway, has stunning views and some gentle beginner slopes accessible from the top train station, but it's best for intermediate and advanced levels, with tough runs from Stockhorn and the infamous Trifftjii mogul slopes.
Gornergrat is linked to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and the Sunnegga-Rothorn Paradise slopes.
The Sunnegga-Rothorn Paradise area has fast and easy access from the centre by funicular and cable car. This area has several exceptionally long red runs, perfect for intermediates, and a good variety of wide blue runs for beginners, close to the top and middle stations.
Sunnegga and Gornergrat stations are close to the centre of Zermatt and walking distance from most hotels.
The lifts of the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise are on the edge of the village.
A frequent, free shuttle bus service circulates around the village (which is otherwise traffic-free apart from electric and horse-drawn taxis) linking all the lift stations.
Nightlife in Zermatt is relaxed, friendly and plentiful.
After the last run home, and a relaxing spa session, there are plenty of good bars to visit before dinner. There are too many to name or pick a favourite - but La Papperla always draws a lively crowd as the lifts close and sun goes down, with an outdoor terrace, music and good atmosphere.
Later in the evening, the Hotel Post is a perennial and renowned hot spot on the main street. There's something for everyone - with several bars and a crazy cellar-bar dance club where being cool and restrained means you've missed the point and the fun!
The Hexen Bar is warm and cosy with a loungey feel and laid-back atmosphere, whilst Grampi's Pub is louder and buzzing.
Other bars offer jazz, karaoke or live bands, indoor bowling, darts and video.
High rollers and risk takers gravitate to the calmer atmosphere of the Casino at the Grand Hotel Zermatterhof for an adrenaline top up and possibly a big win - or loss!
For more healthy and active apres-ski activities, Zermatt has curling, skating, ice-hockey and several hotel swimming pools open to non-residents
Milan 99 miles
Sion 50miles
Zurich 150 miles
resort 1620-3820 metres Zermatt-Cervinia
combined area 350km marked runs | 74 lifts
blue 29% | red 59% | black 16% |
cross country 24km | winter footpaths 70km | 4 trails for snowshoe excursions | snow fun park for children at Rothorn
Child care from 3 months
Everyone should visit Zermatt at least once - but beware!
Maybe it's just the Matterhorn, or the high altitude, excellent snow, amazingly pure air and stunning scenery, the best mountain restaurants in the Alps or the atmosphere of the village. Whatever the reason, Zermatt is unique - and very addictive!
The high slopes and glacier above Zermatt provide guaranteed snow from November to May and, visible at almost every every turn, the iconic, snow-clad peak of the Matterhorn, straddling the frontier with Italy and the ski resort of Cervinia, is a magnificent backdrop. Zermatt-Cervinia offer 350km of prepared slopes for all abilities and, with mountain railways, helicopter flights, an atmospheric village, a myriad of indoor and outdoor winter activities and superb hotel spas, Zermatt will give an excellent and unforgettable holiday for skiers, boarders and non-skiers alike.
