Exploring Zermatt, Switzerland: A Winter Travel Guide
Zermatt, located in the heart of the Swiss Alps, is one of the most famous ski resorts in the world. With its stunning views of the Matterhorn and over 360km of ski runs, it's a must-visit destination for any winter sports enthusiast. We will cover everything you need to know to plan your perfect ski vacation to Zermatt, including how to get there, the best places to stay, where to eat, the best après ski spots, expected costs, and other activities to enjoy besides skiing.
Quicks Facts About Zermatt
1. Zermatt is a ski resort town in the Swiss Alps, located near the Italian border.
2. It is known for its iconic Matterhorn peak, which towers over the beautiful village.
3. Zermatt offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Europe, with over 360 kilometers of pistes and slopes.
4. The ski season usually runs from late November to late April.
5. The town also offers a variety of other activities, such as snowshoeing, sledding, and cross-country skiing.
6. Zermatt is easily accessible by train and is only a 2-hour ride from Geneva Airport.
7. The village is car-free, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing getaway.
8. There are a variety of ski packages available for visitors, ranging from all-inclusive to budget-friendly options.
9. You can find a variety of accommodations in Zermatt, from 5-star luxury hotels to budget hostels.
10. The village is full of restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of skiing.
Getting to Zermatt
Zermatt is located in the Valais region of Switzerland and is easily accessible by train, car, or plane. The closest airport to Zermatt is Geneva, which is approximately a three-hour drive away. You can also take a train from Geneva to Zermatt, which takes approximately three and a half hours. If you prefer to drive, there are several parking areas available in Tasch, a nearby village, and you can take a shuttle or train from there to Zermatt.
Where to Stay
Zermatt has a number of different lodging options that can include package deals for ski vacations.
Luxury Hotels
The Omnia: This luxurious five-star hotel is located in the heart of Zermatt and offers stunning views of the Matterhorn. The rooms are spacious and elegantly designed, with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs and Nespresso machines. Prices start at around CHF 750 per night.
Mont Cervin Palace: This grand hotel has been welcoming guests to Zermatt for over 150 years. The rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, with many offering views of the Matterhorn. The hotel also features several restaurants and bars, a spa, and a fitness center. Prices start at around CHF 550 per night.
Riffelalp Resort: This five-star hotel is located high above Zermatt, at an altitude of 2222 meters. The rooms are spacious and elegantly designed, with many offering panoramic views of the Matterhorn. The hotel also features several restaurants and bars, a spa, and a fitness center. Prices start at around CHF 500 per night.
Grand Hotel Zermatterhof: This luxurious five-star hotel is located in the heart of Zermatt and has been welcoming guests for over 140 years. The rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, with many offering views of the Matterhorn. The hotel also features several restaurants and bars, a spa, and a fitness center. Prices start at around CHF 700 per night.
Mid-Range Hotels
Hotel Bristol: This four-star hotel is located in the center of Zermatt and offers comfortable and modern rooms. The hotel has a spa area with a sauna and steam room, and a restaurant that serves traditional Swiss cuisine. Prices start at around CHF 250 per night.
Hotel Matthiol: This stylish four-star hotel is located in a quiet area of Zermatt and offers stunning views of the Matterhorn. The rooms are modern and elegantly designed, with many featuring balconies. The hotel also has a spa area and a restaurant that serves modern European cuisine. Prices start at around CHF 350 per night.
Hotel Alpenhof: This cozy three-star hotel is located in the Winkelmatten area of Zermatt and offers comfortable rooms and a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The hotel has a spa area with a sauna and steam room, and a restaurant that serves Swiss and international cuisine. Prices start at around CHF 150 per night.
Budget Options
Zermatt Youth Hostel: This budget-friendly option is located in the center of Zermatt and offers basic but comfortable accommodations. The hostel has a shared kitchen and a lounge area, and breakfast is included in the room rate. Prices start at around CHF 40 per night.
Hotel Tannenhof: This simple two-star hotel is located in the Winkelmatten area of Zermatt and offers comfortable and affordable rooms. The hotel has a restaurant that serves Swiss cuisine, and breakfast is included in the room rate. Prices start at around CHF 70 per night.
Hotel Bahnhof: This budget-friendly option is located near the train station in Zermatt and offers basic but comfortable accommodations. The hotel has a restaurant that serves Swiss cuisine, and breakfast is included in the room rate. Prices start at around CHF 80 per night.
Where to eat
Fine Dining
Restaurant After Seven: This restaurant in the Backstage Hotel offers a fine dining experience with a mix of traditional and modern dishes. Some of the standout dishes include the poached scallops, the beef fillet, and the chocolate fondant dessert.
The Omnia: The Omnia is a Michelin-starred restaurant located in a stylish and modern hotel in Zermatt with a great view of the Matterhorn. The restaurant has an open kitchen and offers a mix of European and Asian cuisine. The miso black cod and the beef tartare are highly recommended dishes.
Cervo: Located in the heart of Zermatt, Cervo is a stylish and modern restaurant that serves contemporary Swiss cuisine. The menu features fresh, seasonal ingredients and dishes like grilled lamb chops, homemade pasta, and roasted venison. The restaurant also has a fantastic wine list and a cozy atmosphere with a fireplace.
Restaurant Heimberg: Located in the Hotel Heimberg, this restaurant has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, and offers creative dishes that use locally sourced ingredients. The venison, the lamb, and the homemade sorbet are must-try dishes.
Restaurant Capri: This Italian restaurant is located in the heart of Zermatt and offers classic Italian dishes with a modern twist. The homemade pasta dishes and the tiramisu are highly recommended.
Ferdinand: This restaurant, located in the Grand Hotel Zermatterhof, offers a mix of Swiss and international cuisine with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. The tasting menu is a great way to experience a variety of dishes, including the zander filet, the beef tenderloin, and the mango and passionfruit dessert.
Casual Eateries
Brown Cow Pub: If you're looking for a relaxed atmosphere with good food, the Brown Cow Pub is a great option. The menu features classic pub fare such as burgers, fish and chips, and nachos. They also have a good selection of beer and cocktails.
Snowboat: Snowboat is a cozy restaurant that serves delicious pizza and pasta dishes. They also have a good selection of wines and cocktails. The restaurant's charming atmosphere is a great option for a casual dinner.
Walliserkanne: This restaurant, located in the heart of Zermatt, serves traditional Swiss dishes such as Älplermagronen (a Swiss macaroni and cheese) and bratwurst with rösti. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and a large selection of Swiss wines.
Papperla Pub: This lively bar and restaurant is a great spot for a casual meal or a drink after skiing. The menu offers a mix of international dishes such as burgers, pizzas, and nachos.
The Alex Grill: This restaurant, located in the Hotel Alex, offers a mix of grilled meats and vegetarian dishes. The burgers and the sweet potato fries are highly recommended.
On-Mountain Dining
Zermatt has a number of great on-mountain dining options that offer a convenient and delicious way to refuel while skiing.
Chez Vrony: The restaurant is located on the Sunnegga ski slope and offers a mix of traditional Swiss and international dishes. The truffle rösti and the veal schnitzel are highly recommended.
Zum See: Zum See is a traditional mountain restaurant located at the top of the Gornergrat railway. The restaurant has stunning views of the Matterhorn and serves a mix of Swiss and Italian cuisine.Some of the standout dishes include the homemade pasta, the braised veal cheeks, and the apple strudel for dessert.
Fluhalp: This mountain restaurant is located on the slopes of the Schwarzsee area and offers a mix of Swiss and international dishes. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and serves hearty dishes such as the cheese fondue and the beef goulash.
Findlerhof: The restaurant is located in the Findeln area of Zermatt and offers a mix of traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese fondue and raclette.
Blatten: Blatten is a charming mountain restaurant located in the Sunnegga ski area. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and serves a mix of Swiss and international dishes. The Wiener schnitzel and the apple strudel are highly recommended.
Skiing in Zermatt
Ski Runs: Zermatt has over 360km of ski runs, which cater to all levels of skiers, from beginners to experts. The highest ski run reaches an altitude of 3,883m and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Some of the most popular ski runs in Zermatt include the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, the Schwarzsee, and the Gornergrat.
Ski Passes: To ski in Zermatt, you will need to buy lift tickets. There are several options available, including a daily pass, a multi-day pass, and a season pass. The cost of a daily pass is approximately CHF 92, while a six-day pass is approximately CHF 432.
Ski Schools: If you're a beginner or want to improve your skiing skills, you can take lessons from one of the many ski schools in Zermatt. Some of the most popular ski schools include the Zermatt Ski School, Summit Ski & Snowboard School, and the Matterhorn Diamonds Ski School.
Best Après Ski Spots
Bars: Zermatt has a lively après ski scene, with several bars offering drinks and snacks after a day on the slopes. Some of the most popular bars include the Hennu Stall, the Broken Bar, and the Cervo Bar.
Nightclubs: For those who want to continue the party after dinner, Zermatt has several nightclubs that stay open late into the night. Some of the most popular nightclubs include the Loft Club, the Vernissage Club, and the Pink Club.
Expected Costs
Zermatt is known for being an expensive ski resort, so it's important to budget accordingly. Here are some estimated costs to help you plan your trip:
Lift Passes: Zermatt offers several lift pass options, including a full international pass that includes access to the Italian ski resort of Cervinia. Lift passes for Zermatt only start at around CHF 78 for a one-day pass, while the international pass starts at around CHF 92 for a one-day pass.
Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Zermatt varies depending on the type of hotel and the season. Luxury hotels can cost upwards of CHF 1000 per night, while mid-range options can cost between CHF 200-500 per night. Budget options like hostels can cost as little as CHF 40 per night.
Food and Drink: The cost of food and drink in Zermatt can be quite high, especially at high-end restaurants. Expect to pay around CHF 50-100 for a meal at a fine dining restaurant and around CHF 20-40 for a meal at a casual dining restaurant. Drinks can cost between CHF 5-10 for a beer and around CHF 10-20 for a cocktail.
Other Activities
Hiking: Zermatt has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Some of the most popular hiking trails include the Five Lakes Walk, the Matterhorn Glacier Trail, and the Europaweg.
Spa and Wellness: After a long day on the slopes, there's nothing better than a relaxing spa treatment. Zermatt has several spa and wellness centers, including the Mont Cervin Palace Spa and the Zermatt Peak Health Club & Spa.
Cultural Activities: Zermatt has a rich history and culture, with several museums and galleries that showcase the region's heritage. Some of the most popular cultural activities include the Matterhorn Museum, the Zermatlantis, and the Galerie Françoise Heitsch.
Additional Things To Do
Take a walk to the hamlet of Zmutt: Zmutt is a small hamlet just outside of Zermatt. It's a charming place with traditional wooden houses and a small chapel. The walk to Zmutt takes about an hour and offers stunning views of the Matterhorn.
Visit the Gorner Gorge: The Gorner Gorge is a stunning natural wonder located just outside of Zermatt. The gorge is over 400 meters long and features narrow passageways, waterfalls, and rock formations. It's a great place to explore and take in the natural beauty of the area.
Explore the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise: The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is Europe's highest cable car station, located at an altitude of 3,883 meters. The views from the top are breathtaking, and there are several activities to enjoy, including a snowpark, ice palace, and a restaurant with panoramic views.
Take a scenic helicopter tour: For a truly unforgettable experience, take a helicopter tour over the Matterhorn and the surrounding area. This is a great way to see the mountain from a different perspective and take in the stunning natural beauty of the region.
Visit the Zermatt Black-nosed Sheep: The Zermatt Black-nosed Sheep are an iconic symbol of the region. They are known for their distinctive appearance, with black faces and curly horns. There are several farms in the area where you can visit and learn more about these unique animals.
Take a nighttime sled ride: Zermatt offers several options for nighttime sled rides, where you can zoom down the mountain under the stars. It's a fun and exhilarating way to experience the beauty of the area at night.
Go paragliding: Zermatt is a popular destination for paragliding, with several companies offering tandem flights over the mountains. It's a great way to experience the thrill of flying and take in the stunning views of the area.
Zermatt is a stunning ski resort that offers something for everyone, from beginners to experts. With its breathtaking views of the Matterhorn covered in snow, over 360km of ski runs, and lively après ski scene, it's a must-visit destination for any winter sports enthusiast. By following these tips and recommendations, you can plan your perfect ski trip to Zermatt and create memories that will last a lifetime.
FAQ:
Are there ski lessons available?
Yes, if you’re looking for ski lessons to help you get the most out of your ski weekend, then there are plenty of packages available. Ski instructors usually offer a range of private and group lessons or even customized programs, so you can find the perfect fit for your needs. Depending on the resort, you may find individual courses, packages that include multiple lessons, or even multi-day packages. So whatever your level of experience, there are lessons to suit everyone.
Are there any ski rental shops nearby?
If you're looking for a ski rental shop near you, you're in luck! There are plenty of options available. You can find ski packages for the weekend at many local sporting goods stores and even online. Some ski resorts also offer their own ski rental shops, so it's worth checking out the ones in your area. Before you pick a shop, make sure you read online reviews and compare prices to get the best deal.
What is the best time of year to visit Zermatt for skiing?
Visiting Zermatt for skiing is best during the winter season from November to April. The snow covered slopes provide the perfect atmosphere to enjoy your favorite winter sport. During this time, Zermatt offers various ski packages, allowing you to purchase tickets and rental equipment at discounted prices. For those looking for a weekend getaway, weekends in the springtime are ideal, as the slopes are still open and the views of the Alps are spectacular!
What is the most popular ski run in Zermatt?
Zermatt is known for its epic skiing and snowboarding opportunities, and one of the most popular ski runs is the Gornergrat. Located near the Matterhorn, the Gornergrat takes you up to an elevation of 3,089 meters and offers stunning views of the Matterhorn and 38 other peaks. With its easy access and great ski conditions, the Gornergrat is a favorite run for seasoned skiers, as well as first-time visitors. If you’re looking for an exciting weekend ski package, this is the perfect opportunity to get the most out of your time in Zermatt.
Is there night skiing available?
Night skiing is a great way to get in some extra time on the slopes, and many ski packages and weekend getaways offer night skiing as part of their services. Before booking your trip, make sure to check if night skiing is offered at the destination you plan to visit. Depending on the size of the resort, they may have limited night skiing hours and trails, so be sure to plan ahead.