Zermatt Resort Guide

Insider tips from our team

The Skiing

Take in the spectacular views of Italy and France from the top of the Matterhorn Glacier, then ski right over into Italy and stop off for a deliciously rich Italian hot chocolate. Don't forget to make the last lift back up into Switzerland as it's a long (5 hour) drive from Cervinia to Zermatt!

On the Mountain

Restaurants - Stop off at the Riffelalp Hotel for lunch with views of the Matterhorn and a pizza to match the views. ICE Buffet Bar & Pizzeria at the Trockener Steg has masses of seating capacity, a salad bar and a huge variety of lunchtime appetisers.

The Matterhorn Alpine Crossing - Whilst it's still possible to ski over to Italy via the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise run, the new Matterhorn Alpine Crossing cable car is an exciting addition for Winter 2023/24, allowing less confident and non-skiers access to the neighbouring resort of Cervinia. The 90 minute crossing provides consistent panoramic views of the Alps and the world-famous Matterhorn mountain.

Activities

Sunset Sledging - run by Matterhorn Diamonds Ski School, this is an exhilarating descent! Your guide will be on-hand to show you the sledging run and give you tips on techniques to make the most of your journey down. There's a stop at the top for a Swiss hot chocolate at a local restaurant to bolster you for the way down - make sure you wrap up warm.

Tobogganing - in the evening, you can eat in Furi and then take a sledge back down in the dark! Rent a sledge and a headtorch from a sports shop and race your friends.

Husky sleigh rides - in front of the Matterhorn. First, meet the dogs! Then there’s a private 2km loop for the dog sledding, which the guides take you around, and adults can drive the sled themselves the 2nd time.

Ice skating, ice hockey, curling - as well as the rinks for skating and hockey, there are five outdoor rinks for curling.

Ice climbing - a guide will show you the best places, and teach you if you’re a beginner.

Winter hiking - explore the local area on foot.

Indoor climbing wall - open Monday, Thursday and Friday evenings.

Igloo Village - enjoy uninterrupted views of the Matterhorn from Zermatt's new ice hotel. You don't have to stay there as a guest, you can also enjoy a tasty fondue on the sun terrace at the bar and restaurant. If you do stay, you'll have access to an extraordinary outdoor hot tub, sunk in the snow.

Visit the Julen family’s sheep - 300 black nose sheep form the world’s largest flock. On Wednesdays, you can visit the sheep and then (optional) eat dinner at the restaurant.

Maps

Resort Map

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Trail map

Resort Map route map

Resort Stats

Season
All year
Nearest airport
Zurich / Geneva
Flight time
1 hour 30 minutes
Direct flight
Yes
Transfer time
3 hours 30 minutes
Transport
Transfer, rail, car hire
Elevation
3899 m
Vertical drop
2279 m
Avg snowfall
10-13 ft
Ski area
360 km
Ski lifts
53
Runs
148
Grade
23% beginner 57% intermediate 9% advanced 11% freeride
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