Zermatt

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Zermatt, Switzerland

Introduction

Zermatt is a picturesque ski resort town located at the foot of the Matterhorn in the Swiss Alps. This charming village offers an unforgettable travel experience with its breathtaking mountain scenery, world-class skiing, and rich cultural heritage. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your trip to Zermatt, from places to visit and activities to enjoy, to where to eat, stay, and transport yourself around the region.

Places to Visit

The Matterhorn

  • Matterhorn Glacier Paradise: Take a cable car ride to the highest point in Europe, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Matterhorn Ski Safari: Explore the ski slopes and take in the stunning scenery of the Matterhorn.

Zermatt Village

  • Zermatt Old Village: Wander through the charming narrow streets and admire the traditional Swiss chalets.
  • St. Mauritius Church: Visit this beautiful church, dating back to the 17th century.
  • Mountaineers’ Cemetery: Pay respects to the brave mountaineers who have lost their lives on the Matterhorn.

Surrounding Mountains

  • Gornergrat Railway: Take a scenic train ride to the top of Gornergrat, offering stunning views of the Matterhorn and surrounding mountains.
  • Rothorn: Hike or take a chairlift to the Rothorn summit for panoramic views of Zermatt and the Matterhorn.

Activities

Winter Activities

  • Skiing and Snowboarding: Enjoy world-class skiing on over 350 km of pistes, suitable for all levels.
  • Cross-Country Skiing: Explore the picturesque trails surrounding Zermatt.
  • Snowshoeing: Hike through the snow-covered mountains with guided tours available.

Summer Activities

  • Hiking: Choose from over 400 km of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging.
  • Mountain Biking: Ride through the scenic trails and enjoy the stunning views.
  • Paragliding: Take a tandem flight for a bird’s-eye view of Zermatt and the Matterhorn.

Other Activities

  • Swiss Ski School: Learn skiing or snowboarding with expert instructors.
  • Zermatt Museum: Discover the history and culture of Zermatt at this local museum.
  • Yoga and Wellness: Relax and rejuvenate at one of the many yoga studios and spas in Zermatt.

Where to Eat

Traditional Swiss Cuisine

  • Chalet Schönegg: Savor traditional Swiss dishes in a cozy, rustic setting.
  • Restaurant Omnia: Enjoy gourmet cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  • Grabenhotel: Treat yourself to a delicious meal at this historic hotel.

International Cuisine

  • La Marmotte: Indulge in French-inspired cuisine in an elegant setting.
  • Pizzeria Molinari: Savor authentic Italian pizza and pasta dishes.
  • Bistro Cervin: Enjoy international cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients.

Where to Stay

Luxury Hotels

  • Omnia Hotel: Experience luxurious accommodations and gourmet dining.
  • Grand Hotel Zermatt: Enjoy elegant rooms, a spa, and fine dining.
  • Schönegg Hotel: Relax in stylish rooms and suites with stunning mountain views.

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Youth Hostel Zermatt: Affordable dorms and private rooms for budget-conscious travelers.
  • Hotel Bahnhof: Simple, clean rooms at an affordable price.
  • Airbnb Apartments: Rent a cozy apartment or chalet for a home-away-from-home experience.

Things to Know

Language

  • German: The official language of Switzerland, spoken by most locals in Zermatt.
  • English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and among hotel staff.

Currency

  • Swiss Franc (CHF): The local currency, although euros are widely accepted.

Weather

  • Winter: Cold and snowy, with temperatures ranging from -10°C to 0°C.
  • Summer: Mild and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C.

Transportation

Getting There

  • Zermatt Train Station: Regular train services connect Zermatt to major Swiss cities like Zurich and Geneva.
  • Private Transfers: Book a private transfer or taxi for door-to-door service.

Getting Around

  • Electric Taxis: Environmentally friendly taxis operate throughout the village.
  • Buses: Frequent bus services connect Zermatt to surrounding villages and ski areas.
  • Walking: The best way to explore the car-free village center.

Tips

Packing Essentials

  • Winter Gear: Warm clothing, waterproof jacket, gloves, hats, and goggles.
  • Summer Gear: Comfortable hiking boots, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a light jacket.

Budgeting

  • Swiss Francs: Have some local currency for small purchases and tips.
  • Credit Cards: Widely accepted in most restaurants, hotels, and shops.

Sustainability

  • Eco-Friendly Transport: Use public transport, walk, or take an electric taxi to reduce your carbon footprint.
  • Local Products: Support local farmers and artisans by purchasing their products.

Other Things of Interest

Events and Festivals

  • Zermatt Unplugged: A music festival featuring international artists in April.
  • Zermatt Marathon: A challenging marathon route with breathtaking mountain views in June.
  • Swiss National Day: Celebrate Switzerland’s national day on August 1st.

Shopping

  • Bahnhofstrasse: The main shopping street, lined with boutiques, souvenir shops, and ski rentals.
  • Local Markets: Visit the weekly markets for fresh produce, cheese, and handicrafts.

Conclusion

Zermatt is a year-round travel destination that offers something for everyone. From world-class skiing to picturesque hiking trails, delicious cuisine, and luxurious accommodations, this charming Swiss village has it all. With this comprehensive guide, you’re ready to plan your dream trip to Zermatt!