Even without its iconic Matterhorn, Zermatt would surely be one of the world’s top ski resorts. It boasts a huge ski area at high-altitude, and the breathtaking views of Europe’s most famous peak add an unbeatable and unique crowning glory. The skiing is accessible from the village centre in either direction, via cable car, funicular or the famous Gornergrat mountain railway, which takes you on a spectacular ride up to 3089m and rewards you with fantastic views of the Gorner glacier. The final stage of the cable car to the “Matterhorn Glacier Paradise” which is in fact the Klein Matterhorn or “Little Matterhorn” is the highest in Europe. From the top you can choose to ski over to Zermatt’s Italian neighbour, Cervinia, for the day on the whole area lift pass, or take on the challenge of the Matterhorn Ski Safari, where you cover 10,000 – 12,000m of altitude without skiing the same slope or taking the same lift twice! The charming village is traffic-free apart from electric carts and horse-drawn carriages and the quaint little streets offer a mix of elegant boutiques, cosy bars and mouth-watering chocolate shops. Zermatt is known for its excellent and plentiful mountain restaurants such as ‘Chez Vrony’ in the Sunnegga area, and for its lively and varied après-ski and nightlife. Don’t miss the museum!
