Zermatt: Adventures in the Shadow of the Matterhorn
Zermatt is a magical alpine village in southern Switzerland, famous for its car-free streets and views of the Matterhorn. With its mix of old wooden chalets, boutique shops, and mountain charm, Zermatt feels like stepping into a postcard.
Getting to Zermatt
You cannot drive into Zermatt, which makes the journey part of the adventure. We chose to arrive on the Glacier Express, one of the most scenic train rides in the world. From our glass carriage, we watched snowy valleys, frozen rivers, and villages with chalet rooftops buried in snow. The train crossed 291 bridges and passed through 91 tunnels, and every minute felt like a moving postcard.
When we stepped off the train, the silence surprised us. With no cars, the only sounds were footsteps crunching on snow and the occasional electric cart carrying luggage.
First Impressions of Zermat
Walking through Zermatt, we shared narrow streets with skiers clomping in their boots, heading straight to the lifts. The mix of rustic restaurants, cozy inns, and stylish boutiques gave the town a fairytale feel.
Things to Do in Zermatt
Here is a list of things you can do while in Zermatt.
Skiing and Winter Sports
Zermatt is a skier’s dream. With world-class slopes, you can ski across the border into Italy for lunch. Even if you are not skiing, it’s fun to watch helicopters drop off adventurous skiers on untouched slopes. Beyond skiing, there are many winter sports—snowboarding, snowshoeing, curling, sledging, and even ice climbing.
Non-Skiing Adventures
We chose a slower pace. Instead of chasing the slopes, we spent our days exploring shops, tasting Swiss chocolate, and enjoying fondue by the fire. It was a reminder that Zermatt is not only for skiers—it’s also for anyone who wants to soak in alpine life.
Dining and Culture
Food is part of the Zermatt experience. One evening, the smell of melting cheese filled the restaurant as we dipped bread into bubbling fondue. Local dishes like raclette and alpine cured meats made every meal feel like a cozy tradition.
The Matterhorn Museum – Zermatlantis also gave us a deeper sense of history, showing how the village grew around the mountain and how climbers risked everything to conquer the Matterhorn.
Best Views of the Matterhorn
One of our highlights was the trip to the Gornergrat, a ridge at 10,285 feet. We rode the Gornergrat Bahn, the world’s first fully electrified cog railway, and watched as the train climbed steep tracks. At the top, the Matterhorn looked so close we felt we could reach out and touch it. Spending a night at the 3100 Kulmhotel Gornergrat, Europe’s highest hotel, would be an unforgettable way to wake up to this view.
Best Time to Visit Zermatt
- Winter (Dec–Mar): Skiing and snow sports.
- Summer (Jun–Sep): Hiking, mountain biking, climbing, and paragliding.
- Spring/Autumn: Fewer crowds, colorful landscapes, and quieter village charm.
Where to Stay
Zermatt offers something for every traveler—luxury hotels with spa views, family-friendly chalets, and budget guesthouses. Since the town is compact, almost everything is within walking distance, with electric carts and even horse-drawn carriages available for luggage.
Our Takeaway
Zermatt gave us the best of both worlds: adventure and peace. Whether skiing down thrilling slopes, riding a mountain railway, or simply savoring fondue by a warm fire, the village felt timeless.
Zermatt is not just a destination. It’s an alpine experience you carry with you long after you leave the shadow of the Matterhorn.
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