The Swiss town of Zermatt lies at the foot of the famous Matterhorn. Almost a third of all 4,000-metre peaks in the Alps are in its immediate vicinity. Zermatt is considered a mountaineering centre and is one of the most famous ski resorts in Switzerland.
At the end of the Nikolaital and on the border with Italy, surrounded by almost a third of the 4,000-metre peaks of the Alps at the foot of the famous Matterhorn, lies the village of Zermatt. Despite its high altitude, the climate is extremely pleasant: little precipitation and 300 days of sunshine a year. The picturesque village at the foot of one of the most beautiful mountains in the world is one of our top 10 sights in Switzerland.
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PICTURES: Zermatt and Matterhorn
Photo gallery: Zermatt and Matterhorn
Mountaineering centre for the Matterhorn
Since the first ascent of the Matterhorn in 1865, Zermatt has been considered a mountaineering centre of the Alps. It is the starting point for climbing the Matterhorn, but also more than 30 other 4,000-metre peaks. Those who prefer to take it easy will be thrilled by the more than 400 kilometres of hiking trails with fantastic scenery.
From mountain village to small town Zermatt
In the meantime, Zermatt has developed from the original mountain village into a remarkable small town with about 5,000 inhabitants. Important to know: Zermatt is car-free! If you travel by car, you must park your car in the village of Täsch about 5 kilometres from Zermatt (parking garage available). From there, shuttle trains run to Zermatt every 20 minutes during the day. These trains also carry luggage. The journey takes 12 minutes.
For transport in the village, there are electric vehicles - these are allowed - and horse-drawn taxis. Of course, you can also explore Zermatt on foot.
Sporty all year round
In addition to its function as a mountaineering centre, Zermatt is also one of the best-known winter sports areas in Switzerland.
Three interconnected skiing areas offer a winter sports experience of a special kind: 63 mountain railways and more than 300 kilometres of prepared pistes make the heart of every piste-skier beat faster. There is something for everyone here, from absolute beginners to professional skiers.
Those looking for a challenge: A 21 km long descent leads from the Kleine Matterhorn to Zermatt. This involves an altitude difference of approx. 2,300 metres.
Those who also want to indulge in skiing in summer will find the largest and highest skiing area in Europe here. From spring to autumn, except June, there are about 20 km of prepared ski slopes where you can make your turns in the snow under the summer sun.
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