Introduction
Zermatt, the iconic Alpine village in Switzerland, is a dream destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Famous for its stunning location at the base of the Matterhorn, Zermatt offers unparalleled outdoor experiences year-round. Whether you’re skiing world-class slopes in winter, hiking through breathtaking trails in summer, or simply soaking in the mountain views with a cup of Swiss hot chocolate, Zermatt is pure magic. But with so many charming mountain destinations in Switzerland, you might wonder: is Zermatt worth visiting? In this post, we’ll explore what makes Zermatt stand out and help you decide if it’s the right place for your next trip.
Table of Contents
Pros – Reasons You Should Visit Zermatt
1. Iconic Views of the Matterhorn
The Matterhorn, one of the most famous mountains in the world, dominates Zermatt’s skyline and offers breathtaking views from nearly every corner of the village. Its striking pyramid shape has become a symbol of Switzerland’s natural beauty.
I was mesmerised by the Matterhorn from the moment I arrived. The Gornergrat Railway provided even more spectacular views as it climbed to an elevation of 3,089 metres, where the mountain looked close enough to touch. Watching the sunrise over the Matterhorn was unforgettable—its golden glow reflecting off the peaks was worth waking up early.
2. A Car-Free Alpine Village
Zermatt is entirely car-free, which enhances its tranquil and unspoiled atmosphere. Visitors arrive by train, and within the village, only electric taxis, horse-drawn carriages, and bicycles are used for transport.
Walking through Zermatt, I appreciated the quiet streets free of traffic noise. The absence of cars allows you to truly immerse yourself in the natural beauty surrounding the village. The peacefulness, combined with the crisp mountain air, makes Zermatt a unique retreat from the hustle of modern life.
3. World-Class Skiing and Snowboarding
Zermatt is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts, offering some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the Alps. The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise provides access to year-round skiing, with over 360 kilometres of pistes.
I spent a day skiing on perfectly groomed slopes with panoramic views of the Alps. The ski area is connected to Italy’s Cervinia, allowing for cross-border skiing. With trails for all skill levels, Zermatt caters to everyone, from beginners to advanced adventurers.
4. Incredible Hiking and Outdoor Adventures
Zermatt is a hiker’s dream, with over 400 kilometres of marked trails that range from easy walks to challenging treks. Trails like the Five Lakes Walk and the Matterhorn Glacier Trail offer stunning views of the surrounding peaks and landscapes.
I took the Five Lakes Walk and was blown away by the mirror-like reflections of the Matterhorn in the alpine lakes. The trails are well-marked and provide opportunities to experience Zermatt’s pristine environment. Whether you’re hiking, mountain biking, or climbing, Zermatt offers endless outdoor adventures.
5. The Gornergrat Railway Experience
The Gornergrat Railway is one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, climbing to an altitude of over 3,000 metres and offering unparalleled views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks.
The journey to the summit was magical, with each turn revealing snow-covered mountains, glaciers, and valleys. At the top, the panoramic views of 29 peaks above 4,000 metres were awe-inspiring. The Gornergrat is a must for anyone visiting Zermatt, whether for sightseeing or as a starting point for hikes and skiing.
6. Gourmet Dining and Mountain Cuisine
Zermatt offers an impressive array of dining options, from cosy mountain huts serving traditional Swiss dishes to Michelin-starred restaurants. Local specialties like raclette, fondue, and roesti are must-tries.
I enjoyed a meal at a rustic chalet, where the raclette was served with fresh potatoes and pickles, accompanied by a glass of local white wine. For fine dining, Zermatt has several Michelin-starred establishments that elevate mountain cuisine to an art form. Food lovers will find Zermatt a gastronomic delight.
7. Year-Round Destination
Zermatt is a fantastic destination in any season. Winter brings world-class skiing, while summer offers hiking, climbing, and mountain biking. Autumn’s golden larch trees and spring’s blooming alpine flowers add to the village’s beauty.
I visited in summer and enjoyed clear skies for hiking and outdoor exploration. The year-round skiing on the glacier means there’s always something to do. Zermatt’s versatility makes it a destination you can return to at any time of year for a different experience.
8. Luxurious Accommodation and Wellness
Zermatt is known for its high-end accommodations, ranging from luxury chalets to five-star hotels with state-of-the-art wellness facilities. Many hotels offer stunning Matterhorn views, spa services, and gourmet dining.
I stayed in a boutique hotel with a rooftop terrace overlooking the Matterhorn. The spa, complete with a sauna and outdoor hot tub, provided the perfect way to relax after a day of hiking. Zermatt’s accommodations cater to those seeking comfort, relaxation, and unforgettable mountain vistas.
9. Rich Mountaineering History
Zermatt has a fascinating mountaineering heritage, highlighted by the Matterhorn Museum – Zermatlantis, which tells the story of the first successful ascent of the Matterhorn in 1865 and the development of alpinism in the region.
The museum’s exhibits brought the history of Zermatt to life, showcasing artefacts, photographs, and stories of daring climbers. For those interested in mountaineering or the history of the Alps, Zermatt’s legacy adds depth to the natural beauty of the area.
10. Proximity to Scenic Day Trips
Zermatt’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions like Gorner Gorge, Schwarzsee, and the Monte Rosa Hut, a striking modern mountain refuge.
I took a short hike to Gorner Gorge and was amazed by its dramatic rock formations and rushing glacial waters. The Schwarzsee area offered peaceful trails and beautiful views of the Matterhorn. These day trips showcase the diversity of landscapes and activities available around Zermatt.
Cons – Things to Consider When Visiting Zermatt
1. High Cost of Visiting
Zermatt is one of the most expensive destinations in Switzerland. Accommodation, dining, ski passes, and excursions like the Gornergrat Railway or Matterhorn Glacier Paradise are premium-priced, which can strain a traveller’s budget.
During my stay, I found that even simple meals and mid-range hotels were significantly more expensive than in other Swiss towns. For those on a budget, staying in nearby Täsch and commuting to Zermatt via train is a cost-effective alternative. Planning ahead and taking advantage of package deals can also help reduce expenses.
2. Crowds During Peak Seasons
Zermatt attracts visitors year-round, but winter ski season and summer hiking season can bring large crowds to the village, ski slopes, and popular attractions like the Matterhorn Museum and Gornergrat Railway.
When I visited in July, the trails and town centre were bustling with tourists, which made certain areas feel less serene. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn), when the crowds are thinner, and accommodations are more readily available.
3. Accessibility Challenges
Zermatt’s car-free policy enhances its charm, but it also means reaching the village can be inconvenient. Visitors must park in Täsch and take a shuttle train to Zermatt, adding time and expense to the journey.
Arriving with luggage required extra planning, especially when transferring from the train to my accommodation. While the electric taxis and hotel shuttles in Zermatt help, they come at an additional cost. Travellers should pack efficiently and prepare for the extra logistics.
4. Weather-Dependent Activities
Zermatt’s outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and mountaineering, rely heavily on weather conditions. Poor visibility, high winds, or heavy snowfall can disrupt plans, especially for excursions like the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise or scenic hikes.
During my visit, cloud cover obscured the Matterhorn for an entire day, making outdoor photography and sightseeing less enjoyable. Checking weather forecasts and planning flexible itineraries with indoor options, like the Matterhorn Museum, ensures you can still enjoy Zermatt despite unpredictable weather.
5. Limited Nightlife and Entertainment
Zermatt is more focused on outdoor adventures and relaxation than vibrant nightlife. While there are bars, lounges, and après-ski options, the nightlife scene is subdued compared to larger cities or ski resorts like Verbier.
After a day of hiking, I visited a cosy bar, but the options for lively evening entertainment felt limited. Zermatt is ideal for those who enjoy quiet evenings of fine dining or unwinding at a spa, but party-goers might find the nightlife underwhelming.
When to Visit Zermatt
The best times to visit Zermatt depend on your interests. Winter (December to March) is perfect for skiing and snowboarding on the slopes of the Matterhorn Ski Paradise. Summer (June to September) is ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring alpine trails with stunning views. Spring (April to May) and autumn (October to November) are quieter, offering mild weather for outdoor activities and fewer crowds, although some facilities may close between seasons. Zermatt’s high altitude ensures snow for much of the year, making it a year-round destination for adventure and scenic beauty.
How to Get to Zermatt
Zermatt is car-free, so visitors arrive by train. The nearest major airport is Zurich Airport (ZRH), followed by Geneva Airport (GVA). From these airports, Swiss Railways (SBB) offers scenic and efficient train services to Visp or Täsch, where you transfer to the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn for the final leg to Zermatt. For a luxurious experience, consider the Glacier Express, which connects Zermatt to St. Moritz with breathtaking alpine views. If driving, park your car in Täsch and take the shuttle train into Zermatt.
Where to Stay in Zermatt
Zermatt offers a range of accommodation options catering to different tastes and budgets:
- Luxury: Village Centre – Enjoy world-class amenities at The Omnia, a chic mountain lodge with spectacular views, or the Mont Cervin Palace, a classic five-star hotel with spa facilities.
- Mid-range: Near the Train Station or Along the Matterhorn Views Trail – Try Hotel Daniela, offering charming alpine-style rooms, or Hotel Alpenhof, known for its cosy atmosphere and excellent dining.
- Budget: Suburban Zermatt or Hostels – Options like Youth Hostel Zermatt or Hotel Alfa Zermatt provide affordable stays without compromising comfort or access to activities.
Getting Around Zermatt
Zermatt is compact and easy to explore on foot. For longer distances, electric taxis and shuttle buses provide eco-friendly transport. The Gornergrat Railway is a must for panoramic views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks, while the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car takes you to Europe’s highest viewing platform. Visitors can also rent e-bikes to explore the area’s trails. Many hotels offer free shuttle services from the train station, and Zermatt’s Peak Pass provides unlimited access to local transport and mountain lifts.
How Long to Spend in Zermatt
Three to four days is ideal for experiencing Zermatt’s highlights. Spend one day exploring the town, visiting the Matterhorn Museum, and enjoying the views from the Gornergrat Railway. Dedicate another day to skiing or hiking, depending on the season, and consider taking the cable car to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise for unforgettable alpine scenery. With more time, explore the surrounding valleys, villages like Findeln, or take a guided mountaineering tour. Zermatt’s mix of adventure, luxury, and natural beauty guarantees an unforgettable alpine escape.
Conclusion
So, is Zermatt worth visiting? Without a doubt! If you’re captivated by dramatic mountain landscapes, world-class skiing, and the charm of a car-free Alpine village, Zermatt is an unforgettable destination. Its proximity to the Matterhorn and the wide range of outdoor activities make it a haven for adventurers and relaxation-seekers alike. That said, Zermatt’s exclusivity comes with a higher price tag, which might not suit all budgets. But for those who can make the trip, Zermatt offers a Swiss Alps experience that’s truly one of a kind.