Zermatt-Matterhorn ski resort

With more than 300 kilometers of pistes and 54 lifts, Zermatt provides a diverse terrain to practice skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. However, its pristine nature is not the only attraction available at the resort. There are also plenty of places for shopping, eating out, and a really promising après-ski! Another particularity of Zermatt is that there is a huge glacier, located between the Matterhorn and Klein Matterhorn. That is why it is called “Matterhorn glacier paradise”, and that is why it is so snowsure. So expect extremely wide pistes and gentle slopes, where you can warm up before more challenging trails.

This season, the operating times of the resort are 30.11.20-01.05.21.

Weather in Zermatt

Situated at an altitude of 1600 meters, Zermatt has a cold climate and a great amount of annual precipitation. The latter can reach up to 1300 mm! In winter, the temperature usually drops below zero even during the day. The record figure was reported in February 2012, when the temperature dropped to -22°C. However, as a rule, it ranges from -4°C to -8°C in the coldest month, which is January. For your ski holiday to be pleasant and fun, we recommend visiting Zermatt in the period from February to March. They are the most snow-sure, and the days are much longer during these months. In general, 325 cm of snow falls annually during the winter season.

Tip: One of the biggest advantages of Zermatt is that you can ski here all year round, even in summer! The major part of the terrain is located at an altitude of 2000 meters, so the snow is guaranteed. However, the prices for the ski passes may be even higher than during the winter season..

Zermatt-Matterhorn interactive piste map

Tip: If you need a more precise scheme of ski trails in Zermatt-Matterhorn, check out the interactive version of this map. Here you will also find relevant information concerning the operational statuses of the ski lifts, as well as the whereabouts of the best photo points and snowparks.

Sanitary measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Zermatt-Matterhorn

To ensure the safety of visitors and staff, Seilbahnen Schweiz has developed new health protocols in compliance with regulations provided by the Swiss government. The Zermatt-Matterhorn ski resort has adopted these measures and now operates according to the new rules. One of the main obligations is that all visitors must wear face masks while using ski lifts, on public transport, and in waiting areas. All restaurants in the Canton of Valais operate in take-away mode until at least 22.01.21.

Moreover, the travelers who came to Switzerland from the countries largely affected by COVID-19 must observe 10-day quarantine upon arrival. A negative test result will neither exempt you from this preventive measure nor shorten the quarantine period. Countries with an increased risk of infection are listed here.

Here is a short overview of how Zermatt-Matterhorn will be operating during the winter season:

Tip: To be sure that you will get a refund for your used or unused tickets, you need to take out private insurance that covers more specific cases. Such options as SOLID SkiCare/PassProtect insurances can be purchased online for 3-5 CHF per day.

How to get to Zermatt

The mountain village of Zermatt lies in the Canton of Valais in Switzerland. And the country itself lies at the very heart of Europe. Thus, getting there is not an issue, as it can be easily reached via such international hubs as Geneva or Zurich.

However, there is one particular thing that distinguishes Zermatt from other destinations. And this is that this resort has been car-free since the 1970s. Getting around Zermatt is possible only by electric taxis, by train, and even by horse-drawn carriages! Combustion-engine cars are banned in town in order to keep the air clean so that Matterhorn can be visible from any part of town. Those who want to get there by their own vehicle must park it in Tasch, and then switch to another means of transport.

Getting there by car

As mentioned above, you can only drive to Tasch, which is located just near the resort. The road which lies through Lucerne and Interlaken is one of the fastest routes with unforgettable mountain views. The other way of getting there includes driving via Bern, Thun, and Visp. Note that if you are traveling by car in winter, you should have snow tires and chains.

There are both covered and open-air parking garages available in Tasch. You can book a parking place in advance by calling their hotline. We recommend using this option, as Zermatt is a quite popular tourist destination, especially in winter.

Getting there by train

After you successfully reach Tasch, you will be able to get Zermatt by a cog train. The journey will take you around 12 minutes. Trains come and go every 15 minutes in the daytime. Actually, there are 83 trains that run between Tasch and Zermatt every day! Thus, you can catch one early in the morning, as well as late at night. Ticket prices vary between €3.68 - €9.20.

There are also shuttle trains that can take you to Tasch via Brig or Visp all the way from any nearby airport (Sion, Geneva, or Zurich). It is possible to change trains at Brig and Visp as well. The whole journey will be marvelous thanks to the wonderful scenery that can be seen from the train windows. Taking a Glacier Express ride is a must, especially if you are traveling with children!

Getting there by plane

You can get to Switzerland from any corner of the world by plane. Either Geneva or Zurich international airport will be the starting point of your journey to Zermatt-Matterhorn. You can benefit from the services of such carriers as Swiss Air, Easyjet, or Lufthansa. They are both located at a convenient distance from Zermatt. Alternative options include Bern, Sion, and Milan airports.

In case you need a quick transfer, mind that getting there by taxi from Geneva will take you around 2 and a half hours. If you are planning to arrive in Zurich, the best option will be to take a train to Visp, and then getting to Zermatt by taxi. There are two reasons for that. First, you may be held in traffic in case of bad weather. Second, as the direct tunnel is meant only for trains, it will be faster. In general, the journey will take you around 3 hours.

Skiing in Zermatt-Matterhorn and skipass prices 2020/2021

On the Swiss side, this ski resort counts 210 kilometers of slopes, as well as off-piste and free-ride trails. In general, it can be described as a heaven for intermediates, as 60% of pistes in Zermatt are suitable for them. There are only 22% of beginner trails, and 18% of advanced runs. Diverse off-piste routes are the main highlight of the resort. To enjoy them fully, we strongly recommend going skiing as early in the morning as possible. But you must always be on alert and check the weather forecast beforehand, as there is always a risk of avalanche.

Zermatt ski resort encompasses three large zones. The biggest is the Klein Matterhorn-Schwarzsee, which also boasts the best quality of snow, as the majority of its pistes is facing north. Another part of the resort is Sunnegga-Rothorn, where both beginners and pros can find suitable areas to have fun. One of the distinctive features of this zone is a great selection of mountain restaurants. Various ski schools host their lessons in the local “Wolli’s Park”, where kids and beginners can learn the ropes. Last but not least is Gornergrat-Stockhorn, which offers a comfortable environment for sportsmen of any ability level. A vast freeride area can be found here as well!

However, these are not all perks of Zermatt. Another great advantage is a connection with the Italian Cervinia-Valtournenche part. With Cervinia, the whole territory of “Matterhorn Ski Paradise'' counts 360 kilometers of pistes! Access to this part of the resort will give you an opportunity to visit local restaurants and enjoy fine Italian cuisine.

Note: In the light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Italian government has made a decision to close local ski resorts. Thus, Cervinia-Valtournenche is currently closed until further notice.

Ski pass prices 2020/2021 – Matterhorn Ski Paradise

FLEX ski pass prices 2020/2021 – Matterhorn Ski Paradise

A ski pass of this type gives you an opportunity to pick days for the duration of your choice.

BEGINNER ski pass prices 2020/2021 – Matterhorn Ski Paradise

Beginner pass is a great bargain for those who are just starting to learn all ins and outs of skiing. It covers such parts of the resort as Zermatt-Sunnegga, Sunnega-Blauhers, Eisfluh, including access to the Findel chairlift and the Leisee shuttle.

Type	Zermatt
1-Day Pass	CHF 53.-
2-Day Pass	CHF 99.-
3-Day Pass	CHF 139.-
4-Day Pass	CHF 179.-
5-Day Pass	CHF 219.-
6-Day Pass	CHF 259.-

● Families with children under 9 years of age will be able to get free ski passes for their kids;
● Children of the age of 9-15 and youth of the age of 16-19 can benefit from the discounts of 50% and 15% accordingly;
● To get passes with discounted rates, you need to produce an official photo ID with the date of birth indicated in it;
● On Saturdays, Zermatt pass is free for kids under 16 years old;
● All passes are valid during the winter season 2020/2021, which lasts from 01.11.20 to 02.05.21.

Operating times of the ski lifts in Zermatt-Matterhorn are the following:

● 08:30 - 17:00

Note: that the operating times are subject to change according to weather conditions, day of the week, and on major holidays.

Other activities in Zermatt-Matterhorn

Zermatt is rich inside activities that will definitely not leave you indifferent. Whether you need something kid-friendly or want to try another kind of winter sport yourself, you will always find what you need. Let’s see, what you can do for your entertainment in Zermatt-Matterhorn:

● Tobogganing. Gornergrat is the highest toboggan run in Switzerland and one which has the most spectacular views in the Alps! Located at an altitude of 2813 meters, its length is 1,6 kilometers. Your adventure will start in Rotenboden and end in Riffelberg.

● Snowshoeing. Numerous snowshoeing trails await you! The memorable panorama of sunlit Matterhorn and other sparkling peaks will be the most stunning view in your life. There are lots of trails for beginners, like Challenge Trail (Nr.141) with a start in Gornergrat. Its length is 1,7 kilometers, and the journey will take you only 1 hour.

● Gondola Fondue. This is an experience for the true gourmets. Have some rest in a cable car gondola and enjoy home-made cheese fondue. You will be able to wash it down with a glass of fine local wine. The gondola fondue experience can be arranged for groups of not more than 4 people.

● A traditional sheep farm. What can be more enjoyable for kids, than interacting with animals! In the Julen sheep barn, there is a herd of 300 black nose sheep. The family which owns this complex is the world's largest breeder of these beautiful animals.

● Husky sleigh runs. Sleigh rides bring so much fun, and if the sleighs are carried by huskies, the experience becomes even more enjoyable. Before the ride, you can pet the dogs and take some photos. The instructor will instruct you on how to steer the sledge, and you are good to go! You will receive a nice souvenir after the event.

...and this is not even the full list of available entertainment! You can also go for treasure hunting with your kids during “Wolli’s treasure hunt”, or try thrilling zip wire courses in the Forest Fun Park. The options are truly unlimited!

Accommodation in Zermatt-Matterhorn

There is a vast choice of accommodation available in Zermatt. Finding budget lodging may be challenging, as Switzerland is quite expensive. The average price of a room in a 4-star hotel is $350 per night, and 5-star hotels may even take $600 per room per night. However, as the village has more than 12,000 beds, we bet that you will find plenty of good value for money options. Those who like to spend their holidays in the lap of luxury will be pleased with top-notch apartments and first-class ski chalets. As Zermatt is set at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn, some of the hotels offer rooms with knockout views of this majestic mountain!

While making a choice, pay attention to the hotel’s location. The most convenient options are those situated on any of the three main streets that are parallel to the Matter Vispa River. For your comfort, they should also be close enough to the Gornergrat and Sunnegga railway stations.

Places with romantic ambience

Romantik Hotel Julen is a family-run hotel, which combines Alpine charm with state-of-the-art amenities. The main drawcards of this place are a traditional tavern, a cozy open fireplace, and a 3-storey spa area. Not to mention that the Zermatt-Sunnegga ski lift is located only 500 meters away from the hotel!

Family-friendly apartments

Hörnligrat Apartments offers spacious self-catering accommodation with a fully equipped kitchen, fireplace, and stunning mountain views. Big families with kids will be pleased with great amenities and location – only 8 minutes’ walk away from the city center and local train station. Another highlight of this place is an exceptional relaxation area with a sauna and a hot tub.

Accommodation with the best mountain views

You will definitely fall in love with this variant, as the majority of rooms in Europe Hotel & SPA have a private balcony or terrace with breathtaking views of the Matterhorn mountain. Set only 700 meters away from Zermatt Train Station, this hotel is highly rated by visitors for its super comfy location. A rich breakfast buffet and extensive wine card will surprise you with the freedom of choice!

Luxurious chalets and apartments

Mountain Exposure Luxury Chalets & Apartments offers 4- and 5- star accommodation for those who prefer to be their own boss. Some of these spacious studios feature large living rooms, private terraces with sitting areas, and even a jacuzzi! Free transfer service is available to every guest. As an alternative option, consider Cervo Mountain Boutique Resort, which provides ski-to-door access, a wellness area in every chalet, and a gourmet restaurant with an eclectic menu.

Hotels for an exclusive SPA experience

Backstage Boutique SPA Hotel is located in the very heart of Zermatt and boasts stylish furnishings, fine cuisine, and an impeccable spa. The latter includes a sauna, a hot tub, a steam bath, and massage services to ensure your deep relaxation. After the beauty treatments, you will be able to round up your day with a glass of wine in the hotel’s bar.