A Weekend in Zermatt
A weekend in Zermatt is like a weekend in Wonderland! You’ll be bewitched, beguiled and possibly a little bit bewildered. My survival tips:
The picturesque village of Zermatt is arguably the most magical destination in Switzerland with the main attraction, the iconic Matterhorn, taking pride of place in the spectacular Alpine landscape. At night, the village transforms into a winter wonderland, directly out of a fairy tale. Hotels, bars, cafés and restaurants abound with food playing a central role in any Zermatt experience – the mountain restaurants being particularly popular. Zermatt works like a magnetic charm for sporty types. One can easily see why, with 360 km of pistes, ample sunshine, and some of the best downhill skiing in Europe. The question is, take to the slopes or relax in the spa? Well, alternatively, there’s always the sun terrace… a lazy lunch and glass of Walliser white wine. Wonderful wonderland!
What to discover
Riffelalp
At 2222 meters, as a place to stay or destination to hike to, this legendary five-star resort hotel with its own private tram, super spa, gourmet restaurants and relaxing piano bar has every-thing one could wish for in an Alpine hotel and is an absolute higlight. Including the best view of the Matterhorn for miles around!
Matterhorn Museum
Discover the triumphs and tragedies of life in Zermatt in the shadow of the Matterhorn at the turn of the 19th Century and relive the drama of the first ascent of the iconic mountain. Including the broken rope … The film recreating the momentous event, “Der Berg Ruft”, on show in the museum, is well worth watching.
A day in the Matterhorn glacier paradise
the Klein Matterhorn peak. The stunning views from the world’s highest cable car station (3,883 m), with its new restaurant, makes for a fantastic day trip. The state-of-the-art gondolas created by Italian design studio Pininfarina have glass bottoms adorned with Swarovski crystals that open up after three minutes to reveal the spectacular glacier landscape below.
Weather permitting … Don’t miss it!
Zermatt insider tips
Julen Sport
The champions in town. Reliable supplier of sportswear and ski rental for every shape and size, taste and style!
– Hofmattstrasse 4, Zermatt - julensport.ch
Boutique Fusalp
The Swiss designer label for him and her. Cool fashion to cut a dashing figure in - on the slopes or a night out on the tiles.
– Bahnhofstrasse 39, Zermatt - fusalp.com
The Petit Royal Café
Best little tearoom in town with the most scrumptious selection of homemade goodies and their very own hot chocolate!
– Bahnhofstrasse 7, Zermatt
The Riffelsee
Most picturesque and most photographed lake in the alps, dramatically reflecting the Matterhorn. A brisk walk in pure nature.
Where to eat & drink
Place to be…
Amazing food at Hotel Cervo’s Restaurant Bazaar, inspired by the lively markets of the East. Cool bar! The place to be!
– cervo.ch
Restaurant Chez Heini
Unique and quirky … fantastic restaurant with an entertaining, singing chef and the best lamb-chops in town.
– chezheini.com
Insider tip
The elegant Edwards Bar in the historical Hotel Monte Rosa (dating back to 1839) is the perfect place for cocktails or a cozy chat. The hotel embodies the story of the first ascent of the Matterhorn.
– monterosazermatt.ch
And before you go …
Zermatt is a world unto itself and no visitor leaves its slopes or streets without leaving a part of himself behind. It’s the kind of place you have to tear yourself away from. And no sooner done, than make plans for a return visit.
Words Clifford Lilley
Related Stories
Dog heaven on earth: At the super-luxurious Beau-Rivage Palace hotel, not only are Labradors treated like kings, they are also kings in themselves. Some pets have stayed at the hotel forever – in its own dog cemetery.
Discover more
Faster, higher, stronger: visiting the Lausanne Palace, over whose entrances hangs a flag with the Olympic rings, with a muscular Labrador. The hotel is a dream destination for all dogs, from the sporty to the pleasure-oriented. Fortunately, chocolate, cheese and wine doping for the master is legal here.
Discover more
A giant mythological creature, fish in beeswax and fluffy dog beds: at The Alpina Gstaad luxury hotel, animals play more than just an insignificant supporting role. Nevertheless, they also need to be able to behave appropriately, as author Titus Arnu found out during his stay as a guest in Gstaad with his Labrador Oskar.
Discover more
The engine is running as the anticipation rises. Our upcoming road trip takes us on the Ruta Cumpleta, the most comprehensive tour of the Alpine Circle, over the most scenic roads through the cantons of Graubünden and Ticino. Join us on a journey crossing grandiose passes while stopping at magnificent hotels and restaurants.
Discover more
Whether seeking Alpine adventures, culinary delights, or simply looking to dive into Switzerland’s inspired natural beauty, the Engadin has it all. With its stunning landscapes, pristine lakes, and charming villages, it’s no wonder the region consistently ranks as a top destination for travellers seeking unforgettable experiences.
Discover more
Tartare in the bowl, non-alcoholic dog vodka, and Basler Leckerli treats galore: at the Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois, our columnist’s black Labrador enjoys five-star service fit for a king.
Discover more
A colourful evening with fondue, fun and friends in the company of a colour-blind Labrador: despite this apparent contradiction, we spend a delightful time at the ultra-stylish Carlton Hotel in St. Moritz.
Discover more