The Best Things To See And Do In Zermatt Switzerland

Zermatt, in the canton of Valais, is one of Switzerland’s premier tourist spots. Most flock to the car-free town, which sits at an altitude of 1,600 metres (5,249 feet), to enjoy its ski slopes. Discover the best things to see and do during your time in Zermatt, no matter when you choose to visit.

1. Matterhorn Museum

Museum

If you’re looking to delve into the history of Zermatt and the first expedition to conquer its famous mountain, then head to the museum. You’ll see the now-infamous broken rope from that first endeavour, which claimed the lives of four out of the seven climbers.

Skiing in Zermatt

Skiing is undoubtedly why Zermatt is on your list of places to visit. With 245 kilometres (152.2 miles) of pistes, 73 ski lifts and a 13-kilometre (eight-mile) run that takes you into the centre of the car-free town, it’s simply a snow lover’s paradise. There are pistes to suit all levels (23% for beginners, 44% for intermediates and 33% for advanced), including challenging off-piste slopes for the adventurous-minded.

Klein Matterhorn

Follow cable cars to the beautiful Schwarzee, complete with a mirror-like lake, and then continue to the high-altitude Glacier Paradise at 3,883 metres (12,739.5 ft). From there you can hike, trek, climb or ski to your heart’s content, or simply enjoy the stunning mountain views. Some of the peaks you can see include the Mont Blanc and the Gran Paradiso, Italy’s highest peak.

Climb the Matterhorn

Why just look at Switzerland’s most iconic mountain when you can conquer it? The best climbing season is from late June to mid-September. Be warned, however, as it’s a gruelling experience. Indeed, you need to have previous rock climbing experience to tackle it and be at peak fitness.