Zermatt

Ascend to Europe's highest cable car station (3,883m) for unparalleled panoramic views across 38 peaks over 4,000m and 14 glaciers. This year-round destination offers the world's highest glacier palace, featuring intricate ice sculptures, an observation deck, and a cinema lounge. It's also the gateway to the Theodul Glacier ski area, allowing for summer skiing. Cable car journey takes approximately 45 minutes from Zermatt. Prices vary by season, typically around CHF 100-120 return, with discounts for Swiss Travel Pass holders.

Switzerland's oldest electric cogwheel railway, the Gornergrat Bahn, offers an unforgettable journey from Zermatt (1,604m) up to the Gornergrat summit (3,089m). The 33-minute ride ascends through picturesque forests, past alpine lakes, and offers increasingly spectacular views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding glaciers. At the summit, visitors can enjoy the panoramic viewing platform, the 'Kulmhotel Gornergrat' (Europe's highest hotel), and an interactive exhibition. It's a prime starting point for hiking and ski tours. Return tickets typically cost around CHF 120-130, varying by season, with half-fare card discounts.

These interconnected lift systems provide access to some of Zermatt's most scenic and versatile areas. The Sunnegga funicular quickly transports visitors underground to Sunnegga (2,288m) in just 3 minutes, offering stunning Matterhorn views and access to the 'Wolli's Park for beginners' ski area. From Sunnegga, a gondola goes to Blauherd (2,571m), which is a hub for hiking trails (like the 5-lakes walk) and mountain biking routes in summer. A cable car then continues to Rothorn (3,103m), famous for its sunrise views and challenging ski runs. In winter, this area offers diverse pistes, while summer provides access to beautiful hiking paths and biking trails. Individual return tickets from Zermatt range from CHF 30-60 depending on the endpoint.

A popular and relatively easy-to-moderate hiking trail offering magnificent views of the Matterhorn. Starting from Riffelalp (accessible by Gornergrat Bahn), the path descends through larch forests and alpine meadows, passing by charming hamlets like Furi (1,867m), which has a glacier garden and suspension bridge. The trail is approximately 6-8 km long and takes about 2-3 hours. It's well-marked and suitable for families, offering diverse scenery and numerous photo opportunities. Best enjoyed when snow-free.

A quintessential Zermatt summer experience, this moderate 9.3 km loop trail starts and ends at Blauherd (accessible via Sunnegga/Blauherd lifts). The walk, taking approximately 2.5-3 hours, connects five beautiful alpine lakes (Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee, and Leisee), each offering unique perspectives of the Matterhorn. The highlight is often the perfect reflection of the Matterhorn in Stellisee. The path is well-maintained and suitable for families. It's a must-do for photographers and nature lovers.

Located in the heart of Zermatt, this unique museum takes visitors back in time to the Zermatt of the 19th century, depicting the village's transformation from a simple farming community to a world-renowned tourist destination. It features historical buildings, artifacts from the first ascent of the Matterhorn, including a broken rope from the fateful expedition, and a multimedia presentation on mountaineering history. It's an excellent option for a rainy day or to delve into the local culture and history. Open daily, entry fee approx. CHF 10.

Zermatt boasts an incredible cross-border ski connection to Cervinia and Valtournenche in Italy, forming the 'Matterhorn Ski Paradise'. This allows skiers to enjoy over 360 km of pistes, experiencing different cultures and cuisines in a single ski day. The connection is made via the Theodul Pass, typically accessed from the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise or Schwarzsee areas. Ski passes cover both resorts, but checking the last lift times for returning to Zermatt is crucial. This unique feature enhances Zermatt's appeal significantly for advanced skiers.