Zermatt

Area Profile

Zermatt is one of those rare ski resorts that has it all and, as such, is the favoured destination of many skiers from around the world. To begin with there's the huge ski area, with the world's second biggest lift-served vertical drop and skiing 365 days a year with a 1000 metre (9280 feet) vertical on its glacier even in the summer months. Then there's the village itself, peaceful thanks to the absence of the combustion engine (only small electric vehicles quietly hum around the streets along side horse drawn carriages), and picturesque with traditional buildings and many visitors arriving by the spectacular mountain railway. Thirdly there is the international resort quality and variety of accommodations, restaurants, après ski, off-slope facilities and shopping. Fourth there's the sunny location, sheltered from the wind and finally there is the spectacular backdrop to it all - the 4000m full face of the Matterhorn, one of 38 mountain peaks surrounding the village.

Lodging Profile

Slopeside lodging of 13,000 beds is available; additional lodging facilities available nearby.

Services Profile

Restaurants, ski schools, shops, banks, post office, gas stations, public library, disco dancing, nightclubs, alpine garden, museums, billiards, and cinemas.

Area Recreation Profile

Snowboarding, cross country, off-piste, glacier, tobogganing, sledding, snowshoeing, dog sled rides, telemark, ski touring, winter hiking, ice skating, curling, heliskiing, ice climbing, sleigh rides, snowtubing, and ice hockey. Also indoor swimming, hot tubs/jacuzzi, indoor tennis, fitness trail, climbing wall, table football, and indoor golf.

Snowboarding Profile

Snowboarding is available with a terrain park and halfpipe. Lessons are available.