Zermatt | Ski Resort Review

Set at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn, Zermatt is one of the world’s most well-known alpine destinations. This Swiss mountain village brings together adventure and tradition, where sustainability meets world-class skiing. Surrounded by 38 towering peaks above 4,000 metres, the resort offers breathtaking scenery and a winter playground unlike anywhere else in the Alps.

Zermatt is a car-free resort, preserving its air quality and quiet, chalet-lined streets that charm any visitor. The ski area spans an extraordinary range of terrain, with high-altitude slopes that ensure reliable snow from early winter into late spring, making it one of the most reliable resorts in Europe for snow. It is also linked to Cervinia in Italy, meaning skiers can cross the border, making it a fun addition to the ski resort and offering stunning views of the Matterhorn.

Whether you’re gliding down glacier pistes, exploring guided off-piste routes or simply soaking up the fresh alpine air from a panoramic mountain terrace, Zermatt delivers a world-class blend of dramatic mountain views, charming tradition and refined mountain living.

Zermatt’s ski area is made up of over 300km of varied pistes, offering terrain that suits confident beginners through to expert thrill-seekers. The region is interconnected by three ski sectors: Sunnegga, Gornergrat and Klein Matterhorn. Each of these has its own character, from wide, sunlit blues perfect for building confidence to long, scenic reds that glide past glaciers with Matterhorn views on the horizon. Advanced skiers will find challenging black runs and exhilarating off-piste routes, which can be enjoyed with local experts. For unforgettable descents, head to the top of the Klein Matterhorn for Europe’s highest lift-accessed slopes, or carve towards Cervinia for a cross-border adventure into Italy.

There are 52 lifts in Zermatt, modern, highly efficient lifts that keep skiers moving smoothly across its extensive terrain. The lift system includes high-speed gondolas, cable cars and comfortable chairlifts which connect the three main ski areas with minimal waiting time, even in peak season. 

The Matterhorn Glacier Ride II, one of the newest additions, offers rapid access to the highest slopes while showcasing incredible views through its panoramic cabins. Thanks to thoughtful lift planning and ongoing upgrades, queues are generally short, and the flow between Zermatt and Cervinia remains impressively streamlined, helping maximise every ski day on the mountain. During peak season, you may experience some lift waits, but the resort is generally well designed to help skiers flow across the resort to avoid long wait times.

There are several special features for guests to enjoy at the Zermatt resort. Freestyle enthusiasts can take advantage of the well-maintained Snowpark, a high-altitude playground on the Theodul Glacier with kickers, rails and creative features for all levels, set against the Matterhorn’s dramatic backdrop. Adventurers can also explore dedicated freeride zones with professional guides, discovering untouched powder and thrilling backcountry terrain that few destinations can match.

Accessibility is also thoughtfully integrated into Zermatt’s infrastructure. Many lifts, mountain restaurants and accommodations are designed to welcome guests with disabilities, and specialised ski schools offer adaptive equipment and tailored instruction to help everyone enjoy the slopes with confidence. With reliable public transport links into the village, navigation is simple and stress-free.

If you are an adventurer or want something more thrilling than sticking to the piste, then Zermatt could be the place for you. With extensive off-piste, backcountry and ski touring options, many routes can be enjoyed during the ski season.

With views of the Matterhorn and fresh powder, Zermatt is the perfect location for off-piste enthusiasts. There are several places for adventure seekers to get off the beaten path and experience a thrilling afternoon. It is always advisable to check the weather and seek advice from the tourism agency before going off piste, as conditions can change quickly.

Backcountry skiing in Zermatt will reward any adventure skier with incredible views, fresh powder and epic drops. It is a great adventure sport in the region, thanks to the vast expanse and the interconnected resorts, which offer several trails, some that even cross glaciers. For backcountry skiing, it is best to take a guide who knows the route and can ensure a safe adventure.

Zermatt is an adventurer's paradise, but it also offers a variety of ski touring options, including backcountry skiing for beginners, or several ski touring taster sessions if you are new to the sport. For ski touring adventures, check out the main Zermatt tourism website, which offers several routes and tour options that take you up to 4,000 meters and even across glaciers.

Some of the best opportunities to explore beyond the piste are found in Zermatt. Many ski schools offer private tours and guides for a variety of sports such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, off-piste skiing and more. It is best to take a guide if you are a beginner or new to off-piste skiing, as there are several elements to consider, including weather and safety, as well as navigation and route planning. Hiring a guide will allow you to relax and soak in the views while they teach you how to stay safe on the mountain.

Like most ski resorts in Europe, Zermatt takes safety matters seriously. As one of the best resorts in Switzerland, Zermatt maintains a high standard across the resort, not just in hospitality but also on the mountain. Ski guides and teachers are trained to a high level, and mountain rescue ensures the pistes are cleared and safe to use throughout the day, closing any that become unsafe.

Sustainability is at the forefront of Zermatt’s ski resort, and there are several environmental measures in place. The resort is car-free, and all public transport is electric, reducing local carbon emissions. There has also been investment in building upgrades focused on insulation and other measures to make buildings more efficient. Solar energy and biogas are also used to help keep the resort running while reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Appropriate waste management systems are in place, and hotels are encouraged to help reduce water usage wherever possible.

Zermatt is a dream destination for families, offering gentle beginner slopes, excellent ski schools and a welcoming village atmosphere that makes children feel right at home in the mountains. Young skiers can learn with confidence at Sunnegga, where patient instructors offer fun, engaging lessons tailored to all ages and abilities. 

Off the slopes, families can enjoy toboggan runs, ice skating, child-friendly mountain restaurants and magical winter walks with Matterhorn views. Many hotels and chalets provide family-focused facilities, from kids' clubs and day cares to kids’ menus, ensuring that downtime is just as enjoyable. In Zermatt, family ski holidays feel effortless, exciting and wonderfully memorable.

From mountain top restaurants to cosy chalets back in the town, you will find the perfect places to eat in Zermatt. There is a good selection of cuisine, with a strong focus on traditional dishes that feature regional ingredients. Make sure to try raclette, rosti or a warm cheese fondue. Here are some of the best places to eat:

• Bazaar by CERVO
• Grizzly's Bar & Bistro
• Potato Fine Food Restaurant
• Soupi Street Food Kitchen
• Adler Hitta
• Mountain Lodge Ze Seewjinu
• Stockhorn by the rex

 

The après-ski vibe in Zermatt is lively, and you can enjoy a few chilled drinks in a nice, sophisticated bar or a cosy traditional chalet. Or if you feel like dancing the night away, join one of the après-ski parties and head to a club in town. Here are some of the best places in town, each with a different vibe to suit your style:

• Chämi Bar Fire Place
• Snowboat
• Elsie's Wine and Champagne Bar
• Bar 55
• The North Wall Bar & Restaurant
• Iglu-Dorf Zermatt
• Chalet Etoile

 

Zermatt has a good range of accommodation options, from traditional wooden chalets that take you back in time for a cosy night in the mountains, to luxury hotels with a more modern feel and high-end facilities. B&Bs and guest houses also exist and offer a nice way to have a more local experience. 

There are accommodation options in both Zermatt and the surrounding areas and villages. Staying in town means you are closer to the slopes and therefore have more time on the mountain. Whilst staying outside Zermatt, you can experience a more tranquil setting but it means taking public transport to the gondolas which will impact your time on the slopes. Both options are great and will give you the experience you desire. 

Sustainable accommodation options

Zermatt has a wide variety of activities for adventurous travellers. From Backcountry skiing to off-piste, ski touring, and snowshoeing, there is something for everyone. If you are looking to take your adventure to the next level, why not try heliskiing or ice climbing on a glacier? From winter hikes to extreme sports, Zermatt is a winter wonderland with complete exciting opportunities.

Off the slopes, there are several things to do in and around Zermatt. From tobogganing to ice skating or just getting lost in the forests on a winter hiking trail, there are plenty of activities in Zermatt. If you are seeking a more relaxing experience, perhaps after a day on the slopes, indulge in a culinary tour or unwind in a wellness spa. For those seeking a truly unique experience, wrap up warm and head out for an astronomy tour with a local scientist who can show you the stars beyond the Matterhorn.

Tours in Switzerland

Ski shops in Zermatt offer the best equipment for skiers and boarders. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced skier, there will be plenty of equipment to choose from, and the highly trained staff will help you find the perfect match. Here are some of the best ski rental shops in Zermatt:

• Matterhorn Sport
• FLEXRENT
• Intersport
• Azzurra SPORT

 

If you are a first-time skier looking to join a ski school, or an experienced skier looking to improve your skills with a private instructor, Zermatt will have a ski school that meets your needs. From private guides leading off-piste tours to ski schools for younger children, here are some of the best ski schools in Zermatt:

• Matterhorn Diamonds Ski School
• Family Skiing Zermatt
• My Ski School Zermatt
• AB Ski School Zermatt

 

The Zermatt ski pass starts at around 90 euros, depending on how many days you want to ski and where you want access. The ski pass gives you access to up to 200 km of pistes, but if you wish to access more, you will need an international ski pass, which provides you with an additional 160 km of pistes in the neighbouring Italian ski resort. Kids up to 9 years old can get a free pass online or at a sales point in the resort.

It is best to buy ski passes from the official Zermatt website, at the sales points next to the gondolas in Zermatt or through your ski school or ski rental. Make sure to check the prices as they vary depending on where you want to go and for how long.

If you are looking for a true mountain adventure in a charming traditional Swiss ski resort surrounded by endless mountain tops, then Zermatt is the resort for you. At the base of the Matterhorn, with connections to ski for the day in Italy, it is a fantastic place for families and adventurers alike.

Zermatt would receive a 10 out of 10 for its remarkable skiing possibilities, from summer skiing to glacier climbing. There is a wide variety of activities, restaurants and more all within this sustainable resort in Switzerland.

Please make sure to check for the latest information on restaurants, bars, ski hire, ski schools, and guided tours, as it is subject to change. We recommend checking their official websites or contacting them directly for the latest information.

Have a great time in Zermatt!

Book your sustainable holiday