Where is Zermatt?

How to get to Zermatt? 

If you want to drive from London, it’s roughly 700 miles, and watch for road blocks due to road work before leaving, as you are aware in the Alpine regions often routes change for all sorts of reasons. You can easily fly from London too, fly from London to Zurich and it’s a 3 and half hour’s train trip to get to the resort. The nearest airports to Zermatt are Sion, Geneva, Zurich and Milan.

Transports /Transfers

The final stage of getting to car-free Zermatt is taking the mountain cog railway via Tasch. To get to Tasch, you can take a train from these airports or by car. Drivers should park in Täsch, where you take the mountain cog railway train for the 12-minute ride into the village. When you drive, you will be dropped at the entrance to the resort where an electric vehicle will collect you to take you to your chalet.

• Geneva airport 236 km / 2 hours 40 mins drive / 3 hours 50 mins by train
• Zurich airport 237 km / 3 hours 50 minutes’ drive / 3 hours 40 mins by train
• Milan Malpensa airport 197 km / 3 hours’ drive / 3 hours 45 mins by train
• Sion airport 82km / 1 hour 30 minutes’ drive / 2 hours by train

How to get to Cervinia? 

The closest airports to Cervinia are Turin, with a transfer time of 1 hour and 39 minutes, Milan Malpensa airport with a transfer time of 2 hours and 7 minutes and Geneva, with a transfer time of 3 hours

How to get around Zermatt? 

Your first option is to walk, second is the Electro Bus which is included with your lift ticket. Check the routes on the Zermatt website but it is pretty extensive and includes Winkelmatten.

Ski area & runs of  Zermatt ski resort 

Important ski resorts stats for Zermatt

• Piste Guide: Skiable area – 200 km of runs and with Cervinia-Valtournenche ski pass, The Italian side of the Matterhorn of 150 connected km of ski runs, all together in total 360 km of connected ski runs with blue, red, black and yellow runs promise awesome skiing with 21 km slopes in summer.
• Longest slope: 25 km (Matterhorn glacier paradise – Zermatt)
• Ski levels: Black / yellow slopes 62.6 km / 17.5%, Red slopes 220.6 km / 61.5% and Blue slopes 75 km / 21%.
• Lifts: Modern lifts and cable cars, including the recently opened Matterhorn glacier ride
• Resort Altitude: 1608m, Skiing Altitude: 1600 – 3,899M
• Region: Valais canton
• Country: Switzerland

Zermatt Ski Guide – Skiing in Zermatt

Zermatt is one of Switzerland’s famous Alpine resorts and the southernmost resort in Switzerland. Zermatt village is surrounded by 38 peaks above 4000 meters and the Ski terrain, which sits amongst them is Zermatt’s three ski sectors – Rothorn, Gornergrat, Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and Schwarzsee – are all interconnected. The Zermatt terrain consists largely of long cruising terrain and suits those who like to ski in relaxed mode and absorb the scenic views.

Ski areas, Ski runs, and Off-piste – Who is Best for? 

Zermatt for different levels – Beginners, Intermediates, Advanced/Experienced, Off-piste

The most challenging terrain and best Off-piste chances are existing in the Rothorn and Gornergrat Ski areas. Beginner trails makeup about 30%, Intermediate 55%, and advance 15% of terrains. Zermatt is also connected to the neighboring Italian ski resort of Cervinia, So an espresso or an  Italian lunch sounds like a good plan for the day! But be aware that crossing the border can trap you in Italy if high winds or wintery conditions close the upper mountain, So this trip is best set for clear days. There is plenty of cable cars, gondolas, and chair lifts, to underground funicular and rack railway.

If you are a keen beginner, you will enjoy Zermatt, which has suitable nursery slopes; intermediates would find the pistes here skiable, with more than 20km of snow sure trails. For the advanced skiers and freestylers, there is nothing like Zermatt. For advanced skiers go for the black runs in The National (Just down from Blauherd) and the Freestylers should take the chairlift to the Theodul Glacier. An area lift pass allows access to terrain in Cervinia, letting you enjoy the Swiss and Italian Alps and you can extend this to include the Val d’Aosta with the International Aosta pass.

Off Piste Skiing in Zermatt

Off-piste opportunities are plenty with a mountain guide; more so for those ready to hike up using touring skins or splash out on heliskiing. There is Off-piste gain, but it can turn from off-piste to extremely dangerous very swiftly, as the granite which makes up the surrounding mountains is scattered throughout the ski areas, making most of the off-piste terrain impenetrable.

Here are our ratings for Zermatt

• For beginners: it’s a 9
• For intermediate: 10
• For advanced: 10
• For snowboarders, it’s a 9.5
• For freestylers, 10
• For free riders, a perfect 10.
• For Nightlife: another 8
• Après ski: it’s an 8
• Resort Charm:5

Ski seasons: What is the best time to ski in Zermatt? 

The High Altitude makes the resort very Snowsure, and the ski season is one of the longest in the World. So, if you are wondering what is the best time to go skiing in Zermatt? Then needless to think too much, from late November to early May, there’s a bounty of snow in Zermatt.

What are the snow conditions in the ski season? 

December

From December there’s an abundance of snow covering the ski areas of Zermatt. However, the ski resort is open for the winter from November to April.  Bear in mind, the slopes are open all year round on the glacier. If you thinking of going Luxury on a low budget in Zermatt, with cheaper prices for your luxury chalets in Zermatt, then Late November early December are a great time to check-in.

January

In January, Ski slopes are still excellent with great snow conditions! January is cold, the powder is dry and light and slopes just got a little less busy after Christmas and New Year Holidays. Zermatt has plenty of things to do in January, from Non-skiers to Skiers.

February

With the Sun rising higher, its spectacular vista here from February onwards, with Plenty of Snow falling in February (Don’t worry if you are coming with your family with little children) WOLLI PARK is great for the little one to learn. With half-term holidays it’s one of the best times to go skiing; the Air is cold; the sun is out and the skiing is good makes February hugely popular.

March and April

In Zermatt, for confident intermediates, there are plenty of challenging Blue and red runs and the glacier runs that are snow sure in March and April, and in April with the resort’s music festival, which takes place in April every year, Zermatt ends its winter season. See you Next year in 2021!

However, before making plans for ski holidays in Zermatt, we advise you to see the snow condition of Val Thorens.

Live Snow Forecast in Zermatt

Click on the map to enlarge and read

Zermatt Matterhorn Piste Map 2020

Après Ski in Zermatt resort

Cafes, bars, food, drinks, and Nightlife

Zermatt teems with Night clubs, Boutiques, and Museums, and not to forget the Collection of different more than 100 gourmet restaurants and numerous Lively bars to enjoy. Food is mainly Swiss-German style, Village has excellent fondue, Raclette, Lamb chops, and schnitzel dishes, and for the sweet tooth delicious crepes chocolate shops, bakeries & patisseries line the main streets. ON the Mountain there plenty of restaurants sit back enjoy long lunches and inspiring views while feasting on a selection of local specialties and international favorites. Make sure to book in advance as when the resort gets busy, in the peak season it will be hard to find a place to grab.

Nightlife to suit everyone, with a variety of bars and night clubs, some with live entertainment. Some of the best après ski party locations in Zermatt are; It has to be the one and only Hennu Stall to start with. Also try the Champagne Bar, located at the valley descent from Sunnegga,  Iglu Dorf at At the height of 2.727 meters, which is reassembled each year by the fervent artists, or if you want to spend more, then Snow boat and Zermatt Yacht Club which belongs to the elite après ski destinations in Zermatt. If you in a dancing mood to the old beats, The Broken Bar in the Alps is a great place.

Where to eat? Best Michelin star restaurants in Zermatt or fine dining options

Unlike Courchevel 1850,  Zermatt does not have plenty of high-end dining options,  whereas Michelin star rating is concerned, If you are chasing the Michelin starred dining spots, the Alpine Gourmet Prato Borni and The Omnia are both restaurants which have received the praise of the critics. its always good to call and make reservations, and perhaps ask us to arrange this well in advance when you book your Zermatt chalet with us.

If you are least interested in the food and more about skiing in Zermatt, then there are eating options to suit most budgets, You can easily find kebabs, pizzas, pasta,  local cuisine in Simple places to dine. PARADIES – the name speaks for itself. A warm welcome to Findeln, it is one good such place to try! Discover the fresh finesse of Gaston Zeiter’s cuisine. Homemade pasta, risotto, fish or meat – all accompanied by the most wonderful view of the Matterhorn.

If you ski to the linked Italian slopes of Cervinia in the Aosta Valley, you can have stomachful for Italian lunch and way better espressos than the Swiss espressos. Just below the Theodulpass, Bontadin (+39 335 250 312) is one of the most popular places to eat on the Italian side of the ski area.

Guide to Zermatt luxury chalet accommodation & Private apartments

Insider’s guide to exclusive standalone ski chalets in Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt ski resort sits at the Imposing Matterhorn mountain in the Swiss Alps and is a car-free destination village in Switzerland, but with Electric Taxis, Horse carriages, and skiers on Foot. Zermatt is a High Alpine Village with Clean air. For Accommodation, Zermatt offers from Zermatt style budget to Luxury Chalets, and 4 to 5-star hotel accommodation.

Where to stay in Zermatt?

Zermatt is one of the, if not the prettiest ski village in the World.  Enclosing by the towering mountains and surrounding glaciers Zermatt is a Village that primarily focuses on relaxation, enjoyment, and fine food.  Zermatt village has fantastic Alpine old-world charm with its Luxury Ski chalets, Hotels, and good budget accommodation.

You can view our collection of ski chalets and Luxury Apartments below Zermatt. They are among the Best of the best in Europe.  Our chalets in Europe can be chosen simply by the amenities you wish. Like all our chalets in the Alps, they Include family Friendly Options with amenities like Hot tub, Sauna, steam room & Hammam, Swimming pool, Gym,  Indoor Fireplace chalets, Cinema, with complimentary breakfast or Self-catering chalets. For those who want spend more time skiing and less time in the kitchen, there are the fully catered chalets, and to add to this you can even book a Luxury Ski-in/Ski-out chalets or check into a VIP Chalet in any part of the Alps.

Zermatt Chalets sleep two adults to Large groups. And If you are planning to have a Special event Birthday Celebration, White wedding, VIP Luxury Corporate Ski Chalet for Business, and Incentive Trips, we are a Ski company that can arrange all these with you not having to lift one finger. Our In-house concierge is at hand to assist you with anything you wish for during your stay Luxury ski holiday in Zermatt.

These handpicked traditional Alpine Luxury chalets and Modern apartments in Zermatt offer a wider selection of options to pick from. The combination of a stay with the charming chalets and some of the finest skiing in Europe makes Zermatt one of our Top-selling ski resorts.

If you are looking for Ski lodges specifically with certain amenities, it is best you get in touch with us, so we can tailor-make your search. We can suggest or even contact the owners to discuss certain features such as Disabled Friendly Chalets or Pet-Friendly chalets.

Top 3 Luxurious ski chalets in Zermatt

How much does it cost to rent a luxury chalet in Zermatt?

Ski chalet 1 | Zermatt | 7 bedrooms

Sleeps 14 Guests – Available as a fully Catered chalet only – Price on application.

WEEKLY PRICES: Fully Serviced: From CHF 50,000 to 195,000 per week

This luxury ski chalet in Zermatt, Switzerland comes with a Sauna, Steam room, Cinema/tv room, Fireplace, Sat/Cable TV, Wi-Fi,  Elevator, Ski Room, Plunge Pool, Steam/Massage/Treatment, Terrace/Balcony with glorious views.

Ski chalet 2 | Zermatt | 6 bedrooms

Sleeps 12 Guests including children – Available as a fully catered chalet from Sunday to Sunday

• Catered – Fully Serviced: CHF 34,000 to 155,000 per week

Ultimate Luxury Chalet in Zermatt with Hot tub for Family and groups, Ski Chalet 2 in Zermatt, Switzerland is a 500m², 6 bedroom ski chalet that sleeps, 12 adults. Facilities – Sauna, Cinema/tv room, Massage/Treatment Room, Terrace/Balcony, Elevator, Sat/Cable TV, Fireplace, Ski Room, Integrated sound system, and Wi-Fi.

Ski chalet 4 | Zermatt | 5 bedrooms

Sleeps 12 + 2 children, Guests – Available as a fully serviced chalet only from Sunday to Sunday

• Fully Serviced: From CHF 41,390 to 140,600 per week

This stunning luxury chalet in Zermatt with hot tub for family and group is a 565m² chalet in Switzerland. The chalet comes with 5 bedrooms and sleeps 12. Facilities – Sauna, Hot tub, Cinema/tv room, Gym/Fitness, Sat/Cable TV, Fireplace, Terrace/Balcony, Ski Room, Laundry Room, Bar, Integrated sound system, Wi-Fi, Cigar room and an Elevator.

Zermatt Ski Chalets FAQ’s 

What is a ski chalet holiday in Zermatt?

Basically, a ski chalet holiday is booking your own private home – most times with staff, housekeepers and chef included and at other times as a self-catered option. Ski chalets are freestanding properties, which in most cases are made out of Stone and/or Wood and has homelier look from outside, the interior however is very luxurious with Alpine charm. However please check at the time of booking, as things have changed and not all chalets stand alone, so it may be called a ‘chalet’ as there could more than 2 ‘chalet apartment’ style properties in large building construction.

What is a Fully serviced or catered chalet? And how does it work?

Catered luxury ski chalets are a great choice for those who wish to spend less time in the kitchen and more time on the slopes.

In Zermatt, Catered can mean either part of your meals or all your meals is included catered price. However, you should not have this confused with some chalets that say Accommodation only or included Breakfast. It’s Wise to check this at the time of enquiry or prior to your booking.

When you book a ski chalet in Zermatt on a catered basis, upon arrival the chalet host will welcome you and make sure to take full charge of your accommodation, this means from keeping the chalet neat to arranging your meals. Catered ski chalets usually if not always have a chef to prepare meals, a chalet host who will provide housekeeping services and who will serve your meals. These meals will usually include breakfast, afternoon tea, pre-dinner canapés, and a 4-course dinner, as well as unlimited wine, you will find in each property chalet page all these inclusions.

Depending on the chalet. Either a day or two the host may not be in the chalet, as a day off. During this period, you can help yourself with *breakfast and dine outside, trying the local cuisine available around. From budget to Michelin star restaurants are easy to be found. It is good to take a note, that some chalets may share the dining area with others. When booking a catered ski chalet holiday, you can book the chalet just for your group. Nevertheless, some chalets are available to book by the room during less busy times, this can be great for those seeking a holiday for a smaller group or a couple. Remember to always book ahead of your restaurant table, best when you arrive to book this (especially if you are a larger group), during the season restaurants are usually full.  The Chalet staff is always available to lend you a hand during your ski holiday stay in Zermatt; it is always wise to get first-hand information of the town.

Usually, chalet menus have Menus for Children and you can also have early dinner arranged for children, please check at the time of booking.

for Adults Breakfast Served between 8-9 am. Croissants & pain Chocolat, traditional French bread, cereals, fresh fruit, yoghurts. A cooked option (except staff day off) and Fresh coffee & tea, fruit juices.

* Staff day off service- your chalet hosts will leave breakfast and afternoon tea for you to help yourselves to. Fresh bread & croissants will be delivered to your chalet in the morning. Please check if your chalet includes this service.

Hosts Day/s Off afternoon tea and dinner won’t be served, giving you the chance to explore the local restaurants

Afternoon Tea: depending on the chalet 5 or 6 days of a seven-night stay, afternoon tea is provided when you come in from the slopes (often things like cake, cookies, toast, soup, and hot drinks like Hot chocolate, tea & coffee).

Pre-dinner & Dinner: Home-made canapes served with pre-dinner drinks ( See each chalet page for more information). For Dinner with Selected red & white wines to complement the meal or champagne: Meals are served in the evenings, usually many courses and, in most catered chalets, free-flowing wine/champagne, pudding and then coffee is served. The ‘free wine/champagne’ component is not universal, so check before you book if this is a significant part of your holiday.

We have more than 50 Top Notch catered luxury ski chalets and apartments in European ski resorts.

Read more about Zermatt on our dedicated blog article.