Skiing in Zermatt

Filed in archive Destination: Europe on January 3, 2007

The most famous mountain in the European Alps is Matterhorn, also referred to as Monte Cervino (Italian) or Mont Cervin (French).

It lies on the border between Switzerland and Italy, towering over the Swiss town of Zermatt and Breuil-Cervinia in Italy.

So if you want the sublime view of Matterhorn while you ski, obviously, you should choose to spend your skiing holidays in Zermatt or Breuil-Cervinia.

Part 1 - Zermatt

Zermatt is touted by many as one of the (if not "the") best ski resort in the world. Skiers can ski in four areas: Sunnegga, Gornegrat, Klein Matterhorn and Schwazsee. Of course, it also has a connection to Cervinia in Italy.

Here's a little trivia before we continue: Did you know that Zermatt was "discovered" by British mountaineers, most notably Edward Whymper during their Matterhorn concquest. Because of their "discovery", Zermatt became famous worldwide.

Moving on...

Apart from the fabuolous scenery, Zermatt is a good choice because:

• because of it's height, excellent snow conditions and (obviously) long runs into the village can be expected.


• if you can't make it now, you can still go later as they have the longest winter season in the Alps.


• the whole town is a car-free zone. Electric-cars, horse-drawn sleighs and carriages are the only transport allowed.

To get to Zermatt, you can take the train. Or you can park your car in Täsch, the neighboring town and take a taxi from there.

As for accommodations, you will definitely find a place which will suit your taste and budget -- from camping places and modest private rooms to chalets and hotels.

In Zermatt, you can also enjoy other snow activities like tobogganing, hiking and ice climbing, among others. Or, should you want a day off from any strenuous activity, you can go shopping or sample any of the 100 restaurants.

Note that you need deep pockets in Zermatt!

NEXT: Part 2 - Cervinia