Zermatt Matterhorn
Zermatt Matterhorn is a high-alpine tourism region in the Swiss canton of Valais, set at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn in the Pennine Alps. The car-free village of Zermatt lies at the centre of the destination, surrounded by the villages of Täsch and Randa in the Mattertal valley. The region is dominated by high mountains and glaciers rather than lakes, offering some of the highest peaks and viewpoints in Europe. It is a year-round destination known for its world-class skiing, hiking, and mountaineering, with a strong alpine tradition and a lively cultural and culinary scene. The area combines a cosmopolitan, luxury resort character with deep-rooted local heritage, and is committed to sustainable tourism as a Swisstainable destination.
Summer activities
In summer, Zermatt Matterhorn is a paradise for hikers, climbers, and mountain bikers. A vast network of trails ranges from easy lakeside walks such as the famous 5-Seenweg to demanding high-alpine tours and glacier crossings like the Monte Rosa Trek. Mountain biking offers flow trails, singletracks, and guided tours for every level, supported by modern cable cars, bike shops, and rental stations. The region also features crystal-clear mountain lakes, climbing routes, and mountaineering on legendary peaks, all set against the backdrop of the Matterhorn.
Winter activities
Zermatt Matterhorn is one of Europe's premier winter sports destinations, home to the highest ski area in Europe with slopes extending from Zermatt to Cervinia/Valtournenche in Italy. Skiers and snowboarders enjoy extensive pistes, freeride terrain, and summer skiing on the glacier, plus ski-in/ski-out accommodation and lively après-ski. Beyond downhill skiing, the region offers cross-country skiing on the Täsch–Randa loop, tobogganing, ski touring, and over 70 kilometres of marked winter walking and snowshoe trails through the snowy landscape.
Culture and entertainment
Zermatt blends a cosmopolitan resort atmosphere with deep-rooted alpine tradition. The village is car-free and steeped in mountaineering heritage, with a legendary folklore summer featuring Schwyzerörgeli players, yodellers, flag throwers, and traditional costume dancers. Cultural life centres on the Matterhorn Museum, which tells the story of the first ascent and life in old Zermatt, alongside guided village tours, historic churches and chapels, and a year-round calendar of concerts, exhibitions, and festivals. The region also boasts an outstanding culinary scene with Michelin-starred and Gault&Millau-awarded restaurants.
