Skiing in Zermatt feels like an adventure. Long, sweeping descents offer jaw-dropping views at every turn, with the kind of vertical that lets you really open up. High altitude ensures exceptional snow quality, and the scale rewards weeks of exploration.

The terrain splits across three main areas, each with its own character. From the gentler slopes of Sunnegga to the challenging steeps of Schwarzsee and the high-altitude glacier skiing on Klein Matterhorn - plus the Cervinia connection extending into Italy.

Skiing for beginners in Zermatt

Zermatt isn't typically the first choice for absolute beginners, but it works well if you're committed and know where to go. Sunnegga has wide, gentle slopes where you can find your feet, and Wolli's Park is well-designed for children. The Leisee area at 2,232m is particularly good for first-timers - it's a sunny, sheltered spot with magic carpet lifts and patient progression.

Once you've got the basics, you can start exploring the long blue runs that wind down through the trees. Snow quality stays consistently soft, so you won't battle ice or slush while learning.

WeSki insider tip: Start at Sunnegga rather than Gornergrat - it's sunnier, less crowded in the mornings, and the nursery slopes are easier to access.

Intermediate skiing in Zermatt

Intermediates will find plenty to keep them busy across all three ski areas. With 35 intermediate runs and over 2,200m of vertical, you can spend days exploring without repeating yourself. The runs from Rothorn down to Sunnegga are confidence-builders - long reds with consistent gradients. Over on the Italian side, Cervinia's wide motorway pistes are perfect for building speed and rhythm, and crossing national borders on skis feels genuinely special.

The blue run from Klein Matterhorn to Zermatt covers 15km of continuous skiing (bring snacks!). The Gornergrat area offers spectacular views of the Matterhorn and Monte Rosa alongside excellent intermediate terrain.

WeSki insider tip: The snow on the glacier stays cold and fast even in spring - head up high on warmer days when lower slopes get soft.

Advanced and expert skiing in Zermatt

This is where Zermatt truly shines. With 95 advanced runs and 17 expert-only descents, there's serious challenge available for skiers who want to push themselves. The Stockhorn sector serves up some of the steepest lift-served skiing in the Alps, while the north-facing Triftji bumps will test your technique on the hardest days. Impressive mogul fields build throughout the season.

For experts, the off-piste is exceptional. Classic itineraries like the Stockhorn descent and the Swiss Wall offer sustained steeps with outstanding snow preservation at altitude. Guides can unlock freeride terrain that stays untracked - and are essential for anything beyond the marked routes, as crevasse risk on the glacier is real.

WeSki insider tip: The early morning Sunrise Skiing sessions get you on the glacier before the lifts officially open - pure silence and untouched corduroy.

Snowboarding in Zermatt

Zermatt's varied slopes and reliable snow make it a strong choice for boarders. Freeriders will appreciate the natural hits and wide powder fields, particularly around Stockhorn and Schwarzsee. Some flat traverse sections exist between areas, but the extent of rideable terrain compensates. The Gravity Park on the glacier is a highlight - a premier snow park with kickers, rails, and a halfpipe.

Off-piste skiing in Zermatt

Zermatt's off-piste reputation is well-earned. High altitude preserves powder long after storms, and marked ski routes (itineraries) offer adventure without full guiding. For serious backcountry - glacier descents, couloir skiing - hire a local guide. The terrain is technical and the stakes are high.

Zermatt snow school and lessons

Zermatt's ski schools maintain high Swiss standards, with multiple options available. Swiss Ski School and Stoked are among the most established. The international clientele means English-speaking instruction is standard, and schools cater to diverse needs - group lessons, private tuition, and specialist clinics including off-piste, race training, and kids' programmes.

Through WeSki, you can add ski or snowboard lessons to your package and have everything arranged before you arrive. Check out Zermatt ski deals to get started.

Zermatt snow parks

The Gravity Park on the Theodul glacier is one of Europe's most consistent terrain parks, open from autumn through spring and often into summer. Lines cater to all abilities, from beginner boxes to pro-level kickers, plus a well-maintained halfpipe. Snowpark Zermatt at Sunnegga provides lower-altitude options, with smaller features scattered across the resort for casual laps.

Zermatt piste map

1. Zermatt family ski holiday
2. Things to do in Zermatt
3. Planning your trip in Zermatt
4. How to get to Zermatt
5. Zermatt FAQs

Zermatt family ski holiday

Zermatt isn't the obvious choice for families with complete beginners, since the nursery terrain is limited and beginners can't ski back to the village. But for those with children who already have some skills, it's a spectacular destination. Older kids will certainly love the adventure of skiing here. The car-free village gives older kids independence to explore safely, and the evening atmosphere is lively without being rowdy.

Wolli Kids Club at Sunnegga provides supervised skiing and activities for children aged 3-9. For teenagers, the sheer scale of the terrain is the draw: over 360km of pistes, glacier skiing, and the bragging rights of skiing in the shadow of the Matterhorn.

Off the slopes, there's plenty for families to enjoy together, and The Matterhorn creates a sense of wonder that stays long after the holiday ends. Sledging runs, an ice rink, and indoor pools fill non-skiing days, and the village has family-friendly restaurants serving Swiss classics alongside familiar options.

WeSki insider tip: The Leisee lake area at Sunnegga is a family favourite. Here, you have a frozen lake, free sledging, a sunny restaurant terrace, and easy access by the underground funicular. Perfect for a rest day or a long lunch break.

Things to do in Zermatt

With its car-free village, dramatic Matterhorn backdrop, and excellent infrastructure, Zermatt is perfectly suited to rest days, non-skiers, or anyone looking to slow the pace. From scenic rail journeys and winter walks to unforgettable high-altitude experiences, the resort rewards taking time off the pistes just as much as time on them.

Snow activities

Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Zermatt delivers an exceptional range of winter activities that make full use of its iconic Alpine setting. Many of these experiences are as memorable as the skiing itself, offering unique perspectives on the surrounding mountains.

• Snowshoeing: Guided snowshoe excursions through alpine forests and quiet high-mountain terrain.
• Ice climbing: Guided ice climbing on frozen waterfalls near the village for adventurous climbers.
• Matterhorn Glacier Paradise: Visit Europe's highest viewing platform at 3,883m for breathtaking panoramic views.
• Paragliding: Tandem flights soaring above the valley with spectacular Matterhorn views.
• Cross-country skiing: Around 15km of groomed Nordic trails in nearby Täsch, ideal for scenic skiing.
• Glacier Palace: Explore an ice cave carved deep into the glacier at altitude.
• Winter hiking: Over 60km of cleared and marked winter walking paths with stunning scenery.
• Sledging: Natural toboggan run from Rotenboden to Riffelberg, one of the most scenic in the Alps.
• Heli-skiing: Advanced heli-ski day trips accessing untouched powder beyond the resort.
• Ice skating: Natural outdoor ice rink in the village centre for classic winter skating.

Non-snow activities

Zermatt's cultural heritage, scenic transport, and excellent wellness facilities mean there's plenty to enjoy away from the slopes. Whether you're taking a rest day, travelling with non-skiers, or simply slowing the pace, these experiences showcase the village's character and spectacular surroundings.

• Gornergrat Railway: Scenic cogwheel train journey to 3,089m, offering some of the Alps' finest panoramic views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks.
• Matterhorn Museum (Zermatlantis): Fascinating underground museum exploring Zermatt's mountaineering history and village life.
• Spa hotels & wellness: High-quality spa hotels featuring pools, saunas, and relaxation areas with mountain views.
• Swiss shopping: Browse Swiss watches, fine chocolate, and premium outdoor gear in specialist boutiques.
• Glacier Palace: Ice grotto carved into the glacier at 3,883m inside the Klein Matterhorn.
• Horse-drawn carriage rides: Traditional carriage rides through the car-free village for a nostalgic alpine experience.
• Bahnhofstrasse shopping: Zermatt's main shopping street, lined with luxury boutiques and local souvenir shops.
• Mountaineers' Cemetery: Moving tribute to climbers who shaped Zermatt's mountaineering legacy.
• Day trip to Cervinia: Cross the border to Italy for a scenic lunch and a taste of a different alpine culture.
• Cinema & bowling: Easy-going evening entertainment options in the village.

Zermatt restaurants

Mountain restaurants here are destinations in their own right. Zermatt's dining scene is exceptional, combining traditional mountain cooking with some of the finest gastronomy in the Alps. From rustic high-altitude huts to Michelin-starred tasting menus, Swiss standards ensure consistently high quality throughout.

• Chez Vrony: World-famous sun-drenched terrace serving refined Alpine cuisine with unbeatable Matterhorn views.
• Findlerhof: Traditional mountain restaurant above Sunnegga, renowned for superb rösti, Valais lamb, and a cosy atmosphere.
• Zum See: Charming restaurant in a tiny hamlet, offering beautifully executed local specialities - booking essential.
• After Seven: Michelin-starred restaurant delivering modern tasting menus in a sleek, contemporary setting.
• Whymper Stube: Intimate, wood-panelled restaurant specialising in fondue and raclette, named after the Matterhorn's first summiteer.
• Alphitta: Excellent alternative to Chez Vrony, serving creative regional dishes with Matterhorn views.
• Schäferstube: Rustic dining room known for Valais lamb and traditional local cooking.
• Elsie Bar: Historic wine bar and gourmet institution offering oysters, champagne, and exceptional cheese.
• Restaurant Iglu-Dorf: Unique dining experience inside an igloo village on the glacier, combining novelty with alpine cuisine.

WeSki insider tips: Book Chez Vrony well in advance, it's genuinely world-famous. The Findeln hamlet has several outstanding restaurants just metres apart, all with Matterhorn views. Mountain lunches are expensive, but often among the most memorable meals of the trip.

Zermatt après-ski

Zermatt's après-ski scene strikes a rare balance: lively without being messy, stylish without feeling stiff. The party often begins on the mountain, where sunny terraces and Matterhorn views provide the backdrop for early-afternoon drinks, before drifting naturally into the car-free village for evening cocktails and late-night dancing.

This is après done the Zermatt way: champagne over beer towers, well-made cocktails, and venues with real character. You'll find everything from relaxed wine bars and hotel lounges to genuinely lively clubs that keep going into the early hours. Smart-casual is the norm, and the atmosphere stays upbeat, social, and refreshingly civilised.

Après-ski spots worth knowing include:

• Hennu Stall: Legendary ski-in terrace party where dancing in ski boots starts from mid-afternoon - a true Zermatt rite of passage.
• Cervo: Chic mountain lodge with live DJs, a firepit terrace, and a stylish early-evening crowd.
• Papperla Pub: Lively sports bar that transforms into a late-night party venue with DJs and dancing.
• Grampi's Bar: Friendly local pub with draft beers and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
• Vernissage: Art gallery by day, cocktail bar by night, hosting live music and cultural events.
• Elsie's Bar: Cosy, historic wine bar serving champagne, oysters, and excellent cheese since 1961.
• Snowboat: Iconic floating bar in the village centre, known for its buzzing après atmosphere and outdoor dancing.
• Broken Bar Disco: Zermatt's no-frills late-night disco — small, sweaty, and legendary for a reason.
• Hotel Post Bar: Classic Swiss hotel bar ideal for pre-dinner drinks or a refined nightcap.
• Schneewittchen: Popular late-night club for dancing until the early hours.

Zermatt map

Planning your trip to Zermatt

Zermatt accommodation

Zermatt offers everything from traditional timber chalets to world-class luxury hotels. The village stretches along the valley, with different areas offering varying lift access. Hotels dominate here, many with ski-in/ski-out convenience or just steps from the lifts. Self-catered apartments are available but less common than in French resorts. For luxury, look at properties like The Omnia or Mont Cervin Palace; for atmosphere, the older chalets near the church retain plenty of charm.

Location matters. Staying near the Sunnegga funicular puts you closest to gentle beginner terrain, while the main Gornergrat station is more central. Zermatt is car-free, and most properties sit within a 10-15 minute walk of each other - free electric taxis and shuttle buses fill the gaps. Luggage transfer services from the station make arrival straightforward.

WeSki insider tips:

• Book near Sunnegga or Klein Matterhorn lifts for the shortest morning queues.
• Properties in the village centre are walkable to everything, but expect more evening noise.
• Apartments in Winkelmatten are quieter, with easy Sunnegga access via local bus.

Zermatt ski pass

The Zermatt ski pass covers all 52 lifts across the Swiss side of the ski area, including the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car. For access to Cervinia on the Italian side, you'll need the International pass, which is worth considering if you want to explore the full 360km of connected terrain when you get there.

Choose your lift pass options when booking your Zermatt ski holiday on WeSki to have everything sorted before you arrive.

Equipment hire

Zermatt has plenty of rental shops along the Bahnhofstrasse and near the main lift stations. You'll find everything from basic recreational skis to high-performance demo equipment, plus snowboards, touring setups, and kids' gear. Booking in advance is recommended during peak weeks - it saves time on your first morning and often secures a better rate.

Most shops offer overnight storage, so you won't need to lug boots back to your hotel each evening. Check opening hours if you're arriving late, since some shops close by 7pm.

WeSki insider tip: If you're hiring high-performance skis, ask about demo swaps - many shops let you try different models during your stay.

Getting around Zermatt

Zermatt is car-free, which makes it remarkably peaceful but requires a bit of planning. Electric taxis and shuttle buses run throughout the village, and most are free for guests staying at participating hotels. Walking is the main way to get around, and the village is compact enough that you can reach most places in under 15 minutes on foot.

For getting between ski areas, the lifts themselves are the transport. You can ski between Sunnegga, Gornergrat, and the Klein Matterhorn without returning to the village, though plan your last run carefully - missing the final lift connection may mean a long walk or an expensive taxi.

How to get to Zermatt

Geneva is the most convenient airport for UK travellers, approximately 230km from Zermatt. Zurich (245km) is another option with good flight connections. From either airport, the journey involves a combination of train and/or transfer - there's no road access to Zermatt itself, so you'll park or be dropped in Täsch (5km away) and take the shuttle train for the final stretch.

The Swiss rail network is excellent, and the train journey from either airport is scenic. If driving yourself, leave your car in the covered garage at Täsch (Matterhorn Terminal) rather than the open lots. It's warmer, safer, and only slightly more expensive.

WeSki offers car rentals from the airport as well as private transfers to Zermatt. Add them to your Zermatt ski holiday package for seamless door-to-door travel.

Zermatt FAQs

Is Zermatt good for beginners?

Zermatt isn't the most obvious choice for complete beginners - there's limited nursery terrain compared to purpose-built resorts. However, the Sunnegga area has gentle slopes and a dedicated learning zone at Leisee. Once you can link turns, the long blue runs are brilliant for building confidence. If your group has mixed abilities, beginners will still have a great time - just set expectations that the resort's strengths lie elsewhere.

When is the best time to ski in Zermatt?

Zermatt's main winter season runs from late November to late April. Snow reliability is excellent thanks to the altitude - the glacier skiing above 3,000m holds good snow even when lower resorts struggle. The shoulder seasons (early December, late March/April) often offer good value with fewer crowds.

How expensive is Zermatt compared to other ski resorts?

Zermatt sits at the premium end of the market. Ski passes, accommodation, and eating out all cost more than average. That said, you're paying for exceptional terrain, reliable snow, stunning scenery, and Swiss efficiency. Building a Zermatt ski holiday package through WeSki helps manage costs by bundling flights, accommodation, and passes together for better value than booking separately.

Can you ski to Italy from Zermatt?

Yes - Zermatt connects to Cervinia in Italy via the Matterhorn Glacier. With the International lift pass, you can ski between both resorts freely, adding an extra 150km of terrain to your trip. The Italian side tends to have wider, sunnier pistes and slightly lower prices for mountain lunches. It's an easy day trip that adds real variety to your week.

Is Zermatt good for families?

Zermatt works well for families with children who can already ski at least blue runs. The car-free village is safe, there are good childcare options at Wolli Kids Club, and older children will love the adventure of glacier skiing and crossing into Italy. For families with very young beginners, a resort with more dedicated nursery terrain might be a smoother introduction.

How reliable is the snow in Zermatt?

Snow reliability is one of Zermatt's biggest strengths. The glacier skiing at Klein Matterhorn operates year-round, and the high altitude (up to 3,899m) means excellent snow preservation throughout the season. Even in warm spells, you can head up high for good conditions while lower resorts struggle. It's one of the safest bets in the Alps for consistent skiing.

What's the après-ski like in Zermatt?

Zermatt's après-ski is lively but more refined than Austrian party resorts. The vibe is upmarket without being stuffy - think champagne terraces rather than beer tents. There's something for most tastes, from quiet drinks to dancing until 4am.

Can you ski in Zermatt in summer?

Yes - Zermatt is one of Europe's few year-round ski destinations. Summer skiing on the Klein Matterhorn glacier operates typically from June through September with around 20km of terrain. It's popular with ski racers and those seeking summer snow.

Why are there no cars in Zermatt?

Zermatt banned combustion vehicles to preserve air quality and atmosphere - the policy dates back decades. Cars are left in Täsch, with train connections to Zermatt. Within the village, electric taxis and horse-drawn carriages operate. It creates a unique, peaceful atmosphere unlike any other major ski resort.

How does Zermatt compare to other Swiss resorts?

Zermatt is generally considered Switzerland's premier ski resort - the Matterhorn, altitude, scale, and year-round operation set it apart. Verbier offers steeper expert terrain, St. Moritz has comparable prestige, Saas-Fee has a similar car-free village. For overall experience combining skiing, scenery, and atmosphere, Zermatt is hard to beat.

Explore other resorts in Switzerland

Verbier - St. Moritz - Grindelwald - Crans-Montana - Davos - Saas Fee - Nendaz - Engelberg - Arosa - Laax - Gstaad - Villars - Champéry - Klosters - Thyon - Lenzerheide - Zinal