If you’re a mountain lover like me, or you’ve ever looked into skiing in Europe, chances are you’ve heard of The Matterhorn in Zermatt, Switzerland. Famous for amazing skiing and breathtaking views, this little Alps town should be a bucket-list destination on everyone’s list.
Located in the Visp district of southern Switzerland, the mountain resort town of Zermatt sits close to the Swiss-Italian boarder. It’s known for its proximity to the world’s most photographed mountain, the Matterhorn, and for year-round winter sports. Zermatt is accessible by train from most major airports, like Geneva and Zurich, and like any other area in Switzerland – is incredibly expensive. The entire town is car-free, making it perfect for walking around boutiques with a steaming cup of hot chocolate!
When to Visit Zermatt:
The best time of year to travel is either summer or winter, where temperatures average mid-60ºs in summer, and mid-20ºs in winter – with consistent sunny days during both seasons. I visited Zermatt in late September, with temperatures ranging from mid-30ºs to low 40ºs throughout the day.
There are many things to do besides skiing in Zermatt, there’s something for everyone in this picturesque town. While known for skiing and mountaineering, Zermatt also offers tons of hiking, sledding, shopping, museums, spas, and plenty of après-ski activities of the alcohol-variety.
My Trip:
My Swiss breakfast consisted of toast & sliced cheeses, paired with a fantastic cappuccino. After draining it down to the dregs, I headed out towards the Blauherd mountain station in hopes of hiking. After taking a cable-train up the slope and a 15-minute gondola ride, I stepped out into the thick fog surrounding Blauherd. Immediately, I noticed I was alone. A lift attendant warned me of the poor weather, suggesting the hike would most likely be disappointing.
The 5 Lakes Trail, one of the most stunning hikes of the area, is a 6.8-mile loop around the Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee and Leisee lakes. The trail is considered moderate, with slight elevation and consistent views of the Matterhorn. Unfortunately, the fog was so thick I could only see a few feet in front of me. I definitely couldn’t see any of the lakes or the mountain, so around 1 mile in I had to turn around. Remembering I was the only person on the trail, I became nervous about getting lost or injured alone. Though extremely disappointed I didn’t see any of the sights, I was still determined to have an excellent trip.
I couldn’t visit Switzerland without having at least one cup of hot chocolate. In the ski-resort town, chocolate shops are littered throughout the streets, including renowned Swiss Lindt Chocolate. With a cup of classic Caotina in hand, the original Swiss hot chocolate, I wandered the avenues of old-town Zermatt. Known as Hinterdorf, which means “rear village”, the area features 16th century-built houses that are still in use today! The antiquated wooden structures are both local residences and vacation rentals. Walking through the traditional Swiss homes allows a person to appreciate the history of Zermatt.
Another incredible place to visit is the Julen Black Nose Sheep Farm on the outskirts of the village. If you spend a minute looking around Zermatt, you’ll notice the Julen family is a pretty-big deal. The family owns many of the hotels and restaurants downtown. While at the Barn, a member of the family will personally give you a tour, explaining the sustainability & behind-the-scenes of the farm. You’ll spend an afternoon petting the black-nosed sheep and enjoying some of the milks, cheeses, & meats produced there.
The tours are only available from December – April, so I couldn’t visit the actual barn, although I could see the sheep! A 2-mile hike up into the mountains brought me to their off-season pasture. Nervous about trespassing, I didn’t actually walk up to pet the sheep. However, I stayed in their field for about an hour, reading my book up on top of a mountain. The animals were very curious about me hanging out in their area!
After a long day of wandering around, it was time to grab a bite to eat. For dinner, I enjoyed risotto al limone con gamberoni, lemon risotto with shrimp, at Ristorante Molino. This incredible Italian restaurant served the largest glass of white wine and left me alone to read and relax. Not quite ready to fall asleep, and honestly a bit lonely from solo-travel, I walked around in search of a good après bar. Inside the Hotel Alex is a popular lounge where relaxing ski-lodge meets luxury. The traditional bar with phenomenal ambiance serves a wide selection of whiskey & original cocktails. I highly recommend anyone traveling to Zermatt to stay at this hotel, or stop by just for a nightcap.
Traveling to Zermatt, Switzerland is a must-add to everyone’s Bucket List. Overall if I could go back, I would visit Zermatt in the winter and ski the trails surrounding the Matterhorn. Undoubtedly this mountain resort town is breathtaking with a fresh dusting of snow on the ground. I can’t wait to travel here again!
If you have any follow up questions about visiting Zermatt, please email me at alostblonde@gmail.com
♡ Abigail Reagan
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You have been in so many wonderful adventurers!!! This place sounds very beautiful. Look forward to see where you go next.