Top Picks: Thrilling Activities to Experience in Zermatt, Switzerland
Discovering Zermatt: A Haven of Unforgettable Adventures
Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Zermatt offers a cornucopia of unique experiences that cater to every kind of traveller. With the iconic Matterhorn as its backdrop, this car-free village presents a kaleidoscope of outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, and alpine relaxation. Here are 25 activities that encapsulate the essence of Zermatt:
- Matterhorn Glacier Paradise – Europe’s highest cable car station at 3883m offers panoramic views of 16 glaciers and around thirty 4000m peaks across three countries.
- Glacier Palace at Klein Matterhorn – Explore ice sculptures and tunnels under the glacier.
- Klein Matterhorn Ski Park – Enjoy snow activities even in summer due to year-round skiing.
- Suspension bridge over the Gornergorge at Furi – A thrilling natural gorge suspension bridge hike.
- Dossen Playground – Family-friendly outdoor fun in a scenic alpine setting.
- Gletscher Garten (Glacier Garden) – Discover geological wonders and fossils near Zermatt town.
- Zermatt’s charming old town – Wander wooden chalets, shops, and cozy cafés in a car-free alpine village.
- Gornergrat Bahn – Europe's highest open-air cogwheel railway with spectacular Matterhorn views.
- Glacier viewpoint at Gornergrat – Stunning glaciers and mountain views accessible by train and hiking.
- Hike from Gornergrat to Riffelsee lake – A scenic trail featuring reflections of the Matterhorn.
- Matterhorn Glacier Trail – A dramatic alpine hike across glacial landscapes.
- Breithorn Mountain summit – One of the easiest 4000m peaks to climb, start from Matterhorn Glacier Paradise; requires fitness and experience.
- Cable car to Sunnegga, Blauherd, and Rothorn – Explore mountain panoramas and hiking starting points.
- Five Lakes Walk (5-Seenweg) – Scenic summer hike past five mountain lakes reflecting the Matterhorn.
- Mountain biking on alpine trails – Trails of various difficulty for adventurous cyclists.
- Paragliding over Zermatt – Experience the Matterhorn and valleys from above.
- Matterhorn Museum – Learn about local alpine culture and climbing history.
- Snowshoeing in winter – Enjoy quiet snow-covered alpine forests and trails.
- Horse-drawn carriage rides in winter – A romantic way to explore snowy Zermatt village lanes.
- Toboggan runs near the village and ski areas – Family-friendly sledging fun.
- Alpine thermal spas – Unwind after outdoor activities with mountain views.
- Winter hiking trails – Enjoy scenic walks on maintained winter paths with snowy vistas.
- Gourmet Trail hiking and dining – Combine hiking with stops for local alpine cuisine and wines.
- Schwarzsee lake – A tranquil alpine lake with Matterhorn views, accessible by cable car.
- Zermatt’s lively après-ski and fine dining – Delight in local Swiss cheese, chocolate Matterhorns, and alpine specialties.
These activities provide a rich blend of outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and alpine relaxation. Night sledding adventures, wine tasting tours, guided glacier trekking tours, the Gornergrat Observatory, local restaurants serving traditional Swiss dishes, the Hoernli Trail, outdoor yoga sessions, and more, make every experience in Zermatt unique and unforgettable.
- After a day of snow activities, unwind at an alpine thermal spa while enjoying the stunning mountain views, part of the home-and-garden lifestyle that Zermatt offers.
- For those who love exploring new cultures, immerse yourself in traditional Swiss dishes and wine tasting tours, a unique element of Zermatt's lifestyle, blending travel and home-and-garden experiences seamlessly.
