The Skiers' Guide to Zermatt

Zermatt sits in the southern Swiss Alps near the Italian border, nestled at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn (4,478m). This world-class destination stands out for being completely car-free, with only electric vehicles, horse-drawn carriages, and pedestrians allowed—creating a charming, pollution-free environment that our users consistently praise.

The resort sits at 1,620m and reaches an impressive top elevation of 3,899m at the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, making it one of Europe's highest and most snow-sure destinations. The main village serves as the central hub, though the ski area is divided into three interconnected sectors: Sunnegga-Rothorn, Gornergrat, and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.

Transfer times from major airports like Geneva or Zurich typically range from 3-4 hours by train, with the final leg being a scenic mountain railway journey that's part of the Zermatt experience.

With 130 marked runs covering approximately 360km of terrain (including the linked Italian resort of Cervinia), Zermatt offers an impressive 2,279m of vertical drop. Our Snomad community rates Zermatt exceptionally highly with an overall score of 4.44, with particular strengths in beginner skiing (4.75), expert terrain (4.57), and accommodation quality (4.52).

Zermatt's 130 runs are predominantly suited to intermediate skiers with 83 intermediate runs, while beginners have access to 32 runs, and advanced skiers can enjoy 15 dedicated pistes. The resort features a modern lift system with 18 gondolas/cable cars, 24 chairlifts, and 10 drag lifts to efficiently move skiers across the vast terrain.

A user who is an advanced snowboarder named Jessica explains: "This is the best resort for all abilities. Although no Green runs, a lot of the blues are very wide and easy to ride. The lifts throughout the resort are efficient and easy to use."

The Sunnegga area offers ideal terrain for beginners and early intermediates, while the Gornergrat sector provides wide, sweeping runs perfect for confident intermediates. The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise zone delivers high-altitude, challenging terrain that advanced and expert skiers will appreciate.

For thrill-seekers, Robert, an intermediate skier, highlights: "The Valley run down from the top back to Zermatt goes on forever and is epic." The glacier area provides year-round skiing, while the Italian side offers additional variety. Advanced skiers will find excellent off-piste opportunities, especially in the Stockhorn and Rothorn areas when conditions permit.

Zermatt scores an impressive 4.49 for eating out, placing it among the elite European resorts for culinary experiences. The resort offers an exceptional range of dining options both on the mountain and in the village.

Brad, an advanced skier, points out a money-saving tip: "Love the fact that you can ski over to Italy and have a fine lunch for half the cost on the Swiss side." This sentiment is echoed by several users who recommend heading to the Italian side for better value meals.

The on-mountain dining scene features numerous standout restaurants. Iolo, an intermediate skier from the UK, recommends: "Ended up at Chez Vrony which is the place to eat and also have the best view of the Matterhorn." Amelia, an expert skier, suggests: "ICE pizzeria at the top of the mountain on the border of Switzerland and Italy is so good you should look in advance and book."

In the village, high-quality Swiss and international cuisine dominates, with Victoria noting: "Lots of quality restaurants for dinner. Expensive but worth it." From traditional Swiss raclette and fondue establishments to gourmet dining venues, Zermatt caters to all tastes, though at premium prices.

Zermatt earns a strong 4.29 rating for après-ski, showcasing a sophisticated yet vibrant scene that differs from the wild parties found in some Austrian resorts. Several Snomad community members have highlighted key venues that define the Zermatt après experience.

Brad, an advanced skier, recommends: "Be sure to stop in at Hennu Stall or Cervo for first class Apres-ski." Louis elaborates: "Hennu stal is great fun and very dancy party. Cervo often has a DJ and can be very good fun. Adler Hitta is on the actual mountain at Sunnegga and is a good place to have lunch and/or have a boogey."

The village offers numerous stylish bars and lounges with live music. Michael, an advanced skier from the UK, notes: "You can't beat it for beauty of the mountain, and the skiing is pretty good too. Lovely village with great shopping, and a vibrant apres scene with live music."

While Peter acknowledges that "the apres-ski scene is lively, but not quite up to Austrian standards," Zermatt compensates with quality over quantity, offering sophisticated venues rather than mass-market party spots.

Zermatt scores an excellent 4.27 for family-friendliness, with its car-free environment being particularly appreciated by parents. Chris, an advanced skier from the UK, notes: "Zermatt is a superb all round resort. Very family friendly and the fact there are no cars is a real bonus."

The resort offers excellent children's areas, particularly in the Sunnegga zone where the "Wolli Park" provides beginner-friendly terrain and fun features designed specifically for young skiers. Multiple ski schools with English-speaking instructors cater to children of all ages and abilities.

Beyond skiing, Kathryn from the US highlights additional family activities: "There are many activities for both skiers and non-skiers, including dog sledding and ice skating." Caitlin from Canada adds: "Can bring ice skates for apres skate."

While some users mention the longer transfer times as a consideration when traveling with children, Sylvia from the UK confirms that Zermatt meets diverse family needs: "Great for varied abilities for friends/family groups with all facilities for everyone's needs. Excellent food choices for all."

Zermatt earns an outstanding 4.52 rating for accommodation, reflecting the high-quality lodging options throughout the resort. The village offers everything from luxury hotels and chalets to apartments and more budget-friendly options.

Jesse, a beginner skier from the UK, notes: "Accommodation options are endless. The hostels are great for a budget-friendly choice and only a short stroll to the lifts." However, most users acknowledge that Zermatt tends toward the premium end of the market.

Getting to the slopes requires some planning, as Emma, an advanced skier from the UK, explains: "Skiing is fab but just a pain having to get the train up to the slopes (not the end of the world) just takes longer to get up to the slopes especially if you're not staying next to the station." The village offers electric shuttle buses and taxis to help transport guests to lift stations.

Many accommodations provide ski storage facilities at the base of the lifts, which helps mitigate the walking required in ski boots. While ski-in/ski-out options are limited in Zermatt, the quality of accommodation and the charm of the car-free village compensate for this minor inconvenience.