Zermatt, Switzerland is a pedestrian only town. Zermatt is also a paradise for mountaineers and skiers with the mythical Matterhorn in the middle of it all. You feel as if you can reach out and touch it! This breathtaking mountain has perfect pistes and culinary delights. To say the scenery is incredible is an understatement.
The Small List
Best Hotels
Mont Cervin Palace – Luxury down to the last detail! Since 1853, this 5 Star hotel is in the ultimate location at the heart of Zermatt. Because of the Palace’s stately and grand appearance, the staff has been welcoming guests in the romantic old village center. And rising above it all is the Matterhorn.
Unique Hotel Post – The mountain lodge style at Hotel Post is very cozy and mountain chic. This small boutique hotel is loved by guests because it is unique inside and out.
The Omnia – A contemporary interpretation of the traditional mountain lodge, this award winning hotel is located high on a rock. Therefore, at 148 feet above the roofs of central Zermatt, guest must access the entrance via a tunnel leading to an elevator.
Hotel Simi – The central location, a friendly and helpful staff, and an uncomplicated atmosphere will make your visit easy and unforgettable. The rooms are nice and bit too in the family run hotel.
Best Restaurants on the Slopes
Chez Vrony – Chez Vrony is one of the few restaurants that still uses its own organic products. Their animals are nourished solely on Alpine grass. They offer a rustic and entirely natural cuisine that comprises traditional dishes typically found locally. You will also find international influences. With heartfelt warmth they will carefully select wines and cater to everyone’s taste. Perfect for lunch or an aperitif.
Chalet Etoile – The Chalet Etoile is a historic restaurant which is located in Italy at the bottom of the Cervinio. Experience an incredible lunch at this resort institution. Chef Ulla is in the kitchen and greets guests on the terrace. Regional dishes, local wine, and a super inviting ambience are also their winning combination.
Mountain Restaurant Blatten – Since the beginnings of tourism in Zermatt, this traditional mountain restaurant still exists. Blatten is located directly on the downhill slope from Furi to Zermatt. This quaint little mountain restaurant offers plenty of alpine atmosphere. Blatten also has topnotch service, unbeatable food, and jaw dropping views from its sun terrace. The open air Snowball is a popular piste-side watering hole too.
Zum See – A culinary star of the slopes! Be pampered in the restaurant and on the sun-drenched terrace. Enjoy views of the Matterhorn and the magnificent mountain world of Zermatt as well. Experience excellent gourmet cuisine with traditional and Mediterranean dishes. Fine wines and ever-attentive service are on tap too.
Best Restaurants in Town
Ristorante Capri – With Chefs from Capri, this Michelin-starred gourmet Italian restaurant is the jewel in the culinary crown of the beautiful 5 Star Mont Cervin Palace Hotel. Who would have known that the Mediterranean comes to the Alps for the winter? Chef Giuseppe Parisi brings his summer cuisine from award winning restaurant, Il Riccio, to the mountains.
Restaurant Schäferstube – As traditional as it gets, here you will experience the genuine, original Matterhorn village and really good food. Expect succulent cuts of lamb, cooked on a charcoal grill. Valais raclette and cheese fondue are a hit here too.
Le Gourmand – Two food lovers share a passion to offer good, healthy, and quickly prepared food. They use only fresh ingredients and high quality products.
Best Aprés Ski
Harry’s Bar – A hotspot to dance, celebrate, flirt and sing until the rafters ring. Where snow bunnies and night owls unite!
Best Nightlife
Stars Bar – Located in the Grand Hotel Zermatterhof, the Stars Bar offers an extensive menu of fashionable cocktails, traditional drinks, and live piano music. Ideal for an aperitif.
Club Mamacita – In the middle of the rustic mountain village, Club Mamacita is dedicated to South American culture. At the foot of the Matterhorn you can enjoy a live band every night.
Things to See
Matterhorn – The jewel of the Alps, the Matterhorn straddles Switzerland and Italy at 14, 691 feet. The Majestic Matterhorn is certainly the most famous mountain in Europe and looms over the breathtaking Alpine panorama.