On the Italian border of the canton of Valais in the west of Switzerland, at the end of the 30 km-long Nikolaital, lies Zermatt, the village at the foot of the Matterhorn, the most photographed mountain in the world. For visitors from all over the world, Zermatt epitomizes their image of Switzerland: high-alpine, awe-inspiring and original. Almost one-third of the 4,000-meter mountains in the Alps are grouped around this word-famous health resort, which has been visited by mountaineers from all around the world since the first successful ascent of the Matterhorn in 1865. The hotels and restaurants are world-class, and the ski area is not only the highest in the Alps – it is also one of the best developed and most convenient in the world, ensuring thrilling sporting experiences on the steepest slopes in the world – and that 365 days a year. The climate is of an excellent quality: with 300 sunny days a year, there is less rainfall than anywhere else in Switzerland. The air in Zermatt is clear, dry and clean, because, since 1947, only electric cars without a combustion engine are allowed to operate in the village. 75% of the area of the Zermatt municipality are nature reserves of international and national importance, and 400 km of hiking trails lead through magnificent high mountain landscapes, some heavily glaciated. Here lies Europe's highest tree line, high alpine vegetation zones with endemic plants that are protected throughout Switzerland. The wildlife habitat here is of great significance. There are 12 headwaters with 86 springs. The water here is to 95% pure spring water and meets the requirements for drinking water according to the Swiss Food Law.
Things are a little different in Zermatt. Zermatt – A world of its own.
Things to do in Zermatt
Skiing and snowboarding the whole year round, with 365 days of snow – you can only find this in Zermatt. As the highest altitude, largest and most efficiently developed snow sport location in the Alps, Zermatt offers an absolute snow guarantee. In winter, 313 km of piste attracts skiers of all levels. Unlimited skiing and snowboarding between Switzerland and Italy – no other destination can offer this. And in the summer? Enjoy the 20 km of pistes on the Zermatt Theodul Glacier. Carve and relax alongside national ski teams from the whole of Europe. With the Matterhorn always in sight.
The 12 km of cross-country skiing trails for classical skiers and skaters located between Täsch and Randa are becoming increasingly popular. There are many secrets to be discovered around the well prepared Loipe Matterhorn. And you needn't be surprised if you fall out of the track in the hairpin bends close to Randa: it was, after all, the track used for the Junior World Championships of 1985. Guests staying in Zermatt who also enjoy cross-country skiing can also join in here within a very short time: the Matterhorn Gotthard railway only takes 12 minutes to reach Täsch. And you can get anything you need for cross-country skiing in the Matterhorn Terminal.
The destination offers 70 km of winter walking paths, 20 km of them above the villages of Täsch and Randa. Enjoy the peace and quiet away from the pistes, on high altitude paths with marvelous views. Wander through snow-covered woods, or follow the traces of the ancient Wallisers, up to the Zmutt hamlet. Almost all winter walking paths have a gentle inclination, both up and down. With up to 500 meters in altitude difference, however, some paths represent a greater challenge. It’s not unusual to see a chamois or even an ibex from time to time, and, on the path from Blauherd to Fluhalp, you can also learn how animals survive the winter. The Gourmet Path and the Winter Trail are also suitable for nordic walking. Make the step towards a healthy and gentle form of movement and observe the beauty away from the piste.
For more information, please visit
www.myswitzerland.com 
www.zermatt.com
