Our return to Zermatt starts in the most beautiful way; the
stunning train journey around Lake Geneva and up through the Alps. Even from
landing at Geneva, the riot of colour is evident; the icy, bright blues of the
rivers winding through the rich greens of the forests and farmland –
Switzerland must be one of the most beautiful countries in the world!
Wending its way out of Geneva, the train line skirts the
very edge of the lake for what seems like an impossibly long time, while
mountains ringing the edge of it gradually increase in height. Changing to the
Matterhorn Gotthardbahn in Visp, the train winds along the valley, climbing all
the way, until the lifts at Klein Matterhorn and Gornergrat come into view,
glittering in the summer sun.
Zermatt itself is exceptionally beautiful in both summer and
winter. In winter, the dark woods of the traditional buildings contrast with
the white snow and crisp blue skies, and outside bars and restaurants
fur-covered seats are invitingly cosy while inside log fires burn. In the summer,
the balconies overflow with flowers in every colour, and the green of the
mountain sides and forests is complemented by warm sunshine. Always the
Matterhorn looms above, so striking a view that it almost doesn’t look real.
On our brief stay this time, we crammed in some fantastic
experiences; our second day began with a trip to the very top of the ski area –
from 1600m to 3,883m in 45 minutes. Getting on to the Matterhorn Express lift,
the bubble takes you up through Furi and up to Trockner Steg, where you switch
to the cable car to the very top. Currently a new lift is being built to run
alongside the cable car and increase capacity dramatically –this should be open
for 2017/18, which is great news for skiers, and will make heading over into
Italy a lot easier.
The top of the lift is the highest lift station in Europe;
from the panoramic viewing platform you can see the Alps stretching in every
direction, the clouds hugging the mountains way below you. Down in one
direction you can see the chocolate box village of Zermatt, and to the other
Cervinia is just visible. All around are glaciers with the tracks of hikers
criss-crossing them. An unmissable stop
here is the Glacier Palace – carved into the glacier itself, the network of
tunnels are home to ice sculptures lit by multi-coloured lights, and even an
ice slide carved into the glacier. If you prefer the sun outside, take the
option of the ice slide outside in a rubber tube!
From here we took the lift back to Furi, where we spent an
enjoyable few hours learning to clay pigeon shoot. With bright coloured clays
and guns converted to laser rather than real bullets, it’s an activity for all
year round, and for all levels. The stunning backdrop is distractingly lovely,
but nevertheless we managed a very successful competition!
A short walk through sun drenched paths between chocolate
box houses brings you to Restaurant Zum See – an absolute gem in a village
renowned for its gourmet food. Local homemade dishes and Swiss wine, set
amongst the green of the meadows with the Matterhorn above you – it’s a
must-visit. In the winter you can ski to and from it, making it a fabulous
lunch stop. In the summer, it is an easy and wonderful downhill walk to the
village.
Zermatt’s nightlife is also not to be missed – bars dotted
along the main street feature live music, unique and delicious cocktails, Swiss
wines and beers and a huge range of spirits. Whether you prefer bars or clubs,
there’s a selection of both – if you feel up to if after apres at Hennu Stall
and a sumptuous dinner in your chalet that is!
No matter when you come in the year, and whether or not you
love to ski, hike, climb or simply love to enjoy the ambiance of the mountains,
Zermatt has something for every person. There is something truly special about
it. It is undoubtedly one of the finest ski resorts in the world, and my
absolute favourite place!
Blog written by our award-winning ski specialists, Abigail who has lived in Zermatt previously whilst working a season there.
If you are interested in visiting the region, or any other European resorts, Abigail would be delighted to talk with you! - Contact her today.
