Zermatt

Switzerland, the iconic Matterhorn and skiing go hand-in-hand. The Zermatt ski area has a justifiably outstanding reputation as the ideal winter vacation as it is a complete package in an exceedingly beautiful setting.

The ski area that is in three distinct areas, is massive. There is something for every level from beginners to advanced abilities. There is superb off-piste skiing, all in a stunning environment. Intermediates have over half of the terrain as their playground.

Whilst beginners will have access to some gentle slopes, those chasing the thrills in off-piste will be well rewarded too. Its slopes are immaculately groomed and the lifts are run with typical Swiss efficiency.

Zermatt welcomes snowboarders.

Zermatt’s on-mountain restaurants, cafes and bars are plentiful and offer award-winning cuisine with excellent views from the atmospheric buildings. In fact, it is worth going there just to experience them and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Zermatt is a historic town which has evolved to become a vibrant ski town with numerous top hotels. Some accommodation is in renovated ancient buildings but there is also a range of modern developments.

Terrain: 21% beginner, 58% intermediate, 21% advanced/expert. There are 121 named trails. The longest run is 11 miles or 17 kilometers.