Winter Fun Awaits Families in Zermatt, Switzerland

The Swiss ski resort of Zermatt, with the majestic Matterhorn rising behind it, is at the top of any avid skier’s bucket list. But for families or couples, traveling to Zermatt can be a lot more than skiing. Outdoor adventures, culinary treats and just enjoying the ambiance of an Alpine village can fill a winter vacation there.

Skiing at Zermatt is not just for experts. Trails and slopes are suited to all skill levels, and at the Sunnegga terrace, Wolli’s adventure park is designed for beginners. More experienced skiers can take gondolas or chairlifts to the Rothorn area’s trails and snowfields. Lessons in skiing, boarding or snowshoeing are available at all levels, and most include equipment rentals. Children under 9 ski free.

Take the Gornergrat Railway to the Rotenboden station for a thrilling 10-minute toboggan ride down to Riffelberg on the highest toboggan run in the Alps and past one of Zermatt’s most spectacular panoramas. You can choose from traditional double-runner sleds or try the faster Ghosky model. Families can choose sleds with seats for children. The train takes you back up for more runs, all on a single ticket.

You don’t have to sled back down the mountain; you can enjoy a scenic 45-minute ride on the Gornergrat Bahn to the summit of the Gornergrat, with ever-changing views of the Matterhorn. On the return trip, stop at Riffelberg, where there’s a restaurant with a sun terrace.

Other outdoor adventures include a guided snowshoe hike past the Theodul Glacier lake to a plateau with views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks, or an adventure into the ice-filled Gorner gorge. As you traverse the gorge via ziplines, pendulum swing and suspension bridges, you can see the fantastic rock formations created by the rushing waters.

Zermatt isn’t all about snow and winter sports. Food lovers can sample traditional Swiss fondue around an open fire or take a culinary walk through the snow-covered hamlet of Findeln to enjoy local delicacies at four different restaurants, a four-course dinner with snowy walks in between courses.