Green meadows of wildflowers with a backdrop of snow-covered Matterhorn and surrounding Alpine peaks make Zermatt an ideal setting for a summer or fall family vacation. Traveling there by train is easy with a free Swiss Family Card, which allows children aged 6–16 to travel free with a parent holding a Swiss Travel System ticket. Children under 6 always travel free with a parent.
One of Europe’s top ski capitals in winter, Zermatt still offers plenty of outdoor activity after the snow melts. The mountain huts that cater to skiers are open for hikers, and a Peak Pass gives everyone access to unlimited trips on the cable cars that lead to mountain trails. Explore trails on the Rothorn, Gornergrat and Matterhorn Glacier Paradise around Zermatt, or just ride to new heights for never-ending views.
Children under 9 years old ride free on the lifts, and children 9–15 ride for half price. Travelers with various Swiss rail travel passes also get discounts.
Swim or picnic at one of Zermatt’s crystal mountain lakes. Schwarzsee, right at the foot of the Matterhorn and reached by gondola, has the best view of the famous Hörnligrat ridge on the Matterhorn and the village of Zermatt far below. The whole family will enjoy the beach at Leisee, complete with a playground, barbecue areas, picnic sites, pavilion and a postcard view of the Matterhorn.
Have breakfast at sunrise in Fluhalp mountain restaurant as the first rays of sunlight turn the white cone of the Matterhorn shades of red and pink against the deep blue sky. Or watch the sunset while eating dinner in the restaurant at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, the highest viewing platform in the Alps.
Skiers aren’t completely left out of the summer fun at Zermatt. Despite sunny days and warmer temperatures in the valleys below, there’s always snow on Theodul Glacier, high above Zermatt. Surface conditions are right for morning skiing and snowboarding, and you can rent equipment in the village.
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