Zermatt
This Swiss Ski Resort is the most eco-friendly place in the Alps
Switzerland > Valais > Zermatt
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Sitting at the foot of the Matterhorn, it’s a Swiss Alpine dream—no cars, just electric taxis, horse-drawn carriages, and plenty of fresh mountain air. If you're coming from Zurich or Geneva, the train is your best bet. It’s scenic, comfortable, and avoids the hassle of parking since Zermatt is a car-free zone. If you're driving, park in Täsch and take the shuttle train in.
The town itself is compact and walkable, with charming wooden chalets, high-end boutiques, and enough cheese-laden dishes to keep you warm all winter. Fondue is a must, but don’t sleep on raclette, rösti, or the surprisingly good Italian food, thanks to Zermatt’s proximity to the border. For something casual, grab a sausage at one of the market stands. If you want luxury, Zermatt has no shortage of Michelin-starred restaurants and five-star hotels, but there are also plenty of cozy, budget-friendly B&Bs.
For skiing, Zermatt is one of the best in the world, with year-round access on the glacier. Even if you’re not into winter sports, take the Gornergrat railway up for some of the best views of the Matterhorn or ride the cable car to Klein Matterhorn, Europe’s highest viewing platform. In summer, hiking trails are endless, and the Five Lakes Walk is one of the most popular for good reason.
Pack for the weather—it can change fast. Even in summer, a warm layer is a good idea. And if you’re here for the Matterhorn, get up early for the best chance of seeing it cloud-free. Zermatt isn’t cheap, but it’s worth every Swiss franc.
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