Where is Zermatt compared to the Matterhorn?

Where is Zermatt compared to the Matterhorn?

The breathtaking alpine village of Zermatt is nestled in the picturesque Swiss Alps, known for its reputable ski and hiking routes, overlooked by the majestic Matterhorn. But where exactly is Zermatt, and how far is it from the magnificent Matterhorn?

We’ve put together this guide to this captivating winter wonderland, answering exactly ‘where is Zermatt?’ and how far away the Matterhorn is, so you can soak in everything this enormous legend has to offer. We’ll also run through many more attractions Zermatt has to offer to keep the whole family entertained. You’ll soon learn what makes Zermatt such a unique and unmissable destination.

Where is Zermatt?

First things first, we’ll need to explain exactly where Zermatt is - after all, the Alpine region of Switzerland is pretty extensive! Zermatt is located in southern Switzerland in the canton of Valais, close to the Italian border and at the foot of the famous mountain, the Matterhorn. In terms of neighbouring locations, you can reach Verbier from Zermatt by train, which takes around three and a half hours and costs between €50 - €130. Another unmissable destination is Crans Montana, which including transfers takes around two hours by train from Zermatt.

Zermatt is a popular hiking and ski destination, and with 54 mountain railways and 360 kilometres of pistes, it’s easy to see why.

How far is the Matterhorn from Zermatt?

A trip to Zermatt isn’t complete without experiencing the Matterhorn in all of its glory. After all, it’s said to be the most famous and most photographed mountain in the world! You’ll be pleased to hear the breathtaking mountain is only a short journey away from Zermatt village. You’ll need to take a green bus (number 571 or 572) from the Zermatt train station which will take you to the cable car station of Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. From there, you’ll take three gondolas to reach your final, breathtaking destination - Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.

How to reach Zermatt

While Zermatt is a remote town, it’s easily accessible by public transport. The most convenient airport to fly into is either Geneva or Zurich. Once you land, you can take the train to Zermatt which takes around three to four hours from either airport. Zermatt is completely car-free, so if you’re arriving by bus or car, you’ll need to stop off at Täsch where you can then jump on the quick shuttle train to Zermatt. These trains run every 20 minutes during the day and allow you to take in the beautiful views.

Where to stay in Zermatt

Where you choose to stay in Zermatt will ultimately depend on your unique preferences, budget and how many people you’re travelling with.

For a once in a lifetime trip, you may choose to stay in a luxury hotel like The Omnia or CERVO Mountain Resort, for unforgettable wining and dining after a busy day on the slopes.

Travelling solo or on a budget? A simple hostel may be more than enough for you - giving you a place to rest after a day of exploring. Or perhaps you’d prefer to fully soak up the Swiss atmosphere with a luxury chalet in the heart of Zermatt. With breathtaking views of the Matterhorn from your window, you’ll have the privacy and seclusion to completely unwind and embrace all that Zermatt has to offer. A luxury chalet offers the authentic Swiss experience, with picture-perfect rustic interiors and cosy fireplaces for you to feel at home away from home. 

Other unmissable attractions in Zermatt

Zermatt has a variety of activities and attractions to suit everyone. So, if you’re looking for a relaxing break taking in the views, or you’re the adventurous type eager to hit the slopes, you’re spoilt for choice.

Here are our top picks of things to do in Zermatt:

  • The Matterhorn: As mentioned, the Matterhorn is Zermatt’s most iconic landmark. To really admire its beauty, why not visit Matterhorn Glacier Paradise? Your journey will begin from the departure of the cable car towards the end of the village, where you’ll take the 40-minute journey (with only one change). The impressive summit lift will take you to the viewing platform, with an astounding 360º panoramic view! At 3883 metres above sea level, no words can do justice to the beauty you’ll set your eyes on.
  • Hiking and skiing trails: Zermatt is famous for its extensive hiking and skiing routes. So, whether you’re an expert on skis or prefer to stick to hiking boots, you can take in all the natural world has to offer.
  • Gorner Gorge: It’s not just its mountainous peaks that will leave you wowed - no trip to Zermatt is complete without Gorner Gorge. Only a 20-minute walk from the south end of the village, Gorner Gorge is a celebration of natural beauty. The gorge was formed by the Gornea River over thousands of years, and the green-tinged serpentinite stone is around 220 million years old!
  • Zermatt village: You’ll quickly notice just how tranquil Zermatt is, with its narrow streets and car-free way of life, taking a stroll through the village is a must. Browse the boutique shops, warm your body and soul with a delicious coffee and enjoy a bite to eat in a gourmet restaurant.
  • Stellisee Lake: Stellisee Lake is postcard-perfect, with the view of the Matterhorn reflected on its crystal clear surface. Only a 20-minute walk from Blauherd station, this spot is the ideal location for a cosy picnic surrounded by nature. Alternatively, why not watch the sunrise or sunset with your special someone and take in the Matterhorn in a fiery light? Breathtaking!

Reach out to Steiger&Cie Sotheby’s International Realty for chalets in Zermatt

We hope we’ve managed to capture just some of what Zermatt has to offer in this article. All that’s left for you to do is come and see its beauty and wonder yourself. There’s no better way to take in this winter wonderland than with a luxury chalet. Contact us today and the experts at Steiger&Cie Sotheby’s Internation Realty can help you find the perfect luxury chalet to call your own in Zermatt.