Imagine gliding down powdery slopes with the iconic Matterhorn in view, then strolling through a village filled with magical ice sculptures. This is Zermatt in winter! It's a world-class ski destination and home to a fantastic snow sculpture competition that turns the town into an open-air art gallery. The combination of incredible skiing, breathtaking scenery, and the unique charm of a car-free village creates an unforgettable experience. Whether you're carving down a fresh slope or admiring a glowing snow sculpture, the spirit of the Alps is all around you.

Ready for an unforgettable alpine adventure? We’ve put together everything you need to know to plan a trip that combines thrilling skiing with the creative wonder of Zermatt's winter festival. 

Welcome to Zermatt: A Car-Free Alpine Paradise

Zermatt is a charming, car-free village nestled high in the Swiss Alps. The only vehicles you’ll see are quiet electric taxis and buses, which helps preserve the crisp mountain air and peaceful atmosphere. Dominating the skyline is the magnificent Matterhorn, a pyramid-shaped peak that provides a stunning backdrop for your entire trip.

The Snow Sculpture Competition

A highlight of Zermatt's winter season is the snow sculpture competition. Held annually, this event brings international teams of artists to the village. They transform huge blocks of packed snow into incredible, temporary works of art.

  • What to Expect: For several days, you can watch the artists at work, chiseling and shaping the snow with impressive skill. The sculptures often follow a specific theme.
  • Judging and Viewing: Once completed, the sculptures are judged by a panel. The best part is that they remain on display for everyone to enjoy! You can walk through the village and admire the finished creations, which are especially beautiful when lit up at night.

Zermatt's World-Class Ski Areas

With over 360 kilometers of pistes, Zermatt offers endless skiing and snowboarding opportunities for all skill levels. The ski area is divided into three main interconnected sectors.

Sunnegga-Rothorn: The Sunny Side

Known as the "sunny corner" of Zermatt, this area is perfect for beginners and families. It offers wide, gentle slopes and fantastic views. You can reach it quickly via an underground funicular.

Gornergrat: Panoramic Views

Take the scenic Gornergrat railway, Europe's highest open-air cogwheel train, up to this incredible viewpoint. The slopes here are mostly intermediate, offering long, cruising runs with constant views of the Matterhorn and surrounding glaciers.

Schwarzsee & Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

This is the highest ski area, reaching an altitude of 3,883 meters (12,740 feet). It offers guaranteed snow and challenging runs for advanced skiers. From here, you can also ski across the border to Cervinia, Italy, for a unique international ski day!

Après-Ski and Dining in Zermatt

After a day on the slopes, Zermatt comes alive with cozy bars and excellent restaurants. You’ll find options for every taste and budget.

  • Hennu Stall: A legendary après-ski spot located on the run down from Furi. Expect live music, dancing on tables, and a fun, energetic atmosphere.
  • Papperla Pub: A lively pub in the heart of the village, popular with locals and visitors alike. It's a great place for a casual beer and good conversation.
  • CERVO Puro: For a more stylish après-ski experience, head to the terrace at CERVO Mountain Resort. Enjoy a craft cocktail by a fire pit with stunning Matterhorn views.
  • Restaurant Schäferstube: A cozy and rustic restaurant serving traditional lamb dishes and cheese fondue. It’s perfect for an authentic Swiss dining experience.
  • Grampi's: A fun and reliable choice for pizza and pasta. This bustling Italian restaurant is great for groups and offers excellent value.
  • Findlerhof (Findeln): An amazing on-mountain restaurant known for its gourmet food and sunny terrace. It's a special treat worth booking in advance.

A 4-Day Zermatt Ski & Festival Itinerary

Use this plan to combine the best of the slopes and the village festivities.

  • Day 1: Arrival and Village Exploration
  • Arrive in Zermatt by train. Check into your hotel and take a walk through the car-free village. In the evening, see the snow sculptures and enjoy a casual dinner at Grampi's.
  • Day 2: Sunnegga Skiing & Après-Ski Fun
  • Spend the day skiing the sunny slopes of the Sunnegga-Rothorn area. End your ski day with a stop at a lively après-ski bar on your way down the mountain.
  • Day 3: Gornergrat Scenery & Fondue
  • Ride the Gornergrat railway for breathtaking panoramic views. Ski the long, scenic runs back towards the village. For dinner, indulge in a classic Swiss cheese fondue at a traditional restaurant like Schäferstube.
  • Day 4: High-Altitude Skiing & Departure
  • Head up to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise for some high-altitude skiing. If you're feeling adventurous, ski over to Italy for lunch! Afterwards, make your way back to the train station for your departure.

Planning Your Zermatt Adventure

Lift Passes, Lessons & Rentals

  • Lift Passes: Purchase your lift pass online in advance to save time. Zermatt offers dynamic pricing, so booking early can also save you money.
  • Lessons & Rentals: The village has many excellent ski schools and rental shops. Book lessons and equipment ahead of time, especially during peak season.

Weather, Altitude & Safety

  • Altitude: Zermatt is at a high altitude. Take it easy on your first day to acclimate, and drink plenty of water.
  • Weather: Mountain weather can change rapidly. Dress in warm layers and always wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days.
  • Slope Safety: Follow the skier's code of conduct. Stay in control, be aware of others, and stick to marked pistes unless you are with a qualified guide.

Logistics & Budgeting

  • Getting There: Zermatt is car-free. The best way to arrive is by train. The scenic journey through the Swiss Alps is part of the experience!
  • Budgeting: Switzerland can be expensive, but you can manage costs. Look for apartment rentals with kitchens, enjoy lunches at self-service mountain restaurants, and take advantage of supermarket deals.