Ski Information
Dominated by the mightly Matterhorn, Zermatt offers an extensive and high ski area best suited to intermediate and advanced skiers. The 38 mountain restaurants also make it a paradise for those who like to lunch looking out over some of the most beautiful views in the Alps. The ski area of Zermatt and neighbouring Cervinia offers over 300 kilometres of high north and west facing slopes split over several areas.
The Rothorn sector offers good skiing for all standards and just below it you will find the Sunnegga area where the beginners can find their feet. The 40 minute ride up the Gornergrat railway takes you to 3405m and here there are a variety of standards of piste along with the dedicated sledging run. The Matterhorn sector harbours the glacier and offers lovely reds and blues which are ideal for cruisers. From here you can take the challenge of the non-stop 14km piste all the way back to the village, or you can take the runs over to the Cervinia side of the mountain. Below the glacier is the Trockner Steg area where ski lessons usually take place.
Off-piste is frowned upon in Switzerland but none the less there are still good spots for off-piste. The yellow runs are "free-ride" meaning that the pistes are un-groomed therefore snow conditions vary, leaving the runs challenging. Zermatt also has a long standing reputation for its heli-skiing, something the expert skiier should certainly experience when staying in this world class resort.
Nursery slopes
Nursery and beginner areas can be found on the Trockner Steg section of the mountain which the ski school usually use for their lessons. The Sunnegga Paradise area of the mountain also has some good learning spots.
Snowpark
There are 2 main snowparks in Zermatt, one just above the Trockner Steg and another just over the Theodulpass on the Italian side of the ski area.
Cross country skiing
There are 17kms of cross country trails between Tasch and Randa just below Zermatt. The area boasts a great cross country centre with changing and shower facilities along with a lounge and service area.
