The picturesque village of Zermatt has one of the most beautiful views in Switzerland. On the border of Italy, you'll find yourself gazing up at one of the most photographed mountains in the world —The Matterhorn. In this car-free destination, there's plenty to do for the nature lover. In summer, hiking is a must. In winter, it's a skiers and snowboarders paradise.
Getting There
Glacier Express
From St. Moritz we took the Glacier Express, known as being the "slowest express train in the world." Throughout the eight-hour train ride, we took in magical views of the Swiss Alps at all different angles and swerved through tiny little towns and villages. It was truly an unforgettable experience and something that should not be missed.
This four-star hotel was the perfect warm and cozy stay while in Zermatt. With gorgeous views of the Matterhorn, this family run hotel recently underwent a renovation adding modern amenities to the Alpine charm. In the main building traditional style rooms can be enjoyed, while in the new building, you'll find 16 modern rooms. Connecting the two buildings is the main reception, the comfortable bar-lounge and a cozy sitting area. Upstairs is the hotel's dining room, where we enjoyed a delicious traditional breakfast buffet each day. For dinner, guests take in a five-course meal. A memorable one for us started off with a broccoli cream soup topped with cheese beignets, pepper mascarpone terrine with olive vinaigrette, and the salad buffet. Then for the main entrée, we had a roasted guinea fowl breast with thym-lime sauce served with fresh noodles and etuvée of leek. We finished the meal with a fresh mango cocktail.
Definitely don't miss their spa facilities, where you can enjoy the whirlpool, Finnish sauna, steam bath, organic herbal sauna, quiet room and massage treatments.
Europe Hotel & Spa
Riedstrasse 18
CH-3920 Zermatt
Tel. +41 (0)27 966 27 00 www.europe-zermatt.ch
What to Discover
The Matterhorn
You can't take a trip to Zermatt without spending time on the hiking trails taking in the breathtaking views of the Matterhorn mountain. We started our adventure by taking the funicular to Sunnegga and shortly after we started our hike. You can’t miss a peculiar squeak noise of the famous Marmots hiding and running from one rock to the other, sometimes alone or a full family of them. As you continue walking, the complete surrounding of nature and the greatness of the mountains, glaciers and fresh air mixed with pine scents takes you to a serene atmosphere. If you're like us and enjoy leisurely breaks, you'll find several restaurants where you can enjoy a spectacular lunch or a drink like Rivella or Panache (a very refreshing mix of beer and citrus soda (7up, sprite). You'll be amazed at how many different angles you can view The Matterhorn as you venture on your hike.
After a couple of hours on the trails, we reached Riffelalp where we stopped for a great lunch and then took the train to Kölner Observatorium. Here at just about 10,170 feet above sea level you will see stunning glaciers and it is a definite view not to be missed.
Whether you're an avid hiker or just a beginner, there's really a trail for everyone. Next trip, climbing The Matterhorn, maybe?
-Melissa Maynard
*Photos by Henrique Kerch, Hotel Europe photo courtesy of Hotel Europe
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