Zermatt: The Matterhorn Experience

Zermatt is all about the Matterhorn. To get there, I took a train from Zurich to Täsch, then transferred to a smaller train into Zermatt — since cars are not allowed in the village. On one occasion I was part of a group of cyclists and we rode into Zermatt. The town itself is charming, with wooden chalets and narrow streets. The highlight is taking the Gornergrat Railway, which climbs up to incredible viewpoints overlooking the Matterhorn. In winter, this is a major ski destination. In summer, it’s ideal for hiking, but I have had the pleasure skiing on the glacier during the summer too. Another interesting fact is that you can go up the Switzerland side of the Matterhorn, across the glacier, and go down the Italian side into Breuil-Cervina. You can reverse the path and get back to your hotel in Zermatt. ( recommended). Restaurants are cozy and alpine-focused — cheese, meats, and hearty dishes. Remember the altitude makes the alcohol in beer act faster and more intensely. What I’d do differently: Spend more time hiking rather than focusing only on viewpoints.