Zermatt is an excellent ski resort that shows off astonishing views of Matterhorn Mountain, located in the heart of the Swiss Alps. But what if skiing isn’t your thing?
Don’t worry, because Zermatt offers a plethora of activities for non-skiers as well. From dramatic villages and museums to panoramic sceneries of the surrounding mountains, there’s plenty to see and do in this charming town.
Zermatt has something for everyone to enjoy, even if you visit it during seasons other than winter. Below, we’ll go through the top things to do for non-skiers in Zermatt.
Admire the Matterhorn From Every Angle
The Matterhorn is a dazzling peak over Zermatt at 4478 meters, making it the 12th-highest peak in Western Europe. Its striking beauty has captivated visitors for decades, making it a must-see destination for those who admire natural wonders.
You can photograph the Matterhorn from every possible angle and capture its hypnotic charisma in different lights. The mountain has a storied past, with a race between Italians and the British to be the first to plant their flag on its summit.
In 1865, British climber Edward Whymper won the race on his eighth attempt, but it came at a tragic cost. Four of his seven climbing companions died on the descent, making it a bittersweet victory.
Despite the tragic history, the Matterhorn remains an impressive sight to see and a source of marvel for all who visit Zermatt.
Stroll Through the Village
Zermatt is not just for skiers, as the village itself offers a wealth of activities. The main street is dotted with charming shops and restaurants that serve local dishes such as Rösti and Cheese Fondue. Make sure to visit Petit Royal Zermatt on the main street for their decadent hot chocolate.
Stroll deeper into Zermatt and dig into its Old Village, which brags traditional buildings constructed in the style of Valais barns and stores. These outstanding buildings still rest on flat stone slabs, balanced on stilts to keep out mice and provide a dry space for firewood.
The village of Zermatt is scenic, with beautiful wooden buildings and a church with a spire that looks stunning in the snow. Head to the car-free streets of the old town where there’s a collection of ancient stone and larch buildings.
Shop at the many boutiques in the main village, selling Swiss chocolates, souvenirs, and high-end jewelry. Take a break and enjoy a delicious hot chocolate or crepe at cafes such as the popular Petit Royal Café.
Explore the Peaks around Zermatt
Don’t let the fact that you’re not a skier stop you from digging through the spectacular peaks around Zermatt. Take advantage of the cable cars and enjoy the startling views and mountain restaurants without needing to ski.
Plenty of lifts and trains can take non-skiers to various resorts and villages, allowing them to experience the beauty of the mountains without needing to hit the slopes.
Klein Matterhorn / Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
The journey to the top of Klein Matterhorn is an adventure in itself. A cable car goes up the mountain in stages, offering sensational 360-degree views of the Matterhorn, surrounding mountains, and Zermatt below. Don’t try to figure out how the cable car is suspended as it can be disorienting.
At the summit, you’ll find Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, the highest cable car station in Europe at 3,883 meters. Skiers can even ski down to Italy for lunch, but non-skiers can still appreciate the stupendous views from the highest viewing platform in Europe.
The platform offers sweeping views of 38 peaks over 4,000 meters high, which is truly awe-inspiring. The thin air at this altitude makes it an unforgettable experience for visitors to Zermatt.
Gornergrat
If you’re not interested in skiing, a trip to the Gornergrat is a must-see attraction. You can reach the summit via the Gornergrat rack railway, the highest open-air railway in Europe. It offers extraordinary views as it winds its way up the mountain.
If you’re not comfortable with heights, the Gornergrat cogwheel train is a terrific option. It takes about 35 minutes to reach the Gornergrat viewing platform, 3100 meters above sea level.
The train journey is extremely scenic, with dazzling views of the Matterhorn and surrounding mountains. Once you reach the top, you’ll find:
- An observation platform with wide views of Matterhorn
- The Bernhard von Aosta chapel
- Some shops
- A restaurant
- The highest hotel in Europe – the Kulmhotel Gornergrat
Hiking or Snowshoeing
Zermatt in winter is not just for skiers. There are many outdoor activities to enjoy in the snow. Hiking and snowshoeing are prevalent options, with easy or challenging trails.
If the weather cooperates and you have proper winter hiking boots, you can dig through the vast network of winter hiking trails. Alternatively, rent snowshoes and join a guided tour that starts at Gornergrat and offers dramatic views.
Aside from the stunning views, winter hiking and snowshoeing also provide a great workout. You can work up an appetite for the tasty food available in the area. If you’re new to snowshoeing, rent the equipment from local sports shops and dress suitably.
Winter hiking in Zermatt is not restricted to the warmer months. Around 70 km of hiking trails are maintained throughout winter. Before heading out, check the conditions for each trail online as snowfall overnight can lead to closures.
Dogsledding in a Winter Fairytale
For a striking winter experience in Zermatt, you can enjoy husky-sledding at some of the ski resorts in higher locations. Picture yourself gliding through the snow with lovable and friendly huskies, while taking in astonishing views of the Matterhorn. The best part is that you can pet the dogs after the ride.
Ice Skating & Curling
For non-skiers looking for active winter recreation, Zermatt delivers an abundance of outdoor ice rinks. The central Obere Matten ice rink is a favored spot from December through February, drawing skiers and non-skiers alike with its free admission and skate rental service.
Even if you’re a novice, you can book group or private lessons to enhance your skills. If you prefer to only watch, you can catch a glimpse of professionals practicing, or attend an ice hockey match.
For a distinctive twist on ice sports, check out the Scottish and Bavarian curling rinks. The well-known Zermatt Curling Club offers a chance to try this “gentle, but ruthless sport” with the guidance of a trained curling guide.
After the session, you can participate in a friendly competition followed by an outdoor cheese fondue, mulled wine, and candlelight. These provide a cozy and memorable evening under the stars.
Learn to Ski
If you’re not a skier, why not learn to ski or snowboard in Zermatt? There are beginner slopes available year-round, making Zermatt a perfect place to try a new winter sport. You can find skiing packages and more information online.
Eat Raclette, Fondue & Other Swiss Specialties
Zermatt is a food lover’s utopia with plenty of hearty comfort food. From melted cheese-covered potato rosti to grilled meats and chocolate, the village has everything you need.
There are many excellent Italian restaurants as the country is on the other side of the Matterhorn. However, the real standout options are the mountain restaurants, including Restaurant Schwarzsee that’s located on the way to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.
One must-try Swiss specialty is raclette. It’s widely available in many restaurants around the village, including Cheese Factory and Pöstli Stübli near the train station. Fondue and spaetzle are other notable Swiss favorites worth trying.
For an unforgettable dining experience, you can visit the amazing Chez Vrony. This restaurant offers unbeatable views, friendly staff, and superb food at decent prices.
Speaking of drinks, Swiss wine and beer are a must-try. Be sure to sample some of the delicious local wines such as riesling or pinot noir, or try some locally brewed beers like Zermatt Gold or Matterhorn Bock.
Relaxation and Wellness in Zermatt
Zermatt is the ideal place to relax, even if you’re not a skier. After a day of exploring, indulge in some pampering with a spa day. Many accommodations in Zermatt have indoor pools or hot tubs. You can also book an appointment at an external spa.
Zermatt has different spas offering both indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and massage treatments. Some spas are expensive, but many offer discounted prices before noon. Some also allow guests to use their facilities for free after getting a massage.
The Parkhotel Beau Site is one of the best spas in Zermatt, with both indoor and outdoor hot pools providing breathtaking views of the Matterhorn.
If your hotel doesn’t have a spa, you can purchase a day pass to enjoy the facilities at a neighboring hotel. Day passes typically range from 50 CHF to 100 CHF.
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Visit the Alpine Museum
If you’re interested in history or want to learn more about the Zermatt area, the Matterhorn Museum (AKA Zermatlantis) is a must-visit attraction.
The museum provides a thorough look into the evolution of the Zermatt area, the challenges faced by early climbers, and daily life in the village back then. You can analyze replicas of how Zermatt used to look when it was a farming village and learn about the town’s transformation into a world-class ski destination.
The museum also provides detailed information on historical alpinist expeditions that took place in the area, including the infamous maiden summit of the Matterhorn.
Final Thoughts about Zermatt for Non Skiers
Zermatt is not just for skiers; there are many activities available for non-skiers as well. The Matterhorn, the village of Zermatt, and the peaks around it offer spectacular views you can enjoy through different means such as strolling through the village, taking advantage of ski lifts, or hiking and snowshoeing. The village offers something for almost everyone to enjoy.
