The characterful village of Zermatt is quite possibly one of the prettiest ski resorts in the Alps. Sheltered within a steep valley beneath the gaze of one of the world's most famous mountains, The Matterhorn, it is often described as the jewel in Switzerland's crown. Zermatt exists in its own little world and is completely car free - the largest vehicle you'll encounter here is a battery run milk cart or horse drawn sleigh. Accessible only by train, this peaceful village is made up of cobbled streets, ancient barns and 'chocolate box', picture perfect chalets and is bustling with life. The ski area combines quantity and variety with 394km of off piste to explore. Snowboarders will enjoy the 'Gravity Park' freestyle area and you can ski into Italy here via the Matterhorn glacier. Heli-skiing is a must for the more adventurous and the resort is also famed for its fantastic, gourmet mountain restaurants, adding further to the skiing experience.