Summer in the Swiss Alps is an experience unlike any other, and a summer escape to the mountain town of Zermatt is no exception. You might be more familiar with this renowned resort’s snow-covered pistes, but when winter gives way to spring and summer, the town comes alive with the colours and vibrancy of wildflowers and bright blue skies.
Explore luxury chalets and hotels in Zermatt
Travelling to Zermatt
Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Zermatt: Approx 3 hours 30 mins / 254km
Geneva Airport (GVA) to Zermatt: Approx 3 hours / 230km
The resort of Zermatt is entirely car-free. If you are planning on driving to Zermatt, you will only be able to travel as far as Täsch, which is located 5km from Zermatt. The final leg of the journey can be completed by either train or via one of the private taxis permitted to drive into the resort. The train journey from Täsch to Zermatt is short and simple, with a travel time of just 12 minutes.
Travelling to Zermatt entirely by train is another option. The resort has its own railway station, making it possible to reach the resort directly by train. The journey from Geneva Airport to Zermatt by train is around four hours long; travelling from Zurich Airport, on average, takes around three and a half hours.
Summer in Zermatt
Summertime in Zermatt is pleasantly warm. The town enjoys an average temperature in the early 20 degrees throughout the summer months. July is the warmest month to visit.
Zermatt’s bright skies and sunny days allow you to make the most of the Swiss town and the beautiful environment surrounding it. Perhaps best of all, the high altitude of Zermatt means that humidity is a rarity; the mountain air is fresh and crisp all year long.
Exploring the mountains
The Matterhorn is no less spectacular in summer than it is in winter, and the mountains are ripe for exploring the whole year round.
Summer skiing
Thanks to Zermatt’s high elevation, skiing is not solely a winter affair! Zermatt offers the largest summer skiing area in Europe, with 21km of pistes to glide down while the summer sun sits high.
Mountaineering
Zermatt’s history is intertwined with that of mountaineering. If you’re an avid mountaineer, summer is a great time to reach the mountain peaks. There are local guides in Zermatt that can help you safely explore the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. There are 38 peaks to explore - the Matterhorn included - each at over 4,000m high.
Mountain Biking
Zermatt has 100km of biking trails for you to tackle, with varying levels of difficulty throughout. There are areas perfect for more advanced cyclists, whilst tours are available for those in search of a relaxed journey through the mountains.
Summer activities in Zermatt
There’s plenty to be getting on with in Zermatt, no matter the time of year. Some fun summer activities include:
- Ride the Gornergrat Railway up to the summit of Gornergrat (3,089m)
- Tandem paragliding
- Hiking
- Mountaincarting
- Water rafting
- Golf
- Rock climbing
Exploring Zermatt
Hoping for a more gentle pace on your summer holiday? Head out into the village and see what Zermatt has to offer.
Zermatt is a car-free resort, making it a wonderful place to explore on foot. The village is steeped in traditional Alpine charm, the iconic peak of the Matterhorn serving as its backdrop. Zermatt is a pleasant place to spend a sunny day.
Walking tours of Zermatt are available — a great way to familiarise yourself with the resort and its history.
Shopping in Zermatt
Whether you’re looking for a keepsake from your trip or simply window shopping, Zermatt has a wide variety of shops, from high-end luxury goods to traditional Swiss fares.
Zermatt’s streets are home to jewellers and watchmakers, with well-known brands such as TAG Heuer, Hublot and Omega. There are fashion boutiques and sportswear stores, and a wide array of shops specialising in artisanal goods.
Wellness and spa treatments in Zermatt
Holidays are a time for relaxation as well as fun. After a day out in the resort, head to one of Zermatt’s top spas at either the Mont Cervin Palace or the Omnia.
Fancy something a little more private? Explore our chalets with their own private spa facilities.
Where to eat in Zermatt
From traditional Swiss dishes to the best that the world’s cuisine has to offer, casual dining to an elevated culinary experience, eating in Zermatt provides a world of choice.
Best mountain restaurants
Chez Vrony
Reachable via the Sunnegga Funicular in the summer months, Chez Vrony is a delightful mountain restaurant offering stunning views of the Matterhorn mountain. With 100 years of Alpine history behind it, the restaurant has cemented itself as a must-do when in Zermatt.
Ristorante Al Bosco
Situated at 2,222m, directly opposite the Matterhorn, Ristorante Al Bosco promises stunning mountain views as an accompaniment to your meal. Serving both lunch and dinner throughout the summer months, Ristorante Al Bosco’s menu is a varied mix of Swiss and Italian cuisine.
Zum See
A great spot for a mountainside lunch, Zum See offers a typical Swiss experience. Serving traditional Swiss cuisine, we’d recommend sitting out on their sun terrace and taking in the views whilst you dine.
Best restaurants in Zermatt village
Moyoko
If it’s Japanese cuisine you’re after, Moyoko is a must-visit. Located within the Schweizerhof, Moyoko offers a sophisticated dining experience. For an unforgettable meal, opt for the teppanyaki and watch as the chef cooks your meal at the grill in front of you.
Saycheese!
Situated in the Grand Hotel Zermatterhof, Saycheese specialises in - you guessed it - Swiss cheese. With a variety of fondues and raclette, Saycheese is the perfect place to head for a fun and indulgent evening meal.
Cervo Bazaar
A particularly great spot for any vegetarians in the group, the Bazaar - located within the CERVO Mountain Resort - is inspired by the flavours and markets of the East.
Luxury chalets with summer availability in Zermatt
Chalet Zermatt Peak
Sleeps 10+3 | Catered
Chalet Zermatt Peak is Zermatt’s premier luxury chalet, located just minutes away from the centre of Zermatt, occupying a landmark position and enjoying breath-taking panoramic views across the entire village and mountain ranges as well as uninterrupted views of the iconic Matterhorn. The interior of Chalet Zermatt Peak has been designed to a 5*+ standard which has set a new precedent in luxury chalet accommodation.
Chalet Les Anges
Sleeps 14 | Catered
Surrounded by majestic mountains, Les Anges is without doubt one of the most beautiful chalets in Zermatt and brings accommodation in the resort to a new level of luxury. It sits on the best possible position in the Petit Village, at the closest point to the town and with unsurpassed views of the Matterhorn and Zermatt below.
Chalet McKinley
Sleeps 10 | Catered or Self-Catered
Chalet McKinley is a stunning luxury chalet in the heart of Zermatt. Spread over four floors, light and space characterise this truly luxurious property. The chalet is home to some remarkable amenities, including a cigar room, indoor plunge pool, indoor hot tub, and steam room/Hammam. Chalet McKinley's central location within Zermatt is enviable, as it sits just a three minute's walk from the resort centre.
Chalet Grace
Sleeps 10+2 | Catered
Built on a south-facing hillside in the exclusive Petit Village area, Grace has already garnered a reputation as one of the most luxurious and spectacular chalets in Zermatt. Chalet Grace is built to the highest standard, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows on all three levels, and a dramatic vaulted interior. Its south-facing balconies capture the breathtaking scenic views of the Matterhorn and surrounding mountains, providing guests with the perfect backdrop for their Alpine escape.
Luxury hotels with summer availability in Zermatt
Grand Hotel Zermatterhof 5*
The Grand Hotel Zermatterhof is ideally located in the centre of resort, and whilst kept up to date with modern appointments, it still retains its beautiful character and traditional charm. Enjoy gourmet Alpine cuisine at the Zermatterhof's restaurants or relax and unwind in its stunning spa and wellness area. With 78 rooms, 35 of which are suites, the Zermatterhof caters for groups of varying ages and sizes.
Explore the Grand Hotel Zermatterhof
The Omnia 5*
The Omnia is one of the most iconic buildings in Zermatt. Found on top of a rock face overlooking Zermatt, soak in the outstanding views whilst being just a short walk to the resort centre and the ski lifts. You enter the hotel by passing through a tunnel, travelling up via a private glass elevator, rising through the rock from ground level.
The hotel has just thirty Scandinavian-designed bedrooms offering plenty of space. Twelve of these are suites, some of which have big bay windows, a private Jacuzzi and sauna. All rooms have the same contemporary style and are finished to a high quality.
CERVO Mountain Resort 5*
The Cervo Mountain Resort is a super addition to Zermatt′s extensive list of smart five star hotels. The hotel consists of nine lodges (seven of which feature rooms and suites), three restaurants and direct access to the slopes. There is certainly no compromise on comfort with the hotel's contemporary design and unique décor, offering an updated take on the Alpine hunting lodge style.
You can always view our full summer portfolio here.
