Great time in Zermatt

They say that Zermatt is a place you will never want to leave, and only when you visit will you realise just how wonderful it is. 

Gornergrat

Surrounded by no fewer than 29 peaks above 4,000 meters, such as the majestic Matterhorn and the Dufourspitze as well as the third-longest glacier of the Alps, Gornergrat rewards visitors with unparalleled views. In summer, marvel at the reflection of the Matterhorn on the surface of the Riffelsee and enjoy great hiking trails and cycling routes on this adventure mountain. In winter, the beautiful tobogganing run from Rotenboden to Riffelberg is just one of the experiences on offer, with sunny pistes, a children’s ski park and snowball fights on the winter hiking trail, these are sure to delight both young and old. 

Gornergrat Railway

On August 20, 1898, the Gornergrat Railway made history as the first electric cogwheel railway in Switzerland, reaching the Gornergrat at an elevation of 3,089 meters for the very first time. The Gornergrat offers a unique panoramic view of the Matterhorn and stands as a true natural wonder. The route, stretching from the base station in Zermatt at 1,604 m.a.s.l. to the summit at 3,089 m.a.s.l., traverses a variety of vegetation zones.

Initially, the cogwheel railway winds its way through the picturesque Swiss stone pine forests of Riffelalp, just below the tree line. It then passes through alpine pastures at Riffelberg, where the characteristic black-nosed sheep graze during the summer months. As the altitude increases, alpine flowers become scarcer, and the terrain becomes rockier. Upon reaching the Gornergrat, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a world of glaciers and peaks that soar to over 4,000 meters in height.

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Enjoy an unforgettable view. Breathe in the purest mountain air from the glacier. Feel the winter chill in your face. At an altitude of 3883 metres, the Klein Matterhorn really does stimulate the senses in this Alpine wonderland, aptly named the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. This is the peak on which the highest mountain station in Europe is located. Surrounded by 38 four-thousanders and 14 glaciers in three countries, the Klein Matterhorn holds all in its sway.

Welcome to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, where unforgettable experiences wait to be discovered. An adventure beckons, ready to fill any visitor with awe.

Black Nose Sheep

In 1972 when Paul Julen and his brother bought eight of the traditional Valais black nose sheep, he had no idea that it would change his life. Neither of them had any idea about sheep. Today, with 300 animals Paul Julen is the world’s foremost breeder of this sheep type. The sheep spend the winter months in a barn on the edge of the village. This provides the opportunity for the Julen family to bring their animals even closer to their guests. Since December 2013 it’s been possible to visit the sheep barn with either Paul or Paul-Marc, who know many interesting facts and stories about the black noses and traditional farming in the area. Guests are then invited to enjoy a good glass of wine with cheese and meat from the Julens’ own production.

Between the sheepfold visit in winter (exclusively on Wednesdays between mid-December and mid-April) and the “Meet the sheep” in summer (approx. mid-July to early September), the animals are on holiday and stay in the mountains without a GPS tracker. 

Restaurant Julen

As soon as you enter, the delicious aroma from traditional Valaisan cuisine rises to your nose. The Restaurant Julen is located in the Hotel Julen, in the village centre of Zermatt. The noble, rustic Alpine style, the aperitif bar and the crackling fireplace invite you to sit down and enjoy immediately. The menu shows the large selection of delicacies: From the salad buffet, beef fillet and lamb specialities to cheese fondue, the a la carte selection offers everything. No wonder lunch at the Restaurant Julen has long been a popular choice for regular guests - and is now only an insider tip for tourists. It is also recommended to reserve a table in advance in the evening, especially during high season - or to include some time for a prior aperitif at the bar. 

Europe Hotel & Spa Zermatt 

Europe Hotel & Spa Zermatt promises a uniquely personal experience with its alpine-modern architecture, featuring natural materials and fine fabrics. Since 1962, this owner-operated hotel has offered a welcoming atmosphere, with Family Julen personally present to ensure that your stay becomes a treasured memory. The hotel offers 38 rooms—14 with Matterhorn views or south-facing—and boasts modern-alpine design with wood, stone, and glass. Amenities include a substantial breakfast buffet, OVIS Alpine Kitchen, an extensive selection of Valais wines, and the Schwarznasenbar, a popular gathering spot for guests and locals. Located in a calm neighbourhood just a 10-minute walk from the train station and ski lifts, the hotel also features a comprehensive spa area and is staffed by friendly, pleasant-natured personnel, making it a favoured choice for international guests and regulars alike.

For more information, please visit:
Website: www.myswitzerland.com/en-my/
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