Zermatt, Zermatt

Zermatt is one of those rare ski resorts that has it all and, as such, is the favoured destination of many skiers from around the world. To begin with there's the huge ski area, with the world's second biggest lift-served vertical drop and skiing 365 days a year with a 1000 metre (9280 feet) vertical on its glacier even in the summer months. Then there's the village itself, peaceful thanks to the absence of the combustion engine (only small electric vehicles quietly hum around the streets along side horse drawn carriages), and picturesque with traditional buildings and many visitors arriving by the spectacular mountain railway. Thirdly there is the international resort quality and variety of accommodations, restaurants, après ski, off-slope facilities and shopping. Fourth there's the sunny location, sheltered from the wind and finally there is the spectacular backdrop to it all - the 4000m full face of the Matterhorn, one of 38 mountain peaks surrounding the village.The Gornergrat offers fantastic sights and insights. The highest rack railway in Europe to be constructed in open countryside ascends slopes covered in deep snow from Zermatt to its destination at 3100 metres: a winter wonderland of 29 four-thousand-metre peaks packed with ice and snow! Among them are famous giants like the Matterhorn (4478 m), Liskamm (4527 m) and the Dufour-Spitze (4634 m). The exciting “Gornergrat Peak” climbs from the railway station to the mountain top where restaurants, a shopping mall and the viewing platform await. The winter hiking trails also start here.From 1 December 2007 until 31 March 2008 you will be able to book the Gornergrat RailAway ticket from any Swiss railway station. It includes a 20% reduction off the train journey from any Swiss station and the return trip aboard the Zermatt – Gornergrat mountain railway. The train ticket is valid for 3 days. The Junior Card entitles children to travel free; holders of a general season ticket will just pay CHF 30.40 at the station of departure.For further information: www.railaway.ch ActivitiesSnowboarding: Snowboarding is available with a terrain park and halfpipe. Lessons are available.Cross Country Profile: 5 km of cross country trails are available.LodgingSlopeside lodging of 13,000 beds is available; additional lodging facilities available nearby.If you fancy a night in the snow on the Gornergrat, there is actually an igloo village in this snowy white world! The igloos, artistically enhanced by sculptures carved by Inuit Bill Nasogaluak provide the backdrop for an unforgettable night high in the mountains. At 2727 metres above seal-level, below the Gornergrat, the Igloo Village offers romantic suites for two and igloos for groups of 6. It’s certainly one of the most specialised hotels in the world. To get them in the mood, guests are presented with a cool glass of champagne in the heated whirlpool as the magnificent panorama high above Zermatt spreads out before them. Sheer luxury in an unspoilt natural setting!More information is available from: www.iglu-dorf.chWinter RecreationSnowboarding, cross country, off-piste, glacier, tobogganing, sledding, snowshoeing, dog sled rides, telemark, ski touring, winter hiking, ice skating, curling, heliskiing, ice climbing, sleigh rides, snowtubing, and ice hockey. Also indoor swimming, hot tubs/jacuzzi, indoor tennis, fitness trail, climbing wall, table football, and indoor golf.