Zermatt with Kids: A Family-Friendly Guide to the Matterhorn

Zermatt, nestled beneath the iconic Matterhorn, often conjures images of hardcore mountaineers and luxury skiers. However, this enchanting Swiss village is also a truly exceptional destination for families, offering a wealth of activities and an unforgettable alpine experience tailored for all ages.

From gentle hikes and interactive playgrounds to thrilling cable car rides and captivating natural wonders, Zermatt combines adventure with the charm of a car-free village. This guide will help you plan an unforgettable family vacation to one of Switzerland's most celebrated regions.

Why Zermatt is Perfect for Families

Zermatt's unique appeal for families lies in its combination of majestic scenery and child-friendly infrastructure. The village itself is entirely car-free, meaning kids can roam more freely and safely, enjoying the fresh mountain air without the worry of traffic. The compact nature of the village also makes it easy to navigate on foot, with electric taxis and buses available for longer distances.

Fun Fact:Zermatt has been car-free since 1931, preserving its pristine alpine environment and creating a peaceful atmosphere for visitors.

Beyond the village, the surrounding mountains are a natural playground, offering diverse activities that cater to toddlers, teens, and everyone in between. From thrilling adventures to serene nature experiences, Zermatt ensures every family member finds something to love.

Getting There and Getting Around

Reaching Zermatt is an adventure in itself. Since it's car-free, you'll need to drive to Täsch, about 5 kilometers away, and park your car in one of the large parking garages. From Täsch, frequent shuttle trains run directly into Zermatt, a scenic 12-minute journey.

Once in Zermatt, getting around is a breeze. The village center is easily walkable, but for longer distances or tired little legs, electric buses and quiet electric taxis are readily available. Many hotels also offer electric shuttle services to and from the train station.

Family-Friendly Accommodation in Zermatt

Zermatt offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every family's needs and budget. Look for hotels with dedicated family rooms, interconnecting options, or even self-catering apartments and chalets, which can be ideal for longer stays or larger groups.

Hotels:Many hotels offer amenities like kids' clubs, playrooms, and family-friendly dining options. Some even have swimming pools, a welcome relief after a day of hiking.
Apartments & Chalets:Renting a private apartment or chalet provides flexibility with meals and more space for families to spread out, often including fully equipped kitchens.

Consider staying near a gondola station (like Sunnegga or Matterhorn Express) for easy access to mountain activities, or closer to the train station if you plan on many day trips.

Top Family Activities in Zermatt (Summer)

Summer in Zermatt transforms the alpine landscape into a vibrant playground. Here are some must-do activities for families:

1. Gornergrat Railway & Riffelsee

A ride on the Gornergrat Railway is an iconic Zermatt experience. This cogwheel train ascends to an altitude of 3,089 meters, offering unparalleled panoramic views of the Matterhorn and surrounding glaciers. At the top, explore the viewing platforms and enjoy refreshments.

For a magical family photo opportunity, get off at the Riffelsee station (one stop before the top) and take a short, easy walk to the Riffelsee lake. On a clear, still day, you'll witness the breathtaking reflection of the Matterhorn on its surface. There are gentle paths suitable for strollers.

2. Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

For an unforgettable high-altitude adventure, take the Matterhorn Glacier Ride to the Klein Matterhorn, Europe's highest cable car station at 3,883 meters. Kids will be amazed by the Ice Palace, a glittering world carved into the glacier, complete with ice sculptures and a glacier crevasse. There's also a cinema lounge and a viewing platform offering 360-degree views of peaks in Switzerland, Italy, and France.

3. Sunnegga & Wolli's Adventure Park

Sunnegga is a fantastic starting point for families. A funicular whisks you up quickly, revealing stunning views. Here you'll findWolli's Adventure Park, a paradise for younger children. Named after Zermatt's sheep mascot, this playground features swings, slides, and climbing frames. There's also a small lake perfect for paddling on warmer days.

From Sunnegga, you can also take a gondola further up to Blauherd and then a cable car to Rothorn, offering more panoramic vistas and starting points for various hikes. Keep an eye out for marmots near Blauherd!

4. Family-Friendly Hiking Trails

Zermatt boasts an extensive network of trails, many suitable for families:

Wolli's Adventure Park Path:A gentle, themed walk from Sunnegga to Zermatt designed specifically for children, with interactive stations along the way.
Marmot Trail:Starting from Blauherd, this trail offers a chance to spot real marmots in their natural habitat, with informative signs for kids.
Five Lakes Walk (sections):While the full Five Lakes Walk can be long, families can enjoy sections of it, particularly the stretch from Blauherd to Stellisee, which is relatively flat and offers stunning reflections.

5. Forest Fun Park

For older children and adventurous teens, the Forest Fun Park offers an exhilarating high-ropes course set amongst the trees. With various difficulty levels, it provides a fun challenge and a different perspective of the forest. Check age and height restrictions before you go.

6. Schwarzsee

Take the Matterhorn Express gondola to Schwarzsee, a tranquil lake at the foot of the Matterhorn. Here, you'll find a charming chapel and plenty of spots for a picnic. It's a great place for a gentle stroll or simply enjoying the peaceful mountain atmosphere.

Top Family Activities in Zermatt (Winter)

Zermatt transforms into a winter wonderland, perfect for snowy family adventures:

1. Skiing and Snowboarding

Zermatt offers excellent ski schools with dedicated children's areas, such asWolli's Park on Sunnegga, which provides a safe and fun environment for beginners. The vast ski area caters to all levels, with plenty of blue and red runs suitable for families.

2. Tobogganing

Enjoy the thrill of sledding on dedicated toboggan runs. Check with local sports shops for rentals and information on the best slopes for families.

3. Ice Skating

Zermatt usually has an outdoor ice rink in the village center during winter, offering a classic family activity. Skate rentals are available.

4. Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing

Even in winter, many cleared paths are suitable for winter hiking, offering stunning snowy vistas. For a more adventurous experience, try snowshoeing on designated trails, perhaps with a guided tour.

Dining with Kids in Zermatt

Zermatt has a wide array of restaurants, many of which are family-friendly. You'll find plenty of pizzerias, pasta restaurants, and traditional Swiss eateries offering hearty meals. Look for places with children's menus or smaller portion options. Supermarkets are also readily available if you prefer to self-cater or pack picnics for your mountain excursions.

Practical Tips for Families Visiting Zermatt

Altitude Acclimatization:Zermatt is at 1,620 meters (5,315 feet). Take it easy on your first day, especially with young children, to allow everyone to adjust. Stay hydrated.
Packing Essentials:Even in summer, mountain weather can change rapidly. Pack layers, waterproof jackets, sturdy hiking shoes, hats, sunglasses, and high-factor sunscreen. In winter, thermal layers, warm waterproof outerwear, and gloves are crucial.
Swiss Travel Pass:Consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass or a regional pass if you plan extensive train travel. The Swiss Family Card, often available free with a Swiss Travel Pass, allows children aged 6-16 to travel free when accompanied by a parent.
Wolli Card:Children under 9 years old travel free on all Zermatt mountain railways and lifts (Gornergrat Bahn, Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Sunnegga-Rothorn) when accompanied by an adult, thanks to the Wolli Card (available at ticket counters).
Strollers vs. Carriers:For gentle village walks and paved paths, a sturdy stroller is fine. However, for most mountain trails, a baby carrier or hiking backpack is more practical for infants and toddlers.
Flexibility:Don't overschedule. Allow for spontaneous play, rest breaks, and changes in weather.

Beyond Zermatt: Nearby Family Adventures

While Zermatt offers more than enough to fill a family vacation, adventurous families might consider exploring other regions of Switzerland. For example, a thrilling day trip for older children could include visiting the Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge, one of the longest pedestrian suspension bridges in the world, though it requires a significant drive and hike from Zermatt.

For families interested in diverse Swiss landscapes, destinations like the Lauterbrunnen Valley with its waterfalls or the lakeside charm of Lucerne offer different but equally captivating experiences.

Conclusion

Zermatt truly shines as a family destination, offering an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, engaging activities, and a welcoming atmosphere. From gazing at the magnificent Matterhorn to exploring high-alpine playgrounds, your family will create cherished memories in this extraordinary Swiss village. Prepare for an adventure that combines relaxation with exhilaration, all set against one of the world's most iconic backdrops.