Skiing in the Alps

Skiing in the Alps is like nowhere else in the world. The mountains are absolutely massive. If you stay in Zermatt, you can ski both on the Swiss side as well as have the option to take the trams to the peak and ski down the Italian side and into Cervinia. They are somewhat different terrain so we recommend doing both. The Swiss side is a skier’s paradise with challenging slopes fit for a skilled skier. To get to the Italian side, it takes about an hour and four tram rides to the top. Both sides have some great lodges where you can eat, rest and take in the views. The highest tram station between the two resorts is the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise station, the highest in all of Europe. The views from here are incredible and are a must see. If you want to experience the views but don’t want to ski that day, you can take the cogwheel train from Zermatt to the Gornergrat observatory.

The Tips

• Make sure to take a ride on the cogwheel train.

• Glacier Paradise tram station is at about 14,000 ft. Here you can choose to ski down either the Swiss or Italian side of the mountain.

• If staying in Zermatt and ski the Italian side, don’t miss the last tram back or you will be stuck in Italy for the night. It would take a 5 hour car ride to drive back to Zermatt.

• If you don’t like Swiss cuisine, then the food options will be limited while on the Swiss side of the mountain. If you go to the Italian side, the food is amazing, even at the ski lodges.