Zermatt — On the piste

Three different sectors, Sunnegga, Gornergrat and Klein Matterhorn, make up the local slopes of Zermatt and the high altitude ensures that the resort enjoys a winter season that starts in November and lasts well in to May. Getting to the ski area can be a bit of a chore, here is our guide to make things easier. Natural snowfall over the 550km of pistes is also supplemented by the world’s first snowmaking system that can produce snow in temperatures above zero, ensuring that upto 65% of the pistes are snow sure. The lift infrastructure has benefited from heavy investment recently too and all sectors are accessed via efficient uplift from the resort.

Beginners tend to head for the sunny slopes of Sunnegga whilst intermediates will love the thigh-burning descent from the top of the Klein Matterhorn glacier all the way to the village. Advanced skiers are spoilt for choice with some of the best off-piste in the Alps, but be sure to book a guide as with glaciers come crevasses! Every resort has an achilles heel and some would argue that Zermatt’s is the number of flat sections and moguls that snowboarders have to contend with. Although the park in Zermatt/Cervinia which appeals to all levels of snowboarders. There are also plenty of english speaking snowboarding instructors and guides to help you access all the best riding spots.  Piste maps are available from the Tourist office, ski schools and major lift stations.