Matterhorn Ski Paradise

Matterhorn Ski Paradise Ski Holidays

Matterhorn Ski Paradise stands as one of the most spectacular ski areas on the planet, where you can carve turns between Switzerland and Italy with the iconic Matterhorn as your constant companion.

This high-altitude wonderland links Zermatt's car-free Alpine charm with Breuil-Cervinia's (Cervinia) sunny Italian slopes, creating a unique cultural and skiing experience. The views alone are worth the trip – jagged 4,000m peaks frame every run, while the Matterhorn's unmistakable pyramid shape looms overhead, looking almost close enough to touch.

What really sets this area apart is its unrivalled snow reliability. With lifts reaching up to 3,883m at the Klein Matterhorn, you'll find glacier skiing even in summer, while the extensive north-facing slopes ensure pristine conditions all winter long. The 360km of pistes cater to every ability, from gentle cruisers above Cervinia to Zermatt's legendary black runs like the Schwarzsee piste. And thanks to the seamless cross-border lift system, you can start your day with Swiss precision and end it with Italian aperitivo hour – just make sure to get home for the night!.

Beyond the skiing, the contrast between Zermatt and Cervinia adds fascinating cultural depth to your trip. One moment you're sipping rich Swiss hot chocolate in a wood-panelled chalet, the next you're lunching on handmade pasta at a sunny Italian rifugio. Whether you're here for the challenging off-piste, the breathtaking scenery, or simply to tick off skiing two countries in one day, Matterhorn Ski Paradise delivers an experience as unforgettable as the mountain itself.

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Mountain Facts

The Matterhorn Ski Paradise is an enormous ski area with a combined total of 360km of pistes and 52 lifts. The altitude range is significant, from a low of 1,620m in Zermatt up to a staggering 3,899m at the Klein Matterhorn. This is the highest skiable point in the Alps, ensuring fantastic snow conditions. The terrain is varied, with runs for all abilities, including some of the longest on the continent.

Snow conditions in Matterhorn Ski Paradise

The Matterhorn Ski Paradise area is renowned for its exceptional and reliable snow conditions, a direct result of its high altitude. With a significant portion of the ski area on glaciers, including the Theodul Glacier, Zermatt is the only ski resort in Europe that offers skiing year-round. This high elevation guarantees that the pistes stay in pristine condition from the start of the winter season through to late spring. In addition, the area has an extensive snowmaking system to supplement the abundant natural snowfall, ensuring that the lower pistes are always well-covered.

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Skiing in Matterhorn Ski Paradise

Matterhorn Ski Paradise delivers an incredible mix of terrain that caters beautifully to every level of skier. Beginners will love the stress-free nursery slopes at Sunnegga in Zermatt, where magic carpets and patient instructors make learning a joy, while Cervinia's wide, sunny blues (like the gentle Ventina run) offer perfect progression space. What's special here is how even first-timers get to enjoy breathtaking high-altitude views from the very first day – a rarity in most ski areas.

Intermediates are spoiled for choice with mile after mile of perfectly groomed red runs, particularly on the Italian side, where long, sweeping descents like the Ventina-Valtournenche route let you carve for ages without stopping. The crown jewel? The epic 20km descent from the Klein Matterhorn glacier all the way down to Zermatt or Cervinia – a bucket-list run with non-stop views. Experts get their thrills too, whether tackling Zermatt's steep Rothorn black runs or diving into the off-piste bowls around Testa Grigia after fresh snow. With new terrain to discover in Switzerland and Italy every day, the adventure never gets old.

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Snowboarding in Matterhorn Ski Paradise

Snowboarders will find paradise in the Matterhorn Ski Paradise area, where high-altitude terrain and diverse riding options create an unforgettable experience. The wide, perfectly groomed pistes – especially on the Italian side around Cervinia – are a carver's dream, offering long, flowing runs where you can really open up your turns. For park riders, the Gravity Park on the Theodul Glacier stands out as one of Europe's premier freestyle destinations, featuring perfectly shaped kickers and creative jib lines that cater to all levels, from beginners to pros. What's remarkable is that this park operates 365 days a year, letting you session features under the summer sun or winter powder.

When fresh snow falls, the area transforms into a freerider's playground. The Swiss side near Rothorn offers steep, technical lines, while the Italian Testa Grigia sector serves up vast open bowls that hold powder for days. The cross-border lift system means you can chase the best conditions between Switzerland and Italy without missing a beat. From park laps to heart-pumping backcountry lines, all set against the iconic Matterhorn backdrop, this area delivers everything a snowboarder could want – and then some.

Accommodation in Matterhorn Ski Paradise

Accommodation options in the Matterhorn Ski Paradise reflect its two distinct entry points. Zermatt is a charming, traditional Swiss village that is entirely car-free. It offers a range of hotels, from luxurious five-star resorts to cosy, family-run guesthouses. The village is an attraction in itself, with its beautiful wooden chalets and cobbled streets. On the Italian side, Breuil-Cervinia is a more purpose-built ski resort with a modern feel. It features a great selection of ski-in, ski-out hotels and apartment buildings, focusing on convenience and easy access to the slopes.

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Things to do in Matterhorn Ski Paradise

Après-ski in Matterhorn Ski Paradise

The après-ski scene in the Matterhorn Ski Paradise is a great reflection of the two different cultures, from the high-energy sophistication of Zermatt to the fun-loving vibe of Cervinia.

In Zermatt, the party often starts on the mountain before you even reach the village.
Legendary on-piste spots like Hennu Stall on the run from Furi are famous for their high-energy, table-dancing atmosphere with DJs and live music.
For a more stylish and exclusive feel, Cervo at the end of the Sunnegga run offers live bands and a sophisticated terrace where you can unwind in the sun.
Back in the village, Zermatt's après-ski becomes more of a cosmopolitan affair. Papperla Pub is a staple, known for being a bustling, classic ski pub with live music and a lively crowd that often spills out onto the street.
For a more upscale experience, Papa Caesar's offers a chic lounge atmosphere with creative cocktails, while the unique Vernissage combines a bar, art gallery, and a cinema in one location.
Over in Cervinia, the atmosphere is more casual and unpretentious, but no less fun. The party often starts on the slopes at spots like LOVE, which has a reputation for its vibrant DJ sets on a sun-drenched terrace.
Back in the village, popular pubs like the Yeti Bar and Thistles Pub are well-loved for their welcoming atmosphere, great food, and lively crowd.

While Zermatt offers refined elegance, Cervinia is all about a straightforward, fun-loving party scene, with several bars and even a few clubs like Bianconiglio that stay open until the early hours.

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Facilities in Matterhorn Ski Paradise

Matterhorn Ski Paradise makes ski holidays effortless with its outstanding facilities and thoughtful infrastructure. In Zermatt's charming car-free streets and Cervinia's sunny piazzas, you'll find top-quality rental shops stocked with the latest gear, plus world-class ski schools offering instruction in multiple languages. The single international lift pass is a game-changer, letting you glide between Switzerland and Italy without worrying about borders or extra tickets.

What really sets this area apart is Zermatt's unique car-free policy – instead of traffic noise, you'll hear horse-drawn carriages and electric taxis whisking you between lifts, hotels, and restaurants. Both towns offer everything from cosy mountain cafés to gourmet dining with Matterhorn views, while modern amenities like wellness centres and equipment storage ensure maximum comfort. Whether you're après-skiing in an iconic Swiss hotel or an Italian wine bar, every detail is designed to let you focus on the mountains.

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Facilities for children in Matterhorn Ski Paradise

Matterhorn Ski Paradise is a dream destination for families, combining world-class skiing with thoughtful amenities that make travelling with kids a breeze. Little ones ski free with Zermatt's Wolli Card (for children under 9), while both Swiss and Italian sides offer excellent ski schools with dedicated learning areas like Zermatt's Wolli Park at Sunnegga – complete with magic carpets, playful obstacles, and mascots to make first turns magical. The Italian slopes around Cervinia are particularly family-friendly, with their wide, gentle nursery slopes bathed in sunshine.

When the ski boots come off, the fun continues with ice skating rinks, sledging runs, and indoor pools perfect for tiring out energetic kids. Many hotels offer family rooms and early dinner options, while the car-free streets of Zermatt give parents peace of mind. Whether building snowmen at 3,000m or sharing a Swiss chocolate fondue after a day on the slopes, families leave with unforgettable Alpine memories framed by the mighty Matterhorn.

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Why choose a ski holiday to Matterhorn Ski Paradise with Erna Low?

Experience and service: We offer you a one-stop shop for everything you could possibly need for a ski holiday.

Incredible value holidays: We’ll beat any competitor’s price, giving you the best value for money.

Huge choice of accommodation: Choose from bargain breaks, 5-star premium deals and so much more.

Customisable travel: We specialise in fully customisable ski holidays; offering a wide range of options to suit all tastes and budgets.

Fully protected bookings: We’re ABTOT and ATOL members and abide by their Code of Conduct.

5-star Trustpilot reviews: We pride ourselves on the service we provide, which is why out of 10 of our clients would recommend us.

If you cannot find what you are looking for please contact us and we can help you build your package

Skiing over to Zermatt and enjoying the Swiss side is an absolute highlight for me when I stay in Cervinia

Jane Bolton, Product Director

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