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Zermatt activities:
Experience, move, enjoy
Whether by bike, on foot, or on a rope—Zermatt makes it easy to stay active.
At altitudes ranging from 1,400 to 3,100 meters, there are varied mountain bike trails for both casual riders and serious athletes, while approximately 400 kilometers of well-maintained hiking trails offer everything from gentle strolls to challenging hikes. Those who prefer steeper terrain will find an exciting via ferrata and the family-friendly Forest Fun Park right nearby, while mountain lovers will be fascinated by the density of 38 accessible four-thousand-meter peaks—unique in Europe. For even more inspiration on how to spend the perfect day, take a look at our guest TV or stop by the front desk, where you can often discover entirely new possibilities.
Bike
The Valais, and Zermatt in particular, is a paradise for mountain bikers. When you’re out here, you’re not just riding—you’re climbing with breathtaking views, navigating narrow trails through alpine landscapes, and feeling yourself slip further away from everyday life with every pedal stroke. The region offers officially marked mountain bike trails and plenty of elevation gain—some technically challenging, others simply ideal for letting your gaze wander. The crisp air, the ground beneath your tires, the play of sun and shadow across the terrain: that’s Zermatt on two wheels. We at Hemizeus love to get out on our bikes ourselves. We know many of the routes from personal experience—and that’s exactly why we’re happy to share honest tips that aren’t just taken from a brochure.
Hiking
Right outside the hotel, a network of trails begins that stretches for more than 400 kilometers—through fragrant mountain meadows, along babbling brooks, and up to breathtaking viewpoints. What many guests particularly appreciate is the variety. Some opt for a leisurely stroll with a picnic and scenic views. Others seek a physical challenge and set out early on one of the higher trails. And no matter which path you choose: The Matterhorn is almost always there—sometimes as a silhouette on the horizon, sometimes close enough to touch. Hiking in Zermatt is more than just exercise. It’s about finding peace—outdoors and within yourself.
Mountaineering & Climbing
Zermatt is surrounded by an impressive backdrop of 38 four-thousand-meter peaks. Those seeking altitude will find not only the Matterhorn here, but countless opportunities to work their way up step by step—whether on a via ferrata or with a rope, crampons, and a mountain guide. Many of our guests come here for exactly that reason: for a day at high altitude, for that feeling of standing at the very top and enjoying the panorama in silence. The Snow & Alpin Center in town is the right place to go for this—experienced, well-organized, and with an eye for detail. Anyone planning a day of mountaineering is in good hands there.
Ski vacation in Zermatt – snowboarding, sledging and skiing at the foot of the Matterhorn.
The perfect day of skiing and snowboarding in Zermatt starts early—often at first light. The skis are ready, the view is clear, the excitement is palpable—and our team has the lavish buffet ready first thing in the morning. Our hotel features a convenient ski storage room where you can safely and conveniently store your ski gear. For added comfort, an integrated boot heater ensures your ski boots dry overnight and are pleasantly warm and ready to go the next day.
Ski-out: Set off right from our terrace and follow the ski tracks—they’ll take you straight to the nearest lift station, Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.
Ski-in: For experienced skiers only! From the Gornergrat, take the downhill run No. 39/41/43; just before the Riffelberg midway station, turn right and follow run No. 43.
With 360 kilometers of groomed slopes, this ski resort is one of the most diverse in the Alps. Whether you like to glide, carve, jump, or are just learning, you’ll find the perfect run here. It’s not just pro skiers who get their money’s worth—beginners and those returning to the sport also feel right at home on the sunny practice slopes. For snowboarders and freestylers, a snow park is set up almost year-round—a creative playground with kickers, rails, and everything else that gets the heart racing. And in the midst of it all: that view of the Matterhorn, which simply never gets old.
Vacation for families – active, free and full of discoveries
Zermatt is perfect for vacations with kids. Being outdoors, getting active, having adventures—it all happens naturally here. In winter, the snow park delights visitors with slides, jumps, and plenty of space to let off steam, while classic sledding from the Gornergrat down into the valley offers an experience that often fascinates parents just as much as their children. And when summer arrives, the adventure moves to the lake: at Sunnegga, the Leisee-Wollipark offers play, water, and laughter—with a playground right by the water, a barbecue area, a picnic spot, and a view that will stay with you. For older children, there are mountain carts, dirt scooters, kickbikes, and anything on wheels—the main thing is to be outdoors, the main thing is to be on the move. And practicality isn’t neglected either: With the Wollicard, children up to nine years old stay for free in their parents’ room and ride all the destination’s mountain railways for free—a small card that delivers many big experiences.
Zermatt Activities off the slopes – Flying, climbing, amazement
Not all adventures begin on a hiking trail or end at the base station. In Zermatt, there are experiences that are truly out of the ordinary—literally. If you’d like to see the mountains from a different perspective, you’ll find unique offerings here that will move you, surprise you, and often leave a lasting impression.
Take to the skies by helicopter or paraglider. Discover the mountains from above and marvel.
Thundering water, rappelling, ropeway, strand ropes and suspension bridges make for an exciting experience in Gorner Gorge.
Air Zermatt / Helicopter
A helicopter sightseeing flight offers a completely new perspective on the region. The snow-capped peaks, the deep valleys, the Matterhorn from the air—these are images that stay with you. In addition to classic scenic flights, Air Zermatt also offers heliskiing and bike transfers. Whether as a highlight of a ski vacation in Zermatt or as a gift for a special moment: the flight begins quietly—and often ends with you speechless.
Paragliding
If you prefer something more airy, take to the skies in a paraglider—alongside experienced tandem pilots. The flight takes off high above the valley; the ride is smooth, the experience intense. The mountain landscape reveals its vast, open beauty. And by the time they land, many guests realize they’ve just experienced something that goes far beyond a mere photograph.
Gorgeadventure
There is a unique trail between Furi and Zermatt: a via ferrata through the Gorner Gorge. Open year-round, secured with ropes, platforms, and anchor points—but always in direct contact with water, rock, and nature.
The gorge is rugged, and the experience is exhilarating. If you’re looking for a hike in Zermatt that involves some scrambling, balancing, and getting your heart pumping, this is the place for you.
News
Bike tour with a view of the Matterhorn: From Furi to Schwarzsee
The Matterhorn always in view - one of the most impressive bike tours The bike tour from Furi…
FAQ: Winter / Ski & More
More than 300 kilometers of slopes connect Zermatt with the Italian ski resort of Cervinia—with guaranteed snow, a wide variety of terrain, and views of the Matterhorn at every turn. Particularly impressive is the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Europe’s highest ski resort, from which you can head straight out onto the glacier slopes—even when spring has already arrived elsewhere.
Snowboarders will find ideal conditions in the snow park, while children can get acquainted with the snow in a playful way at the Wollipark. And for anyone who is just discovering skiing or looking to refine their skills, Zermatt offers highly qualified ski instructors—providing personalized, multilingual, and top-notch instruction.
Are there ski-in and ski-out facilities from the hotel?
If the snow conditions are good, you can get on your skis and ski down directly behind the hotel. You will then reach the Blatten downhill run (No. 50), which ends at the “Matterhorn Paradise” gondola station. When snow conditions are good, you can also ski in via Run No. 43 (Furi – Riffelberg intermediate station); however, this run is not groomed and is therefore only suitable for experienced skiers.
How do I get to the gondola station if ski-out is not possible?
For your convenience, a free ski bus is available that stops just 300 meters from the hotel and takes you to all the ski resorts.
If you prefer to walk, the nearest valley station is just a 10-minute walk away.
Alternatively, we would be happy to arrange a public taxi for you; this service is subject to a fee and can cost up to 40 CHF per trip.
Where is the nearest ski/snowboard rental shop?
We recommend here the sports store “Dorsaz Intersport”, which is located directly at the valley station: https://www.dorsaz-sport.ch/de/
Where can I get the ski pass and is there a discount through the hotel?
You can get your ski pass at the valley station of the gondola “Matterhorn Paradise”. Unfortunately, there is no discount through the hotels, but if you book online 5 days in advance, the cable cars give a 5% discount. For more information, click here.
FAQ: Summer / Hiking & More
When summer bathes the Mattertal in warm light, it’s time in Zermatt to get active—but also to unwind. Hiking trails lead off in all directions right from the hotel: through forests, across alpine meadows, past streams, with unobstructed views of the Matterhorn. Many of our guests combine these days outdoors with what they find indoors at our hotel: a visit to the spa, a soothing massage, or a relaxing afternoon on our sun terrace. Those who prefer to get around on two wheels can explore the trails around Zermatt by e-bike—at a brisk pace or at a leisurely one. And those who want to see the valley from above can take off on a paraglider or go on a scenic helicopter flight; both are impressive—but nothing beats the feeling of lying in warm water afterward and letting the day sink in.
Are the trails also for inexperienced hikers and what equipment do I need?
There are hiking trails of varying difficulty levels; a hiking map will help you choose the right one. We recommend wearing sturdy shoes for all walks, as well as appropriate clothing for changing temperatures and bringing enough water for the trip.
Which trails are open?
We recommend the Matterhorn app
Can I rent e-bikes at the hotel and what are the costs?
Yes, we rent e-bikes for CHF 10 per hour and CHF 50 per day. We recommend that you reserve these at the same time you book your room.
Which cable cars are open? What are the opening hours of the restaurants and huts in the ski area?
We recommend the Matterhorn app.
Where can I book a flight by helicopter?
To book a helicopter sightseeing flight, please contact Air Zermatt directly.
STAYING AT HOTEL HEMIZEUS
What to do in Zermatt? Our tips:
Zermatt is more than just mountains, more than just sports, more than just snow. It’s a place where you can enjoy the outdoors—and find peace indoors. First-time visitors often ask themselves: What is there to do in Zermatt? The answer is never the same, but it’s always the right one. Because Zermatt is so diverse that every day can be different.
Active in Nature – With a View
Hiking, biking, skiing, or just taking a stroll—in Zermatt, outdoor activities usually start right at your doorstep. Those who love to be on the move will find everything between 1,400 and 3,100 meters in elevation: leisurely paths with views, technical trails for mountain biking, snow-covered slopes, or quiet winter trails with crunching snow. Nature sets the pace. And the Matterhorn is almost always in view—as a backdrop, a landmark, and a symbol.
Discover what endures
Sometimes you don’t need to reach a summit to have an unforgettable experience: the Matterhorn Museum, for example, tells stories you won’t soon forget. And if you take to the skies by helicopter or paraglider, you’ll see Zermatt from a whole new perspective. The village also has a lot to offer in terms of cuisine—from rustic taverns to innovative dining.
Unwind at Hotel Hemizeus
After a day outdoors, it feels good to sit back, relax, and retreat. Whether in our Iremia Spa, during a massage, or simply on the terrace watching the sunset at Hotel Hemizeus—it’s this balance between activity and tranquility that makes a stay here so special. Whether the weather is fine or rainy, Zermatt always has something to offer.
What to do in Zermatt in good weather?
- Hiking on 400 kilometers of trails around the Matterhorn
- Mountain bike trails for all skill levels
- Helicopter sightseeing tour or paragliding flight over the valley
- Golf in Täsch or Cervinia
- A Visit to the Glacier at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
- Family time at Wollipark or at the playground by Lake Leisee
What to do in Zermatt in bad weather
- Wellness & Massage at the Iremia Spa
- A visit to the Matterhorn Museum
- Discover local products: wine, cheese, chocolate
- Relaxing moments, games, and fun in our restaurant
- Read, relax, and just do nothing for a change
