Other activities

Zermatt is up to handling non-skiers on vacation, although activities are much more limited owing to its dis-tance from other tourist destinations and its dedication to skiing. For a mountain thrill off skis, rent a sled for €5–€10. Either take the gondola to Furi and fly down one of the hiking trails, or hike up and zing down. Most hotels have sleds for rent (though oddly not helmets). Or hike on the many “winterwanderwege” — 45 km. of winter hiking paths.

The town has six indoor swimming pools at various hotels; most can be used by non-guests for a small fee. There are also 17 saunas, a salt-water swimming pool, two ice skating rinks (free for children younger than age 9), curling rinks, ice hockey, ice climbing, dart, bowling, tobogganing, Gorge Adventure, covered tennis and squash courts, indoor golfing, 28 miles of marked walking trails, helicopter rides, hang-gliding and cross-country ski circuits. There are also many art and cultural exhibitions.

Zermatt walking tours, in English, leave from the front of the tourist office several times a week, contact them for times and dates. The Alpine Museum, one block off the main street across from the newly renovated Mont Cervin Palace, has a fascinating mountaineering exhibit. In winter, the museum is open 4:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m. Cost is €5 for adults. Free admittance for children.

The other great activity is shopping—Zermatt has one of the best collections of shops of any ski resort. Not just great ski clothes, but fine jewelry, watches, linens and wonderful local artifacts, wood carvings, pewter, etc.. For many, this is where the real après-ski takes place.

Air Zermatt (027-966-8686; fax 027-966-8685) offers sightseeing and heliskiing. Tours are about 20 minutes with the option of landing on Theodul glacier, the Rothon or Testa Grigia (skiers only). There is a minimum of four people and costs CHF210.

Heliskiing and sleighrides are available through Gorge Adventure Passenger Flights.