Best Things To Do in Zermatt in Summer
Think of Zermatt and the first picture that comes into your head is probably lined in snow: the stunning pyramid-shaped Matterhorn looming over a beautiful resort, full of winter activities to keep skiers, skaters and hikers alike entertained.
But in the summer, there’s another Zermatt altogether, one that’s bursting with things to do during long sunny days in the beautiful Valais countryside. So while it may not be the first place you think of for a summer holiday, a trip to Zermatt will leave you spoiled for choice.
Top Summer Activities In and Around Zermatt
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best summer activities in Zermatt, and highlight how every visitor can find something to enjoy.
Paragliding
The Zermatt area is home to 38 of the 48 highest peaks in Switzerland, and the best way to explore the majesty of them all is from above. Professional tandem pilots can be hired to take you up cable cars to some of these high peaks, from where you’ll gently paraglide down to Earth and get a chance to explore the wonderful surroundings. You’ll see mountain peaks and glaciers alike as you take in a 360-degree view like no other. You’ll need to wrap up warm, but the experience will be well worth it.
Forest Fun Park
You can admire the picturesque local forests from the ground or from the air - but have you considered getting in amongst them? The Forest Fun Park in the southern part of Zermatt provides 25 different ziplines for you to traverse, as you get back to nature and work your way through the woods, several metres above the ground. A variety of different routes are available to suit all abilities, including a special Kid’s Trail for adventurous kids aged 4+.
Hiking
Perhaps one of the simplest and cheapest activities you can enjoy in Zermatt needs little more than some good boots and a couple of walking poles. The mountainous landscape around Zermatt offers a huge range of different hiking routes, one of the most popular being the 5 Lakes Trail. Measuring just over 9km, it explores five different lakes in the area, two of them offering stunning reflections of the Matterhorn on their surface (if the weather is good). It’s an accessible trail for all abilities, with lots of mountain lodges selling refreshments along the way. And those who take their hiking seriously will enjoy the annual Matterhorn Ultraks races in August.
Mountain Biking
Zermatt is paradise for those who prefer pedal power. There’s something for everyone: flowing cross-country courses, gentle scenic rides, and high-speed downhill runs, collectively catering to all ages, abilities and fitness levels. You can pick up a map and go exploring by yourselves, or you can book yourself onto a guided tour where local experts will show you everything that Zermatt has to offer. E-bike hire and heli-bike adventures only add to Zermatt’s credentials as an amazing place to explore on two wheels.
Clay Pigeon Shooting
A secluded mountain meadow is the perfect location to test your accuracy and marksmanship, on an electronically operated clay pigeon shooting event. The shoot takes place using lasers and reusable clays, making it safe, more eco-friendly and allowing everyone to take part, regardless of experience. Different game modes add a competitive element, making this a fun day out for families and groups alike.
Folklore Festival
Every August, the entire village is transformed by colour, costumes, music dancing and all the very best of Swiss tradition. Taking place annually since 1969, the centrepiece of the festival is a parade through the town, along with presentations by groups in locations around Zermatt and a yodelling mass in the parish church. All the proceeds from the event go to the Zermatt Youth Fund, funding various projects within the community.
Zermatt Music Festival
Over ten days in September, Zermatt comes alive to the sound of great music, including classical, jazz and even some cinema, too. Combining ambitious young musicians and big international names, the Zermatt Music Festival takes over the town as churches, hotels and chalets are used for rehearsals. Included in the festival is the Zermatt Music Festival Academy, where young musicians from all over the world come together for an intensive music-making programme.
Canyoning in Valais
There’s perhaps no better way to connect with the natural and geological beauty of this part of Switzerland than by taking part in a canyoning adventure. You’ll be able to climb up and down through gorges, slide down rock slides, abseil down waterfalls and swim through crystal-clear pools of fresh water. If you’re feeling daring, you can jump off rock edges into the water. The Valais region is one of the most popular in Switzerland for canyoning, and is full of routes to be enjoyed by people at every level of ability.
Water rafting
Just north of Zermatt is the Vispa river, from where the meltwater from the Cervin glaciers flows into the River Rhône in the town of Visp. The route from Stadlen to Visp provides some superb rafting action in the summer, as you plunge through the rapids and paddle your way around rock formations. All safety gear and transport is provided, and as long as you’re at least ten years old and you can swim, you’re welcome to give this thrill-a-minute ride a go.
Where to go for further information
There’s so much more to learn about Zermatt, its history and its wonderful places to stay, eat and drink. Take a closer look at our blog for even more information.
A property hotspot
Many people fall in love with Zermatt on their first visit, whatever the time of year. So it’s no surprise that it’s a popular choice for property purchases, either to live in Switzerland on a permanent basis or to visit regularly with a holiday home.
What do we have on offer?
Whether you’re looking for a beautiful mountainside chalet or an apartment in the bustling town centre, we have a range of properties to suit every desire. Check out our online Zermatt showroom here to see what we currently have available.
Interested? Get in touch
Our friendly team at Steiger&Cie is always happy to help you with any queries, whether you’re looking for a specific type of property in Zermatt or you’d just like to know more about the area. Feel free to reach out to our team here.0