Summer in Zermatt: Hiking, Lakes & Alpine Adventures

While Zermatt is world-famous for its skiing, those who visit during the summer often discover an even more magical side of this iconic Swiss destination. As the snow retreats from the valleys, alpine meadows burst into colour, crystal-clear lakes reflect the majestic Matterhorn, and hundreds of kilometres of hiking trails open for exploration.

Whether you're seeking an active mountain adventure, a relaxing luxury escape or a memorable family holiday, summer in Zermatt offers breathtaking scenery, fresh Alpine air and unforgettable experiences.

At Cove Zermatt, we believe summer is one of the most rewarding times to visit. The pace is relaxed, the weather is pleasant, and every day offers a new way to discover the beauty of the Swiss Alps.

Why Visit Zermatt in Summer?

Summer transforms Zermatt into one of Europe's finest mountain destinations.

Instead of ski pistes, visitors find flower-filled valleys, peaceful hiking trails and panoramic mountain railways leading to spectacular viewpoints.

Unlike many busy European cities, Zermatt remains wonderfully peaceful, with its car-free streets creating a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can truly unwind.

Summer highlights include:

• Spectacular Matterhorn views

• Over 400 km of hiking trails

• Crystal-clear alpine lakes

• Mountain biking

• Scenic railways

• Glacier experiences

• Outdoor dining

• Wildflowers and wildlife

• Luxury spas

• Family-friendly adventures

Experience the Matterhorn in Summer

No matter where you are in Zermatt, the Matterhorn dominates the skyline.

Summer offers some of the clearest views of this legendary mountain, especially during the early morning and late afternoon when the light creates spectacular colours across its famous pyramid-shaped peak.

Some of the best viewpoints include:

• Gornergrat

• Sunnegga

• Stellisee

• Riffelsee

• Findeln

• The village centre itself

Each location offers a completely different perspective of Switzerland's most famous mountain.

Hike the Famous Five Lakes Walk

The Five Lakes Walk is one of Zermatt's most popular summer hikes, and for good reason.

This scenic trail links five beautiful alpine lakes, each surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery.

The lakes include:

• Stellisee

• Grindjisee

• Grünsee

• Moosjisee

• Leisee

On calm mornings, Stellisee and several of the other lakes perfectly reflect the Matterhorn, creating one of the most photographed landscapes in Switzerland.

The trail is suitable for most visitors and takes approximately two and a half to three hours to complete at a leisurely pace.

Ride the Gornergrat Railway

The Gornergrat Railway is one of the world's great mountain journeys.

Departing from the centre of Zermatt, the cogwheel railway climbs through forests and alpine meadows before reaching an altitude of over 3,000 metres.

At the summit you'll enjoy panoramic views of:

• The Matterhorn

• Monte Rosa

• Gorner Glacier

• More than twenty peaks above 4,000 metres

The viewing platform is one of the finest anywhere in the Alps and should be at the top of every visitor's itinerary.

Visit Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

Europe's highest cable car station remains open throughout the summer.

Visitors can enjoy:

• Permanent snow

• Glacier Palace

• Ice sculptures

• Observation decks

• Panoramic mountain views

• Glacier walking experiences

Even in the middle of summer, you can stand on snow while enjoying views across Switzerland, Italy and France.

Discover Alpine Lakes

One of summer's greatest pleasures is exploring Zermatt's beautiful mountain lakes.

Many are famous for their mirror-like reflections of the Matterhorn.

Our favourites include:

Stellisee

Perhaps Switzerland's most famous mountain lake.

The sunrise reflection of the Matterhorn is unforgettable.

Riffelsee

Another classic photography location reached via the Gornergrat Railway.

Leisee

Ideal for families with a children's playground, picnic areas and shallow water for paddling.

Hiking for Every Ability

Zermatt offers over 400 kilometres of marked hiking trails.

Whether you're an experienced mountain walker or simply looking for a leisurely stroll, there is something for everyone.

Popular walks include:

Five Lakes Trail

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

One of Switzerland's most famous hikes.

Matterhorn Glacier Trail

A scenic walk beneath glaciers offering close-up views of the Matterhorn.

Edelweiss Trail

Perfect for discovering alpine flowers and beautiful mountain scenery.

Gorner Gorge

A shorter walk through dramatic rock formations carved by glacial water over thousands of years.

Mountain Biking

Summer also transforms Zermatt into an outstanding mountain biking destination.

Trails range from relaxed scenic routes to technical descents suitable for experienced riders.

Bike rental is widely available, including electric mountain bikes for those wishing to explore further with less effort.

Wildlife Watching

The mountains surrounding Zermatt are home to fascinating Alpine wildlife.

Keep an eye out for:

• Marmots

• Ibex

• Chamois

• Golden eagles

• Alpine flowers

Early mornings often provide the best opportunities for wildlife photography.

Outdoor Dining with Matterhorn Views

Few places rival Zermatt for outdoor dining.

Throughout summer, mountain restaurants and village terraces offer spectacular views alongside delicious Swiss cuisine.

Local specialities include:

• Cheese fondue

• Raclette

• Rösti

• Fresh Alpine cheeses

• Swiss pastries

• Locally produced wines

Lunch with a Matterhorn view is one of the highlights of any visit.

Family Adventures

Zermatt is an excellent destination for families.

Children love:

• Mountain railways

• Easy lakeside walks

• Wildlife spotting

• Adventure playgrounds

• Picnic areas

• Glacier experiences

The village's car-free environment also makes it particularly safe and enjoyable for younger visitors.

Luxury Experiences

Summer in Zermatt isn't just about hiking.

Visitors can also enjoy:

• Private mountain guides

• Helicopter sightseeing

• Wellness spas

• Gourmet dining

• Photography tours

• Luxury shopping

• Scenic helicopter transfers

These experiences provide a more relaxed way to appreciate the beauty of the Swiss Alps.

Suggested Three-Day Summer Itinerary

Day One

• Explore Zermatt village

• Ride the Gornergrat Railway

• Lunch overlooking the Matterhorn

• Evening stroll through the village

Day Two

• Complete the Five Lakes Walk

• Picnic beside Stellisee

• Visit Sunnegga

• Dinner at a traditional Swiss restaurant

Day Three

• Ride to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

• Explore the Glacier Palace

• Relax at a luxury spa

• Sunset drinks with Matterhorn views

This itinerary offers an excellent introduction to everything summer in Zermatt has to offer.

Why Stay at Cove Zermatt?

Summer days in Zermatt begin with fresh mountain air and end with spectacular sunsets over the Alps.

Cove Zermatt offers guests a luxurious retreat where they can relax after a day of hiking, sightseeing or exploring the region's famous mountain railways.

With spacious accommodation, elegant interiors and convenient access to Zermatt's attractions, Cove Zermatt is the ideal base for discovering one of Switzerland's most beautiful summer destinations.

Whether you're planning a romantic escape, a family holiday or an active adventure with friends, you'll find everything you need for an unforgettable Alpine experience.

Discover the Magic of Summer in Zermatt

While many travellers know Zermatt as one of the world's great ski resorts, summer reveals an entirely different side of this remarkable destination.

Crystal-clear lakes, colourful alpine meadows, breathtaking hiking trails and unforgettable Matterhorn views combine to create one of Europe's finest mountain holidays.

From peaceful mornings watching the sunrise over Stellisee to scenic railway journeys and leisurely lunches on mountain terraces, every day offers a new adventure.

At Cove Zermatt, we invite you to experience the beauty of the Swiss Alps in every season—but especially in summer, when nature is at its most spectacular.