Settled in the shadow of the majestic Matterhorn, Zermatt is a unique ski destination. Despite its popularity, the town preserves its charm and natural beauty, making it an exclusive resort destination.

If you were to buy a ski property in Zermatt, you would find world-class skiing, pristine air and a rich cultural calendar all on your doorstep.

Whether you’re looking for a holiday home, a place to retire or a jewel to add to your investment portfolio, Zermatt is a one-of-a-kind opportunity.

Enjoy hundreds of kilometers of pristine skiiing

World-class skiing and landmarks

Zermatt is a skier’s paradise. Surrounded by high mountains, 75% of the area’s 360 kilometers of pistes are snow-sure, meaning guaranteed skiing all year-round.

While the slopes cater to all skill levels, with 74km of blue slopes and 64km of black and yellow slopes, intermediate skiers have it best, with 220km of slopes to choose from.

The Matterhorn is one of the world’s iconic peaks and a magnet for tourists

Naturally, this quality of skiing makes Zermatt forever in high demand. Add to that the appeal of The Matterhorn, one of the world’s most iconic peaks, and Zermatt is a magnet for tourists, further enhancing the town’s desirability. So, owning property in town rather than renting it is your best way to guarantee ready access to its slopes.

Zermatt’s connection to Cervinia in Italy provides a cross-border skiing experience unmatched in Europe. For retirees, this means leisurely days on well-maintained slopes or enjoying mountain views from cozy chalets.

Holiday home buyers will love the dual-season appeal of Zermatt. In summer, hiking trails, mountain biking, and glacier tours keep the area lively. Investors can capitalize on this year-round activity, ensuring a consistent rental income.

You don’t have to like cheese to enjoy Zermatt, but it helps

Zermatt’s cultural appeal

Even though it’s just four miles from the Italian border, Zermatt remains a distinctly Swiss town with many traditions on show. Each year, music and dance groups from across Switzerland to perform at the Zermatt Folklore Summer festival. The whole town closes for the day as groups of drummers and pipers march the streets in traditional dress.

Every April, the town’s host to the Zermatt Unplugged acoustic music festival. The five-day event attracts local bands and international acts. These annual events, and the town’s numerous galleries and museums, draw a year-round crowd. Were you to buy a home in Zermatt, it’s this variety that makes it a great place to holiday or a diverse town to retire to. It also keeps property in demand by renters.

The small town is home to five Michelin-starred restaurants

The celebration of Swiss tradition isn’t restricted to the festivals. Swiss-German staples are on offer in restaurants and pubs, such as Schäferstube and Papperla. On the menus you’ll find raclette, fondue and fine beers. Though, there are other cuisines on offer, of course, such Madre Nostra’s refined Italian food, which serves braised goose ravioli.

The small town is home to five Michelin-starred restaurants and three Bib Gourmand establishments, so you can enjoy fine food all year-round. For investors, the strong tourism-driven culture ensures a steady flow of visitors, making properties here highly rentable throughout the year.

Shuttles carry visitors into the car-free town

A car-free haven

Zermatt is renowned for its commitment to sustainability. The town is car-free, with only electric vehicles permitted. Originally brought in to ensure pollution didn’t obscure the town’s clear views of the Matterhorn, this policy not only preserves the air quality but also enhances the serene, pedestrian-friendly atmosphere.

Residents and visitors alike can enjoy the car-free streets, and it fosters a tranquil and health-conscious environment.

This car-free policy means it’s not possible to drive directly into town. Instead, the nearest transport hub is Tasch, four miles to the north. There are thousands of parking spaces, and a regular shuttle service ferrying people and belongings to Zermatt. Still, it’s a logistical aspect of Zermatt-living you will need to navigate.

The nearest airports to Zermatt are Sion, Geneva, Zurich and Milan, offering a lot of options for international travellers.

For investors, the car-free nature of Zermatt is a selling point, aligning with the modern trend towards eco-friendly tourism.

Worth the trouble

While Zermatt comes with some considerations, these factors enhance its charm and exclusivity. Property prices, among the highest in Switzerland, reflect the town’s premium status and enduring desirability. For retirees, careful planning ensures a dream home that doubles as a valuable investment.

A serene, pedestrian-friendly environment

Holiday home buyers benefit from the town’s strict building regulations, which safeguard Zermatt’s character and timeless appeal. These policies mean properties retain their value and charm for generations. For investors, the high initial costs are often outweighed by the strong rental yields, supported by consistent demand from year-round tourism.

Zermatt’s car-free policy is a testament to its commitment to sustainability. While it requires adapting to electric taxis and public transport, it also creates a serene, pedestrian-friendly environment. Retirees and holiday home buyers will appreciate the tranquility and health benefits this unique lifestyle brings.

Worth it for the clear views of one of nature’s wonders

Zermatt is a jewel in the Alps, offering an unmatched blend of natural beauty, cultural vibrancy, and sustainable living. For retirees, it’s a haven of tranquility and health. Holiday home buyers will find a picturesque retreat with year-round appeal. And for investors, the combination of high demand and premium pricing creates a lucrative opportunity.

For those willing to embrace its quirks, Zermatt promises an investment in more than just property — it’s an investment in a lifestyle defined by quality, sustainability, and Alpine charm.