Zermatt summer activities: our top 10 adventures
While the mountains are famous for skiing, summer in Zermatt reveals a completely different kind of beauty. As the snow melts, the landscape transforms into a breathtaking alpine paradise, bursting with vibrant colors and lush flora and fauna, unveiling a world of summer activities in Zermatt. Summer in Zermatt is a dream—crystal-clear alpine lakes, lush green valleys, and breathtaking mountain views create the perfect setting for adventure and relaxation.
To help you make the most of this incredible season, we’ve put together the ultimate summer guide, drawing on the expertise of our local team who call Zermatt home year-round. This insider’s guide invites you to experience Zermatt in a whole new way, uncovering unique summer activities set against a stunning mountain backdrop. For outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, Zermatt is the ultimate playground—no matter the season.
1. Hiking
The natural choice for a summer activity in the mountains is, hiking. Zermatt offers a variety of routes from beginner to advanced, gentle enough for families and avid hikers alike. A favourite amongst the team is the five lakes trail – an infamous Zermatt hiking route leading you past five alpine lakes with uninterrupted views of the Matterhorn. Rise early to arrive at Riffelsee before the sun rises to witness the reflection of the Matterhorn in the lake, an infamous picture spot. This route is popular for families as it is not steep or particularly challenging.
Many hiking routes pass by fantastic mountain restaurants, giving you a chance to refuel and enjoy lunch with breathtaking mountain views. Listen closely along the route for shrieking marmottes or catch a glimpse of the chamois and ibex, the hard-to-spot mountain goats.
2. Mountain biking
Mountain biking is a must-try summer adventure in the mountains, offering the same adrenaline rush as skiing but set against lush green valleys and vibrant alpine flora. Zermatt is the perfect destination for this thrilling sport, with over 220 km of trails ranging from 1,400m to 3,100m in elevation—ideal for both beginners and experienced riders.
For an unforgettable ride, let the experts guide you. A guided mountain biking tour ensures you experience the best trails, and our team would be delighted to arrange this for you.
3. Summer Skiing
Not ready to give up winter just yet? Head to Zermatt in the summer to experience skiing all year round – one of the only European resorts to offer this! A favourite amongst the Bramble Ski team in Zermatt, the 21 km of pistes available at Klein Matterhorn make it the largest and highest-altitude summer ski area in Europe! A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity open to all levels of skiers.
As the chosen destination for many top ski teams to train in the summer, who knows who you could be skiing past as you cruise down these sunny slopes!
Stay in Christiania Apartment 7. This supremely located, luxurious six-bedroom apartment is perfect for a summer trip to the mountains to enjoy all the activities Zermatt has to offer.
4. Trail running
For fitness fanatics who want more of a challenge than hiking, try trail running. Offering a plethora of dramatic trails for runners, including stunning views of the Matterhorn on the steep Mettelhorn and Matterhorn Panoramaweg trail.
Zermatt also holds the annual Ultraks event, a long-distance mountain race for endurance athletes, offering varying route distances for different levels, a night run and two children’s races! The ultimate adventure trail running event in Zermatt.
5. Lake swimming
For an exceptional mountain experience, swim in an alpine lake! Zermatt offers multiple lakes to take a dip in and cool off in with an iconic mountain backdrop. Lake Leisee provides a beach, children’s playground, BBQ area and picnic spots, the perfect spot for a family summer activity in Zermatt.
Stay in Chalet Shalimar, one of Zermatt’s hidden gems. This impressive alpine retreat provides arguably some of the best views of the Matterhorn and is ideally located close to the centre of town. Shalimar boasts a stunning indoor swimming pool, sauna, hammam and massage room, providing the perfect alpine retreat to relax after a day of exploring Zermatt.
Split into individual apartments – Penthouse apartment Alex, sleeping twelve, and apartments Furi and Schwarzee which both sleep four, perfect for smaller groups. Each apartment has individual open-plan living and dining areas, plenty of space for group gatherings and or quiet moments; the apartments collectively share the spa area and pool.
6. Climbing
Like many alpine resorts, Zermatt is a renowned destination for climbing, offering trails for all skill levels—from beginner-friendly routes to expert challenges. Whether it’s tackling a Via Ferrata, ice climbing, or mountaineering on steep peaks, there’s an adventure for everyone.
For an unforgettable experience, Harriet, our Director of Operations in Zermatt, recommends climbing the Breithorn with a guide—one of the most popular Zermatt summer activities. Our team would be delighted to arrange a guide for you.
For families seeking summer activities in Zermatt, the Forest Fun Park is a fantastic alternative for children. With 25 ziplines and exciting high-rope obstacles set among the trees, it’s the perfect way for children and families to enjoy the great outdoors in Zermatt this summer.
7. E-Biking
An alternative to the thrilling downhills of mountain biking, try the more gentle e-biking. Whizz up steep hills in no time and take in the stunning mountain surroundings and gorgeous alpine meadows. Rent an e-bike for your trip for ultimate ease, and hire a guide to show you the best routes. A fun summer activity in Zermatt that all the family can be involved with.
8. Fishing
For a unique alpine activity, try fly fishing. Fly Fish Zermatt offers an unforgettable day out, where you can cast your line for freshwater trout in this iconic setting with perfect views of the Matterhorn. Enjoy a guided tour of this peaceful alpine lake with a knowledgeable guide, making for a unique yet unforgettable summer activity in the Alps.
Stay in Chalet McKinley, an uber-luxurious chalet ideally located in the centre of the village. This alpine masterpiece, part of the prestigious 7 Heavens project in Zermatt combines innovative design and impeccable architecture to create a gorgeous alpine home. Sleeping 10 guests over four floors, Chalet McKinley offers the perfect mountain sanctuary complete with an impressive private spa allowing you to unwind after a day of adventure.
9. Wakeboarding or waterskiing
For a truly unique alpine experience, try wakeboarding or waterskiing—an unexpected thrill in the mountains! Head to Lake Täsch, where a 100-meter waterski lift pulls you along the course, perfect for both beginners and seasoned riders. Experts can showcase their flips and tricks, while spectators relax on the surrounding green, soaking up the sunshine in this stunning alpine haven. A fantastic summer activity for families and adventure seekers alike!
10. Play a round of golf
Golf amongst the mountain peaks is a truly exceptional experience. Visit the luscious alpine green located at Täsch-Randa for the Golf Club Matterhorn. Try the 9+-hole framed by Switzerland’s most famous mountains for a memorable game and exceptional experience.
From pristine alpine lakes to thrilling mountain adventures, summer in Zermatt offers an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, outdoor excitement, and serene relaxation. Summer in the mountains is an exciting holiday destination for a relaxing and fresh holiday plan. Get in touch to plan your perfect alpine summer holiday.
