Ski

Once again it took more that enough time to find time and energy to get key things to remember from Zermatt trip on one place, but here we go – and still all the photos and videos are distributed around different memory cards and hard disks

First thing first: skiing in Zermatt can be truly fantastic when there is fresh snow (like our last day) and wind is not preventing lifts from running. Most of the tourists seems to be looking for something else than off-piste powder from the place – so no need to fight for good spots at sunrise; on the contrary, plenty of virgin snow available directly from the lifts even on afternoon. The ski-able area is huge and lift system efficient, but there is plenty of traverse and transits; you can easily spend half day in just moving between ski areas… but the scenery is just breathtaking – if you can see it. Strong presence of Matterhorn gives plenty of unique photo opportunities.

After enjoying the slopes, powder, sun, and scenery there is are plenty of nice small restaurants to eat or drink. The best entertainment was definitely on Hennu Stall, where we found a fabulous band (which we later found out to be part of Scenit Group). Real party atmosphere, nice people, intoxicating drinks – everything you need for fantastic after ski party!

On the cost side, I would say that rumors on extra expensively of Zermatt are not exactly accurate. My share of total cost of 7 days of skiing was roughly 900 euros (without flights):

The train traveling in Switzerland can be expensive if you go for list priced tickets, but the “Swiss  Transfer Ticket” gives good value for the money. Check also other ticket types from http://www.swisstravelsystem.ch to see what fits for you. There should be also “Fly Trail Baggage” system to send luggage directly to right railway station when you arrive to Switzerland by plane, but at least Finnair personnel were completely unaware of just service. So better double check from your carrier if that really works.

Our accommodation at Apartment Pasadena – rented via Hotel Alfa – was perfectly located (see map below) next to Coop, railway station, ski lifts, ski bus end stop, and all other relevant facilities. Even while the better skiing was this time on lifts located on the
opposite end of the village, still living close to railway station seems to be better option (much better access to groceries and other services).
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