SUMMER ADVENTURES IN ZERMATT: EXPERIENCE THE CHARM OF THE VALAISAN ALPS AT MAMA
If you think that the Valais Alps only have chocolate and cheese fondue to offer during the summer, then you haven't checked in to Mama at Hotel Zermama yet! We have more to offer than just breathtaking views and fresh mountain air - in Zermatt you'll experience the ultimate summer adventure.
OFF TO THE MOUNTAIN
Whether you want to conquer the summit of the Gornergrat or prefer a mountain bike ride, boredom is a foreign word in Zermatt. And if you do need a breather between all the sporting activities, don't worry - the breathtaking view of the Matterhorn comes free of charge. Just take a deep breath and enjoy. Don't forget to pack your swimming trunks, because what could be better than cooling off in one of the crystal-clear mountain lakes?
The best hiking trails in Zermatt
Zermatt isn't just the village beneath the Matterhorn, it's the gateway to over 400 km of marked hiking trails. Whether you're after a relaxed family walk or a challenging high-altitude route, you'll find your path here.
Top hiking routes from Zermatt (Mama's recommendations):
Five Lakes Walk (Moderate | approx. 12 km | 4 hrs) Arguably Zermatt's most photogenic hike: five mountain lakes, each reflecting the Matterhorn in its own unique way. Start at Blauherd (reachable by the Sunnegga funicular), finish in Zermatt. An absolute must.
Gornergrat Panorama Trail (Easy to moderate | approx. 9 km | 3 hrs) From the summit station of the Gornergrat (3,089 m a.s.l.), the trail follows spectacular glaciers down to Riffelalp or Rotenboden. Ideal if you want altitude without walking all the way up.
Matterhorn Glacier Trail (Moderate | approx. 6 km | 2.5 hrs) From Trockener Steg to the Schwarzsee station – right at the foot of the Matterhorn. If you want to get truly close to this iconic peak, this is your trail.
Zmutt Valley & Schönbiel Hut (Challenging | approx. 20 km | 6–7 hrs) For serious mountain enthusiasts: the route through the Zmutt Valley to the SAC Schönbiel Hut (2,694 m) rewards with solitude, wild landscapes and an unforgettable alpine panorama.
Mama's Tip: Start early in the morning, the light is magical and the trails are all yours. Proper footwear, sunscreen and a rain jacket are essential, even in summer.
RELAX AT MAMA!
After a day full of discoveries, you return to Mama - don't worry, you don't have to clean your room here. Instead, you can end the day on the terrace with an aperitif in your hand and an unrivalled view of the majestic Matterhorn. Or how about a DIY cheese fondue on your balcony? No problem with Mama!
READY FOR THE HIGH ALTITUDE RUSH?
Up there, where the world seems to know no bounds, true adventures await you. With Mama's partner "Matterhorn Paragliding", you'll not only fly high, but also straight into adrenaline paradise. Imagine soaring like an eagle over the majestic peaks of the Swiss Alps, with no less than 38 of the 42 four-thousand-metre peaks always in view. So, grab your mobile phone, send a quick WhatsApp and secure your appointment. Get ready for take-off!
Get out of the daily grind and into the bike adventure: Zermatt is calling!
You can safely leave your beloved bike at home when you come to Zermatt. Mama has a new partner: the "Alpine Bikes Zermatt ", which is just a stone's throw (a three-minute walk) from the hotel. Here you can rent the ultimate bike for your adventures during your stay. Whether you want to explore the bike trails of Zermatt or take a leisurely ride up the mountains on an e-bike, the Bike Arena has just the thing for you. And the best thing? You also get a 10% discount on top!
You can then easily park your rented bike in Mama’s ski room. But be careful, Mama strongly advises you to lock your bike - safety first! Mama also recommends that you bring your own helmet, because it's simply better to ride with trusted equipment. So, pack your helmet and off you go to Zermatt, where your bike adventure is already waiting for you!
The Best Bike Tours in Zermatt
From mellow flow trails to epic valley descents – Zermatt has the right ride for every level.
Top bike rides from Zermatt (Mum's favourites):
4-Lake Tour (Easy | 12.1 km | 1 hr 45 min | 641 m descent) From Blauherd down to four mountain lakes: Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee and Moosjisee – the milky glacial Moosjisee as a stunning finale. Wide gravel paths, no singletrack: perfect for families and beginners.
Riffelberg Trail (Easy | 6.3 km | 30 min | 730 m descent) Flowing, winding, with a stunning Matterhorn view at Riffelalp. Take the Riffelberg Express up – and cruise back down. Connects to the Moos Trail straight into the village.
Kalbermatten – Yo-Yo (Moderate | 12.7 km | 1.5 hrs | 1,022 m descent) Matterhorn Express up to 2,583 m, then singletrack all the way down beneath the iconic peak. Tight bends, exposed sections, shifting character – experienced riders only.
Matterhorn Valley Trail (Moderate | 38.2 km | 3.5 hrs | 1,094 m descent) The big one: 38 km from Zermatt down to Visp along the Vispa river. Historic paths, wild water, mountain panoramas – with the Matterhorn Gotthard Railway as your shortcut option at any station.
Sunnegga–Europaweg–Täsch (Moderate | 14.5 km | 2 hrs | 1,111 m descent) From Sunnegga along the legendary Europaweg down to Täsch – spectacular Matterhorn views and partly exposed singletrack. A rewarding high-altitude ride for experienced bikers; push the bike at tricky sections.
MAMA ALSO ALLOWS YOU TO "WORK" FROM TIME TO TIME
But wait a minute, do you need a break from your outdoor adventure? No problem! Hotel Zermama offers a state-of-the-art coworking space, so you can write your latest stories or compose your emails in an environment that will banish even the worst case of writer's block.