Two Winter-Only Experiences in Zermatt, Switzerland: Witness the Golden Sunrise Painting the Silver Mountains

▲ The golden sunrise over the Matterhorn. (Photo /Qinqin MatterhornAuthorized for use. Please do not take photos without permission)

Reported by Cai Wenjun / Comprehensive report

The New York Times recently selected 52 countries and cities around the world worth visiting in 2017, with Zermatt, Switzerland ranked 4th. Visiting Zermatt in winter not only allows you to enjoy a fairytale-like silver-white world, but Chen Domingo, the Taiwanese market representative for the Matterhorn region, also recommends the golden sunrise and visiting the igloo village as two must-do winter experiences unique to Zermatt.

▲ The Gornergrat Mountain Railway, which offers views of the Matterhorn. (Photo / Authorized for use by Qinqin Matterhorn. Please do not take photos without permission)

1. Golden Sunrise
Chen Domingo said that to witness the golden sunrise in Zermatt, winter is the perfect season. Just hop on the 7:00 AM Gornergrat Mountain Railway (Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn) to reach the Gornergrat viewpoint. Not only can you see the golden sunrise, but you can also admire a 360-degree view of the mountains being simultaneously painted in golden sunlight. The brief moment of sunrise is incredibly moving and unforgettable.

However, Chen Domingo also reminds visitors that to catch this stunning view, you must take the 7:00 AM train. Since the station only opens at around 6:45 AM, it’s recommended to buy your tickets the day before to ensure you have enough time to catch the ride.

▲ Igloo Village. (Photo / Authorized for use by Qinqin Matterhorn. Please do not take photos without permission)

2. Visit the Igloo Village
Chen Domingo believes there are six reasons to visit the igloo village: the experience of walking step-by-step on snow, capturing the Matterhorn from various angles, immersing yourself deeply in the embrace of the Alps and having an intimate connection with it, exploring the snow bar popular among skiers, admiring the igloos reminiscent of Eskimo dwellings, and taking photos that many would envy — all of these make the igloo village a place worth returning to again and again.

After enjoying the golden sunrise, travelers can take the train to Rotenboden Station. Upon exiting, turn right and walk a short downhill stretch, then pass through a small cave, turn left, and continue straight until you see the igloo village.

▲ A must-try dish here: cheese fondue. (Photo / Authorized for use by Qinqin Matterhorn. Please do not take photos without permission)

▲ Interior view of the igloo restaurant. (Photo / Authorized for use by Qinqin Matterhorn. Please do not take photos without permission)

When visiting the igloo village, remember to bring cash. It’s also advised to wear waterproof pants, slip-resistant and waterproof boots that cover above the ankles, as well as prepare sunglasses, a power bank, and other essentials. These items will help keep you safe while walking on the snow.

For more travel information about Switzerland, visitthe Facebook group “Qinqin Matterhorn”for details.