Information
Landmark: Sunnegga ParadiseCity: Zermatt
Country: Switzerland
Continent: Europe
Sunnegga Paradise, Zermatt, Switzerland, Europe
Overview
Sunnegga Paradise, set high above Zermatt in the Swiss Alps, draws visitors year-round to its Valais slopes where pine-scented trails open to sweeping mountain views.Perched at about 2,288 meters (7,505 feet), it opens onto sweeping views of the surrounding peaks, with the sharp, snow-dusted Matterhorn standing unmistakably in the distance.Sunnegga offers sweeping alpine views, crisp ski runs, winding hiking paths, and quick access to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, all in a spot that’s easy to reach and welcoming for families.Here are the standout features of Sunnegga Paradise-think crisp mountain air, sweeping alpine views, and trails that invite you to explore.You can reach Sunnegga from Zermatt in just a few minutes by hopping on the Sunnegga funicular, which glides smoothly up the mountain.The year-round funicular whisks passengers from Zermatt, at 1,620 meters, up to Sunnegga at 2,288 meters in just three minutes, gliding past windows filled with crisp alpine air and jagged peaks.It’s a favorite for skiers, hikers, and sightseers alike, thanks to sweeping views of the valley and surrounding mountains.At Sunnegga Paradise, you can take in breathtaking panoramas of the Matterhorn, Breithorn, Lyskamm, and the Monte Rosa massif, with the observation point offering one of the finest Matterhorn views from below-perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the rugged beauty of meadows and snow-dusted summits.Part of the vast Matterhorn Glacier Ski Paradise that spans Switzerland and Italy, Sunnegga features a variety of slopes and runs for every skill level, from gentle, family-friendly trails to more challenging routes for seasoned skiers and snowboarders.As skiers carve their way down, they can take in breathtaking views of the Matterhorn’s sharp, snow-dusted peak.From Sunnegga, lifts connect to the Matterhorn Glacier and other higher slopes, where the terrain challenges even seasoned skiers and snowboarders.It’s also the trailhead for paths that wander through alpine meadows or climb toward rugged ridgelines.The Five Lakes Walk is one of the area’s favorite hikes-a 5.5 km (3.4 miles) trail that winds past five sparkling alpine lakes, each mirroring the Matterhorn in its own way, from sharp, glassy outlines to soft ripples in the breeze.It’s a relaxed route perfect for families, photographers, and anyone who loves nature, with sweeping views and the chance to spot marmots darting between rocks.Beyond this path, countless trails lead into quiet valleys, flower-filled meadows, and shady forests, while seasoned hikers can test themselves on steeper climbs.At the top of Sunnegga, the Paradise Restaurant welcomes you with a cozy, fire-warmed room and a panorama that seems to spill across the entire horizon.The restaurant offers Swiss favorites like bubbling cheese fondue, raclette, and hearty alpine fare-perfect for warming up after a long day on the slopes or trails.Outside, wide terraces let you sip hot chocolate while gazing at the Matterhorn’s snow-dusted peak.Sunnegga Paradise also caters to families, with gentle runs and activities made for kids and first-time skiers.Ski schools and friendly instructors welcome learners of all ages here, making it a perfect place to try skiing or snowboarding for the first time.When summer rolls in, Sunnegga turns into a favorite spot for family hikes, where kids can spot marmots in the grass and run through bright mountain meadows.Though best known for its winter slopes, it draws plenty of visitors once the snow melts.In the warmer months, the mountain buzzes with hikers, mountain bikers, and nature lovers following trails through wildflower meadows, shady forests, and around glassy alpine lakes where marmots sometimes whistle in the distance.The Five Lakes Walk is a summer favorite-an easy, picture-perfect route ideal for reflection shots and quiet strolls.Sunnegga also serves as a gateway to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise at 3,883 meters, reached by the Matterhorn Glacier Ride cable car and a series of lifts.Up there, visitors can explore the shimmering Ice Palace, ski even in midsummer, or take in sweeping views from the highest cable car station in Europe.The slopes and valleys around Sunnegga are alive with alpine wildlife.While hiking or skiing, you might spot ibex scaling rocky cliffs, chamois darting across slopes, marmots whistling from their burrows, or golden eagles soaring overhead.In summer, alpine flowers burst into color, splashing reds and yellows against the gleaming snow-capped peaks.While Sunnegga is best known for skiing and hiking, Zermatt comes alive year-round with events-from lively summer music festivals to winter markets scented with mulled wine.You’ll find ski races, lively mountain festivals, and cultural celebrations-some spilling into the Sunnegga area, where the air smells of pine.Sunnegga Paradise itself is a breathtaking alpine resort, offering something to do in every season.Whether you’re carving fresh tracks in winter, hiking sunlit trails in summer, or pausing to take in the sharp white crown of the Matterhorn against a cobalt sky, Sunnegga offers an unforgettable alpine escape.Sunnegga’s warm, family‑friendly vibe, quick lift ride from Zermatt, and links to alpine spots like the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise make it a Swiss Alps stop you shouldn’t miss-think crisp mountain air and sunlit views that spill for miles.
