Zermatt with children in summer
Zermatt offers families with children a wide-ranging programme of outdoor activities with fresh air during the summer months. You want to know if you should visit Zermatt with your kids this summer? Or you have allready booked your trip and need inspiration for your itinerary? Read on to discover what to do in Zermatt with Kids, summer edition! Whether short walks, hiking, biking or attending a summer camp, experience the numerous possibilities while visiting Zermatt with your kids.
Summer in Switzerland: Hikes in and around Zermatt
Hiking with a pushchair in Zermatt
Do you enjoy hiking while visiting Zermatt but have a small child with you? No problem, because there are several absolutely loved trails for active holidays in and around Zermatt with amazing views of the Matterhorn that are suitable for pushchairs.
The “Furi Trail” leads down a carriage road and the path is lined with larch trees, which provide pleasant shade. The “Forest Trail” zigzags through a mixed larch forest and you are constantly surprised by views of the Matterhorn in the distance. On the “AHV Trail”, a well-maintained forest path leads you around the village of Zermatt.
You can also take a short pram tour on the Gornergrat, which offers fantastic views of the surrounding mountains. Not only the Matterhorn is the star here, but also other mountain massifs such as the “Dufour Peak” or the “Gorner Glacier”.
Local tip: If you don’t have a pram with you, you can hire a suitable one from a specialist sports and bike shop.
Zermatt Nature Trail: hiking for children aged 6 and up
The Nature Trail (no. 19) above Zermatt in Switzerland is suitable for children aged 6 and up. The trail starts at Riffelalp, the hiking trail winds through larch and pine forests. Along the way, you will pass the Grünsee, Moosjisee and Leisee lakes, where you can take well-deserved breaks and enjoy breathtaking views of the Matterhorn. Grünsee is also a great place to swim in warm weather. Don’t forget to take your camera to capture unforgettable moments and take beautiful family photos.
- Duration: approx. 1h 50 minutes
- Length: 6.2 km
- Age: from 6 years
Matterhorn View Trail: hiking trail for children
The majestic Matterhorn View Trail (no. 15b) starts at 2,089 metres above sea level on the Gornergrat and ends at Riffelalp (2,582 metres above sea level). There are 11 stations along the route that provide interesting information about the Gornergrat (via QR code, so don’t forget your smartphone!). In addition to impressive views of the Valais mountains, all participants will learn more about the area around the Gornergrat.
- Duration: approx. 1h 50 minutes
- Length: 5.7 km
- Age: from XX years
Marmot Trail: On the trail of the marmot
The Marmot Trail (No. 8) is one of the most exciting trails for kids and adults alike. Starting at Blauherd (2,571 metres above sea level), the trail leads down to Sunnegga and takes about one hour. With a little luck, you can watch marmots along the way. These nimble animals communicate with shrill whistles, so it’s always worth stopping to spot them. Interesting information about the animals can be found along the way, and if you want, you can stop for a swim at the Leisee.
- Duration: approx. 1h 10 minutes
- Length: 3.8 km
- Age: from 4 years
Furi Trail: hiking through the larch forest
The Furi Trail (No. 35) hike takes you on a paved road from Furi station (1,867 metres above sea level) to Zermatt village. The route leads through beautiful larch forests. It is worth letting your gaze wander through the trees, as there is a chance of seeing squirrels swinging through the branches. A lovely short walk for a hot summer’s day, as you can walk in the shade for most of the way through the forest. The Matterhorn Express will take you to Furi station. You can also walk the trail from Zermatt village.
- Duration: approx. 1h 10 minutes
- Length: 3.8 km
- Age: from 4 years
Riffelsee Lake Trail: hiking with a wow factor
The Riffelsee Lake Trail (no. 21) offers you a Matterhorn panorama in a class of its own. This hiking trail takes you past Riffelsee Lake, which reflects the majestic Matterhorn on its surface. Surrounded by a barren rocky landscape, it feels as if you are in another world. Enjoy the unspoilt nature and Alpine flora and, with a bit of luck, you might even see some ibex mountain goats.
The starting point is Rotenboden at 2,815 metres above sea level, and the end point is Riffelberg (2,582 metres above sea level).
Local tip: Take the mountain railway to Gornergrat train station and enjoy the view of the numerous mountain massifs that are over 4,000 metres high during the train ride. Afterwards, you can travel back to Rotenboden and start the hike.
- Duration: approx. 1 hour
- Length: 2.9 km
- Age: from 4 years
Family tip: Wolli and the climate detectives is a treasure hunt for you and your kids while hiking from Rotenboden to Riffelberg. Simply pick up the audio guides and puzzle cards at the tourist office in Zermatt and solve all the puzzles along the way. Once you are back in Zermatt, you need to open the treasure chest with a code to find the treasure. Great fun for kids aged 6 and up.
Important: You also have the option of obtaining the climate detectives audio guide and the quiz via an online download.
Flower trail: discover the Alpine flora
The flower trail (no. 3) allows you to immerse yourself in the unique world of Alpine flowers. Along the way, information boards provide interesting facts about the different types of flowers. This is a trail that can be discovered with all the senses and is also perfect for taking photos. This walk is particularly suitable for kids, as it allows them to learn about Switzerland’s flora in a fun and playful way. And with a bit of luck, you might even see the world-famous Edelweiss flower. The starting point is Blauherd (2,571 metres above sea level) and the end point is Sunnegga (2,288 metres above sea level).
Don’t forget your smartphone or camera, as this trail offers some particularly beautiful photo opportunities!
- Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Distance: 4.6 km
- Age: 4 years and up
Five Lakes Hike: The Matterhorn in your luggage
The 5-Lakes-Hike (No. 11) is certainly the most famous trail in Zermatt. No wonder, because it passes five lakes, and in three of them you can see the reflection of the Matterhorn (Leisee, Stellisee, Grindjisee). In any case, the stunning view of the Matterhorn is your constant companion on this hike. We are sure that you and your family will never tire of the view of the mountain range. Children can swim and play in the Leisee and Grünsee lakes. There is also the opportunity to have a picnic or a barbecue at the Leisee (firewood is available, but you need to bring your own matches).
The starting point is Blauherd station(2,571 metres above sea level) and the end point is at Sunnegga (2,288 metres above sea level).
- Duration: 2h 30 minutes
- Length: 9.8 km
- Age: from 6 years
Action in Switzerland for all the family from Blauherd to Zermatt
Mountain carts run from Blauherd to Sunnegga
The three-wheeled carts provide a fast descent for young and old. They cover 300 metres of altitude and you can enjoy the magnificent view or concentrate on who will be the first to arrive at the Sunnegga mountain station.
Mountain carts can be rented from 10 am until 90 minutes before the last ascent from Sunnegga to Blauherd. A helmet and goggles are included in the rental price. You can return the mountain carts to the Sunnegga valley station.
A family ticket for two trips is available (2 adults and 2 children) for CHF 60.
Individual prices:
- Adults aged 16 and over: CHF 15.
- Children aged 9 to 15.99: CHF 7.50.
Important: suitable for children aged 9 and over and with a minimum height of 135 cm.
Family tip: continue the adventure with a kickbike descent from Sunnegga to Zermatt village.
Ride a Kickbike from Sunnegga to Zermatt village
You can rent Kickbikes right at the Sunnegga funicular station and ride them all the way to Zermatt village. This rapid descent on all-terrain kick scooters can be done as an adventurous end to a hike, or you can take the funicular up to Sunnegga and ride the Kickbikes down into the valley. And if you like, you can take a breather at one of the mountain restaurants above Zermatt on the way through the forests and across the meadows.
Kick scooters can be rented from 10 a.m. until 90 minutes before the last ascent from Zermatt to Sunnegga. A helmet is also included in the rental price. You can then return the Kickbikes to the Zermatt – Sunnegga valley station.
A family ticket is available (2 adults and 2 children) for CHF 45.
Individual prices:
- Adults aged 16 and over: CHF 18.
- Children aged 9 to 15.99: CHF 9.
Important: suitable for children aged 9 and over and with a minimum height of 135 cm.
Family tip: start the day of adventure with a descent from Blauherd station to Sunnegga in mountain carts.
Visiting Zermatt Forest Fun Park high ropes adventures
The high ropes Forest Fun Park Zermatt offers 25 ziplines and over 100 obstacles where you and your kids can test your strength and balance. For children, the Forest Fun Park offers the largest Kids Trail with stunning views in Switzerland, as well as five trails for adults. There is never a dull moment for young and old and a day in there is easily spent. And if you need a break, you can rest on the terrace and enjoy a drink from the on-site kiosk. To make your stay even more pleasant, there are free lockers, toilets and free WIFI. This family trip should be definetly on your bucket list.
Family tip: to avoid waiting times, you can book the desired Forest Fun Park trail directly on the website. The Kids Trail is suitable for children aged 4 and up.
Opening hours:
From 1 June to 31 October, daily from 10 am to 7 pm
Prices:
- Kids Trail: from CHF 22, duration: 1 hour, from 4 years of age
- Big Trail: from CHF 38, duration: 3 hours, from 8 years of age
More information at:
+41 27 968 10 10
Via Ferrata Schweifinen Route A
Aim high on the Schweifinen via ferrata and enjoy stunning views over the roofs of Zermatt village to the imposing mountain massifs. This unique setting is home to a via ferrata that is divided into three levels of difficulty; A, B and C. Route A is suitable for families with children aged 10 and over. The route requires skill, a sure foot and balance. You will reach the starting point in about 30 minutes. From Zermatt station, walk out of the village towards the Triftschlucht gorge. Before the bridge, a path leads to the start of via ferrata route A. After climbing, enjoy the view of Zermatt village and the surrounding area with a picnic that you have brought with you.
- Duration: approx. 1h 15 minutes
- Length: 2.9 km
- Age: 10 years and up
Family tip: The via ferrata can only be accessed on foot. Please pay attention to the weather forecast and don’t forget protective equipment, which can be rented at one of the sports shops in Zermatt village.
Important: Never climb in bad weather. Thunderstorms are dangerous and can be fatal.
Fun for the kids: Summer Camps in Switzerland
A fun activity for your stay in Zermatt is a summer camp for the children. Here they can take part in exciting day programmes with children their own age and learn new things.
Connect Summer Camps
- Age group: 3 to 17 years
- Website Connect Summer Camps
- E-mail: info@connectsummercamps.com
- Tel.: +41 79 541 13 63
Family tip: It is also possible to participate in the summer camp as a family. You can find more information here: https://www.connectsummercamps.com/family-camp.
Biking with the whole family
Bike tours around Zermatt in Switzerland
Zermatt with its swiss alps is a paradise for those who like to explore the surrounding area by mountain bike. There are also various trails for families, ranging from easy to intermediate, which are suitable for children. Before setting off, find out about the accessibility of the terrain and possible age restrictions.
Easy trails:
Moos Trail (F1)
- Sunnegga Trail (F2)
- Bike Tour Lake Tour Täsch (No. 32)
- Bike Tour Village Route (No. 66)
Intermediate trails:
- Bike Tour Zermatt–Sunnegga Uphill (No. 22)
- Bike Tour Glacier Garden Loop (No. 24)
Read more about biking in and around Zermatt and renting MTBs and equipment in our blog post ‘Zermatt Biking’.
Biking lessons for children and younger kids
In the Kids Bike League, children and young kids aged between 3 and 12 learn how to pedal on their mountain bikes. They are supported by biking pros who provide them with age-appropriate information, tricks and tips so that they can move around safely on their mountain bikes.
The following age groups are available:
- Kids Bike League Marmot: 3 – 4 years
- Kids Bike League Chamois: 5 – 7 years
- Kids Bike League Ibex: 8 – 12 years
More information can be found on the Zermatter’s Kids Bike League website.
Bikezone Schali Täsch
The Schali bike zone is right next to the Schali lake and offers various pump tracks, skill loops and jump lines. It is suitable for children aged 4 and up. The bike zone is open from May to October, but please check the weather forecast. You can reach Täsch from Zermatt in about 28 minutes by train or in about 40 minutes by mountain bike.
Summary: Zermatt with kids in summer
The mountain village and its unforgettable adventures in walking distances offer young and old a wealth of day trips, outdoor activities, day trips, games and fun during the summer months. A stay at Wolli Wonderland in the Valais Alps is a real experience. Spend your holiday in the playground, in the mountains, in the Wolli Adventure Park or, if the weather is bad, in the wellness and spa area or at the Zermatlantis museum. Zermatt is particularly suitable for families because of the variety, the beauty of nature with its fresh air and the world of adventure that it offers children. Read more about child-friendly restaurants, picnic areas, puzzles, tickets for the Zermatt Bergbahnen AG and the Wolli Card in our blog post ‘Zermatt with kids’. If you are looking for childcare, there are numerous professional options available to allow you to enjoy a few hours together. And if you are lucky, you might even meet our mascot Wolli during your stay.
Are you still looking for the perfect family accommodation in Zermatt? Zermatt Holidays guarantees you the best price when you book through our website. That way, you can save more for your holiday in the most beautiful place in the world.
