Zermatt is an incredibly scenic city, the fabled Matterhorn rising above the town as a perfect backdrop. Thanks to the numerous climbers who have been attracted by the Matterhorn (it was climbed by Franklin D Roosevelt in 1881), and the simply stunning scenery, Zermatt has become one of Europe's glitziest resorts, and is the ski destination of choice for everyone from royalty to celebrities, who enjoy the stunning vistas as they swish down the pistes. If skiing's not your thing, there's plenty to do away from the slopes, with a traditional village to explore and designer boutiques and chic restaurants and bars to see and be seen in: warm up with a fondue and a cocktail or two.
However, you may find the lure of the great outdoors irresistible, even without a pair of skis. There are numerous hiking trails to enjoy, and if you've got a head for heights, take a ride in the Glacier Paradise, Europe's highest cable car, which rises to nearly 4,000m over the peaks of mountains and glaciers - and thrill-seekers should also go snow tubing for an adrenaline rush. Or enjoy a journey on the Gornergrat mountain railway, Europe's highest cogwheel railway, which has been transporting people on a picturesque 30-minute journey from Zermatt to the summit of Gornergrat since 1898. Stop off at one of the restaurants along the way, and take the opportunity to snap a picture of the Matterhorn reflected in Lake Riffelsee - one of the most scenic viewpoints of the mountain. Time your trip for sunrise or sunset for even more spectacular views.
If all that gives you a taste for more, hop onboard the Glacier Express with a champagne picnic for the beautiful 8-hour trip to the equally glitzy resort of St Moritz, with panoramic windows making the most of the picture-postcard alpine views.
