A perfect postcard of the alps

Switzerland isn`t a bargain destination, so it comes as no surprise that Zermatt is one of the most exclusive places to ski in Europe, alongside Saint Moritz, Kolster and Gstaad. Exceeding altitudes of 13,000 feet, Zermatt`s 38 peak include the Matterhorn or Mont Cervin (14,692 feet), with an impressive pyramid-like shape that has made it one of the best-known mountains on the continent.
With the goal of cleaner air, the community has banned the use of fossil fuels. For this reason, transportation comes courtesy of electric vehicles and a rail service that reaches as far as the town of Tasch, where visitors access the slopes.
Zermatt has three interconnected ski centers, one of which is linked to the Italian town of Breuil-Cervinia. If you don´t ski, you can take underground trains that even visit the glaciers; there are 14 in total, with highlights including Gorner Glacier (Gornergletscher in German) and the  Plateau Rosa, a glacier that can be skied in the summer. Another standout summer activity is mountain climbing.
In fact, Zermatt is the end of the famed Haute Route, an international route that starts at Mont Blanc, in Chamonix, France.
For an interesting meal with more dining options, head across the Italian border to Breuil-Cervinia. Enjoy the famous pizzas and friendly service at Falcone or sample the excellent pasta at la Grotta.
At night, the papperla Pub is the place to be in Zermatt, with bands perfoming live on the terrace. And for more live music, visit in April - this year, April 8-12 - when the town hosts Zermatt Unplugged, a music festival that offers a great way to see another side of the Alps.