Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Zermatt stands out as a premier travel destination, offering a blend of breathtaking landscapes, exclusive amenities, and vibrant cultural experiences. Renowned for its skiing, luxurious accommodations, and fine dining, Zermatt is the ideal location for incentive travel, whether you’re looking to reward employees, charm clients, or host an unforgettable corporate event. Here’s why Zermatt should be at the top of your list for an incentive travel destination.
Unmatched Scenic Beauty
Zermatt is famously home to the iconic Matterhorn, one of the most photographed mountains in the world. The village itself is picturesque, with old timbered buildings and narrow lanes that exude Swiss charm and tranquillity — cars are banned here, which preserves its peaceful ambiance. The surrounding area boasts stunning natural beauty all year round, from snowy winters to colourful alpine summers, offering a perfect backdrop for any corporate retreat or incentive trip.
World-Class Skiing and Winter Sports
Zermatt is a premier destination for skiing enthusiasts, boasting some of the best ski slopes in Europe and breathtaking views from Gornergrat and Rothorn. It offers more than 360 kilometres of pistes with varying degrees of difficulty, catering to both beginners and expert skiers. The region is particularly famous for its long skiing season, often running from late November to early May, thanks to the high altitude and excellent snow conditions. Apart from skiing, visitors can also engage in other winter sports such as snowboarding, ice skating, and tobogganing.
- Skiing on The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise: The highest ski area in the Alps, it offers year-round skiing, making it ideal for incentive trips at any time of the year.
- Heli-Skiing: For an adrenaline-pumping experience, try heli-skiing. Zermatt offers incredible opportunities to ski in untouched snow, accessible only by helicopter.
- Snowboarding in Gravity Park: Snowboarders can enjoy the thrilling jumps and pipes in Zermatt’s Snowpark, one of the best snow parks in Switzerland.
Luxury Accommodations
When it comes to lodging, Zermatt does not disappoint. The village boasts a range of high-end hotels known for their service, elegance, and exclusive amenities. Top choices include:
- The Omnia: With its unique entrance via a tunnel leading to an elevator that transports guests directly into the lobby, The Omnia offers an unforgettable modern alpine experience. Its rooms and suites offer spectacular views of the Matterhorn.
- Riffelalp Resort 2222m: Europe’s highest luxury hotel, located directly on the ski slopes and hiking trails, provides a unique blend of remote beauty and premium comfort.
- Mont Cervin Palace: A member of the “Leading Hotels of the World,” this hotel offers a spa, fine dining, and exceptional service, right in the heart of Zermatt.
Or, depending on your group size and budget, you could always look at renting an exclusive luxury chalet. One of the largest chalets in Zermatt can accommodate up to 78 guests! And there are plenty of incredible amenities available, from cinema rooms to saunas and even ski-in/ski-out facilities.
Exquisite Dining Options
Zermatt’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscape with options ranging from traditional Swiss cuisine to international dishes. Notable restaurants include:
- Chez Vrony: Famous for its organic, locally sourced ingredients, this restaurant offers a stunning view of the Matterhorn.
- Restaurant Zum See: Perfect for a cozy, gourmet lunch stop while skiing, this charming spot serves excellent traditional and Mediterranean cuisine.
- After Seven: A part of the Backstage Hotel, this seasonal restaurant provides a high-end dining experience with innovative dishes prepared by renowned chefs.
Exclusive Activities and Experiences
Apart from skiing, Zermatt offers a range of unique activities that can enhance any incentive trip. Take a scenic helicopter ride to see the Matterhorn up close, or enjoy a guided glacier walk. For a touch of adventure, try paragliding over the Alps. Additionally, Zermatt’s wellness facilities, including various spas and wellness centres, offer ample opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Gornergrat Railway: Take a ride on this cogwheel train up to Gornergrat, where panoramic views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding peaks await.
- Ice Climbing: For a different kind of challenge, try ice climbing on Zermatt’s frozen waterfalls.
- Luxury Spa Treatments: Many hotels offer spas that make relaxation easy after a day of mountain activities.
Easy Accessibility
Despite its remote location, Zermatt is conveniently accessible via scenic train routes. The Glacier Express, one of the most famous train journeys in the world, provides a spectacular way to travel to Zermatt, with panoramic views of the Swiss Alps throughout the journey. Alternatively, the nearest airport, Sion, is just over an hour away from the resort and Geneva (with good international connections) is around 3 hours by car.
Why Zermatt is Popular for Incentive Travel
Zermatt is more than just a travel destination; it’s an experience that combines adventure, relaxation, and luxury. Its combination of stunning natural beauty, exceptional skiing, top-notch accommodations, and exquisite dining options makes it a perfect choice for incentive travel. Whether you’re looking to motivate a team, impress clients, or plan an unforgettable corporate event, Zermatt offers an exclusive and invigorating environment that is sure to inspire and reward its visitors.
Historically, incentive travel provides impressive results. On average, incentive travel boosts sales productivity by 18%, with an average return on investment of 112%. Here at Active, we’ve been travelling with groups across the globe for over 30 years. Get in touch with us today to start planning your next adventure.
