To Zermatt at the foot of the Matterhorn

Anyone visiting Switzerland dreams of seeing the Matterhorn at least once. Zermatt is the place to experience its majestic form up close. I had been looking forward to visiting this town for a long time. It's a three-and-a-half-hour train ride from Zurich, and my excitement grows with each changing scenery along the way. Passing through the Alps and green valleys, the moment I stepped off at Zermatt Station, the silence and clear air were like a cleansing awakening to my soul.

Zermatt is unique in that there are almost no cars on the road. The narrow streets, traversed only by electric buses and horse-drawn carriages, feel like another world, where time flows more slowly. Many tourists walk with their luggage, and the town has a serene atmosphere. After checking into my accommodation, I immediately took a stroll around town. Gazing up at the Matterhorn while sipping coffee on a cafe terrace was breathtakingly beautiful, with a power that was completely different from what I'd seen in photos or videos.

The next day, I took the cogwheel railway to Gornergrat. The Matterhorn, seen from the observation deck at an altitude of 3,089 meters, has a perfect shape from every angle. The contrast between the snow-capped peak and the blue sky had me snapping photos again and again. While enjoying a snack at the observation deck, I gazed out at the glaciers and valleys of the distant mountains, and was simply overwhelmed by the majesty of nature.

What particularly impressed me during my stay in Zermatt was the respect the townspeople have for nature. Their attentive consideration for climbers and tourists alike shows that environmental protection is a part of their daily lives. Local restaurants served dishes made with cheese, ham, and local vegetables, which were soothing to my tired body.

I fell asleep gazing at the silhouette of the Matterhorn from my lodging window. The mountain's appearance in the morning glow, completely different from that during the day, was deeply etched in my memory. Zermatt is not just a tourist destination; it's a place where nature and people live in harmony. Spending time here was a luxurious time to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and rediscover myself.

A trip to Zermatt is more than just mountain sightseeing; it's a series of unforgettable experiences. Next time I visit, I'd like to try hiking and skiing as well. The time I spend at the foot of the Matterhorn will truly be a treasured memory.
#Zermatt #Matterhorn #Switzerland

Post by 一人旅の歩き方 | Aug 20, 2025