4 Best places to stay in Zermatt

There are five-star ski hotels aplenty – but there’s only one Riffelalp.

Set in a small hamlet 2,200m up the mountain, above the town of Zermatt, it’s an isolated spot, but one that’s worth the (exciting) ride up (by train, then snowmobile), and one you won’t want to leave.

As you would expect from a five star, it comes with the usual complement of beautifully appointed, cosy bedrooms, fine dining, and exceptional spa facilities, making any stay an extremely comfortable one.

What really sets it apart is the jaw-dropping view over the magnificent Matterhorn – best appreciated from the steamingly warm inside/out pool.

It’s great for families, with plenty for the kids. There are other thrilling activities on offer, if you tire of skiing (or come in summer).

And given the location, it is of course ski in ski out that makes slope access so wonderfully quick and easy. Everything you need can be rented on site too.

The brainchild of local artist Heinz Julen, the 19-room Backstage is an art gallery you can live in – but calm and cosy too. All the furniture has been hand-made by Julen in his Zermatt workshop. It is part of a cinema complex and is pure theatre itself – each room is individually styled, with features such as free-standing baths by the window so you can watch the Matterhorn while you soak.

If you enjoy the art and design dotted through the hotel, take the lift to Heinz Julen’s gallery in the basement – where you can even commission your own lamp.

Zermatt is home to some of the most highly-rated, five-star hotels in the world, and The Omnia is one of the most outstanding.

The location is exceptional – the hotel is perched high on a rocky ledge above the town. Guests enter via a Bond-esque underground tunnel, which leads to panoramic glass elevators that whisks them up to the lobby.

Rooms are sophisticated and spacious, and some boast views of the Matterhorn from their balcony, with more stunning vistas from the indoor-outdoor swimming pool.

There are two things that make the Iglu-Dorf stand out among Zermatt’s many hotels. Firstly, the views – guests are treated to front-seat views of the Matterhorn as it turns pink and orange in the setting sun. Secondly, the sense of adventure. Located at 2,700m, just off the Riffelhorn piste on the Gornergrat sector, the igloo village is accessed by foot via a snowy path, or by skis via the slopes.

The igloos are basic but fun, and there’s a dining igloo for supper (meats, cheeses and fondue). It’s best for families with older children – rather like camping, with a wintery feel.