Things to do in Zermatt After your e-MTB Haute Route Adventure

So you’ve tackled one of the Alps’ most exhilarating e-MTB Haute Routes (like Chamonix to Zermatt, Verbier to Zermatt or Family and Friends), finishing up in the iconic town of Zermatt, where the Matterhorn watches over you. Why rush back home when you’re at one of the most scenic and culturally rich Alpine towns in the world? If you’re considering an extra day or two to unwind, explore, and experience the best of Swiss mountain culture, here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of Zermatt in two days after your biking adventure.

From historical sites to cosy cafés and spa retreats, here’s how to enjoy a balanced, easy-going stay in Zermatt – perfect for unwinding after days on the trail and sharing unforgettable moments with family or friends.

Day 1: Immerse in Zermatt’s Culture and Alpine Charm

Morning: Breakfast with a View

Start your day at Chez Vrony, one of Zermatt’s most renowned mountain restaurants with jaw-dropping views of the Matterhorn. Their breakfast is the perfect mix of local, organic ingredients and alpine flavours, served in a rustic yet refined setting. Kick back, sip your coffee, and let the panoramic views sink in – this is what a Swiss mountain morning is all about.

Late Morning: Take a Stroll Through Zermatt Village

After breakfast, wander through the cobbled streets of Zermatt village. The town has a fascinating mountaineering history, so take a moment to explore its charming wooden chalets, traditional shops and exclusive boutiques. Pop into the Matterhorn Museum, Zermatlantis, where you can immerse yourself in the gripping stories of early climbers and the local culture that has defined this mountaineering town. This museum provides a unique glimpse into how Zermatt became the celebrated destination it is today.

Afternoon: Lunch at Findlerhof

For lunch, head to Findlerhof, an Alpine gem accessible by a leisurely hike or a short lift ride from Zermatt. This family-run restaurant is famous for its rich, flavorful Swiss cuisine and offers a quintessential mountain dining experience. Try the rösti or lamb dishes, and pair your meal with a local wine or craft beer to fully indulge in the Swiss mountain vibe.

Mid-Afternoon: Scenic Walks with a View

Spend the afternoon exploring Zermatt’s light hiking trails, ideal for soaking up the stunning mountain scenery without overexerting yourself. The Gorner Gorge is a must-visit, offering easy walking paths through ancient rock formations and turquoise waters – a magical and peaceful experience after your Chamonix to Zermatt bike tour. For a more leisurely option, try the Five Lakes Walk (5-Seenweg), a moderate trail linking five crystal-clear alpine lakes with Matterhorn reflections. Ideal for photos, this walk is a feast for the senses and requires minimal effort.

Evening: A Casual Luxury Hotel experience

Wrap up your first day with a succulent dinner and a spa evening at Cervo Mountain Resort. Start with dinner at their in-house restaurant, serving locally sourced, seasonal Swiss dishes with a modern twist. Afterwards, treat yourself to Cervo’s Alpine spa, where you can unwind with steam baths, saunas and outdoor hot tubs while soaking in the mountain views. This is the perfect way to rejuvenate after exploring Zermatt’s sights.

Day 2: High-Altitude Relaxation and Iconic Views

Morning: Gornergrat Bahn and Breakfast with a Peak

Kick off your second day with a scenic ride on the Gornergrat Bahn, one of Europe’s highest open-air cog railway. The journey to the Gornergrat summit is filled with breathtaking views of Zermatt’s peaks, glaciers and valleys, including unparalleled views of the Matterhorn. At the summit, there’s a café where you can enjoy a relaxed breakfast with a panoramic Alpine backdrop.

Late Morning: Yoga or Light Hiking at Sunnegga

After descending from Gornergrat, take the funicular to Sunnegga, known as Zermatt’s “sun terrace.” You’ll find plenty of gentle walking paths here, but if you’re in the mood for something more meditative, Sunnegga often hosts outdoor yoga sessions with the Matterhorn in view. Whether a light hike or a serene yoga class, the fresh air and sweeping vistas are a perfect follow-up to your morning on the Gornergrat.

Afternoon: A Picnic Lunch with a View

Pick up a selection of local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh bread from one of Zermatt’s gourmet shops or bakeries (we recommend Bäckerei Fuchs) and head out for a picnic. Find a cosy spot at Leisee, one of the lakes along the Five Lakes Walk, and enjoy your lunch in a tranquil, natural setting with Matterhorn reflections on the water. A scenic, simple experience that lets you fully immerse yourself in the Alpine surroundings.

Late Afternoon: Wine Tasting at Europe’s Highest Vineyards

Head down to the village for a wine-tasting session featuring local Valais wines. The Valais region, where Zermatt is located, is famous for its distinctive wines from high-altitude vineyards. Many wine bars offer tastings, and some even specialise in Swiss wines exclusively, like Weinbar by Josef-Marie Chanton. Don’t miss tasting Heida, a rare white grape variety grown at some of Europe’s highest altitudes.

Evening: A Farewell Dinner at Zum See

End your weekend with dinner at Zum See, an idyllic restaurant hidden in a small hamlet just above Zermatt. The ambience is classic Swiss Alpine, and the menu combines Swiss and Mediterranean influences. Try the homemade ravioli or freshly caught trout paired with local wines for a memorable, authentic farewell dinner to cap off your Zermatt adventure.

Bonus: If You’re Looking for a Little More Adventure…

If you still have some energy left after your Haute Route experience, Zermatt offers other light outdoor adventures, from paragliding over the Matterhorn to guided rock climbing sessions for beginners. These activities let you experience the Alps from a new perspective without the intensity of a multi-day bike tour. Check out local providers for options.

A Perfect Blend of Thrill and Chill

Zermatt is the perfect spot to wind down after your e-bike tour. Its blend of cultural charm, outdoor beauty, refined relaxation, and quintessentially Swiss hotel options make it a one-of-a-kind destination where you can recharge, explore, and savour the Alps in a whole new way.

So, when you’re planning your bike trip, consider an extra weekend in Zermatt – because the adventure doesn’t have to end when the mountain biking does. Are you ready to extend your Alpine adventure? Contact us for tips to help you plan the perfect stay in Zermatt after your Haute Route e-MTB tour. We’re here to make your trip unforgettable, from the thrill of the trails to the serenity of Swiss mountain culture.