Nestled high in the Alps in the canton of Valais, Zermatt is famous as the mountaineering and ski resort closest to the Matterhorn, Switzerland's highest mountain. Even if you aren't a seasoned climber you'll still be drawn towards these impressive heights for the spectacular hiking, mountain biking and camping as well as the opportunity to take in the magnificent views.
While the town itself is a car-free zone, if you want a hire car in Zermatt to explore the region and visit some of the other ski resorts, you can get one at the neighbouring town of Taesche which is just 7km away.
Visit the Matterhorn Museum to find out about the triumphs and tragedies experienced by the many climbers who have attempted to climb the formidable mountain. You can also see the fascinating history of the town itself and its development from a quiet agricultural community into the tourist hotspot it is today.
For a full hiking experience, hire a car in Zermatt and drive across the French border to Chamonix to take the Haute Route six-day tour back to your lodgings. Or if you're feeling daring explore the impressive rock formations of the Gorner Gorge between Furi and Zermatt.
