Matterhorn Focus by thetravellersdestinations2

Editor’s Notes

Traveling allows you to become so many different versions of yourself.

An Editor's Personal Escape to Zermatt's Design

Oasis

From the moment I arrived, the Matterhorn FOCUS Design Hotel captivated me with its seamless blend of modern design and breathtaking alpine scenery. The hotel's location, a stone's throw from the Matterhorn Express cable car, made exploring Zermatt's slopes effortlessly convenient. My room, with its floor-to-ceiling windows and private balcony, offered a stunning panoramic view of the Matterhorn, creating an unforgettable backdrop to my stay. The spa facilities, including the indoor/outdoor pool and various saunas, provided a welcome respite after a day of skiing. What truly set this hotel apart was the exceptional service; the staff's warmth and attention to detail made me feel like a valued guest. The Matterhorn FOCUS is more than just a hotel; it's an immersive experience that elevates a Zermatt getaway to new heights.

Section 1

Matterhorn FOCUS

Matterhorn FOCUS:

Where Design Meets the Majesty of the Matterhorn

Matterhorn Focus Design Hotel

Score:

Location 10/10

Staff: 10/10

Food: 8/10

Amenities: 10/10

Design: 10/10

Returning to the Matterhorn FOCUS Design Hotel for the second time reaffirmed my belief that this is truly one of the most amazing spaces on Earth. Nestled at the foot of the majestic Matterhorn, this 4-star superior hotel offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, design, and natural beauty.

The hotel's location, directly beside the "Matterhorn glacier paradise" valley

Enjoy the view of the mountain of mountains

station, is nothing short of perfect, earning a well-deserved 10/10 for convenience and breathtaking views.

From the moment I arrived, the staff's warm welcome and attentive service throughout my stay reminded me why I had chosen to return, solidifying their 10/10 rating. The individually furnished rooms, designed by renowned architect Heinz Julen, showcase an impeccable attention to detail, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning panoramic views of the Matterhorn. The hotel's innovative design, seamlessly blending modern aesthetics with Alpine charm, undoubtedly deserves a 10/10 for its unique and captivating ambiance.

The spa facilities, including the indoor/outdoor pool, sauna, steam bath, and saltwater pool, provided the perfect retreat after a day of skiing or hiking, contributing to the hotel's 10/10 score for amenities.

While the hotel doesn't have its own restaurant, the breakfast buffet was a delightful start to each day, offering a balanced and indulgent spread that earns an 8/10 for food quality. The cozy lounge area, complete with a fireplace, proved to be an ideal spot for afternoon tea or a relaxing evening with a good book.

The Matterhorn FOCUS's commitment to blending lifestyle, architecture, and nature creates an unforgettable experience that keeps drawing me back.. Its prime location, just a 10-minute walk from the village center and right next to key attractions, makes it an ideal base for exploring Zermatt's many wonders. As I reflect on my stay, I'm already looking forward to my next visit to this extraordinary hotel, where every detail contributes to a truly exceptional experience in one of the world's most beautiful settings.

“View of the Matterhorn and design combined with lifestyle”

FOCUS

Things to do

Things you

shouldn’t miss to do in Zermatt

Zermatt, a picturesque Swiss village nestled in the shadow of the iconic Matterhorn, offers a wealth of activities for visitors year-round. From scaling breath-taking mountain peaks and exploring glacial wonders to indulging in world-class cuisine and immersing oneself in rich Alpine culture, Zermatt promises unforgettable experiences for adventure

Gornegrat

The Gornergrat is a stunning alpine ridge in Switzerland, accessible by Europe's highest open-air railway, offering panoramic views of 29 peaks over 4,000 meters, including the iconic Matterhorn

ZOOOM

ZOOOM the Matterhorn at Gornergrat is an interactive exhibition offering visitors a unique, multidimensional experience of the iconic Swiss mountain through virtual flights, seasonal displays, and panoramic views

Glacier Paradise

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Europe's highest mountain station at 3,883 meters, offers breathtaking 360° views of 38 four-thousand-meter peaks and 14 glaciers across Switzerland, Italy, and France

Skiing

Zermatt boasts world-class skiing with 360 km of pistes across three interconnected areas, offering yearround glacier skiing and breathtaking views of the Matterhorn

The Traveller’s Destinations Mag

Riffelsee

Mountain Trekking? Yes!

Trekking to Riffelsee offers breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and surrounding Alpine landscapes. The most popular route starts at Gornergrat station, following a mostly downhill 2 km trail that takes about 35 minutes to reach the picturesque lake.

At Riffelsee, visitors have the opportunity to capture stunning reflections of the Matterhorn in the lake's still waters, especially during calm mornings or evenings. From Riffelsee, hikers can either return to Rotenboden station or continue their journey to Riffelberg, enjoying additional scenic vistas along the way.

The

swiss

town without cars

Zermatt is a peaceful, car-free Alpine town where visitors can unwind and enjoy the serene mountain atmosphere. It highlights the relaxed pace of life and opportunities for cultural experiences and social interactions that make Zermatt a unique destination.

Zermatt is all about relaxing to your heart's content, visiting a museum or two and conversing with fellow travellers

www.glacierexpress.ch/en

Excellence class: is it worth it?

The Glacier Express Excellence Class offers an unparalleled luxury experience for travelers journeying through the Swiss Alps. This exclusive carriage guarantees window seats with panoramic views, allowing passengers to fully immerse themselves in the breathtaking scenery as they traverse 291 bridges and 91 tunnels between St. Moritz and Zermatt. Unlike First and Second Class, Excellence Class provides a more spacious 1-1 seating configuration, ensuring comfort and privacy for all guests.

The culinary experience in Excellence Class is a significant upgrade from other classes. Passengers are treated to a welcome aperitif, followed by a gourmet five-course meal featuring regional Swiss cuisine, accompanied by carefully selected wine pairings. This gastronomic journey is further enhanced by an exclusive Glacier Bar, where travellers can enjoy fine cocktails and exquisite wines throughout their trip.

Compared to First and Second Class, Excellence Class offers a host of additional perks. These include personal concierge service, luggage handling, access to a private lounge, and an onboard tablet with infotainment system. The dedicated staff in Excellence Class provide attentive, multilingual service, ensuring every need is met throughout the journey.

While the Excellence Class ticket comes with a hefty price tag of around 742CHF (approximately €793) for the full St. Moritz to Zermatt journey, its value depends on the traveller's priorities and budget4 For those celebrating special occasions or seeking a once-in-a-lifetime luxury rail experience, the unparalleled comfort, exclusive amenities, and gourmet dining make Excellence Class a worthwhile splurge. However, budget-conscious travellers can still enjoy the stunning Swiss Alps scenery and a comfortable journey in First or Second Class, which offer similar panoramic views at a more affordable price point.