The Cervinia/Zermatt ski area, also known as the Matterhorn Ski Paradise, is one of the largest and highest-altitude ski resorts in the Alps. It offers more than 350 km of interconnected slopes on both the Italian and Swiss sides of the iconic Matterhorn.
The resort stretches from 1,524 m up to 3,899 m, guaranteeing excellent snow conditions throughout most of the season. The slopes are divided as follows: 23% blue (easy), 69% red (intermediate), and 8% black (advanced).
Getting There from Prague
The drive from Prague to Breuil-Cervinia takes about 10 to 11 hours, covering approximately 950 km, depending on your route and traffic conditions.
Tolls & Vignettes:
Advert-------• Czech Republic: You’ll need a valid electronic vignette for using motorways. You can purchase it on edalnice.cz.
• Austria: A 10-day vignette costs around €11.50. Additional tolls may apply on specific roads, such as the Brenner Pass (€10).
• Italy: Italian highways are tolled based on distance, averaging around €9 per 100 km. Use autostrade.it to calculate exact costs.
Ski Pass Prices
Ski pass prices vary based on duration and access. For example, a 1-day adult pass in Zermatt costs around CHF 96, while a 6-day pass is about CHF 376. Combined passes covering both Cervinia and Zermatt are more expensive, but buying one from the Italian side can be up to €100 cheaper than from Zermatt.
Don’t Miss: Gornergrat Railway
One of the highlights of visiting Zermatt is the historic Gornergratbahn, a cogwheel railway that’s been operating since 1898. It climbs from Zermatt to the summit of Gornergrat at 3,089 m, offering breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and surrounding 4,000-meter peaks.
The ride takes about 33 minutes, making it a must-do panoramic experience. At the top, you’ll find a viewing platform, a hotel, and an astronomical observatory.
Fun Fact about Zermatt
Zermatt is completely car-free for combustion engine vehicles. Only electric cars, horse-drawn carriages, and pedestrians are allowed. This makes it one of the cleanest and quietest mountain resorts in the Alps—a unique retreat for relaxation.
Local Tips – What to Do Nearby
• Matterhorn Glacier Paradise: Take the highest cable car in Europe (3,883 m) for stunning panoramic views and even summer skiing.
• Lago Blu: A picturesque alpine lake near Cervinia, perfect for a short hike and some scenic photos.
• Aosta: A historical town nearby with impressive Roman ruins and a charming old town. Great for a day trip.
Where to Eat in Cervinia
• Ristorante La Chandelle: Elegant, fine-dining spot with regional Italian specialties.
• Bar Ristorante Metzelet: A cozy place for lunch or dinner with stunning mountain views.
• Wood Restaurant: Modern cuisine with a creative twist—combining tradition and innovation.
Accommodation
Breuil-Cervinia often offers more affordable accommodation compared to Zermatt. The village features a wide selection of hotels and apartments, and its location right under the Matterhorn makes it an ideal base for your ski holiday.
Whether you’re a beginner or an expert skier, Cervinia and Zermatt offer an unforgettable Alpine experience. From the scenic slopes to the historic train ride, this destination combines natural beauty, top-tier skiing, and cultural charm.
Enjoy your trip and see you on the slopes!