What it is

An iconic retreat in the shadow of the Matterhorn since 1852, with three exquisite restaurants and a boundless 18,000 square foot spa.

What it isn't

Just for grown-ups. Children are luxuriously pampered here, too, with their own kids’ pool, playroom, a winter ice rink, children’s dinner hour, and so much more.

What we think

When people think of Zermatt, they think of Mont Cervin Palace. Generations of Swiss families and glitterati across the globe have vacationed here, and no wonder: it’s luxury on high. “Alpine Style” guest rooms (starting at 269 square feet for a room for two) are traditionally appointed, with dark wood furniture, rich draperies and, often, views of the snow-dusted Mischabel mountaintops. For a more fairytale feel book a “Chalet Style” room; they’re sheathed ceiling to floor in blonde, knotty wood. Our current favorite: the 1,291-square-foot Chalet Suite Matterhorn, which sleeps four and has a balcony that peers out on the 14,692’-high, pyramidal Matterhorn. While you’re here, be sure to have a nightcap at Joseph’s Bar & Terrace, where you can sip a Prince of Wales cocktail to live music.

You're here because

There are multiple pools, including an indoor one kept at a constant 82 degrees year-round. Aaah.

The Moment

Grill Le Cervin is the type of restaurant the railroad barons of yore would have fantasized about…if they could get a table. Perched by the fire tonight, you do as Heidi might and order the summer venison—served with pumpkin, mushrooms and currants, and tasting like an alpine fable sprung to life.

Restaurants & Bars

Ristorante Capri : Michelin-starred Mediterranean fare

Grill Le Cervin : wood-fired fare for lunch or dinner in a casually comfortable atmosphere

Le Restaurant : upscale dining room serving international cuisines and themed buffets along with an extensive wine list

Location

Four blocks from the train station in the beating heart of Zermatt, and three blocks from the Matterhorn Museum—more cheekily called Zermatlantis—where you can delve into the backstories of area mountaineers.