What it is

A storied 1884, 65-room alpine getaway overlooking the Matterhorn, with wood-lined cozy rooms, three locavore restaurants, a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and ski-in, ski-out thrills galore.

What it isn't

A hotel you can drive to. Riffelalp is accessed solely by a cogwheel train or the highest tram in Europe.

What we think

Named for its elevation, Riffelalp Resort 222M is at the top in more ways than one. In the winter months, activities include everything from tobogganing and guided ski excursions to whooping it up in the on-site bowling alley; in summer, expect guided hikes, canoodling with calves and mountain bike rides across Zermatt’s many trails. Guest rooms are tricked out in Old World, fairytale charms and new ones alike, including knotty blonde wood paneling, Nespresso machines and L’Occitane toiletries. We personally can’t get enough of the Matterhorn Deluxe Junior Suite, which has a spacious sitting area and (you guessed it) windows and even a private terrace overlooking the Matterhorn’s pyramidal 14,692-foot-high peak.

You're here because

Rates include breakfast, spa access, and even a staffed kindergarten for potty trained kids 2-8 on winter weekend evenings (presumably so you can indulge in a much-needed date night).

The Moment

You’re not sure what’s making your day at the spa more magical: the blissful massage you had with oil scented by freshly-plucked alpine herbs, rock walled grotto cave with a sauna and waterfall, or the al fresco pool itself—reportedly the highest on the continent, and peering out on the snow-dusted, craggy Matterhorn itself.

Restaurants & Bars

Ristorante Al Bosco - elegant restaurant with sun terrace that offers Italian and Swiss Alps cuisine

Restaurant Alexandre - five star restaurant offering regional and Mediterranean cuisine

Bar 2'222m - spacious bar and sun terrace offering coffee in the morning, cold drinks and snacks at midday, afternoon tea, and pre-dinner or post-dinner drink in the evening

Restaurant Walliserkeller - cozy chalet and mountain hut atmosphere offering Swiss specialties

Vinothek - wine tasting experience

Location

The cow and sheep-dotted alpine valley at the foot of the Matterhorn, a postcard-worthy 15-minute train ride from the village of Zermatt.