In Europe skiing is as much about lunch as it is the runs that take you there, from rustic mountain huts serving wooden plates of local cheese and dried meats, to gourmet restaurants with menus and wine lists to compete with Michelin starred restaurants, Zermatt has something for everyone. Here are our favorites:
“Zum See” - in our opinion the best mountain restaurant in the world! The restaurant occupies a three-story wooden house that dates back to the 16th century. Inside there’s a snug dining room with low ceilings, tiny windows, and, on a shelved sideboard, an arsenal of glistening fruit tarts and rare Swiss and Italian wines. Outside, the seating sprawls from a stone patio out into a kind of tiered plaza amid the barns. Markus, the owners’ son, who apprenticed with Daniel Boulud in New York City, oversees the front of the house, while his father Max works his magic in the kitchen. The food is far from fussy – simple perfection with local ingredients. www.zumsee.ch
“Chez Vrony” - in Findeln, on the other side of the skiing domain (eat here when you're skiing the Gornergrat / Rothorn / Sunegga side). Incredibly homey, with amazing decor, the best view in the world, and amazing food. Run by Vrony, the sister of Heinz Julen, the renowned and quirky artist / architect / designer whose work is ubiquitous in Zermatt. www.chezvrony.ch
“Blatten” - just down-slope from Zum See. The mountain guides' favorite, classic alpine food, done exquisitely. The wild mushroom soup with puff pastry is a must. www.blatten-zermatt.ch
“Franz & Heidi’s" - Also in Findeln, and technically named Findlerhof, exceptional views, food, and hosts. Every bit as good as Vrony, served in a cozy chalet or on the small terrace with unsurpassed views of the Matterhorn. www.findlerhof.ch
“Flühalp” - Below the Rothorn, classic Swiss mountain food, killer views & the Fluhalp band. Excellent. www.fluhalp-zermatt.ch
Highlights
Epic Europe is a luxury experiential adventure travel operator based in the Swiss Alps.
Epic Europe specializes in private bespoke itineraries for small groups. Experiencing the best of each region, from interacting with the local people and enjoying authentic regional food and wine, as well as time-honored traditions and festivals, to recreating in the alpine landscape, and truly understanding why the Alps are the birthplace of adventure travel. From custom ski, hiking, or cycling trips to building in city tours, cultural itineraries, or gastronomic discovery, these award-winning, multi-dimensional trips are tailored to our clients' wishes every time, and are not packaged tours. From Switzerland, Italy, and France's Alps, to world-class cultural cities and larger towns, Epic Europe can design a tailored adventure that fulfills your every need.
Would you like more information, or to have us create a tailored trip for you? We would be glad to begin the design process for your ultimate experience in the Alps.
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