Cervo

Located in the hills above Zermatt, the Cervo features beautiful chalet-style accommodations and is the only five-star property in the village with direct views of the Matterhorn.

• The large, open terrace featuring multiple fire pits and lounging areas.
• The mix of modern minimalism and classic Swiss architecture.
• The Ferdinand restaurant, one of the hottest spots for apres ski drinks in Zermatt.

While Zermatt is one of the top ski destinations in the world, few properties there actually have a mountain focus. Most five-star properties are located in the middle of town which, while convenient, separates them from the hillsides that make the village famous. An in-town location also restricts views of the iconic Matterhorn, that iconic stone talon curling into the sky.

Cervo is the only property in the village that sits high on the northeastern wall of the valley, located right on top of the Sunegga funicular at the end of the Rothorn ski run. This makes it the only luxury ski-in/ski-out option in Zermatt. A new elevator in front of the property makes it only a five-minute walk from the heart of the village as well.

The hotel is divided into four chalets, each holding four separate rooms with views straight onto the Matterhorn (though many are somewhat obscured by trees). These rooms are fashionably minimal, with strips of wood and mirror framing the giant bed, and bathroom featuring beautiful marble and heated floors. While the hotel doesn’t have the classical charm of the Grand Hotel Zermatterhof, there's still a distinct element of Swiss design.

The real star of the property is the expansive terrace that sits lower on the hill. Featuring large, sunny tables for the summertime and plenty of firepits for the winter, this terrace is the focal point of the hotel and one of the best spots for après ski drinks in Zermatt. Inside, the Ferdinand restaurant offers a fresh, contemporary menu, which creates a new spin on traditional dishes.

Despite being fairly spread across the hill, the hotel still manages to have an intimate feel, due in part to the secluded nature and narrow pathways that link the chalets. While families are welcome, the property feels much more in tune with an adult crowd, and large groups congregating with drinks after a long day on the slopes is quintessential Cervo.

Cervo is best for couples looking for a ski-in, ski-out option and who don't mind being slightly further out of town than the other five-star properties in the village.