A Different Beginner Experience
Being a beginner in Zermatt offers a unique experience compared to many other resorts. Unlike typical ski destinations where beginners start at village-level nursery slopes, Zermatt introduces newcomers to skiing at dedicated learning areas up on the mountain.
This approach provides not only a more authentic alpine experience but also spectacular panoramic views from day one of your skiing journey.
Wolli Park at Sunnegga: The Zermatt Beginner Area
You will likely be headed to the Wolli Park at Sunnegga, the area most ski schools prefer for introducing new skiers to the sport. To reach Wolli Park, you’ll take the Sunnegga funicular from the village, a 7 minute journey that climbs over 650 meters through the mountain – an exciting experience in itself before you even click into your skis!
Wolli Park features:
- Multiple gentle slopes perfect for first turns
- Several “magic carpet” surface lifts making it easy to return uphill
- A controlled, safe environment separate from more advanced skiers
- Stunning views of the Matterhorn (weather permitting)
- A cheerful atmosphere with instructors from many different ski schools
Other Beginner Options
While Wolli Park is the main hub for beginners, the Gornergrat area also has a beginners area that is used exclusively by the Zermatters Ski School largely for their kids groups.
WHO IS
WOLLI?
Where will I go after the beginner area?
Once you are out and about on the mountain, Zermatt has plenty of blue runs to help you progress.
Sunnegga
While you are at Sunnegga the next steps to progress are:
The next places to head are the easy terrain in Eisfluh and Findeln (runs 5 and 6) as well as more challenging blues higher up. Run 7 from Blauherd to Sunnegga is a great progression, just keep an eya out for the route around the steep section at the bottom. Run 14 from Rothorn to the mid station of the Kumme gondola is wide at the top and then gets more challenging, also worth bearing in mind you need to either download from the top or ski a red run after this to get back to Blauherd.
Where to go once you move on from Sunnegga?
Gornergrat
Gornergrat
Gornergrat has a great selection of blue runs around the Gifthittli chairlift (36, 37, 38 and 45). If you take the train up the mountain, be sure to jump off at Rotenboden. The blue from the top is actually quite steep and narrow and not a great start to the day if you’re at all nervous.
Klein Matterhorn
Klein Matterhorn
When you’re ready to tackle easier red runs, there’s no better run than from the Furggsattel chairlift at Trockener Steg (71). This wide run is not especially steep near the top and then eases into a shade of blue.
Should I take lessons?
It’s advisable to take lessons to safely learn the basic techniques. An instructor will also know when you’re ready to move away from the beginner area and will choose the best slopes to help you progress confidently.
What lift pass do you need as a beginner?
The ‘beginner ski pass’ covers the Sunnegga funicular, Wolli Park, Sunnegga-Blauherd lift, Eisfluh and Findeln chairlifts
Click here for more details on all the lift pass options and where to buy.