What is the Horu Trophy in Zermatt?

For official information, visit Zermatt travel info.

For the most up-to-date details, check Zermatt travel info before you go.

Matches take place on the Obere Matten ice rink in the village center. This location offers a unique atmosphere that indoor rinks cannot match. The crisp mountain air and bright sunshine make every game exciting. Spectators can walk right up to the edge of the ice. This closeness allows you to hear the stones sliding and players shouting. It is a truly immersive experience for any sports fan.

The tournament is open to both professional and amateur curling teams. This mix of skill levels creates a friendly and welcoming environment. Many teams return every year to catch up with old friends. The event is as much about community as it is about winning. You will see players sharing stories between matches at local cafes. For more information, visit the Zermatt Tourism website for official updates.

Winning the Horu Trophy is a prestigious achievement in the curling world. The trophy itself is named after the local dialect word for the Matterhorn. This connection to the land is very important to the organizers. They work hard to maintain perfect ice conditions throughout the four-day event. Even in 2026, the commitment to quality remains the top priority. The tournament continues to showcase Zermatt as a premier winter destination.

Horu Trophy Zermatt Event Schedule 2026

The 2026 tournament is scheduled to take place in mid-January. Most matches start early in the morning around 8:00 AM. They continue throughout the day until the sun sets behind the peaks. Each team plays several matches during the opening rounds of the event. You should check the Horu Trophy Zermatt event schedule 2026 for specific daily timings.

The first two days focus on group stages and qualifying rounds. This is the best time to see many different teams in action. Rinks are constantly busy with stones moving in every direction. The energy in the village is at its peak during these days. You can easily spend hours wandering between the different ice sheets. Most fans prefer to watch the morning sessions when the ice is fastest.

The final rounds take place on the last day of the tournament. These matches determine who will take home the famous trophy. The competition becomes very intense as the field of teams narrows down. You will notice a larger crowd gathering for the championship game. The award ceremony follows immediately after the final stone is thrown. It is a joyful celebration of sportsmanship and Swiss culture.

Evening events are also a major part of the official schedule. Many local bars host special gatherings for the curlers and fans. These social hours are perfect for meeting people from different countries. You can discuss the day's best shots over a warm drink. Some restaurants offer special menus specifically for the tournament participants. Always book your dinner tables in advance during this busy week.

Best Viewing Spots for Horu Trophy Zermatt

Finding the best viewing spots for Horu Trophy Zermatt is quite easy. The Obere Matten area is the primary hub for all the action. You can stand along the wooden fences that surround the rinks. This spot puts you just inches away from the competing athletes. It is the best place to feel the intensity of the game. Be sure to wear warm boots as you will be standing on snow.

For a higher perspective, try the terraces of nearby restaurants and cafes. Several establishments overlook the ice rinks from an elevated position. You can enjoy a coffee while watching multiple matches at once. These spots are very popular and fill up quickly in the afternoon. They offer a great view of the Matterhorn looming over the players. It is the perfect place for taking wide-angle photos of the event.

The bridge near the church also offers a unique vantage point. From here, you can see the entire layout of the curling village. It provides a sense of the massive scale of the tournament. You can watch the flow of people moving between the different rinks. This spot is excellent for capturing the overall atmosphere of Zermatt in winter. Many professional photographers use this location for their headline shots.

If you prefer a quieter experience, walk to the far end of the rinks. The matches further from the entrance are often less crowded. You can focus more easily on the strategy used by the teams. The players might even have time to chat between their ends. This area feels more like a local community gathering than a major event. It is a great way to experience the authentic side of curling.

Planning Your Trip to Zermatt for Curling

Zermatt is a car-free village, so you must arrive by train. Most visitors take the national SBB rail service to Visp or Brig. From there, you transfer to the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn. This scenic mountain train brings you directly into the center of Zermatt. The journey offers incredible views of the Swiss valleys and peaks. Once you arrive, you can walk or take an electric taxi.

Packing the right clothing is essential for enjoying the Horu Trophy. Temperatures in January often stay well below freezing throughout the day. You should wear several layers of high-quality thermal clothing. A windproof jacket and waterproof trousers will keep you comfortable for hours. Do not forget a warm hat, gloves, and thick wool socks. Good footwear with grip is vital for walking on icy paths.

Accommodation in Zermatt sells out months before the curling tournament begins. You should book your hotel or apartment as early as possible. Look for places near the village center to minimize your daily walking. Staying near the Obere Matten rinks will save you a lot of time. Prices are higher during this peak season, so plan your budget carefully. Many hotels require a minimum stay of three to five nights.

Eating out in Zermatt can be expensive during major winter events. Expect to pay around 25 to 40 CHF for a standard lunch. Many spectators save money by buying snacks at the local Coop supermarket. There are also food stalls near the rinks selling sausages and soup. These are affordable and convenient options for a quick meal between matches. Always carry some cash for small purchases at the outdoor stalls.

Exploring Outdoor Curling Rinks in Zermatt

If the tournament inspires you, you can try the sport yourself. Zermatt has several outdoor curling rinks in Zermatt Switzerland for public use. These rinks are often available when the tournament matches are not scheduled. You can rent stones and brooms from the local sports centers. It is a fun way to spend an afternoon with friends. Even beginners can learn the basic movements in a short time.

The village offers curling lessons for those who want to improve. Local instructors can teach you the proper sliding technique and delivery. They will also explain the complex rules and scoring of the game. These lessons are a great addition to your Zermatt winter events 2026 itinerary. Learning from an expert makes the experience much more rewarding and fun. Most sessions last about one to two hours.

Ice skating and hockey are also popular activities at the Obere Matten. When the curling ends, the rinks often transform for other winter sports. You can rent skates on-site for a small fee of 5-10 CHF. The atmosphere is very family-friendly and welcoming to all ages. It is a beautiful place to enjoy the alpine scenery while being active. The rinks are usually well-lit for evening skating sessions as well.

After a day on the ice, you should explore the local social scene. Zermatt is famous for its lively atmosphere during the winter months. You can find many bars offering live music and warm drinks. Check the Zermatt apres-ski winter schedule for the best spots to visit. Relaxing by a fireplace is the perfect way to end your day. It allows you to rest your legs before another day of curling.