Rothorn Night Skiing Schedule Zermatt 2026 Dates

The Rothorn night skiing schedule Zermatt 2026 follows the lunar cycle. Events usually take place during the full moon phases. You can expect events in January, February, and March. These months offer the best snow and clear skies. The 2026 dates focus on mid-month weekends for maximum visibility.

Check the official Zermatt Tourism website for exact calendar updates. Most sessions begin around 6:30 PM at the valley station. You must book your tickets at least two days early. Groups are limited in size to ensure safety on the dark slopes. These dates can change based on local weather conditions.

The scheduled dates for the 2026 season include:

• January 14, 2026 – Full Moon Session
• February 12, 2026 – Peak Winter Session
• March 13, 2026 – Spring Night Run

Always verify the night skiing events in Zermatt before you travel. High winds can lead to event cancellations. If an event is cancelled, you usually get a refund. Plan to arrive in Zermatt a day early. This gives you time to check the local forecast.

The Magic of Night Skiing Events in Zermatt

Skiing at night is a peaceful and thrilling experience. The moonlight reflects off the white snow and the Matterhorn. You will feel like you are in a dream. The air is crisp and very cold at this altitude. Most skiers find the slopes much quieter than during the day.

The Rothorn run is famous for its wide and open trails. This makes it safer for skiing in low light. Expert guides from Switzerland Tourism often lead the groups. They ensure everyone stays on the marked path. You will follow a line of glowing skiers down the mountain. It is a social event that brings people together.

Safety is the top priority for all participants. The resort staff checks the snow quality before every session. They mark the edges of the runs with special lights. You should be an intermediate skier to enjoy this event. Beginners might find the changing light conditions quite difficult. Always stay close to your group during the descent.

Dining and Fondue at Rothorn Restaurant

A major part of the evening is the mountain dinner. The zermatt night skiing and fondue dinner is legendary. You will stop at the Rothorn restaurant before your final run. The warm atmosphere is a great contrast to the cold air. You can enjoy a traditional Swiss cheese fondue with friends.

The restaurant sits at 3,103 meters above sea level. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The meal usually includes bread, potatoes, and local pickles. You can also order Swiss wine or hot tea. Dessert is often a light fruit dish or chocolate. This meal provides the energy needed for the ski down.

The dinner lasts about 90 minutes for most groups. It is a time to share stories with other travelers. Many people find this the best part of the night. The staff is very friendly and used to international guests. Make sure to mention any food allergies when you book. They offer vegetarian options for those who do not eat meat.

Essential Gear for Zermatt Night Skiing

You need the right gear for a successful night run. Temperatures on the Rothorn can drop well below freezing. Wear high-quality thermal layers under your ski suit. A neck warmer is essential to protect your face from wind. Ensure your gloves are waterproof and very well insulated.

Your goggles should have a clear or light-colored lens. Dark lenses are for sunny days and are dangerous at night. A clear lens helps you see the texture of the snow. Make sure your helmet fits properly over a thin beanie. Some skiers prefer to use a small headlamp for extra light. This helps you see the path directly in front of you.

Check your ski bindings before you head to the station. The cold can sometimes affect how equipment functions. If you need to rent gear, do it in the village. Most shops in Zermatt offer high-end equipment for all levels. Tell the shop staff you are going night skiing. They will give you the best items for low-light conditions.

How to Access the Rothorn Ski Area

Getting to the Rothorn station is very simple from Zermatt. You start at the Sunnegga-Rothorn valley station in the village. Take the funicular up to Sunnegga first. From there, you will board the cable car to the top. The Gornergrat Bahn is nearby but serves a different peak. Ensure you are at the correct lift station.

The journey to the top takes about 20 minutes. Use this time to enjoy the rising moon over the valley. The village lights look beautiful from the climbing cable car. You will meet your guides at the top station. They will give a short safety briefing before dinner starts. Follow their instructions carefully for a smooth evening.

If you stay in the village, use the electric buses. They are free with your ski pass and very reliable. The buses run frequently until the early evening hours. You can also walk to the station if your hotel is central. Zermatt is a car-free town, so walking is very common. Give yourself 15 minutes to get through the station tunnel.