The largest settlement in the Ursern Valley, Andermatt is a delight for winter sports enthusiasts. Typically covered with powder snow until late spring, the village also attracts cross-country skiers with its 17 miles (28 kilometers) of trails. Enjoy rewarding hikes across stunning mountain passes and visit some of the area’s interesting museums.
Take the Gemsstockbahn cable car to Gemsstock, which towers 9,721 feet (2,963 meters) above sea level Andermatt. With plenty of off-piste terrain and natural jumps and drops, this mountain is especially popular with freeriders. Non-skiers can enjoy exhilarating toboggan runs and picturesque sleigh rides. For experienced skiers, the highlight of Gemsstock is the trail to Gurschen, the Bernhard Russi Run, named for the legendary Olympic and World Cup champion, who was born in Andermatt.
Gain insight into Andermatt’s history at the Ursern Valley Museum. Housed in a gorgeous 18th-century building, this museum showcases a variety of permanent exhibits depicting valley life during the late 1700s.
Make Andermatt your starting point for hiking the St. Gotthard Pass. Set 6,918 feet (2,109 meters) above sea level, St. Gotthard Pass is one of Switzerland’s most beautiful mountain passes.
Investigate the National St. Gotthard Museum, a remarkable museum located on the St. Gotthard Pass. Housed in a 19th-century former customs post, the museum presents fascinating exhibits dedicated to the history of the pass. See historic weapons, uniforms, minerals and models, in addition to well-curated temporary exhibits. Note that the museum is open only in summer.
Andermatt is located in the Ursern Valley, at the junction of the St. Gotthard highway and the road leading to Oberalp and Furka. Take one of the regular train connections from Zurich Airport or Lucerne. Alternatively, it’s also possible to catch the bus from Airolo, but only in summer. Learn about life in the Ursern Valley at the town’s museums and then experience it for yourself as you enjoy picturesque hikes and ski trails.
