A new multimedia attraction called 'Zooom the Matterhorn' opened on Gornergrat on June 1, 2021.
Located in the former Hohtälli cable car station, it offers immersive experiences like virtual paragliding and close-up views of the Matterhorn via periscopes.
The all-weather attraction is designed to appeal to all ages and is included with the Gornergrat train ticket in its opening year.
The project was realized within a year at a cost of 8.75 million Swiss francs, using the existing building structure.
Zermatt Community to Vote on New Regulations
The Zermatt community assembly on June 8, 2021, will vote on several new and revised municipal regulations.
Key proposals include a completely updated police regulation and a new organizational regulation to enhance transparency and citizen participation.
Revisions to the noise control regulation aim to create clearer rules for hospitality businesses and construction sites.
A change to the building and zoning code will establish specific locations for shared mobile phone antennas to ensure coverage while preventing uncoordinated placement.
Schools Tackle Media Literacy and Cyberbullying
Schools in the inner Mattertal have implemented a media education project for students to improve digital literacy and prevent online dangers.
The program addresses critical topics such as fake news, online safety, body image, and the specifics of cyberbullying.
The article highlights that children in Switzerland are criminally liable from the age of 10, making parental guidance crucial.
Parents are encouraged to stay involved and educate themselves, as children's speed with technology doesn't necessarily equate to competence or safety.
Zermatt's Spiss Entrance to Be Redeveloped
Zermatt is moving forward with a major project to redevelop the Spiss area, the main entrance to the village.
The plan includes a new one-way traffic system and two new bridges to improve traffic flow and safety.
Public spaces will be upgraded with new squares and a pedestrian promenade along the Vispa river to enhance the arrival experience.
The project aims to create a more attractive gateway that aligns with Zermatt's top-tier image and supports future development in the quarter.
Zermatt Re-Certified as an 'Energy City'
Zermatt has been re-certified as an 'Energiestadt' (Energy City), significantly improving its score to 73% for its sustainable energy and climate policies.
The municipality has strengthened its internal energy management, implemented stricter energy checks for building permits, and developed a comprehensive climate strategy.
Zermatt's energy supply is already around 60% from its own power plants, and organic waste is used to generate electricity and heat.
The town's next goal is to achieve the 'Energiestadt GOLD' label by further improving energy efficiency and expanding the use of local renewable energy sources.
Final New Electric Bus Nears Completion
The final new electric bus for Zermatt's public transport system is being completed by local firm STIMBO for the winter 2021/2022 season.
This completes a fleet renewal project that started in 2008, resulting in buses with higher capacity and greater comfort.
The locally-built buses are custom-designed for alpine conditions, featuring all-wheel drive and robust interiors to handle ski equipment.
The project involved significant innovation, including the adoption of modern lithium-ion battery technology for improved performance.
Reviving Zermatt's Historic Rye Cultivation
A local initiative is underway to revive the historical tradition of rye cultivation in Zermatt, which was once a staple crop.
The project began three years ago on a field in Zmutt, an area where terraced fields are still visible from the past.
The initiators are learning the traditional methods of planting, harvesting, and threshing with guidance from communities where the practice has been preserved.
This effort aims to reconnect with local heritage and potentially create an experience for others to learn about the entire process from field to bread.
Zermatt Bergbahnen Welcomes New Marketing Head
Patricia Huber will take over as the Head of Marketing and Sales for Zermatt Bergbahnen AG (ZBAG) on July 1, 2021.
She brings over a decade of marketing, international sales, and digitalization experience from the medical technology sector.
A regular visitor to Zermatt for many years, Huber's move is driven by a long-held dream to live and work in the alpine destination.
Her ambition is to leverage her outside perspective to enhance ZBAG's market position as an innovative leader in the premium tourism segment.
Zermatt Bergbahnen Launches New Summer Offers
A new summer experience offers early-morning trips to Stellisee to witness the sunrise reflecting on the lake, complete with breakfast.
In addition to the existing Bikepass, a new 'Bikepass light' has been introduced for more targeted access to specific trail areas.
A modern, new ski test center is being built on Trockener Steg, slated to open in autumn 2021 for a better ski testing experience.
Bikers are reminded that trails in the Tufternkumme area remain closed to protect its ecologically sensitive fauna and flora.
Grand Hotel Zermatterhof Named Hotel of the Year 2021
The Grand Hotel Zermatterhof has been awarded 'Hotel of the Year 2021' in Karl Wild's prestigious Swiss hotel ranking.
The award recognizes the hotel's successful modernization and innovative development, transforming it into a top-tier alpine destination.
The jury highlighted the hotel's ability to attract new guests while retaining its loyal clientele through excellent service and diverse dining options.
The hotel celebrates the honor with a team that also includes the 'Chef of the Year 2020' (Heinz Rufibach) and 'Sommelier of the Year 2020' (Peter Zimmermann).