Relative newcomer on the block, straight into the top 10 and a welcome addition to lunching below Schwarzsee, this stunning hut is more like a large conservatory with timber floors and sheepskin furnishings. And lamb is quite a theme here as the indigenous black-nosed sheep pasture on the meadows nearby in summer. So with historic lamb cutlets, the Shafer-Pasta a variation of aglio e olio with finely sliced lamb’s tongues ( exquisite) and a homemade lamb kasebratwurst, Chef Hubert Konig redefines ovine experience here below the Matterhorn.

Address: Matterhorn Trail, 3920 Zermatt Tel: +41 27 967 30 62 Email: info@matthiol.com Website. In the shadow of the breathtaking Matterhorn, the newly renovated restaurant Stafelalp is located 2,200 metres (7200 feet) above sea level, on the foothills of the mountains. Whether you are a skier in winter or a hiker in summer, Stafelalp is the optimum place to be in a serene mountain landscape because it has direct access to slopes in winter and hiking trails in summer.

Whilst we love Chez Vrony, Stafelalp runs it close in our view for its delicious mountain menu so again you will need to book to secure a table lunchtime. A mix of alpine classics, superb ravioli, or fine meat cuts (this includes the Matterhorn burger that is simply fine beef). The Findlerhof at the top of the Sunnegga Funnicular in the Findeln ski area is also a very good choice.

Nestled beneath the imposing north face of the Matterhorn, Stafelalp combines spectacular scenery with exceptional Swiss cuisine. This family-friendly restaurant is a highlight on the mountain, offering a creative menu that blends traditional Alpine flavours with a contemporary twist. Try the hot-stone dishes, or indulge in their range of fresh pasta and hearty soups.

Hiking time in reverse: 2 hours The route begins at the foot of the north face of the Matterhorn in Schwarzsee and through the pretty landscape around Stafelalp. It is worth noting that the sun disappears very early in the day during winter and temperatures can get very cold. There are pink markers approximately every 100 m along the route.

We stopped for lunch at the Jägerstube restaurant in Zmutt and had the dish of the day, fresh pasta with mushrooms, which was very simple but utterly delicious, and then got ready for the final descent to Zermatt. The walk had taken nearly all day, but had been so much fun and so enjoyed by the dogs.

Stafelalp” - Under the north face of the Matterhorn, the Julen family serves local specialties such as dried meats, cheeses and lamb from their own farm, as well as composed salads and lighter fare. Off the beaten path, with an incredible view and friendly service. www.julen.ch/en/stafelalp/welcome/

Down a meandering red run below Schwarzsee, this stunning hut is more like a large conservatory with timber floors and sheepskin furnishings. Lamb is the theme here as the indigenous black-nosed sheep pasture on the meadows nearby in summer. It also serves the best hot chocolate on the mountain!

A more friendly way down to Furi from Furgg is by taking the gondola back up to Swartzsee and then down either the Weise Perle or Stafelalp pistes, the latter passing under the dramatic north face of the Matterhorn, past the rebuilt Stafelalp restaurant and accessing the Hirli chairlift.

The imposing north face of the Matterhorn can be captured in both summer (by walking from Schwarzee to Stafel) and in winter (on the piste #52 to Stafelalp). Take some time to chill out on the bench and enjoy the view (and maybe set your camera on timer for a behind-the-bench selfie).

Higher up, at 2,200 m, near the foot of the Matterhorn itself, you’ll find Stafelalp and its enormous terrace. Only accessible by ski (via the #53 red slope), the locale is run by Maison Matthiol and was recently awarded 13 points by Gault&Millau.

The Stafelalp is a fine mountain restaurant with a unique view of the northern face of the Matterhorn. Located a bit away from the action on the Hirli, you can enjoy lamb specialties and very good wines.

You start your hike right next to the Schwarzsee cable car station and below the Schwarzsee. The descent takes you through an impressive landscape. So don’t forget a sunhat and sun cream.

We also love Zum Zee (just below Furi), which offers an equally charming but altogether more sophisticated dining experience, and the ever popular Stafelalp at Schwarzsee.

Staffelalp sits under the Matterhorn and has cosy lambs-wool chairs and a roaring fire, the sizzling steak on a hot stone is the dish of choice.