Skiing from Zermatt to Cervinia and back

Crossing into Italy for hot chocolate was a highlight of our Zermatt trip. The return is the part to plan first. Use this checklist to decide whether the crossing makes sense for your group on the day.

Check both directions before you set off

Open the operator’s live lift and piste report. Find the connection to Italy, select the ski option and check both directions. Check that your pass covers the areas you plan to ski and that the open route suits everyone in your group.

Work backwards from the last lift

Find the last listed connection in the direction you need to travel. Budget time to reach the lift from the village, queue and make each onward connection. Recheck the report before stopping for lunch or hot chocolate. Ask lift staff about the return if the weather changes or the status is unclear.

Make a plan for a closed crossing

If the cross-border route is closed or you are unsure about getting back, plan a ski day on the side you started from. Use the Zermatt resort guide or the Cervinia resort guide for ideas.

Where we stopped in Cervinia

Hotel Lyskamm is my hot chocolate stop. If you would rather stay on the Italian side, see my Cervinia accommodation guide. The Cervinia trip notes include footage from the day I skied across with Lyla.