Zermatt’s twin towns
Partnerships around the world
Zermatt's international friendships
Cultural exchange and appreciation form the backstory to Zermatt’s links with numerous twin towns. These partnerships have existed for years and developing further all the time. We have close contacts to cities in Japan, China, Italy and Portugal.
Portugal
Castro Daire
Castro Daire offers you a unique view of breathtaking landscapes, inspiring you to explore more straight away. In the distance you can see the Serra do Montemuro, a natural paradise with numerous streams on its slopes forming huge waterfalls that flow into the Paiva – one of the most beautiful rivers in Europe.
The Termas do Carvalhal are among the best spas in the country. You can embark on a journey of health and wellbeing here. Dare to discover the treasures that this region has in store for you!
Japon
Fujikawaguchiko
The city of Fujikawaguchiko lies at the northern foot of Mount Fuji, the symbol of Japan. The city is set amidst vibrant nature, including the Aokigahara Forest, the Fujigane Highlands and four of the five Fuji Lakes: Lake Kawaguchiko, Lake Saiko, Lake Shojiko and Lake Motosuko. The city is also surrounded by mountains: Mount Fuji and Mount Ashiwada to the south and the Misaka Mountains to the north – with the four lakes, unspoilt forests and meadows in between. Fujikawaguchiko, widely known as the home of Mount Fuji, is located in the centre of Japan. It takes just 1.5 hours by express bus from Shinjuku to Lake Kawaguchiko. You can also board the East Japan Railway's Limited Express, which runs on the Chuo Line, in Shinjuku.
Chine
Lijiang
Lijiang is situated in the north-western part of Yunnan Province. The old town of Lijiang is a historical and cultural place of national significance and a World Heritage Site. The old town of Lijiang was the political, economic, cultural and logistical centre of the Southern Silk Road, also known as the Tea-Horse Horse Road . Ancient buildings, villages and temples are located in and around the old town of Lijiang. The diverse landscapes of Lijiang are very well preserved. The Three Parallel Rivers region to the west of Lijiang is now a World Natural Heritage Site thanks to its extremely diverse landscapes, bio-resources and colourful ethnic cultures. As well as creating picturesque natural wonders, this country also nurtures and preserves a sacred ancient civilisation and unique cultures.
Japan
Myoko
Just below the summit of Hiuchi (2,462 metres), one of Japan's 100 famous mountains, lies the picturesque Lake Koya. This lake becomes even more beautiful in autumn, when the leaves turn intoxicating colours of red, yellow and orange. This magnificent scenery attracts climbers from all over Japan. An idyllic mountain hut next to the lake can accommodate up to 100 guests. Lake Koya was named one of the 31 most beautiful places in Japan by the American news channel CNN. The town of Myoko is full of fascinating places to visit and the surrounding ever-changing scenery is enchanting in every season.
Italy
Sesto
Situated in the easternmost valley in South Tyrol, Sesto is characterised by the mountain farms on the southern slope, the extensive larch meadows, the shady spruce forests and the Nemes Alm slopes, rich in Alpine roses. A village framed by the towering, famous peaks of the Sesto sundial. The mighty Dolomite cliffs are close enough to touch: Neuner, Zehner, Elfer, Zwölfer and Einser. This unique mountain formation is overlooked by the Dreischusterspitze and the Fiscalina valley – the most convenient gateway to the nature park with the Three Peaks at its heart, the valley leads right up to the rock faces.
Italy
Alfano
Alfano is a small village in the province of Salerno, in the Campania region of south-west Italy. The community is located in the heart of the Cilento National Park. Set on the gentle slopes of a sunny hill, this small town is the ideal place to relax, savour authentic local food and enjoy the magnificent panoramas of an unexplored nature that is still wild. Alfano is known for the warmth and friendliness of its inhabitants. Declared a Unesco site, Cilento is a fascinating region full of myths and tradition, where history, archaeology, culture, sea and nature blend harmoniously. Alfano is proud to be located right in the heart of this region. Cilento and Alfano are the perfect places for people who long for breathtaking sea views, wild nature and rural idylls that know how to pamper and delight with rich history and culture, tradition and Mediterranean cuisine.