Best Family Picnic Spots Along Zermatt Walking Trails
Zermatt is a dream destination for families seeking adventure in the Swiss Alps during 2026. You will find many beautiful family picnic spots along Zermatt walking trails this summer season. These scenic areas provide the perfect place to rest while enjoying the mountain views. This guide highlights the best locations for a relaxing lunch with your loved ones.
Sunnegga Playground and Leisee Lake Picnic
Leisee Lake is a top choice for families visiting the beautiful Swiss Alps during 2026. It sits at 2,232 meters above sea level near the very famous Sunnegga mountain station. You can reach it via the Sunnegga funicular in just a few very short minutes. The ride takes only four minutes from the heart of the busy Zermatt village center.
This popular spot features a large playground and several well-maintained public stone BBQ areas. Children love the wooden raft that moves slowly across the cold and clear water. You will find plenty of wooden benches for your family to sit and eat. The Matterhorn reflects beautifully in the clear lake on a bright and sunny day.
Pack some delicious Swiss cheese and fresh bread for your lunch in the mountains. Public wood supplies are often available at the fire pits for your cooking needs. Remember to bring matches or a lighter to start your fire for the grill. It is one of the best easy family walks in Zermatt for a fun summer day.
Schalisee Lake Picnic Area in Täsch Village
Schalisee Lake is located in the nearby village of Täsch just below the Zermatt valley. It is a peaceful spot away from the crowds of the main tourist village. You can walk there from Zermatt in about one hour on a flat path. The path follows the Matter Vispa river downstream through the scenic and green valley.
This area offers many picnic tables and open green spaces for your family to enjoy. Tall larch trees provide plenty of shade for hot days in the middle of summer. You can use the public grill stations for a warm and tasty meal. It is a great addition to any Zermatt lake trails guide for your next trip.
The lake is shallow and safe for children to explore while you prepare the food. You might see local families enjoying a weekend afternoon in this very quiet park. There is also a fun water ski lift on the lake for older kids. Entry to the park area is free for all visitors throughout the entire year.
Findeln Village Meadows and Scenic Viewpoints
Findeln is a charming hamlet located high above the main village of Zermatt today. You can walk down to it from the Sunnegga station in a short time. The path winds through old wooden barns and beautiful flower meadows in the summer. It offers some of the most iconic mountain views in the entire Swiss region.
Look for grassy patches near the small historic chapel in the center of Findeln. These spots are perfect for a simple picnic blanket setup on the soft grass. You can watch the mountain goats grazing nearby while you eat your lunch. This route is part of the theme trails for children in the local area.
Kids will enjoy spotting marmots along the rocky edges of the walking path here. The walk is mostly downhill if you start from the top of Sunnegga hill. It takes about 40 minutes to reach the village at a very relaxed pace. Several mountain restaurants are located nearby if you need to buy extra cold drinks.
Family Picnic Spots Along Zermatt Walking Trails
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The Gorgelbach area is a hidden gem for local families living in Zermatt village. You can reach it via stroller-friendly walking paths from the busy Zermatt town center. The walk takes roughly 20 minutes from the historic church in the village square. This picnic spot sits right next to a rushing stream in the cool forest.
The sound of the water creates a very calm environment for a family meal. You will find several sturdy wooden tables and benches for your picnic lunch. There is also a small playground for younger children to enjoy after eating. The forest provides a cool canopy during the hot afternoon heat in July.
You can explore the nearby fitness trail after you finish your family picnic lunch. It is a perfect spot for a quick break from the main tourist paths. Most visitors do not know about this quiet location near the edge of town. Pack a light jacket as the forest can be chilly even in summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there public BBQ pits along Zermatt walking trails?
Yes, Zermatt offers several public BBQ pits with wood provided for your family lunch. You can find these at Leisee Lake and Schalisee Lake near the walking paths. Make sure to bring your own matches and cleaning supplies for the grill area during 2026.
Do I need to pay to use the picnic areas in Zermatt?
Most public picnic areas and BBQ spots in Zermatt are free for everyone to use. You only need to pay for the mountain transport to reach higher locations like Sunnegga. Areas like Gorgelbach and Schalisee are accessible by foot at no extra cost to you.
What is the best time of year for a family picnic in Zermatt?
The best time for a picnic is from late June through the month of September. During these months, the mountain weather is warm and the alpine flowers are in bloom. Most high-altitude trails are clear of snow and safe for children to walk on easily.
Finding family picnic spots along Zermatt walking trails is easy with a little planning. Whether you prefer a lake-side meal or a forest retreat, Zermatt has it all. Pack your favorite snacks and enjoy the fresh mountain air with your family today. Start planning your 2026 Swiss adventure to create memories that will last forever.