Matterhorn Named World’s Most Romantic Destination in New Analysis

Zermatt, Switzerland, has been named the most romantic destination in the world, according to a new analysis of nearly 1.6 million user reviews from couples. The study, conducted by travel operator Go2Africa and reported by Travel + Leisure, reveals a surprising result: iconic romantic hotspots like the Eiffel Tower failed to even place in the top twenty.

The majestic Matterhorn mountain, towering over the alpine village of Zermatt, secured the top spot. Reaching a height of 4,478 meters, the Matterhorn dominates the landscape and provides a spectacular backdrop for couples seeking a romantic getaway. Zermatt itself, a car-free community, adds to the allure, requiring visitors to park vehicles in the neighboring village of Täsch and complete their journey by train – a roughly ten-minute ride from Täsch.

Zermatt is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts, offering excellent conditions and breathtaking views of the iconic peak. The Matterhorn Glacier Paradise allows skiing year-round due to its high altitude. Europe’s highest mountain station also features an ice palace, cinema, and restaurants serving traditional Swiss cuisine.

Accommodation options range from cozy wooden chalets adorned with furs to stylish hotels. The Grand Hotel Zermatterhof, a renowned retreat for celebrities and royalty, offers views of the Matterhorn. For a more economical yet equally charming option, the Tradition Julen Hotel provides picturesque views of the “king of the Alps.”

Foto: Taťána Marenčíková, Novinky

An intriguing option is staying at the 3100 Kulmhotel Gornergrat, accessible via the historic Gornergratbahn cog railway. The journey itself offers unique views, and from the hotel and restaurant, guests can observe both mountain peaks and alpine wildlife. For stargazers, the hotel has functioned as an astronomical observatory since the 1960s.

Beyond excursions, sports, and impressive views, Zermatt offers pleasant walks along the river, enhanced by the absence of cars. Horse-drawn carriages and electric scooters are available for those who prefer not to walk. Numerous establishments serve cheese fondue, raclette, or rösti, complemented by excellent Valais wines.

No visit is complete without indulging in chocolate, with shops resembling jewelers showcasing the creations of renowned national producers like Läderach, Lindt, and Sprüngli.

Zermatt is not solely a winter destination. As the snow melts and green meadows bloom, it attracts active tourists and cyclists. With year-round activities and top-notch services, the Matterhorn and its surroundings received the highest ratings from 98.66% of couples, representing nearly a perfect score in the analysis.

America and Australia

The Bolivian salt flat Salar de Uyuni came in second, earning enthusiastic ratings from 98.55% of couples. During the rainy season, the over 10,000 square kilometer expanse functions as the world’s largest natural mirror, offering unique photo and video opportunities.

Foto: Shutterstock

Third place was awarded to Sydney Harbour in Australia, with a positive rating from 98.48% of respondents. The Opera House and numerous parks make it an ideal romantic location for walks, picnics, and sunset viewing.

Fourth are the Mauritian waterfalls Tamarin, also known as Les 7 Cascades. The system of seven waterfalls is popular for surrounding hikes, swimming, and wild tropical nature. Fifth is the Great Wall of China, sixth are Iguaçu Falls, the largest waterfall system in the world located on the border of Argentina and Brazil.

Seventh place was taken by the Grand Canyon National Park in the United States, eighth is Arthur’s Seat peak in Edinburgh, Scotland. Ninth place goes to Victoria Falls on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, and tenth place was occupied by the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi.

Of the 108 tourist destinations published in the overall ranking, none are located in the Czech Republic.