MEET THE TEAM
With a family history spanning two decades here, the Biners are proud Zermatters tethered to the valley and its Valaisian traditions, but with a finger on the pulse on what’s new and happening in Zermatt. Opened in 1986, Haus Theodul’s story begins with its founder: Thomas Biner. Joining the Swiss Alpine Club at 20-years-young, Thomas became one of Zermatt’s top mountain guides and went on to establish a portfolio of Zermatten businesses, now run by his children: John, Regula and Linda Biner.
John Biner and his friendly team are on-hand to help in Haus Theodul’s reception. Whether it’s advice on lesser-known hiking and off-piste routes, recommending the best place to eat raclette (a Valaisian speciality), or simply providing an extra home-comfort for your apartment, we have a wealth of insider knowledge to share. Meet our team below and find out their top seasonal tips and favourite Zermatten haunts.
John
I have been skiing on my home-turf of Zermatt for the last 35 years.
From heli-skiing in lesser-known terrain and ski instructing to ski touring with friends, skiing is a passion of mine and a way of life in the winter.
Kat
My favourite summer hiking route starts just 3 minutes from Haus Theodul.
Well signposted, this route takes you to breathtaking views and the best carrot cake in town at Eidelweisshütte. A 45 minute to one hour walk up a steep pine-scented path, you can squeeze this in and stretch your legs if you have a late afternoon arrival as no lift is required.Â
Andreia
My go-to for a swim and spa is Hotel Arca in terms of value for money. Its brine swimming pool and newly renovated spa area is a perfect place to wind down after a hike (or a ski in the winter).
My favourite outdoor option is Schalisee lake in Täsch where you can chill on the man-made beach next to the café or take a refreshing dip in the lake.
Alcina
If I am up in the mountains in the summer, I love the easy stroll up to the tiny hamlet of Zmutt to enjoy their amazing homemade ravioli with an Apero or glass of Heida.
I love how you sort of stumble upon it as it is hidden away from view, nestled amongst some old mazot huts and all outdoor seating: it offers a truly authentic Valaisan dining experience in a stunning setting, or just simply a picturesque place to rest and have a drink en-route.
John
I have been skiing on my home-turf of Zermatt for the last 35 years.
From heli-skiing in lesser-known terrain and ski instructing to ski touring with friends, skiing is a passion of mine and a way of life in the winter.
Kat
My favourite summer hiking route starts just 3 minutes from Haus Theodul.
Well signposted, this route takes you to breathtaking views and the best carrot cake in town at Eidelweisshütte. A 45 minute to one hour walk up a steep pine-scented path, you can squeeze this in and stretch your legs if you have a late afternoon arrival as no lift is required.Â
Kat
My favourite summer hiking route starts just 3 minutes from Haus Theodul.
Well signposted, this route takes you to breathtaking views and the best carrot cake in town at Eidelweisshütte. A 45 minute to one hour walk up a steep pine-scented path, you can squeeze this in and stretch your legs if you have a late afternoon arrival as no lift is required.Â
Andreia
My go-to for a swim and spa is Hotel Arca in terms of value for money. Its brine swimming pool and newly renovated spa area is a perfect place to wind down after a hike (or a ski in the winter).
My favourite outdoor option is Schalisee lake in Täsch where you can chill on the man-made beach next to the café or take a refreshing dip in the lake.
Alcina
If I am up in the mountains in the summer, I love the easy stroll up to the tiny hamlet of Zmutt to enjoy their amazing homemade ravioli with an Apero or glass of Heida.
I love how you sort of stumble upon it as it is hidden away from view, nestled amongst some old mazot huts and all outdoor seating: it offers a truly authentic Valaisan dining experience in a stunning setting, or just simply a picturesque place to rest and have a drink en-route.
Alcina
If I am up in the mountains in the summer, I love the easy stroll up to the tiny hamlet of Zmutt to enjoy their amazing homemade ravioli with an Apero or glass of Heida.
I love how you sort of stumble upon it as it is hidden away from view, nestled amongst some old mazot huts and all outdoor seating: it offers a truly authentic Valaisan dining experience in a stunning setting, or just simply a picturesque place to rest and have a drink en-route.
“BEST PLACE EVER!” National Geographic
“CLASSIC APRÈS-SKI SPOT” Afar Magazine
Clink your Clicquot after the last ski run of the day at Zermatt’s legendary Champagne Bar with views of the Matterhorn…
Open from December to April.