The Connection Between Zermatt and Vail: How a Swiss Alpine Village Influenced the Creation of a Colorado Village and Ski Resort in the Rocky Mountains

Authors

Thomas Quinn Marabello, Swiss-American Historical Society

Keywords

Swiss Alpine Village, Ski Resorts, Zermatt, Vail

Abstract

When one hears the places “Zermatt” and “Vail” we tend to think of skiing. Both are known worldwide for great skiing and beautiful mountains. While Zermatt has existed for centuries, Vail only became permanently inhabited by people after World War II. Zermatt did not become a well known place until the nineteenth century when adventurers sought to climb the Matterhorn, and then it became a popular tourist destination. However, Zermatt influenced the creation of the village of Vail, thanks to a man named Peter Seibert who spent time there and wanted to create a European Alpine style ski village in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. Zermatt and Vail continue to be visited by millions each year, and both share a unique connection thanks to the travels and plans of an American skier and developer.

Recommended Citation

Marabello, Thomas Quinn (2025) "The Connection Between Zermatt and Vail: How a Swiss Alpine Village Influenced the Creation of a Colorado Village and Ski Resort in the Rocky Mountains," Swiss American Historical Society Review: Vol. 61: No. 1, Article 4.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/sahs_review/vol61/iss1/4