THE FACTS ABOUT HOTEL RESTAURANT KULM GORNERGRAT

Switzerland

At an altitude of more than 3,100 metres, this is the highest hotel in the Alps, and from the large sun terrace (which seats 300) you can enjoy a truly magnificent view of the Matterhorn and surrounding Monte Rosa, Liskamm and Breithorn peaks. Stepping out after the 45-minute ride up the mountain railway, you face a 19th-century building (complete with huge telescope) that looks like something out of a James Bond movie a feeling intensified when you wander up the hill to find the terrace packed with ladies-who-lunch in sunglasses. There is an excellent fondue, and the platter of air-dried Valais meats is always a good choice; but winter or summer, the point about the Kulm Gornergrat is the view rather than the food. CONTACT Hotel Restaurant Kulm Gornergrat, Zermatt (00 41 27 966 6400; fax: 966 6404). Open 8am-4.30pm (evening meals available to hotel residents only). Closed mid-April to end of June and October to mid-December. Lunch about SFr80 (£35) for two people without wine; half board (including dinner) about £40 per person per night until 25 June; then about £52