Zermatt

Neill has worked with ES in Zermatt since 2015/2016. Returning year on year to teach seasoned holiday makers and those who are just discovering skiing for the first time. He is a patient and confident, inspiring instructor who will tailor your time with him, whether you want to ski hard and improve your technical ability, it’s your first time back on skis after a few years off or you’ve never seen snow and want to try something new and exciting.

Why did you choose to teach skiing?
I have always enjoyed coaching and learning new skills so I decided to get qualified! I haven’t looked back since!

What is your favourite restaurant in Zermatt?
For a relaxing break and great food, Blue Lounge is top of my list.

Where is your favourite part of Zermatt to ski?
In Zermatt my favourite place to go for a slide is the Schwarzsee area…although Furggsattel on a clear blue sky day is hard to beat. This question is too hard, next please.

What do you do in the summer?
I change what I do most summers, from roofing work to working in an opticians.

What top handy tip do you have for anyone visiting Zermatt?
We’re very high here and when it gets cold it can get very cold! There is no replacement for layered clothing, specific ski socks and ski gloves.

Why did you pick Zermatt?
There are many resorts but none quite like this one, Zermatt has a super comfortable vibe, great skiing, great food and a mountain that has been photographed more times than a new born baby.

Max is returning for is eighth winter in Zermatt. He looks forward to teaching both new and returning clients, no matter their level. He is also happy to show you the best lunch and coffee spots in Zermatt and Cervinia. Book him for the ultimate Swedish experience.

What is your favorite part of Zermatt to ski?
I enjoy cruising on Gornergrat. The wide, gentle slopes make it perfect for relaxed skiing. I also like stopping for lunch at Alphitta. Skiing over to Cervinia is another highlight, especially for the great food.

What makes you special as an instructor?
I have been teaching for nearly half my life. I speak more than four languages, which helps me connect with a wide range of clients. I bring experience, patience, and the ability to adapt to any situation. After eight seasons in Zermatt, I know the area inside out.

Max’s clients say:
“I booked Max Pettersson for almost a week of lessons and enjoyed every minute. He’s great fun and knows how to bring out the best in your skiing. I’m a very nervous skier so felt a real sense of achievement skiing red runs with Max. He knows how to give you confidence. Also great company for anyone- will definitely book him again”- TripAdvisor, 29 March 2026

“We really enjoyed snowshoeing with Max. He guided one of us solo on a couple of occasions, and both of us together as well. In each case, he struck a nice balance — encouraging, relaxed, and easy to be around. With high avalanche warnings and various closures, the trips could easily have been cancelled. Instead, he adjusted the routes and found safe, scenic alternatives. His experience in the region is clear, and we felt comfortable throughout. He also shared interesting insights about the landscape, the local people, and businesses along the way. We’d definitely go out with him again.”- Google, 21 February 2026

“Max was an excellent instructor, patient and fun!! My fiancé and I loved our first skiing experience; I learned to do turns in less than 3 hours! It’s amazing! Thank you so much, Max, for making us love skiing; we can’t wait to go back :)”- Google, 3 February 2026

 

Chloe Nicholls is the Director in Zermatt. She has been skiing from a young age, first learning on family ski holidays. She has many happy memories of skiing with her family and is passionate about helping others create their own special memories in Zermatt.

After graduating from university, Chloe followed her passion for skiing and the mountains and trained as a ski instructor. She has taught in the UK, Italy, and Australia, and has spent the past nine winters in Zermatt. She knows the best slopes in both Zermatt and Cervinia, along with all the extras that help make a holiday truly special.

Why did you choose to teach snowsport?
I chose to teach snowsport because I love skiing and being in the mountains. I grew up spending time in the mountains in both winter and summer. I enjoy sharing my passion with others and watching them progress and fall in love with the sport. Once you start skiing, you will love it forever.

What do you do in the summer?
For four years I travelled between Zermatt and Mt Buller Resort in Australia, chasing the winters in each hemisphere. For the past four years I have lived in Zermatt year-round, which I love. Summer in Zermatt is almost as amazing as winter – I spend my days hiking, road cycling, mountain biking, climbing, and much more. I would highly recommend a trip to Zermatt in the summer as well as in winter. 

Why did you choose Zermatt?
Zermatt is a very special ski resort that never fails to take your breath away. The skiing is fantastic, the scenery is stunning, and the village has a unique charm. The weather is excellent, and there are many great restaurants, bars, and spas to enjoy after a day on the slopes. And of course, there is the Matterhorn — even after eight years, I still never get tired of taking photos of it.

Chloe’s client say:
“Chloe was an absolute joy to ski with. She guided our family of four through five unforgettable days in Zermatt, thoughtfully tailoring each day to the weather and everyone’s abilities. Her patience, kindness, and deep knowledge made us feel completely at ease from the start. As American skiers, hiring a guide was new to us—but it ended up being one of the best decisions we made. Chloe made everything seamless and truly elevated the experience into something special we’ll always remember.”- Google, 3 February 2026

“Ever since our first time in Zermatt over five years ago, we have always skied with ESS. When our children were very little, just learning to ski, they did their group lessons which were wonderful. Since their groups are small, they received a lot of attention and we were amazed at their progress by the end of the week. Since then we have always skied with Chloe for our weeks in Zermatt. She’s truly the best. Not only knowing exactly where to take us, what lifts and runs are open, etc but also making sure we everyone has the best time. Planning time each day for the jump park for the kids and hardest runs for my husband. She is truly the reason I know how to ski! We tell all of our friends planning a holiday in Zermatt to use ESS and ask for Chloe!”- Google, 3 February 2026

“We got three full ski days in Zermatt and were lucky to have Chloe as our guide. She was amazing, a breath of fresh air. Chloe is a beautiful skier, in every terrain and ski condition. We asked for some instructions and she gave us great tips and taught us how to utilize her instruction. She showed us all over the mountains in sunny weather and stormy conditions. We always felt safe. She has great energy and knows Zermatt and all it has to offer on and off the ski slopes. She gave us great recommendations for food and activities. She was excellent and we highly recommend her.”- 12 January 2026