Crans Montana Resort Overview
Perched serenely at 1,500m, Crans Montana is a sun-drenched Swiss ski resort with the highest ski lift carrying you up to 3,000m. Located on a south-facing plateau above the Rhone Valley, it offers panoramic views of the Swiss Alps. The resort boasts 140km of pisted terrain, making it a popular choice for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
Originally two separate towns, Crans and Montana merged in the 1960s to form the modern resort we know today. Crans Montana is renowned for its luxury accommodation, with many upscale hotels, chalets, and apartments available for a lavish stay. The resort enjoys a lengthy ski season, usually from November until April, with its high altitude and favourable geographical position ensuring a steady snowfall.
Skiing in Crans Montana
With 140km of pisted terrain, Crans Montana caters to skiers of all abilities. Beginners will find a selection of gentle, wide slopes to find their feet, while more advanced skiers can challenge themselves on the more difficult runs. The resort’s highest point, the Plaine Morte Glacier, offers year-round skiing and is a must-visit for thrill-seekers.
Intermediate skiers will feel right at home in Crans Montana, with a variety of red and blue runs to explore. For a leisurely ski, we recommend the long, sweeping runs that lead back to the resort.
Crans Montana is also a paradise for advanced skiers. The resort’s black runs, such as the famous Piste Nationale, provide a thrilling challenge. For those seeking an adrenaline rush off-piste, Crans Montana offers an array of options, including the glacier area and the challenging couloirs.
Crans Montana is also home to a snow park, suitable for freestyle skiers and snowboarders of all levels, and hosts several freestyle competitions and events throughout the season.
Is Crans Montana Family-friendly?
Crans Montana is an ideal destination for families, offering a range of ski-in-ski-out accommodation and a wealth of activities for all ages. The resort has a pedestrianised centre, child-friendly restaurants, and a free sledging area. Crans Montana also offers reduced lift pass rates for children and teenagers.
Après-Ski Scene in Crans Montana
Crans Montana boasts a vibrant après-ski scene, with an array of bars, clubs, and restaurants. The resort offers a more sophisticated nightlife than some of its counterparts, with a focus on fine dining and high-end bars.
For those looking to unwind after a day on the slopes, Zerodix is a popular choice. With its large terrace and live DJ sets, it’s the perfect place to relax with a drink in hand. For late-night entertainment, Amadeus Club is a favourite amongst locals and visitors alike, offering an energetic atmosphere and a wide selection of cocktails.
Dining in Crans Montana
Crans Montana is home to a variety of excellent restaurants. For a gourmet dining experience, we recommend Le Mont Blanc, which offers a sumptuous menu and stunning mountain views. For a taste of traditional Swiss cuisine, head to Le Mayen, which serves local specialities in a cosy, rustic setting. If you’re looking for a quick bite on the slopes, the Plaine Morte Restaurant offers a selection of tasty dishes and breathtaking panoramic views.
How to Get To Crans Montana
The most convenient way to reach Crans Montana is by flying to Geneva Airport, which is approximately 2 hours away by car. Other nearby airports include Bern Airport (2h 30m) and Zurich Airport (3h). For those travelling by train, Sierre is the nearest station, with a 30-minute funicular ride up to the resort. If you choose to drive to Crans Montana, ample parking is available throughout the resort.
Crans Montana Insider Tips
- Enjoy a cocktail at the stylish and chic Le Bar Lounge at the Guarda Golf Hotel.
- Explore the resort via electric taxis, the only motorised transport allowed in the centre.
- Sample the impressive selection of wines at Vinothek Wallis.
- Stop by the Michelin-starred L’Ours for an unforgettable dining experience.
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