Posted: March 03, 2018

Author: Béné Loeffel

Crans-Montana, more than just skiing:

Crans-Montana is a ski resort in the Valais Canton of Switzerland, situated on a sunny plateau at 1500m altitude, and one of the sunniest destinations in Switzerland. If you are in Crans-Montana in winter, you will of course be drawn to skiing, but if you are not a skier, there are many activities on & off the snow.

Crans-Montana with friends:

Discover the sport of curling, which is much more fun than you might think. The Centre-Sportif offers introductory classes with a curling specialist, who will teach you technique and offer advice on how to beat your friends. 

If you are looking for adventure, you can rent a fat bike, a type of mountain bike with super-fat tires run at low tire pressure, which float on snow-covered slopes and offer a super workout.

Afterwards enjoy après-ski or apres-bike, at one of the many bars in the village center.

- The Zerodix, is THE après-ski of Crans-Montana, with live music, DJ’s, and a festive ambiance.

- Bar Amadeus is another favorite for music and dancing.

-  If you’re looking for a more relaxed lounge atmosphere, try Le 66 for a vast selection of wine, cocktails and local craft beer.

- For something unique, test out the new Club Altitude Cry d'Er perched at 2220m, with a breathtaking view on the Pennine Alps and a top class electronic music program.

Crans-Montana with your other half:

Start the day with breakfast in Taillens, this artisan bakery has been serving Crans-Montana since 1943 in the mountain plateau. Don’t miss the Pain Paillasse Rustique, a slow fermented bread with a crispy multi-grain crust and soft airy center, and the Pomme Râpée, baked apples & nuts covered with a butter and streusel topping. With a full belly, head to the village center to attempt ice skating on the outdoor rink (skates and hot chocolate available on-site). In the afternoon, relax by the pool of the hotel Le Crans & Spa, surrounded by spectacular scenery facing the warm sun and magnificent mountain peaks. In the late afternoon head to the golf course (home of the annual Omega Masters golf tournament) to admire the sunset amidst the backdrop of the lower Valais valley, and surrounding peaks cast in pink and orange.

Crans-Montana with your family:

The "Snow Island" is a paradise for children. This special children’s area is outfitted with a variety of activities: sledding with a magic carpet, snow tubing, crafts at Bibi's house (the marmot mascot of Crans-Montana) and indoor and outdoor snack bar.

Families can also access the Glacier de la Plaine Morte by gondola, for a dog sled ride at 3000m. In bad weather, children can enjoy the Crans-Montana Climbing Centre, which has climbing walls suitable for beginners to advanced levels. In the afternoon, if you still have enough energy, try the "Funny Land", this indoor recreation center has bouncy castles and games for ages 2 - 12 years.