Crans Montana

Nick - Product Manager

"Crans Montana is known for its excellent snow conditions, in part due to the Plaine Morte glacier. The 11km run down from Plaine Morte is a long black run that is one of the most dramatic in the Alps. Also the après-ski scene is livelier than you'd think!"

 

Great for: Snow sure, apres ski, non-ski activities, relaxed skiing, learn to ski tour

CRANS MONTANA

Crans Montana offers skiers and snowboarders a picture-perfect setting, expansive terrain, and generous sunshine. Nestled on a sunny plateau high above the Rhone Valley in Switzerland's Valais region, Crans Montana offers a captivating combination of traditional charm and modern amenities.

The resort villages of Crans and Montana, both sitting at around 1500m, provide a vibrant atmosphere with a wide selection of hotels, shops, restaurants, and lively après-ski options. There is a free bus service to help get between the two towns and to access the ski lifts. Crans is seen as slightly more upmarket with several designer shops in a more pedestrian-friendly centre, but Montana is seen as the quieter alternative that is more family-friendly, but both have an equally calm ambience about them. Located in the French-speaking part of Switzerland, Crans Montana actually finds itself in the Heart of Switzerland's largest winemaking region, so if you were looking for an excuse to try some of the vino whilst out on the slopes or in the evening, you are in luck!

The ski area itself boasts a staggering 140km of pistes, catering to skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. The highlight is the reliable snow cover, thanks in part to the Plaine Morte glacier, which extends the ski season into late spring. Beginners can find their confidence on gentle slopes in Cry d'Er, while intermediates have a vast playground to explore across wide-open cruisers and scenic traverses. Advanced skiers will be thrilled by challenging black runs and off-piste adventures. Crans Montana is also a haven for snowboarders, featuring a renowned snow park with jumps, rails, and boxes to keep them entertained for hours.

Beyond the slopes, Crans Montana offers a delightful après-ski scene with cozy bars, sun-drenched terraces, and inviting restaurants serving up delectable regional specialties. For those seeking a break from the snow, there's a network of winter hiking trails, charming villages to explore, and even opportunities for snowshoeing or torch-lit descents for a truly magical experience. Whether you crave exhilarating runs down powdery slopes, breathtaking views of the majestic Alps, or a relaxing escape in a charming Swiss village, Crans Montana promises an unforgettable winter holiday.

Our top hotel picks for a ski holiday in Crans Montana: The Faern Hotel Valasia

SKI AREA OVERVIEW

Crans Montana has a lot to offer beginner and intermediate skiers, such as glacier skiing which is a real treat with stunning surrounding views of both the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc in the distance. The resort itself is at an altitude of 1500m but you can hop on one of Crans Montana's 28 quick and efficient lifts where you will be able to ski up to 2925m. With 140km of runs, there is a lot of variety to suit both first-time skiers and even the most experienced rider!

Most of the challenges for an advanced skier or snowboarder can be found off-piste, where guides can lead you to the best spots to get the adrenaline coursing through your veins! The resort is a mixture of woodland areas and vast open runs above the treeline. Also, with runs that cut through the boulders, there are plenty of different environments to test yourself in.

The runs in Crans Montana ski resort tend to get a lot of sun, but the pisteurs keep all the runs in great condition throughout the season to ensure everyone gets chance to cruise around the resort all season long. Crans Montana has one of the best lift systems in the Alps, meaning you have less time sitting on lifts and more time on the snow, which is always a big positive in our books on a short ski break! What with gondola stations coming out of each of the smaller resorts, it couldn’t be easier to get up the mountain too.

Ski holidays in Crans Montana await!