OffTrack Guide to Crans-Montana
Crans-Montana is the spot where Swiss luxury meets adventure. Delivering sunny mountain views, a boutique resort, and plenty of chill-out all at the same time.
SWITZERLAND
Alexander Dawes
10/4/20247 min read
Intro
Set high above the Rhone Valley on a south facing plateau, this place is all about jaw-dropping scenery and a mix of action and relaxation. With 140km of slopes, loads of sunshine, and views over the Valais Alps that will blow you away, Crans-Montana has everything you need for an unforgettable ski trip. Think classic Swiss style with World-class skiing to match.
Whether you're here for the snow, the scenery, or both, we've put together the ultimate Crans-Montana guide. Packed with insider tips, it covers all the essentials - from the layout of the slopes and snow history to the best places to grab food or unwind after a day on the mountain. Scroll down to the end for the secrets, resort map, and some handy contacts and links to keep you covered.
Ready to dive in?
Where is Crans-Montana?
Crans-Montana is located on a plateau 1500m high, above the Rhone Valley in the Valais Alps. Just above Sierre, in between Sion and Visp.
Transfer Time
Geneva (2hr15)
Bern (1hr45)
Zurich (3hr30)
Nearest airports
Geneva (180 km)
Bern (125 km)
Zurich (300 km)
Crans-Montana is where the magic happens - situated at 1500m, it is one of Switzerland's top ski hotspots with a history that’s over 125 years deep. Once two separate villages, Crans and Montana have fused into an epic playground offering jaw-dropping views from the Matterhorn to Mont Blanc.
For all you nature lovers, this place is a dream come true! Picture pristine lakes, lush forests, majestic glaciers, and even vineyards - it's a stunning landscape just waiting to be explored. The ski area reaches the mighty Plaine Morte Glacier at an altitude of 2,927m.
But don’t let the natural beauty fool you; Crans-Montana knows how to bring the urban vibe to the mountains. You’ll find luxury chalets, trendy boutiques, mouthwatering restaurants, and wellness centers to help you unwind after a day of adventure.
And when the sun sets, the fun doesn’t stop! The nightlife here is buzzing, with events like The Caprices Festival and World Cup ski races keeping the energy alive year-round. Crans-Montana is the ultimate Alpine hub, blending excitement and elegance all in one place!
The Resort Itself...
Pros:
Sunshine: Over 2,000 hours of sun per year
Modern lift systems and facilities
Minimal lift queues
140km of slopes: Huge diversity of slopes
Expansive off-piste terrain
Plethora of non-ski activities
Cons:
Quiet après-ski scene compared to other resorts
Expensive: High prices for accommodation and dining
Long and flat lower sections
Snow reliability on lower sections can be affected in warmer months
Check out this video guide to see what it's like at the resort...
Crans Montana Ski Area
1. Cry d'Er: The heart of the resort, with easy access from the main gondola and Arnouva chairlift. Perfect for intermediates and families. Chill, wide slopes, and a dope snowpark right below you. Plus, it connects you to the whole resort – can't go wrong!
2. Arnouva: If you're just starting out, this is your playground. Two magic carpets and a drag lift make it super chill for beginners. Easy access to Cry d'Er and a spot for some night skiing action (when the resort's in the mood).
3. Aminona: This is where you find those sweet, wide open slopes for cruising. Perfect for intermediates who wanna carve it up with some smooth turns. You’ll get killer views while you ski and even access to cross-country trails if you're feeling adventurous.
4. Marolires & Barzettes: A mix of everything – good slopes, skiing between cliffs, and super fun terrain that’s not too tough but super gnarly. Mostly for intermediates, but it’s a vibe no matter what.
5. Petit Mont Bonvin & Bella lui: Tougher red runs (with some yellow ones for variety), these sectors are all about pushing your limits. Serious skiers will love the thrill.
6. Les Violettes: For anyone above beginner and some killer mountain restaurants, to grab fondue between runs. Plus, it's the spot where you travel from Cry d'Er to Aminona – it’s like the gateway to the whole mountain.
7. Chetseron: A gentle, flat slope that leads down to the legendary mountainside hotel. It’s also home to a mini snowpark. After the hotel, things get spicy with a gnarly black run, all with sick panoramic views.
8. Plaine Morte Glacier: High-altitude vibes with insane views. It’s got a steep red run at the top and a long black one on the way down. Only for the advanced skiers who want to go big – the landscape here is unreal.
There is a plethora of freeride options in between each area too if that's your vibe! Stay Safe!
Summit elevation: 2927 m
Kilometres of pistes: 140 km
Vertical drop: 1500 m
Ski lifts: 19
Pistes: 41 (17 blues, 20 reds, 4 blacks)
Look here for our secret tips... ;)
Things to do in Crans-Montana
Skiing & Snowboarding...of course
Ice skating (Ycoor Ice Rink)
Sledding
Tobogganing
Bowling (Le Bowling.ch)
Hiking
Snowshoeing
Ski touring
Indoor rock climbing (Moubra Boulder Wall.ch)
Indoor Trampoline & Skate Park (Alaia Chalet.ch)
Cross-country skiing
Luxury Boutique Shopping
Plethora of wellness spas (Art de Vivre.ch)
Caprices Festival 2025
Crans-Montana Restaurants
Mountain Restaurants
Arnouva
Nestled in the beginner area, Arnouva is the perfect spot to kick back and recharge. Enjoy tasty local dishes that’ll fuel you for the next set of runs.
Cry d'Er
At the beating heart of the resort. A solid restaurant, killer views over the snowpark, and a buzzing après-ski vibe. This is where you’ll want to be for some après action.
Le 2006
Le 2006 serves up fresh, local flavors with a modern twist, with fireplaces when its cold and the roof open when sunny. Located on the way down to Arnouva.
Merbé
Known for its innovative approach to traditional alpine cuisine, this spot combines the best of local ingredients with bold, contemporary flavors. Located at the middle station of the Crans-Cry d'Er gondola.
Resort Restaurants
Au Centre Crans-Montana
Located in the heart of the resort, this spot has a diverse menu that caters to all tastes.
Bistro Circus
A lively spot that mixes international cuisine with Swiss style. Vibrant atmosphere and top-notch food – definitely a must-try.
Brasserie Gerber
Elegant setting with a menu full of delicious dishes. It’s not just about food – it’s about a refined dining experience.
Après Ski & Nightlife
Après
Zerodix
At the base of the slopes, Zerodix is the ultimate spot to unwind with cold drinks, good tunes, and great vibes.
Cry d'Er Club d'Altitude
Up high, Cry d'Er offers stunning views and the perfect place to relax with a drink after a day on the slopes.
Nightlife
Monk’is Bar
A favorite hangout for both locals and tourists, Monk’is Bar offers a lively atmosphere and great drinks.
New Pub
Great for a sit down drink, New Pub is perfect for relaxing and unwinding after a day on the slopes.
Le Constellation
Sophisticated and stylish, Le Constellation is the ultimate spot for night owls looking to keep the energy high.
Ref: (Zerodix.ch)
Ref: (Monk'isbar.ch)
Resort Map & Piste Map
Tourist office website: Crans-Montana Tourisme & Congrès
Tourist office phone: +41 27 485 04 04
For UK Visa & passport travel advice, visit here
Links & Contacts
Secret Tips
This is NOT advice. OffTrackSnowsports is not liable for any and all consequences from the following information. Skiing can be dangerous. Be responsible and follow safe practices.
Abandoned Gondola Station For experts only – from the Barzettes-Marolires-Violettes gondola, you’ll spot an abandoned station off-piste below Violettes. Drop down from Violettes, over the rollers, and you’ll find it. The way down is tough: steep, narrow tree runs with little snow cover – a true freeride challenge.
The Unknown Side of the Resort From Aminona, keep heading that way on the purple track, these are the cross-country tracks. There are almost no people, just clean snow and an eerie adventurous feeling, keep heading down until you have to choose to go to Barzettes of Aminona, pick Barzettes for the ski lift, at Aminona you're gonna have to get the bus.
Street Skiing When it snows in town, grab your shovel and boots and hit the streets, location on the map. Access easiest from the car park. When we were there, there were PVC pipes, ramps, and more, perfect to set up features - great for a cheeky urban session.
On a Powder Day If it’s a powder day, head up behind Bella-Lui from Cry d'Er. If it’s open, the bowl behind it with the drag lift is a hidden gem for fresh tracks – and we were still getting clean lines at last lifts!
Late Season Discounts Before the Caprice festival, Cry d'Er starts slashing prices – think a Corona high on the mountain in Switzerland for just a couple CHF. Perfect time for a slope pint!
Art de Vivre Hotel Spa and Gym After a day on the slopes, treat yourself to the Art de Vivre spa. Outdoor jacuzzi, saunas, pool – it’s the ultimate after ski chill spot. For regulars, they offer monthly passes and a 500 CHF season pass for unlimited access to both the spa and gym. No promo, just highly recommended.
Contact Details
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