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If you have done the things to do in Italy, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Crans Montana.
Nestled among the soaring peaks of the Swiss Alps, Crans Montana is a true jewel in Europe’s crown.
From skiing on glittering slopes to exploring quaint villages and savoring delicious cheeses, there is an endless array of things to do and see in this idyllic alpine wonderland.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply want to unwind in stunning surrounds, Crans Montana promises to delight and inspire.
So strap on your skis, dust off your hiking boots, and get ready to discover all the magic this breathtaking destination has to offer.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Crans Montana:
1. Crans-Montana Ski Resort
Crans-Montana Ski Resort is a popular ski destination in the Swiss Alps that offers visitors a range of downhill skiing and snowboarding runs, as well as other winter activities such as ice-skating and snowshoeing.
What to see or do: Hit the slopes and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps, or try out one of the resort’s many other winter activities.
Take a walk through the picturesque town of Crans Montana and indulge in some world-class shopping and dining, or relax with a spa treatment.
Don’t miss: The stunning views of the Matterhorn, Mont Blanc, and other Alpine peaks are not to be missed. Take a ride on the funicular to the top of Plaine Morte Glacier for an unforgettable panoramic view.
And don’t forget to check out the resort’s many bars and nightclubs for some après-ski fun.
Insider travel tips: If you’re planning to ski or snowboard, try to avoid peak times in December and February as the slopes can get quite crowded.
Book your accommodations well in advance, as the resort can get very busy during the winter season. And be sure to pack plenty of warm clothes!
2. Golf Club Crans-sur-Sierre
Golf Club Crans-sur-Sierre is a world-renowned golf course located in Crans Montana, Switzerland. It has 18 holes and a stunning view of the Alps.
What to see or do: Visitors can play a round of golf on the course, which has hosted numerous international golf tournaments. Non-golfers can enjoy the beautiful scenery and relax at the clubhouse.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the famous 7th hole, which is considered one of the most beautiful holes in the world. It requires a precise shot over a ravine to reach the green.
Insider travel tips: Book your tee time in advance, especially during peak season. Consider hiring a caddy for an extra special experience and insider tips on the course.
After your round, treat yourself to a meal at one of the club’s excellent restaurants.
3. Lac Grenon
A stunning alpine lake located in Crans-Montana, Switzerland.
What to see or do: The crystal-clear waters of Lac Grenon are perfect for swimming and stand-up paddleboarding. Surrounded by towering peaks and lush forests, this lake offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and picnicking.
Don’t miss: Take a stroll around the lake and savor the peace and tranquility it offers.
Insider travel tips: Try visiting early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the crowds. Pack a picnic and spend an afternoon relaxing on the shore.
Also, consider taking a dip in the lake after a long hike or bike ride to cool off.
4. Bisse du Ro
A historical irrigation channel turned hiking trail in Crans Montana, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Enjoy a beautiful hike along the Bisse du Ro trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding Alps and nature. The trail is approximately 6.
5 kilometers long and takes around 2-2.5 hours to complete.
Along the way, visitors can enjoy the peaceful sound of the water flowing in the canal and take in the picturesque landscapes.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Lac de Louché, a scenic lake located near the Bisse du Ro trail.
The lake provides a great spot for a picnic and is a beautiful location to relax and take in the natural surroundings.
Insider travel tips: It’s recommended to start the hike from the Signal de Montana, which provides an easy access point to the trail. Additionally, be sure to bring comfortable hiking shoes as the trail can be steep and rocky in some areas.
Lastly, make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, especially during sunny days in the summer.
5. Funitel Violettes-Plaine-Morte
Funitel Violettes-Plaine-Morte is a cable car system in Crans Montana, Switzerland that provides access to the Plaine-Morte glacier.
What to see or do: The cable car ride itself offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Once at the top, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding on the Plaine-Morte glacier, as well as hiking and mountain biking in the summer.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to step out onto the glacier and take in the breathtaking views.
The nearby Ice Pavilion is also worth a visit, where visitors can explore an ice cave and learn about the glacier’s formation.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit Funitel Violettes-Plaine-Morte in the morning to avoid crowds and make the most of your day. Dress warmly as temperatures can be chilly at the top, even in the summer.
Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning views.
6. Mont Lachaux II
What to see or do: Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and ice skating in the winter. In the summer, enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and golfing.
Don’t miss: The stunning panoramic views from the top of the mountain, the après-ski scene at the nearby bars and restaurants, and the luxury shopping in Crans Montana.
Insider travel tips: Book your ski lessons and equipment in advance to avoid the queues. Take a break from skiing and explore the charming Swiss village at the base of the mountain.
Stay in one of the luxurious chalets or hotels for the ultimate ski vacation.
7. Les Roches Artifisielles
A network of artificial lakes in the Crans-Montana region of Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy various water sports, such as paddleboarding and kayaking, or simply relax and take in the stunning mountain views.
The lakes are also surrounded by scenic walking and cycling paths.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the lakes, which are kept at a comfortable temperature for swimming even in the summer months.
Insider travel tips: Pack a picnic and spend a lazy afternoon lounging by the water’s edge. It’s also worth checking the events calendar as Les Roches Artificielles hosts concerts and other cultural events throughout the summer.
8. Centre de Réadaptation de la Faune Sauvage
The Centre de Réadaptation de la Faune Sauvage is a wildlife rehabilitation center located in the Swiss town of Crans Montana.
What to see or do: Visitors can tour the facilities and learn about the rehabilitation process for injured or sick animals. The center also features a museum with exhibits on local wildlife and conservation efforts.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the outdoor enclosures where the rehabilitated animals are housed before their release back into the wild.
Insider travel tips: – The center is a great destination for families with children, who will love seeing the animals up close.
9. Musée Yves de Laubier
Musée Yves de Laubier is a private museum located in Crans Montana, Switzerland. This museum is dedicated to the art and life of the artist Yves de Laubier.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the works of Yves de Laubier through a range of sculptures, paintings, and mixed media pieces. The museum also features a collection of pieces from other artists, including Jean Cocteau, Jean Dubuffet, and Alberto Giacometti.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the museum’s stunning outdoor sculpture garden, which features a collection of works by de Laubier and other prominent artists.
Also, keep an eye out for the museum’s temporary exhibitions, which showcase contemporary art from both Swiss and international artists.
Insider travel tips: – The museum can be quite busy during peak tourist season, so consider visiting in the shoulder season for a more peaceful experience.
10. Les Ecuries du Cheval Noir
A horse riding center located in Crans Montana, Switzerland, that offers a variety of equestrian services.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy horseback riding lessons and excursions on horseback in the beautiful Swiss Alps. Trained instructors cater to riders of all levels and will help customers choose the best horse for their skill level.
The center also offers pony rides for children.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps during the horseback riding excursions are a must-see. Riders of all levels can enjoy the stunning natural surroundings while experiencing the thrill of horseback riding.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to book in advance, as rides fill up quickly. Also, make sure to wear appropriate clothing and footwear for horseback riding.
The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, so don’t hesitate to ask them any questions you may have about the horses or the surrounding area.
11. L’Ecole de Ski et de Snowboard ESS Crans-Montana
L’Ecole de Ski et de Snowboard ESS Crans-Montana is a skiing and snowboarding school located in the picturesque Swiss Alpine resort town of Crans-Montana.
What to see or do: The school offers private and group skiing and snowboarding lessons with experienced and qualified instructors for all levels of experience. They also offer off-piste skiing, ski touring, and heli-skiing experiences for the more advanced skiers and snowboarders.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to take in the stunning views of the Swiss Alps while improving your skills on the slopes.
The school also offers night skiing under the stars every Tuesday and Friday from 6 pm to 9 pm.
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting during peak season, it is recommended to book your lessons in advance to ensure availability. The school also offers equipment rental, so you don’t have to bring your own gear.
Additionally, the town of Crans-Montana is home to a variety of restaurants and cafes, offering a chance to refuel and relax after a day on the slopes.
12. Jean-Pierre Lambiel Museum
The Jean-Pierre Lambiel Museum is a small museum located in the heart of Crans Montana, dedicated to the Swiss figure skating champion Jean-Pierre Lambiel.
What to see or do: The museum features a collection of Lambiel’s costumes, skates, and medals.
Visitors can learn about his career, from his early days as a young skater to his successes on the international stage.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the opportunity to see Lambiel’s Olympic silver medal up close.
Insider travel tips: If you’re a fan of figure skating or interested in sports history, this museum is a must-visit.
It’s a small museum, so it won’t take up too much of your time, but it’s definitely worth a stop if you’re in the area.
13. Ecomusée de Chandolin
Ecomusée de Chandolin is a museum located in Crans Montana, Switzerland that exhibits the traditional life and culture of the Valais region.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits, which include traditional costumes, furniture, and tools used by the people of Valais. The museum also has a section dedicated to endangered animal species of the region.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the reconstructed traditional Valaisan village, which gives visitors a glimpse into the daily lives of the people who lived in the region centuries ago.
Insider travel tips: Check the museum’s website for special events and workshops that are offered throughout the year. The museum is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.
Also, make sure to bring comfortable shoes as some of the exhibits are housed in buildings with uneven floors.
14. Col des Planches
Col des Planches is a high mountain pass located in Crans-Montana, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Swiss Alps and explore the surrounding hiking trails.
Don’t miss: Be sure to bring a camera to capture the picturesque scenery, including the Mont Blanc massif and the Matterhorn.
Insider travel tips: During the winter season, Col des Planches transforms into a popular ski area with a variety of slopes. Additionally, visitors traveling by car should be prepared for narrow and winding roads on the way up to the pass.