Crans-Montana

Crans-Montana, an idyllic municipality located in the Swiss Alps, is positioned in the district of Sierre within the canton of Valais, Switzerland. With almost 10,000 permanent residents as of 2021, this alpine treasure swells greatly during peak travel seasons. Crans-Montana, perched on a sun-drenched plateau roughly 1,500 meters (4,920 feet) above sea level, provides amazing panoramic views of the Valais Alps, with the magnificent Weisshorn serving as a major backdrop to this alpine paradise.

As we know it today, the municipality of Crans-Montana is the result of a major administrative reorganization scheduled for January 1, 2017. Combining their resources and administrative systems, this merger brought together the once-separate communes of Chermignon, Mollens, Montana, and Randogne to create one administrative entity. This consolidation was a calculated action meant to simplify local government processes and improve the area’s capacity to more wisely control its resources and development.

Crans-Montana‘s history as a well-known location predates this administrative union; it began with the blending of two separate centers: Crans and Montana. Originally scattered over six municipalities, including Chermignon, Icogne, Lens, Mollens, Montana, and Randogne, these twin resorts—which have long been associated with luxury alpine experiences—were first four of these towns today form the new Crans-Montana commune; Icogne and Lens remain separate entities but still share in the reputation and economic advantages of the resort area.

Crans-Montana, in the French-speaking section of Valais, reflects the linguistic and cultural variety typical of Switzerland. Combining French-Swiss customs with international influences brought by its cosmopolitan guests and residents, this bilingual legacy gives the local culture a special taste. With its strategic orientation facing south and overlook of the Rhône Valley, the resort guarantees a very sunny microclimate with almost 300 days of sunshine annually. Crans-Montana has become a year-round destination as well as a winter sports paradise thanks in great part to this mild climate.

From a group of alpine communities to a world-class resort destination, Crans-Montana‘s development is evidence of the vision and business sense of its early founders. The area started to change in the late 19th century when the therapeutic benefits of its mountain air were first noted, and sanatoriums for tuberculosis sufferers were built. This first stage of growth set the foundation for what would eventually rank among Switzerland’s most popular tourist destinations.

Crans-Montana‘s prospective as a winter sports resort grew more clear as the 20th century went on. A turning point came with the building of ski lifts and the development of pistes in the 1950s and 1960s, elevating the area to become among top Alpine resorts. With 140 kilometers (87 miles) of painstakingly maintained pistes, Crans-Montana’s skiing area is today’s huge playground for winter sports aficionados. Rising to an amazing height of 2,927 meters (9,600 feet), the Plaine Morte Glacier is the crown gem of this winter wonderland. Pointe de la Plaine Morte Apart from consistent snow conditions, this glacial expanse gives skiers and snowboarders the rare chance to glide across an ancient ice field surrounded by some of the most breathtaking mountain landscapes in Europe.

Hosting the 1987 FIS Alpine World Ski Championships confirmed Crans-Montana’s standing in the field of alpine ski racing. This esteemed event confirmed the resort’s ranking as a top destination for competitive skiing by presenting to a worldwide audience its world-class amenities and difficult terrain. Today, Crans-Montana routinely appears on the World Cup circuit, especially for women’s speed events, preserving the legacy of this championship. These well-publicized contests not only bring elite athletes to the area but also greatly enhance the international reputation and economic life of the region.

Beyond its winter appeal, Crans-Montana has effectively positioned itself as a year-round location with a varied array of events and activities suited to a broad spectrum of interests. The summer months see the snow-covered slopes change into rich green meadows perfect for paragliding, mountain biking, and hiking. Summer vacations, wellness trips, and business events have made the area a popular destination thanks in part to its natural beauty and elegant infrastructure.

The Caprices Festival, a winter mountain pop rock extravaganza drawing music lovers from all around Europe, is among the highlights of Crans-Montana’s cultural calendar. Usually in April, this annual event brings together a varied mix of international musicians and emerging artists to create a special environment where the thrills of winter sports meet the excitement of live music against the backdrop of breathtaking Alpine landscapes.