Ski resorts
Crans-Montana: sunny skiing in Valais and where to stay
A sun-drenched plateau high above the Rhône valley, with views from the Matterhorn to Mont Blanc. This is Crans-Montana, one of Switzerland’s sunniest resorts, and the hotels with ski-in/ski-out access.
Crans-Montana sits on a sunny plateau high above the Rhône valley, and the first thing you notice is the light. The sun rises over the mountains early, and the view stretches across a long line of the Alps’ highest peaks, from the Matterhorn to Mont Blanc. It is a place that makes your shoulders drop.
Here elegance meets ease. Crans-Montana has boutiques, fine restaurants and luxury hotels, but the atmosphere is calm and unpretentious.
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The Valais plateau
Crans-Montana is made up of two former villages, Crans and Montana, which have grown together on the plateau. Around them lie forests, small lakes and golf courses, and in winter the whole area becomes a snowy landscape of pistes, walking trails and skating rinks.
The resort is known for its sunshine, and many come here precisely for the long, bright days.
The slopes and the glacier
The ski area stretches from the plateau all the way up to the Plaine Morte glacier, which offers snow-sure conditions high up. There are runs for every level, with wide descents and fantastic views. Crans-Montana has a tradition of hosting major ski races and has been awarded the 2027 Alpine World Ski Championships.
A day in Crans-Montana
The day might start with a trip up to the Plaine Morte, where the air is thin and the views are breathtaking. Through the day you follow the sun down the mountainsides, with lunch on a terrace overlooking the valley.
When the afternoon comes, it is time for a walk around one of the lakes or a break in the spa, before the evening brings good food and a glass of Valais wine.
When is the best time to visit Crans-Montana?
The season usually runs from December to April. January and February often bring good conditions, while March offers plenty of sunshine and longer days. Christmas week and half term are popular, so book early.
Skiing with children in Crans-Montana
Crans-Montana has ski schools, family-friendly runs and activities off the slopes, such as skating and winter walks. Choose a hotel with a ski bus or ski-in/ski-out access to keep the days simple.
Food and evenings in Crans-Montana
Valais is known for its wine, and Crans-Montana has many restaurants pairing local wines with Swiss and international dishes. Evenings are elegant yet relaxed, and you can choose between a gourmet dinner, a simple fondue or a quiet evening at the hotel.
Getting to Crans-Montana
The nearest major airport is Geneva. From there, take the train to Sierre and the funicular up to Montana, or drive up to the plateau.
The view from the plateau
What makes Crans-Montana special is the view. From the slopes you look across the Rhône valley towards a long line of the Alps’ highest mountains, and on a clear day you can glimpse both the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc. Many skiers stop in the middle of a run just to take it in.
Winter life off the slopes
Crans-Montana offers much more than skiing. You can walk groomed winter trails through the forest, go skating, try cross-country skiing or simply relax in a spa. The town also has shops and cafés, so it is easy to fill your days even when you take a break from the slopes.
Where to stay in Crans-Montana
Stay ski-in/ski-out, or in the centre for shops and restaurants. Here are three hotels we would happily choose.
Six Senses Crans-Montana: ski-in/ski-out and spa
A luxury hotel with ski-in/ski-out access and a spa, close to the Cry d’Er gondola.
Book your stay: See rooms at Six Senses Crans-Montana
LeCrans Hotel & Spa: views and calm
A luxury hotel with ski-in/ski-out access, a free ski bus and ski storage.
Book your stay: See rooms at LeCrans Hotel & Spa
Guarda Golf Hotel & Residences: an elegant base
A luxury hotel with a free ski bus, in the centre of Crans-Montana.
Book your stay: See rooms at Guarda Golf Hotel & Residences
Want to compare? See all our ski resorts or read about skiing in Verbier.
Frequently asked questions about skiing in Crans-Montana
Where should I stay in Crans-Montana?
Six Senses Crans-Montana offers ski-in/ski-out access and a spa, LeCrans Hotel & Spa has views and ski-in/ski-out access, and Guarda Golf is centrally located with a free ski bus.
Is Crans-Montana sunny?
Yes, Crans-Montana sits on a sunny plateau in Valais and is known for its many sunny days.
What is the Plaine Morte?
The Plaine Morte is the glacier at the top of the Crans-Montana ski area, offering snow-sure conditions high up.
How do you get to Crans-Montana?
Fly to Geneva and take the train to Sierre. From there, the funicular runs up to Montana.