Dreaming Wide Awake in Crans Montana

Crans-Montana is one of those resorts that doesn't need to shout its greatness. Like its most celebrated resident, Sir Roger Moore, it exudes understated elegance, timeless charm, and an aura of mystery. On these very slopes, the James Bond of Moonraker and Live and Let Die rehearsed his lines and sculpted cinema's most iconic spy. What if a Bond villain's hideout were 2,000 meters above sea level? It would surely be here.

Alpine History with British Pedigree

At an altitude of 1,500 meters, overlooking the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc, Crans-Montana offers much more than just skiing. Officially founded in 1893 with the opening of Louis Antille's first hotel, it was the British Henry Lunn who discovered it for the world, first as a golf paradise in 1908, and then as a skiing pioneer with the first major downhill race in 1911. Since then, the resort has been synonymous with innovation, elegance, and athleticism.

Skiing for Everyone, and for Champions

With 140 km of slopes ranging from gentle beginner pistes to the demanding Plaine Morte glacier area (3,000 m), Crans-Montana caters to all levels. The La Toula descent, the legendary Piste Nationale (12 km), and the prestigious Women's World Downhill Championship speak to the competitive DNA of this resort.

The total vertical drop of 1,500 meters connects groomed slopes, touring routes, freeride, and Switzerland's second-largest snowpark, complete with an Olympic halfpipe. Additionally, there are 15 ski touring routes and 40 km of marked trails.

Sleeping at the Top

Hotel Chetzeron, at 2,112 m, is a well-kept secret. Accessible only in winter by skis or tracked vehicle, it is a former cable car station transformed into a boutique hotel. Natural stone, contemporary alpine design, a heated outdoor pool, and sunsets over Mont Blanc define this gem, which seems to be plucked from a Bond film.

Wellness and Design

At the base of the resort, Six Senses Crans-Montana offers 47 high-end rooms, a 2,000 m² spa, gourmet restaurants, and sun terraces. Six Senses private residences are also available for international purchase.

Steps from the center, the Crans Ambassador boasts spectacular views, a luxury spa with a 17m pool, suites open to the forest or the Alps, and a modern style that breathes mountain in every detail.

Also noteworthy are the cozy and family-friendly Art de Vivre, with its Tout un Art restaurant and wellness area; and the intimate and refined Hostellerie du Pas de l’Ours, a Relais & Châteaux member with fireplaces, jacuzzis, and the Michelin-starred Le Bistrot des Ours restaurant, by chef Franck Reynaud.

Haute Cuisine and Valais Flavors

Crans-Montana boasts over 90 restaurants, from the award-winning Le Mont Blanc (Le Crans) and Le Bistrot des Ours, to more casual gems like The Burger Lounge, with local ingredients and freshly baked bread.

For cheese lovers, Le Mayen offers a raclette tasting with five types of Valais cheese. And if Italy tempts you, CASI, a new restaurant managed by the daughter of former Swiss President Adolf Oggi, is a must-visit.

Nature, Culture, and Family Magic

The Bella Lui festival, held every December, fills Crans-Montana with lanterns, a Ferris wheel, storytelling, and evening shows for the whole family. But there are also adventures year-round: visits to alpine farms, transhumance with shepherds (recognized by UNESCO), amusement parks, and treasure hunts.

Land of Wine, Cradle of Fendant

The Valais vineyards unfold just below Crans-Montana, between 500 and 800 meters altitude, with over 50 varieties cultivated, including Petite Arvine, Cornalin, and the white Chasselas, the base of traditional Fendant. Wine routes allow visitors to discover small wineries, tastings among terraces, and views that rival the best European whites.

A Place That Has It All

Crans-Montana is not just a ski resort: it is a comprehensive alpine destination. It combines elite sport, five-star comfort, traditional culture, sublime gastronomy, and breathtaking landscapes. It is luxury, yes, but without the noise. A place where you might cross paths with a movie star… or your next more adventurous self.