Once
two small towns, Crans-Montana
is now a hub of European culture,
claiming almost 70 hotels and countless
après-ski activities. A
free transit system provides easy
access to hundreds of shops and
a plethora of eateries. In general,
this resort is most heavily visited
by Europeans, and especially by
the Swiss themselves—over
50 percent of visitors come from
within Switzerland. Prices are
considered relatively reasonable
compared to other Swiss resorts,
and there are over 50 restaurants
to choose from, a brand new casino
and a selection of cafés
and bars.
In winter, the Crans-Montana area
has about 160km
of ski slopes,
going from 1500m to 3000m at the
glacier's summit. There are 34
ski lifts, and the slopes are about
40% beginner, 56% intermediate
and 4% expert. While the resort
is know for its offer of challenging
slopes, holiday comforts as well
as great shopping, guests are treated
to an impressive view of the majestic
peaks from the Matterhorn right
round to the Mont Blanc. There
are 40 km of cross-country ski
trails and 60 km of groomed winter
hiking paths to offer a never ending
winter adventure.
In summer, for outdoor enthusiasts
there are 280 km of hiking routes
that extend between five mountain
lakes and forests. Other summer
activities include mountain biking,
horse riding at the Montana Equestrian
Center, archery, hot air balloon
flights and more. The European
Masters is also one of the top
events on the annual calendar.
The amazing Severiano Ballesteros
(18-hole) and Jack Nicklaus (9-hole)
golf courses boasts majestic views
of the Matterhorn. With its internationally
known Culture and Congress Centre,
Crans-Montana regularly hosts meetings
of world-famous political leaders.
Climate in this part of the world
depends on altitude. Summer is
quite warm on the lower levels,
although it can be wet. Ski season
in Crans-Montana is from December
to April.
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By Air
- Crans-Montana is in the heart
of the Valais, so from any major
European or North American city,
there is a choice of airports for
arrival. Approximate transfer times
are as follows:
-To Geneva International Airport:
2 1/2 hours
- To Zurich International Airport:
4 hours
- To Sion Regional Airport: 40
minutes
By Train
- TGV des Neiges’ – The
high speed train goes from Paris
to Sierre direct every Saturday
in the winter season. Or alternatively,
train to Sierre or Sion, bus
or funicular to Crans-Montana
(Montana
gare). Sierre railway station
is 25 minutes from Crans-Montana.
By Road
- Motorway A9 to Sierre, then
follow the signs to Crans-Montana
(approx.
15 km).
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