Crans-Montana is a splendid
and notorious top Alpine destination of Switzerland, a prestigious and renowned resort absolutely great to
spend sunny stays beneath a majestic glacier, the Plaine
Morte which with its 2,750 metres is like an imposing protector
of that very fascinating ski area in the French speaking part of the stunning Canton du Valais at approximately 40 minutes driving from its appealing capital Sion.
With an incomparable scenery among the most beautiful and attractive of the entire Swiss Confederation situated at 1500,0 metres of altitude that princess of winter sports lies in the fabulous Vallée du Soleil, the Valley of the Sun so called for its approximately 290 days of sunshine a year for the joy of a multitude of visitors.
Greatly hhighlighted by the presence of the enchanting Etangs, small, picturesque, Alpine lakes scattered all around the local boundaries they are certainly a further, magnificent attraction forming a very attractive frame bewitching in a while many people who immediately appreciate Crans-Montana for the outstanding idyllic image it offers in all its magic splendour.
In that centre of approximately 3,000 inhabitants you will immediately have the chance to be delighted by wonderful panoramic views overlooking the stupendous Rhône Valley crossed by that iconic waterway with the same name forming with its spectacular sinuous course an extraordinary post card of the most appealing Switzerland next to the splendid picture of the town of Sierre, the major centre of the district with the same denomination.
The resort is surrounded by some small captivating municipalities such as Chermignon, Mollens, Icogne, Lens, Randogne and Montana, all them located in the shade of that marvellous peak, scenic agglomerations which form all together an environment called Les six communes de Haut-Plateau, the six municipalities of the high plateau.
Each of them shows with pride a strong and marked identity next to another "sister" called Aminona closely linked to that group of Alpine centres for old historical and cultural relationships established for geographic proximity but also for a collaboration in terms of incoming tourism,a partnership born a long time ago.
Crans-Montana is since its successful consecration in the tourist elite panorama of the most demanded and admired ski resorts destinations in the globe and it is not a case that it frequently hosts stages of the Alpine Ski World Cup and was the seat of the FIS Alpine World Ski Championship celebrated in its boundaries in 1987.
All that thanks to its outstanding winter sports complex offering all the most advanced services and facilities established next to a stunning network of stupendous tracks composed by black, red and blue slopes, a presence which means the chance for skiing for everybody all year starting from experienced masters to beginners who can take lessons on pistes with a low coefficient of difficulty.
The renowned local Ski Schools boasting a high reputation are also protagonists in a Paradise born to offer the best features to learn and practise winter sports undoubtedly increasing the fame of a place more trendy and alive than ever always in constant development and constantly ready to delight a myriad of visitors in in terms of quality and organisation welcoming on its soil them in the best way.
In addition worth a a special mention that those marvellous spaces offer the chance to enjoy other trendy specialities such as snowboarding and freestyle in large areas which fantastically provide a very efficient and modern ski lifts system absolutely outstanding.
That pearl of the Canton du Valais is in addition a destination extremely loved by the most celebrated international Jet Set but also by a several ordinary people searching an unforgettable stay in one of the most enchanting corners of the Swiss Alps absolutely fascinating for its unique preserved natural environment offering a large variety of options to enjoy many outdoor activities.
The prestigious Golf Courses which arose in that area with an iconic Institution hosting one of the most emblematic trophies of the European panorama is undoubtedly a sort of bewitching siren constantly calling all those who love that sport with the chance to play it at the highest level.
The same is for the most passionate cyclists who will find in that resort and its immediate surroundings an Eden with a multitude of challenging itineraries across the legendary Alps in a place which is usual transit or arrival of stages of the famed Tour de Suisse and Tour de Romandie.
For other lovers of sport son two wheels as mountain bikers, they will enjoy a perfect habitat all around the six municipalities of the high plateau until Sierre thanks to the presence of a vast fan of different kinds of routes absolutely unforgettable which are also ideal destinations for many enthusiastic trekkers who can explore and discover along an endless network of spectacular trails a marvellous territory crossing fairytale valleys and reaching summits of incredible fascination.
All that is highlighted by an uncontaminated nature packed by virgin intact forests and verdant pastures, a perfect place to spend stupendous holidays in an area in which the word pollution does not exist for the total absence of industries, a feature which since a long time elevated Crans-Montana also as a fantastic and renowned Climatic resort.
The local hospitality industry very sensitive to donate the tourists enjoyable stays in its wide fan of options offers fascinating structures such as beautiful chalets, full equipped apartments and charming Alpine cottages.
They represent all together a large varied traditional network with a great choice satisfying every visitor in terms of location, budget and specific taste, certainly an inviting incentive to breathe the typical atmosphere of the land spending pleasant days in structures which totally reflect with their image the local spirit and identity.
That Swiss centre is furthermore a notorious Spa destination boasting excellent and modern establishments many of them hosted in superb and comfortable luxury Hotels ready to respond to all the needs and most demanding requests providing thermal baths, swimming pool and Wellness Centres next to all the most varied proposals in terms of therapies, fitness and relaxation treatments.
In addtion those superb accommodations are highlighted by stunning rooms and lounges simply perfect to plan every kind of event with very successful results.
Closely related to that Crans-Montana boasts in its boundaries a famed Casino, a notorious venue very appropriate to host celebrations of Congresses, Conventions and Meetings of success thanks to an outstanding capacity providing superb features, large halls, excellent facilities and a wide range of trendy services.
All the professionals of tourism specialised in Travel Incentive and in that fascinating niche called MICE can find in that pearl of the Canton du Valais a great headquarter to develop very interesting plans.
Tour Operators and Tourism Organisations very active in that specific branch will have not difficulties to create more than successful operations for the joy of the participants and the same for several Companies, Enterprises, Institutions and Associations with the same aim finding in that site a perfect base for their projects all year.
It is enough to mention that outstanding resort since 1989 hosts the summer session of the International Forum, an important meeting calling all the most relevant figures of the Political sphere in the world.
In addition linked to that topic Crans-Montana since a long time ago is seat of numerous prestigious festivals and cultural proposals which transformed it in a top destination also for a vast calendar of great appointments calling visitors from all around the globe.
Great communications with the easy chance to reach in a very short time many important sites of Switzerland by car, train and efficient bus services next to the splendid weather with many days of sunshine a year placed the resort in the highest International Ranking to organise something of more than superb.
For that many people have not hesitations to insert that Swiss resort in the top list of selected choices because it offers all the features to create something of extremely complete, trendy and appealing.
Historical, cultural and enogastronomic tourism are superb activities closely related to that, tourist proposals absolutely appropriate to conceive stunning eclectic packages thanks to a territory which offers a vast panorama of attractions with excursions, visits, from the Alps to Lake Geneva, the Rhône Valley and other magnificent destinations such as Sion, Martigny, Saint-Maurice, Raron well known to have a considerable monumental patrimony.
About the second topic, the Canton of Valais is famous to have a variety of 40 different types of grapes with an outstanding tradition linked to vineyards planted centuries ago producing great fine wines, superb cheeses and a gastronomy among the most varied and delicious of the entire Nation. For that it is a geographic area simply perfect to design stupendous itineraries and routes focused to those magnificent and attractive opportunities.
With an incomparable scenery among the most beautiful and attractive of the entire Swiss Confederation situated at 1500,0 metres of altitude that princess of winter sports lies in the fabulous Vallée du Soleil, the Valley of the Sun so called for its approximately 290 days of sunshine a year for the joy of a multitude of visitors.
Greatly hhighlighted by the presence of the enchanting Etangs, small, picturesque, Alpine lakes scattered all around the local boundaries they are certainly a further, magnificent attraction forming a very attractive frame bewitching in a while many people who immediately appreciate Crans-Montana for the outstanding idyllic image it offers in all its magic splendour.
In that centre of approximately 3,000 inhabitants you will immediately have the chance to be delighted by wonderful panoramic views overlooking the stupendous Rhône Valley crossed by that iconic waterway with the same name forming with its spectacular sinuous course an extraordinary post card of the most appealing Switzerland next to the splendid picture of the town of Sierre, the major centre of the district with the same denomination.
The resort is surrounded by some small captivating municipalities such as Chermignon, Mollens, Icogne, Lens, Randogne and Montana, all them located in the shade of that marvellous peak, scenic agglomerations which form all together an environment called Les six communes de Haut-Plateau, the six municipalities of the high plateau.
Each of them shows with pride a strong and marked identity next to another "sister" called Aminona closely linked to that group of Alpine centres for old historical and cultural relationships established for geographic proximity but also for a collaboration in terms of incoming tourism,a partnership born a long time ago.
Crans-Montana is since its successful consecration in the tourist elite panorama of the most demanded and admired ski resorts destinations in the globe and it is not a case that it frequently hosts stages of the Alpine Ski World Cup and was the seat of the FIS Alpine World Ski Championship celebrated in its boundaries in 1987.
All that thanks to its outstanding winter sports complex offering all the most advanced services and facilities established next to a stunning network of stupendous tracks composed by black, red and blue slopes, a presence which means the chance for skiing for everybody all year starting from experienced masters to beginners who can take lessons on pistes with a low coefficient of difficulty.
The renowned local Ski Schools boasting a high reputation are also protagonists in a Paradise born to offer the best features to learn and practise winter sports undoubtedly increasing the fame of a place more trendy and alive than ever always in constant development and constantly ready to delight a myriad of visitors in in terms of quality and organisation welcoming on its soil them in the best way.
In addition worth a a special mention that those marvellous spaces offer the chance to enjoy other trendy specialities such as snowboarding and freestyle in large areas which fantastically provide a very efficient and modern ski lifts system absolutely outstanding.
That pearl of the Canton du Valais is in addition a destination extremely loved by the most celebrated international Jet Set but also by a several ordinary people searching an unforgettable stay in one of the most enchanting corners of the Swiss Alps absolutely fascinating for its unique preserved natural environment offering a large variety of options to enjoy many outdoor activities.
The prestigious Golf Courses which arose in that area with an iconic Institution hosting one of the most emblematic trophies of the European panorama is undoubtedly a sort of bewitching siren constantly calling all those who love that sport with the chance to play it at the highest level.
The same is for the most passionate cyclists who will find in that resort and its immediate surroundings an Eden with a multitude of challenging itineraries across the legendary Alps in a place which is usual transit or arrival of stages of the famed Tour de Suisse and Tour de Romandie.
For other lovers of sport son two wheels as mountain bikers, they will enjoy a perfect habitat all around the six municipalities of the high plateau until Sierre thanks to the presence of a vast fan of different kinds of routes absolutely unforgettable which are also ideal destinations for many enthusiastic trekkers who can explore and discover along an endless network of spectacular trails a marvellous territory crossing fairytale valleys and reaching summits of incredible fascination.
All that is highlighted by an uncontaminated nature packed by virgin intact forests and verdant pastures, a perfect place to spend stupendous holidays in an area in which the word pollution does not exist for the total absence of industries, a feature which since a long time elevated Crans-Montana also as a fantastic and renowned Climatic resort.
The local hospitality industry very sensitive to donate the tourists enjoyable stays in its wide fan of options offers fascinating structures such as beautiful chalets, full equipped apartments and charming Alpine cottages.
They represent all together a large varied traditional network with a great choice satisfying every visitor in terms of location, budget and specific taste, certainly an inviting incentive to breathe the typical atmosphere of the land spending pleasant days in structures which totally reflect with their image the local spirit and identity.
That Swiss centre is furthermore a notorious Spa destination boasting excellent and modern establishments many of them hosted in superb and comfortable luxury Hotels ready to respond to all the needs and most demanding requests providing thermal baths, swimming pool and Wellness Centres next to all the most varied proposals in terms of therapies, fitness and relaxation treatments.
In addtion those superb accommodations are highlighted by stunning rooms and lounges simply perfect to plan every kind of event with very successful results.
Closely related to that Crans-Montana boasts in its boundaries a famed Casino, a notorious venue very appropriate to host celebrations of Congresses, Conventions and Meetings of success thanks to an outstanding capacity providing superb features, large halls, excellent facilities and a wide range of trendy services.
All the professionals of tourism specialised in Travel Incentive and in that fascinating niche called MICE can find in that pearl of the Canton du Valais a great headquarter to develop very interesting plans.
Tour Operators and Tourism Organisations very active in that specific branch will have not difficulties to create more than successful operations for the joy of the participants and the same for several Companies, Enterprises, Institutions and Associations with the same aim finding in that site a perfect base for their projects all year.
It is enough to mention that outstanding resort since 1989 hosts the summer session of the International Forum, an important meeting calling all the most relevant figures of the Political sphere in the world.
In addition linked to that topic Crans-Montana since a long time ago is seat of numerous prestigious festivals and cultural proposals which transformed it in a top destination also for a vast calendar of great appointments calling visitors from all around the globe.
Great communications with the easy chance to reach in a very short time many important sites of Switzerland by car, train and efficient bus services next to the splendid weather with many days of sunshine a year placed the resort in the highest International Ranking to organise something of more than superb.
For that many people have not hesitations to insert that Swiss resort in the top list of selected choices because it offers all the features to create something of extremely complete, trendy and appealing.
Historical, cultural and enogastronomic tourism are superb activities closely related to that, tourist proposals absolutely appropriate to conceive stunning eclectic packages thanks to a territory which offers a vast panorama of attractions with excursions, visits, from the Alps to Lake Geneva, the Rhône Valley and other magnificent destinations such as Sion, Martigny, Saint-Maurice, Raron well known to have a considerable monumental patrimony.
About the second topic, the Canton of Valais is famous to have a variety of 40 different types of grapes with an outstanding tradition linked to vineyards planted centuries ago producing great fine wines, superb cheeses and a gastronomy among the most varied and delicious of the entire Nation. For that it is a geographic area simply perfect to design stupendous itineraries and routes focused to those magnificent and attractive opportunities.
That Alpine Swiss land is certainly a big mine of golden chances,
a country which offers all year a very complete tourism but also more than ideal for many people looking for peace, serenity and
relaxation.
Another interesting aspect which makes Crans-Montana very special is linked to its micro climate with many sunny days highlighting its environment particularly loved by many tourists who desire to have enjoyable holidays returning home with a magnificent natural tan.
Closely related to those reasons, that stunning heaven of Switzerland also created that sort of myth with a multitude of visitors looking for warm sun rays flocking for that in that Paradise in the heart of the Alps.
The presence of numerous fine restaurants serving the best international and local cuisine of the Canton is another great incentive to taste the delicious gastronomy of that land next to a wide range of fashionable bars, stylish cafes and trendy clubs ideal to spend a very lively nightlife.
Worth a special mention the historic tourism which highlighted Crans-Montana and its immediate surroundings since a long time ago with the presence in the past of many illustrious and prominent characters highly attracted by that marvellous Eden boasting magnificent landscapes and a mild climate all year permitting them unforgettable sojourns.
Some of those famed figures who fell in love with that golden haven were Katherine Mansfield, famous writer from New Zealand, the notorious American poet Emily Dickinson, the iconic Russian composer and pianist Igor Stravinski and the renowned Swiss novelist Charles Ferdinand Ramuz among others.
All that undoubtedly supported the increasing incoming tourism with thousands and thousands of new visitors simply attracted to admire those places selected by such notorious personalities transforming Crans-Montana and its immediate surroundings in a very trendy usual destination calling anytime further people who for curiosity or to retrace episodes or anedoctes happened in those sites linked to those figures were and are for many as a sort of magic magnet.
Another interesting aspect which makes Crans-Montana very special is linked to its micro climate with many sunny days highlighting its environment particularly loved by many tourists who desire to have enjoyable holidays returning home with a magnificent natural tan.
Closely related to those reasons, that stunning heaven of Switzerland also created that sort of myth with a multitude of visitors looking for warm sun rays flocking for that in that Paradise in the heart of the Alps.
The presence of numerous fine restaurants serving the best international and local cuisine of the Canton is another great incentive to taste the delicious gastronomy of that land next to a wide range of fashionable bars, stylish cafes and trendy clubs ideal to spend a very lively nightlife.
Worth a special mention the historic tourism which highlighted Crans-Montana and its immediate surroundings since a long time ago with the presence in the past of many illustrious and prominent characters highly attracted by that marvellous Eden boasting magnificent landscapes and a mild climate all year permitting them unforgettable sojourns.
Some of those famed figures who fell in love with that golden haven were Katherine Mansfield, famous writer from New Zealand, the notorious American poet Emily Dickinson, the iconic Russian composer and pianist Igor Stravinski and the renowned Swiss novelist Charles Ferdinand Ramuz among others.
All that undoubtedly supported the increasing incoming tourism with thousands and thousands of new visitors simply attracted to admire those places selected by such notorious personalities transforming Crans-Montana and its immediate surroundings in a very trendy usual destination calling anytime further people who for curiosity or to retrace episodes or anedoctes happened in those sites linked to those figures were and are for many as a sort of magic magnet.
In more recent times that continued because the charm and appeal of the resort
captured the attention of famed Jet Setters such as the British actor Roger Moore, the Italian and French Actresses Sofia Loren
and Michèle Morgan who in addition decided to live in that sublime place buying a chalet to spend enjoyable times in that heaven.
Also the local history is extremely interesting because that
land was originally inhabited since the
Bronze era according to archaeological excavations with the finding of artifacts related to that concrete period found all around that high Alpine plateau beneath that majestic glacier.
The first recorded settlement was established by Celtic tribes mainly devoted to pastures and small trades living later the times of the Roman colonisation when they were assimilated during the campaigns led by the Emperors Augustus and Claudius in the 1st century.
Since then that territory was denominated Vallis Poenina, the Pennine Valley for that range of mountains corresponding to a section of the Western Alps encircling the current Canton.
The first recorded settlement was established by Celtic tribes mainly devoted to pastures and small trades living later the times of the Roman colonisation when they were assimilated during the campaigns led by the Emperors Augustus and Claudius in the 1st century.
Since then that territory was denominated Vallis Poenina, the Pennine Valley for that range of mountains corresponding to a section of the Western Alps encircling the current Canton.
In the 4th century the entire territory embraced the
Christianity during the time of the
Bishop of Martigny while in the 5th century it suffered a massive Burgundian invasion which determined the fall of Rome.
There was in that time despite a strong romanized society in which the use of the Latin was pretty rooted, a large part of the population speaking the Romance, a Sermo Vulgaris Latin, consisting in a sociolinguistic form opposed to the classical influenced by dialectal inflections.
The Burgundian rule endured for a long time with the Jurane Kingdom which reached peaks of historic prestige in the late 9th century before to be absorbed in the Holy Roman Empire in 1032 with the ascent of the Franks with the iconic Carolingian successions which had as famed rulers in the Ottonian Dynasty with the Liudofing family direct descendant of those Frankish Sovereigns.
Despite that the current Canton became an influential Duchy inside the Empire called Burgundia Minor led by the House of Zähringen formed by a German Swabian noble family.
Those times were highlighted by a territorial subdivision with the first basis of a marked feudalistic system inherited in the following eras by the successors.
There was in that time despite a strong romanized society in which the use of the Latin was pretty rooted, a large part of the population speaking the Romance, a Sermo Vulgaris Latin, consisting in a sociolinguistic form opposed to the classical influenced by dialectal inflections.
The Burgundian rule endured for a long time with the Jurane Kingdom which reached peaks of historic prestige in the late 9th century before to be absorbed in the Holy Roman Empire in 1032 with the ascent of the Franks with the iconic Carolingian successions which had as famed rulers in the Ottonian Dynasty with the Liudofing family direct descendant of those Frankish Sovereigns.
Despite that the current Canton became an influential Duchy inside the Empire called Burgundia Minor led by the House of Zähringen formed by a German Swabian noble family.
Those times were highlighted by a territorial subdivision with the first basis of a marked feudalistic system inherited in the following eras by the successors.
In the 13th century a large part of the local territories were integrated in the domains of the Duchy of Savoy
with the Duke Peter II as leader, well known to be nicknamed the
little Charlemagne, protagonist of a pretty long war against the Swiss Counts-Bishops, a rule continued with a notable influence in the following century especially during the times of Count Amadeus VI of Savoy culminated with the conquest of Sion.
The
famous revolt of Raron which took place between 1410 and 1420 was
the prelude of the first cooperation of the
Valais region with the Swiss Cantons in a period which was particularly relevant for the fall and final abolishment of the Feudalism in that territory.
All that was strongly consolidated since 1529 when that Francophone land became a strong allied of the old former Helvetian Confederation composed by eight States existed until the end of the 15th century.
The area reached a relevant political status when it became in the 17th century an independent Republic proclaimed in 1634 named République des Sept Dizains, the republic of seven tithings formerly formed by Sion, Sierre, Visp, Raron, Brig, Goms Leuk establishing all together a sort of State in the Upper Valais.
That Institution officially endured until 1798 when the French invasion led by Napoléon Bonaparte who strongly tried the annexation of those territories to France dissolved that Republic creating a very tense situation highlighted by riots against that occupier.
All that was strongly consolidated since 1529 when that Francophone land became a strong allied of the old former Helvetian Confederation composed by eight States existed until the end of the 15th century.
The area reached a relevant political status when it became in the 17th century an independent Republic proclaimed in 1634 named République des Sept Dizains, the republic of seven tithings formerly formed by Sion, Sierre, Visp, Raron, Brig, Goms Leuk establishing all together a sort of State in the Upper Valais.
That Institution officially endured until 1798 when the French invasion led by Napoléon Bonaparte who strongly tried the annexation of those territories to France dissolved that Republic creating a very tense situation highlighted by riots against that occupier.
The mountains around the current resort were protagonists of
several revolts in a partisan struggle facing the impositions of that French leader who integrated
those territories in a different reality under administration of a denominated Helvetian Republic which was the result of 13 Cantons ruled by France from 1798 to 1802.
A very strong local resistance was able to face the creation of that considered fictitious creation and since that year founded a new independent Republic which endured eight years until a further successful Napoleonic operation who did not want to loose those domains which took place in 1810.
Those Swiss lands were incorporated in the Department of the Simplon but all that lasted just three years when the Valais retook its independence entering in 1815 as official Canton in the Swiss Confederation continuing since then its history as part of Switzerland.
A very strong local resistance was able to face the creation of that considered fictitious creation and since that year founded a new independent Republic which endured eight years until a further successful Napoleonic operation who did not want to loose those domains which took place in 1810.
Those Swiss lands were incorporated in the Department of the Simplon but all that lasted just three years when the Valais retook its independence entering in 1815 as official Canton in the Swiss Confederation continuing since then its history as part of Switzerland.
Many artists since then when the new established Nation lived periods extremely peaceful with a notable political stability after tumultuous years often frequented Crans-Montana for its special climatic conditions due to the magnificent quality of its totally uncontaminated atmosphere, an aspect which elevated it as a beloved heaven for many people suffering respiratory diseases.
The resort reached very high peaks and an extreme popularity as Spa and climatic holiday destination since the late 19th century with protagonist the establishment of the first official accommodation, the emblematic Hôtel du Lac erected in 1892.
Just five years later in 1897 the opening of the Sanatorium Beauregard led by the founder, the Doctor Theodor was a further success becoming with the previously mentioned structure pioneer of a first fundamental chapter that certainly opened a golden era continuing later with extreme relevance and resonance with a popularity reaching several international borders.
The resort reached very high peaks and an extreme popularity as Spa and climatic holiday destination since the late 19th century with protagonist the establishment of the first official accommodation, the emblematic Hôtel du Lac erected in 1892.
Just five years later in 1897 the opening of the Sanatorium Beauregard led by the founder, the Doctor Theodor was a further success becoming with the previously mentioned structure pioneer of a first fundamental chapter that certainly opened a golden era continuing later with extreme relevance and resonance with a popularity reaching several international borders.
Those successful operations were sort of wings to fly towards outstanding goals culminated with a notable
call of numerous visitors who year by year flocked in Crans-Montana returning there in more occasions simply enchanted to spend days in an unforgettable Alpine Eden.
In the 20th century there was the birth of a new emergent tourist reality corresponding to the development of the first services of ski lifts officially installed in 1928 which since then were the engine to place that site as a notorious resort in continuous progress also for those skiing proposals.
In the 20th century there was the birth of a new emergent tourist reality corresponding to the development of the first services of ski lifts officially installed in 1928 which since then were the engine to place that site as a notorious resort in continuous progress also for those skiing proposals.
The incoming flows were immediately very relevant
with many Alpine ski lovers who apart to practise their favourite activity enjoyed at the same
time pleasant sunny stays with mild temperatures all year and in the meantime many other
tourists fervent fans of the Alps discovered the fascination of the Valley of the Sun
which permitted thanks to that unique feature to spend many hours outdoor also in winter season.
A bit later came the trendy times with protagonists
the famous tourist promotions of the resort with captivating mottoes such as tanned on the snow, sunshine and suntan
all year in the Alps and a long list of many others.
Obviously all that generated a further incentive and interest to visit that site 365 day a year from January to December and including someone was attracted for simple curiosity to test live that true reality which conquered an incredible number of people who had not hesitations after a first enjoyable experience to plan to return there as soon as possible once again.
Obviously all that generated a further incentive and interest to visit that site 365 day a year from January to December and including someone was attracted for simple curiosity to test live that true reality which conquered an incredible number of people who had not hesitations after a first enjoyable experience to plan to return there as soon as possible once again.
Also another niche of tourism became pretty developed since the 70's as Travel Incentive
when the resort focused all its virtues offering the great chance to discover
the high quality of all its features with a wide selection of superb and
comfortable stays combined with a rich local gastronomy.
Next to that spending holidays in Crans-Montana, a lot of travellers had the great opportunity to visit other stunning places as the eternally captivating Geneva with its wonderful lake and the glamorous Montreux well known for its famed Jazz Festival situated just 90, 0 kilometres away. (I wrote a post about that famed place if you are interested)
Next to that spending holidays in Crans-Montana, a lot of travellers had the great opportunity to visit other stunning places as the eternally captivating Geneva with its wonderful lake and the glamorous Montreux well known for its famed Jazz Festival situated just 90, 0 kilometres away. (I wrote a post about that famed place if you are interested)
In addition the 96, 0 kilometres of distance from Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, the French Queen of the Alps and
the excellent connections and communications with Martigny and Sion, splendid centres which offer great historic and cultural attractions gave Crans-Montana prestige and fame
worldwide with that wide fan of proposals attracting several tourists
every year.
Since the early 80's started also that trendy activity called tasting wines in the district
of Sierre and especially in the area of Lens. Many visitors were immediately impressed for
the quality of those products and much more surprised for the quantity of fine wines produced in a territory not too big able to create outstanding grapes not inferior in terms of quality to those of the nearest France.
Those divine nectars highly smooth, extremely palatable, highlighted by a magnificent body, texture, characterised by a vivid colour and much more with a feature that many good wines have not ; the versatility.
That was an aspect which conquered many fine palates who started to come back there with a notable frequency to know more the appreciated viticulture history of that land.
Other ideas came with gastronomic routes at the beginning inviting in Educational, professional of tourism and Directors of different kinds of Organisations planning specific visits mainly focused to taste the excellent local dairy products such as cheeses and butter made in Alpine farms with special lunches tasting the notorious Raclette, Fromages DOP with also dinners celebrated in traditional restaurants hosted in typical Alpine houses and stylish chalets.
With all that ample fan of options born great operations mainly aimed to offer a complete tourism with a varied and flexible list of packages further opportunities for Tour Operators to offer a very varied and diverse product tested in those meetings appreciating the quality of service, location and culinary offer of those catering establishments enjoying traditional plates, wines loyally reflecting the typical eno-gastronomic spirit of the Canton.
Those delectable specialities delighting every customer highlighted in more recent times by touches of the finest trendy nouvelle cuisine continue to be highly loved and appreciate elevating Crans-Montana and its area also as a considerable destination for all those who are lovers of the most refined, exquisite gastronomy.
The territory in a while attracted among those people passionate climbers and trekkers who saw in that corner of the canton du Valais, the great challenging chance to face stunning vertical Alpine walls with a varied range of difficulty and hundreds of kilometres of paths and trails simply unique crossing scenic valleys and superb passes in the Alps of immense beauty.
Those divine nectars highly smooth, extremely palatable, highlighted by a magnificent body, texture, characterised by a vivid colour and much more with a feature that many good wines have not ; the versatility.
That was an aspect which conquered many fine palates who started to come back there with a notable frequency to know more the appreciated viticulture history of that land.
Other ideas came with gastronomic routes at the beginning inviting in Educational, professional of tourism and Directors of different kinds of Organisations planning specific visits mainly focused to taste the excellent local dairy products such as cheeses and butter made in Alpine farms with special lunches tasting the notorious Raclette, Fromages DOP with also dinners celebrated in traditional restaurants hosted in typical Alpine houses and stylish chalets.
With all that ample fan of options born great operations mainly aimed to offer a complete tourism with a varied and flexible list of packages further opportunities for Tour Operators to offer a very varied and diverse product tested in those meetings appreciating the quality of service, location and culinary offer of those catering establishments enjoying traditional plates, wines loyally reflecting the typical eno-gastronomic spirit of the Canton.
Those delectable specialities delighting every customer highlighted in more recent times by touches of the finest trendy nouvelle cuisine continue to be highly loved and appreciate elevating Crans-Montana and its area also as a considerable destination for all those who are lovers of the most refined, exquisite gastronomy.
The territory in a while attracted among those people passionate climbers and trekkers who saw in that corner of the canton du Valais, the great challenging chance to face stunning vertical Alpine walls with a varied range of difficulty and hundreds of kilometres of paths and trails simply unique crossing scenic valleys and superb passes in the Alps of immense beauty.
To all that was added a classical and trendy
offer consisting in Golf which was
linked to Alpine Ski, a more than inviting opportunity of combinations practising the first in a morning and skiing in the afternoon also in late spring and summer seasons beneath the majestic glacier of the La
Plaine Morte enjoying the stunning slopes the resort offers.
The core of Crans-Montana is mainly
developed along three avenues such as Rue du-Pas-de L´Ours which meets Rue
du Rawyl both situated beneath the ski lift complex and the scenic Lac de
Chermignon, a beautiful Alpine waters basin absolute protagonist of the pleasing post card of the resort.
The second mentioned road runs towards east leading to another picturesque small lake called Etang Grenon while the third important artery Rue Central lies at the cross of those two axes running from north to south flanked by another tiny waters basin called Etang Long adjacent to the famed and notorious Golf Club Crans-sur-Sierre.
The second mentioned road runs towards east leading to another picturesque small lake called Etang Grenon while the third important artery Rue Central lies at the cross of those two axes running from north to south flanked by another tiny waters basin called Etang Long adjacent to the famed and notorious Golf Club Crans-sur-Sierre.
At the foot of the majestic glacier considered the local icon and landmark, the resort offers the visitor other
attractions including a museum which
is certainly a special highlight for the very interesting theme it is devoted consisting in the famous Swiss
Model Railway Foundation.
That magnificent exhibition is considered a shining gem for all what it displays in its halls conquering young and adults for its brilliant exposition of perfect replicas of the Swiss Alpine environment with small trains models dating back the 19th century.
It is in its kind a unique attraction, simply great to admire perfect reproductions of means of transportation which made the history in the Alps inserted in a setting reflecting in reduced scale a great image of the country.
You will have the chance to see others more modern mainly related to the 50's and 60's and one of the wonderful highlights is undoubtedly the representation of the route of the famous Rhaetian Railways leading to the Bernina glacier crossing a large scenic Alpine territory of Switzerland or that one reproducing the rail crossing the emblematic Gotthard Massif.
Furthermore you will have the brilliant opportunity to know all what concerning the renowned TGV, that high speed train from France operated by SNFC Voyages developed during the 1970s by GEC-Alsthom and SNFC, an engineering masterpiece in that kind of transport industry and other documentations about other kinds of trains in the world.
That magnificent exhibition is considered a shining gem for all what it displays in its halls conquering young and adults for its brilliant exposition of perfect replicas of the Swiss Alpine environment with small trains models dating back the 19th century.
It is in its kind a unique attraction, simply great to admire perfect reproductions of means of transportation which made the history in the Alps inserted in a setting reflecting in reduced scale a great image of the country.
You will have the chance to see others more modern mainly related to the 50's and 60's and one of the wonderful highlights is undoubtedly the representation of the route of the famous Rhaetian Railways leading to the Bernina glacier crossing a large scenic Alpine territory of Switzerland or that one reproducing the rail crossing the emblematic Gotthard Massif.
Furthermore you will have the brilliant opportunity to know all what concerning the renowned TGV, that high speed train from France operated by SNFC Voyages developed during the 1970s by GEC-Alsthom and SNFC, an engineering masterpiece in that kind of transport industry and other documentations about other kinds of trains in the world.
You can continue the visit admiring the wonderful waters basins surrounding Crans-Montana such as Etang Grenon,
Moubra, Etang Long and also the previously mentioned Lac de Chermignon shining diamonds which despite their small size are extremely fascinating and they contribute to add more appeal to that stupendous Swiss resort.
On the shore of Grenon Etang you will have the chance to rent pedalos and practising some water sports while Etang Long offers the great opportunity to play beach volley on a splendid sandy beach providing in addition a snack-bar, ideal place for a cool drink after that outdoor activity.
All that is really attractive in a stunning environment transmitting the sensation to be in a seaside resort under a warm sun but you are in the Alps creating in many people very special feelings.
On the shore of Grenon Etang you will have the chance to rent pedalos and practising some water sports while Etang Long offers the great opportunity to play beach volley on a splendid sandy beach providing in addition a snack-bar, ideal place for a cool drink after that outdoor activity.
All that is really attractive in a stunning environment transmitting the sensation to be in a seaside resort under a warm sun but you are in the Alps creating in many people very special feelings.
Golf is definitely a magnificent highlight in Crans-Montana, a wonderful Mecca for that very trendy sport with more and more fans year by year and the notable fame of that Valais resort is mainly due to the presence of one of the most distinguished and famous
Golf Clubs of Switzerland and Europe founded in 1906.
That stunning place hosts the prestigious Omega European Masters part of the GPA European Tour considered one of the great Classic Trophies in the Continent, a very prestigious event which has also created a great business reaching superb peaks of popularity thanks to the promotion of that fantastic appointment which takes place in the resort since 1939 under the denomination of Swiss Open.
It boasts an outstanding iconic reputation since 1983 when it was awarded with the title of European Master Trophy, a prestigious competition celebrated every year in September with the participation of the International Golf Elite highlighted by the the most affirmed international champions.
That stunning place hosts the prestigious Omega European Masters part of the GPA European Tour considered one of the great Classic Trophies in the Continent, a very prestigious event which has also created a great business reaching superb peaks of popularity thanks to the promotion of that fantastic appointment which takes place in the resort since 1939 under the denomination of Swiss Open.
It boasts an outstanding iconic reputation since 1983 when it was awarded with the title of European Master Trophy, a prestigious competition celebrated every year in September with the participation of the International Golf Elite highlighted by the the most affirmed international champions.
Some of the Golf Courses present in the
boundaries of Crans-Montana were designed by legends of that sport as the American star Jack Nicklaus who created a beautiful 9 hole course very appreciated for its scenic development with elevated greens, special bunkers and another by
the Spanish Severiano Ballesteros who
projected a wonderful 18 hole course.
Both offer all the features to play golf at the highest level in a unique environment surrounded by superb Alpine peaks and with the stunning view of the charming glacier dominating the entire scene, a unique experience that many fans want to try once in a life.
Both offer all the features to play golf at the highest level in a unique environment surrounded by superb Alpine peaks and with the stunning view of the charming glacier dominating the entire scene, a unique experience that many fans want to try once in a life.
Thanks to those emblematic Institutions Crans-Montana calls the most prominent people linked to the highest aristocracy ranking, VIPs with in addition several celebrated champions who spend time there reaching and
leading special lessons while others such as Sergio Garcia, Edoardo,
Francesco Molinari, Adam Scott and
Angel Gallardo decided to fix their residence owning chalets in the boundaries of the resort.
The lively nightlife thanks to the presence of
chic cafes, fine restaurants, cosy bars, clubs and venues is undoubtedly another highlight which attracts many tourists, very happy to have the chance to go out enjoying a drink in stylish establishments or to have a fine dinner in a great restaurant continuing to spend very pleasant times later in another place.
Those several options are very appreciated by a lot of people who can select different sites depending of their tastes and preferences, the choice is certainly very ample and furthermore worth a mention the great variety of events celebrated in Crans-Montana, a very special feature which increases the appealing atmosphere of the resort.
Closely related to that is the renowned Casino, a superb attraction providing all the most trendy games with its famous tables of blackjack, English roulette, poker and approximately 150 slot machines among others.
An outstanding restaurant and an elegant Lounge Bar, are other special highlight of that prestigious venue well known for its varied range of eclectic trendy cocktails and fine liquors attracting every night a crowd of people.
Those several options are very appreciated by a lot of people who can select different sites depending of their tastes and preferences, the choice is certainly very ample and furthermore worth a mention the great variety of events celebrated in Crans-Montana, a very special feature which increases the appealing atmosphere of the resort.
Closely related to that is the renowned Casino, a superb attraction providing all the most trendy games with its famous tables of blackjack, English roulette, poker and approximately 150 slot machines among others.
An outstanding restaurant and an elegant Lounge Bar, are other special highlight of that prestigious venue well known for its varied range of eclectic trendy cocktails and fine liquors attracting every night a crowd of people.
Another special detail highly appreciated by many is the chance for smokers to have a private area inside the building and furthermore that outstanding complex is a very equipped and more
than perfect site to host and celebrate Congresses, Conferences and
Conventions
of relevance.
Its notable capacity and outstanding services consisting in ample halls highly prepared to assembly the most varied layouts for every kind of event is immediately appreciated boasting the most sophisticated audiovisual equipments,advanced electronic devices, modern systems of illumination and fitting in every selected space as an ideal environment to organise a large variety of meetings.
Its notable capacity and outstanding services consisting in ample halls highly prepared to assembly the most varied layouts for every kind of event is immediately appreciated boasting the most sophisticated audiovisual equipments,advanced electronic devices, modern systems of illumination and fitting in every selected space as an ideal environment to organise a large variety of meetings.
Naturally Crans-Montana is an Eden for winter sports and the notorious Haute-Plateau always offers the
opportunity to ski at top level all year boasting an extraordinary network of Alpine ski tracks established along a space of over 140,0 kilometres
considered among the best in the world for their development and magnificent preparation of
snow thanks to the presence of 230 snow machines covering all that huge environment.
Very impressive are the facilities that winter sport resort provides connected to the ski pistes consisting in 25 services subdivided in 8
chairlifts,12 ski lifts,4 funiculars and a 1 Funitel
permitting to reach an altitude of almost 3,000 metres enjoying
unforgettable views with the chance to take hundreds of unforgettable panoramic
pictures from every section during the ascent and naturally many others simply stunning once reached the terminal on the summit.
A more than brilliant aspect is that the ski complex is appropriate for all those who love skiing providing 3 black, 22 red and 14 blue slopes. It is an ideal
destination for beginners, intermediate and expert skiers making that superb site a heaven
with also the great option to change day by day different tracks with extreme
easiness filling the stay testing all those marvellous pistes day by day without losing time with long transfers and journeys from a place to another.
Thanks to all that and the proximity of Sierre
which is also a Ski resort of more than relevant prestige, Crans-Montana
hosted in 1987 the Alpine Ski World Championships.
That event had an extraordinary success with a great organisation, the communications created to reach the areas where the competitions took place were considered among the most efficient in the last editions, the official tracks which hosted the world championships were declared simply magnificent just like the ski lifts level awarded as over the media average elite.
Another topic which elevated Crans-Montana as a Queen of Alpine Ski were the meteo and updated information of the conditions of the pistes simply outstanding and all worked fantastically very well.
For all that Crans-Montana continue to be part as stage of the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup circuit and other famed competitions with an eternal efficiency in every aspect for the joy of of the athletes who appreciate a lot to compete there for all that Eden offered by the local Institutions which constantly provide them all the best in terms of spaces for the preparation of materials, tests and trainings, details which are fundamental.
That event had an extraordinary success with a great organisation, the communications created to reach the areas where the competitions took place were considered among the most efficient in the last editions, the official tracks which hosted the world championships were declared simply magnificent just like the ski lifts level awarded as over the media average elite.
Another topic which elevated Crans-Montana as a Queen of Alpine Ski were the meteo and updated information of the conditions of the pistes simply outstanding and all worked fantastically very well.
For all that Crans-Montana continue to be part as stage of the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup circuit and other famed competitions with an eternal efficiency in every aspect for the joy of of the athletes who appreciate a lot to compete there for all that Eden offered by the local Institutions which constantly provide them all the best in terms of spaces for the preparation of materials, tests and trainings, details which are fundamental.
The local ski pistes are extremely beloved
by all people and it is not a case that many amateur skiers who
tried for the first time the slopes of that diamond in the Canton du Valais returned there without hesitations for the
facilities and the fantastic quality of the surfaces in every section of the entire network.
The areas corresponding to Bella Lui and Glacier
de la Plaine Morte are the spaces in which take place the Professional
competitions linked the FIS World Cup, perfect environments for masters
with very spectacular developments of the descents.
They are very challenging, ideal to refine the technique at a high speed and to improve the capacity and skills of a complete skier with several changes of rhythm generated by steep stretches immediately after ample bends with also the presence of high jumps.
Notable are some sections with a great alternation of sharp curves followed by pretty long and steep straights, ideal for superb Giant and Super Giant Slaloms, stunning tracks to test aerodinamicity, position,changes of direction learning to dominate the skis along very complete slopes with different coefficients of difficulty in less than a few hundred metres.
They are very challenging, ideal to refine the technique at a high speed and to improve the capacity and skills of a complete skier with several changes of rhythm generated by steep stretches immediately after ample bends with also the presence of high jumps.
Notable are some sections with a great alternation of sharp curves followed by pretty long and steep straights, ideal for superb Giant and Super Giant Slaloms, stunning tracks to test aerodinamicity, position,changes of direction learning to dominate the skis along very complete slopes with different coefficients of difficulty in less than a few hundred metres.
Special pistes are also considered Les
Violettes and Les Barzettes, both have superb with very long steep sections and for that they are appropriate for those who
want to try determined ski waxes, experiencing their performances breathing the special
emotions and vibrations of high speed.
Also very famous and highly appreciated for their excellent preparation are those of La Tza and La
Toula considered black tracks. They are very challenging and recommended for
skilled skiers with a pretty high domain of skis and much more a good physical preparation.
Both are highlighted by stretches with high changes of gradients, high walls, compressions with tight curves and the snow on the surfaces is always in perfect conditions.
All that is particularly cared for the obvious reason they are slopes very challenging and the the superb staff provides for that a kind of snow never too soft or neither too hard. Also for that those pistes are extremely appreciated because all the skiers immediately feel safe.
Also for those reasons the materials do not suffer risks of damage, the sheets can slides in the best way, there are not spurs or bad angular plaques on the surfaces or that often undesired kind of "flour" which brakes the skis generating in many cases risks.
Both are highlighted by stretches with high changes of gradients, high walls, compressions with tight curves and the snow on the surfaces is always in perfect conditions.
All that is particularly cared for the obvious reason they are slopes very challenging and the the superb staff provides for that a kind of snow never too soft or neither too hard. Also for that those pistes are extremely appreciated because all the skiers immediately feel safe.
Also for those reasons the materials do not suffer risks of damage, the sheets can slides in the best way, there are not spurs or bad angular plaques on the surfaces or that often undesired kind of "flour" which brakes the skis generating in many cases risks.
Another one well known I suggest you is that
called Petit Bonvin situated in proximity of Aminona, it is a piste very special because it is in its kind a mix of everything, there are some parts pretty challenging others less and it is pretty loved also for that.
In some points they can test the concentration experiencing improvements while in other the inclination is softer and sometimes that is also very pleasant to have a relaxing skiing after tried a section more demanding.
It is a track which for its conformation is very technique, ideal for those who love giant slaloms especially along its higher part with some changes of speed very interesting during the descent while the lower is also splendid with a final rush very attractive.
In some points they can test the concentration experiencing improvements while in other the inclination is softer and sometimes that is also very pleasant to have a relaxing skiing after tried a section more demanding.
It is a track which for its conformation is very technique, ideal for those who love giant slaloms especially along its higher part with some changes of speed very interesting during the descent while the lower is also splendid with a final rush very attractive.
Espace Adrenaline is another
stunning highlight of Crans-Montana consisting in a wide space also prepared for trendy sports
as snowboard but much more as reflects its name "Adrenaline"
for freestyle and boarder cross, acrobatic specialities, appropriate
for thrilling experiences, an area by people who like those specialities enjoying there spectacular parabolic curves and stunning jumps.
Espace Detente is something of
alternative with an Alpine Museum and offering different activities such
as snowshoes,
mountaineering and adventure ski. I suggest that area for those who desire to try new sensations outside the
official pistes reaching and exploring during fascinating excursions sites of immense beauty impossible to
reach with other means of transport in presence of snow.
Those attractive specialities are practised by people who
love to try something of unusual and exciting, extremely diverse and at same time looking for
surprises, new vibrations and emotions.
You will find sections crossing forests, steep ascents, kilometres along high plateaus with a scattered woodland appearing later as for magic in wide undulated environment with just after some hundred metres steep descents towards scenic valleys.
Those trails are very similar to those of the Italian regions of Val D´Aosta, Piedmont but also others in France in the Cottian Alps or also with many things in common to those you can find along the French-Italian border in Haute Savoy.(If you are interested I wrote posts about Nèvache and Rhêmes Notre Dame, places where you can practise those activities)
You will find sections crossing forests, steep ascents, kilometres along high plateaus with a scattered woodland appearing later as for magic in wide undulated environment with just after some hundred metres steep descents towards scenic valleys.
Those trails are very similar to those of the Italian regions of Val D´Aosta, Piedmont but also others in France in the Cottian Alps or also with many things in common to those you can find along the French-Italian border in Haute Savoy.(If you are interested I wrote posts about Nèvache and Rhêmes Notre Dame, places where you can practise those activities)
Espace Découverte is a perfect area for
beginners and families with children to have fun in a very enjoyable and large
environment in a very relaxing atmosphere. The resort is very sensitive providing those magnificent recreational spaces for the joy of a multitude of people who simply desire to spend days on snow having pleasant times and admiring the spectacular landscapes in the La
Vallée du Soleil with snow and under a warm sun.
In addition to all that worth a mention the presence of an ice flying kilometre track and two huge Snow Parks situated in Cry d´Err and Aminona, ideal for all those who simply are searching something of alternative and fun in large spaces spending enjoyable times.
In addition to all that worth a mention the presence of an ice flying kilometre track and two huge Snow Parks situated in Cry d´Err and Aminona, ideal for all those who simply are searching something of alternative and fun in large spaces spending enjoyable times.
Crans-Montana is something special for all what it can
offer in terms of tourism and activities with a multitude of things to do and
never boring. It is enough to think that the municipality is developed between 1500, 0 and 2975, 0 metres of
altitude.
All that means changes of scenery, vegetation and formation of the territory with many opportunities to move from a place to another pretty diverse delighting the view of the visitor with different landscapes enjoying that territory metre by metre walking on stunning trails meeting a rugged gorge after a verdant pasture or a stone steep trail starting at the exit of a green vrgin forest with only rocks around you.
All that means changes of scenery, vegetation and formation of the territory with many opportunities to move from a place to another pretty diverse delighting the view of the visitor with different landscapes enjoying that territory metre by metre walking on stunning trails meeting a rugged gorge after a verdant pasture or a stone steep trail starting at the exit of a green vrgin forest with only rocks around you.
Closely related to that it is very interesting and I highly suggest you to visit the
nearest villages each of them with its own strong identity, cultural and historic patrimony.
The Canton of Valais is really beautiful also for that because you can move just a few kilometres
from a place to another finding notable differences as a magic box full of great surprises.
You can start from Chermignon which has in its boundaries that picturesque lake as great attraction.That small town is subdivided
in a low agglomeration situated at 910,0 meters of altitude corresponding
to Chermignon-d´en-Bas, Low Chermignon and Chermignon.d´en-Haute,
High Chermignon located at 1151,0
metres and in addition it includes in its municipal territory the small hamlets of Ollon and Champzabé.
That centre of a bit more than 3,000 inhabitants is characterised by groups of scattered houses and in recent times were built in its boundaries some new chalets in a land which is largely covered by conifer and pine forests.
The official history of that site started in the Middle Ages, concretely in the early 13th century when it was probably named Chirminon deriving by a local Valais influence, a denomination whch was later changed with the current Francophone name.
That centre of a bit more than 3,000 inhabitants is characterised by groups of scattered houses and in recent times were built in its boundaries some new chalets in a land which is largely covered by conifer and pine forests.
The official history of that site started in the Middle Ages, concretely in the early 13th century when it was probably named Chirminon deriving by a local Valais influence, a denomination whch was later changed with the current Francophone name.
Its location is beautiful because it is situated in a picturesque corner on the right shore of river Rhône and a great attraction is its
intact Alpine environment with many opportunities to
enjoy several trails, a Mecca for trekkers.
That place is also known to be the birthplace of Jean Bovin the former President of OCDE from 1993 to 1999 and for ten years Director of the Festival of Classical Music of Sion.
That place is also known to be the birthplace of Jean Bovin the former President of OCDE from 1993 to 1999 and for ten years Director of the Festival of Classical Music of Sion.
Lens is another tiny town with
approximately 3,900 inhabitants and it was historically linked to Chermignon until 1905. Situated at an altitude of 1130, 0 metres as that former
"sister" it is also a great place highly recommended for hiking and mountaineering
activities offering unforgettable
landscapes and stunning panoramic views towards the local valley and the town of
Martigny.
That site is highlighted by a compact centre mainly developed around its Parish Church, a traditional architectural example of Alpine Ecclesiastic structure of the Canton du Valais highlighted by a high facade covered by a long sloping roof and boasting a beautiful high bell tower with a long spire surmounted by a pinnacle.
That site is highlighted by a compact centre mainly developed around its Parish Church, a traditional architectural example of Alpine Ecclesiastic structure of the Canton du Valais highlighted by a high facade covered by a long sloping roof and boasting a beautiful high bell tower with a long spire surmounted by a pinnacle.
Once there you
can also visit the Pierre Arnaud
Foundation, an Art centre hosting a painting collection and the great
attraction is certainly the imposing statue of Christ-Roi depicting Jesus Christ, a majestic bronze work approximately 28, 0 metres high placed on a huge pedestal.
Surrounded by a magnificent crown of mountains and scattered forests for that it is very loved by many photographers but also because in a very short time you can move from gentle hills with scenic rows of vineyards to scenic pastures connected to paths leading to high peaks crossing a wild mountainous territory.
Its picturesque position on the right shore of the Rhône offers several chances to enjoy pleasant and relaxing walks along that famous charming waterway perfect for families and people who want to find a very relaxing environment, silent and peaceful but also for those who love rowing.
Surrounded by a magnificent crown of mountains and scattered forests for that it is very loved by many photographers but also because in a very short time you can move from gentle hills with scenic rows of vineyards to scenic pastures connected to paths leading to high peaks crossing a wild mountainous territory.
Its picturesque position on the right shore of the Rhône offers several chances to enjoy pleasant and relaxing walks along that famous charming waterway perfect for families and people who want to find a very relaxing environment, silent and peaceful but also for those who love rowing.
Considered a very peaceful and appealing place it was
chosen as residence during his sojourns by
the famed composer Igor Stravinsky.
In addition it was also often frequented by Charles-Ferdinand Ramuz who took from that place the inspiration for one of his successful literary works La Séparation des races which inspired a movie titled Rapt filmed in Lens in 1933 and launched in 1934, a notorious French-Swiss production directed by the French-Latvian film-maker Marc David Kaplan well known as Dimitri Kirsanoff.
In addition it was also often frequented by Charles-Ferdinand Ramuz who took from that place the inspiration for one of his successful literary works La Séparation des races which inspired a movie titled Rapt filmed in Lens in 1933 and launched in 1934, a notorious French-Swiss production directed by the French-Latvian film-maker Marc David Kaplan well known as Dimitri Kirsanoff.
The nearest Icogne situated at 1029, 0 metres of altitude is
particularly lovely for its very attractive landscapes. It is a small centre
with a pretty long history because a former village already existed in that
place in medieval times exactly in the 13th
century.
It was for long time linked to Lens when it was governed by the Lords of Granges and since those times it was originally called in Patois language, Ucogniez taking later the current official French denomination.
It was for long time linked to Lens when it was governed by the Lords of Granges and since those times it was originally called in Patois language, Ucogniez taking later the current official French denomination.
The local environment is very attractive packed by green wide pastures
and virgin Alpine forests dominated by peaks of approximately 3000,0
metres of altitude and a stupendous highlight is the scenic and wild Bisse
du Ro, a wonderful and spectacular rocky spur reachable by a panoramic path
also called in German language Rhorbachstein.
For all those are mountain bike lovers I suggest that place because that area is a little Paradise extremely beautiful to practise that activity on two wheels.
For all those are mountain bike lovers I suggest that place because that area is a little Paradise extremely beautiful to practise that activity on two wheels.
Randogne is small municipality formed by some scattered
hamlets such as Loc, Darnona
and the village of Bluche situated on a
scenic crest, a centre which arose on an old settlement which
probably existed since the Middle Ages but largely destroyed by a fire at the end of the 19th century and it is also crossed as the other municipalities by the river Rhône.
The local area is mainly devoted to agriculture with the presence of the iconic vineyards and historically it was one of the first destinations of the local nobility of the Canton du Valais to spend holidays in that corner of the Alps.
That small centre is suggested for passionate photographers for its great variety of scenery composed by towering mountains, gentle hills highlighted by rows of vines, green large meadows on high plateaus,scattered houses in fairytale corners, wild forests, big rocky formations, shaped cliffs and much more.
Highlighted by a captivating woodland encircling the inhabited agglomeration it is dominated by the Mont Bonvin a charming peak which with its 2995,0 metres is one of the highest mountains of that area, a destination considered since a long time ago a a great option for many trekkers and once on the top of that height you can admire a fantastic view of the entire valley.
The local area is mainly devoted to agriculture with the presence of the iconic vineyards and historically it was one of the first destinations of the local nobility of the Canton du Valais to spend holidays in that corner of the Alps.
That small centre is suggested for passionate photographers for its great variety of scenery composed by towering mountains, gentle hills highlighted by rows of vines, green large meadows on high plateaus,scattered houses in fairytale corners, wild forests, big rocky formations, shaped cliffs and much more.
Highlighted by a captivating woodland encircling the inhabited agglomeration it is dominated by the Mont Bonvin a charming peak which with its 2995,0 metres is one of the highest mountains of that area, a destination considered since a long time ago a a great option for many trekkers and once on the top of that height you can admire a fantastic view of the entire valley.
Very suggested is an excursion to Le Glacier de la Plaine Morte which covers a surface of 10, 0 square
kilometers and it is one of the largest Alpine basins of Europe, part
of the Wildstrubel Massif, a
range of mountains situated between the Bernese
Oberland and the Canton du Valais.
From its summit you can have fantastic views overlooking the Rhône Valley, the
Weisshorn which with its 4, 506, 0 metres is one of the giants of the Pennine
Alps and you can admire on its
eastern side a scenic lake which has a surface of 0, 11 square kilometers.
That peak is in addition the place where the Raspille River has its source and the waters of its glacier also form Les Sept Fontaines de la Simme, the seven waterfalls located in the municipality of Lenk im Simmenthal in the Canton of Bern.
That peak is in addition the place where the Raspille River has its source and the waters of its glacier also form Les Sept Fontaines de la Simme, the seven waterfalls located in the municipality of Lenk im Simmenthal in the Canton of Bern.
The Rhône River represents the fluvial
father of that corner of Switzerland and apart the magnificent images it offers
during its course it is also a great attraction for different kinds of activities
such as fishing, rafting, kayak, caneoing and rowing.
Along its shore there are furthermore many
fascinating trails loved by mountain bikers with hundreds of dirt and mixed
routes crossing fairytale forests and thanks to a very varied
territorial conformation in that geographic area it is possible to enjoy
paragliding, ballooning, parachuting and kart track.
Crans-Montana is also very popular for all people fond
about cycling, many are the chances to enjoy fantastic itineraries highlighted
by superb climbs and the resort often hosts stages of challenging arrivals of the famous Tour de Suisse and Tour de Romandie, races of notable prestige inserted since many decades ago in the elite of the international calendar.
For that it is a favourite place and training headquarter of several professional athletes and furthermore in 1984 it hosted the arrival of a stage of the iconic Tour de France with the victory of the unforgettable French champion Laurent Fignon.
For that it is a favourite place and training headquarter of several professional athletes and furthermore in 1984 it hosted the arrival of a stage of the iconic Tour de France with the victory of the unforgettable French champion Laurent Fignon.
Every year that resort is also
seat of the famed Le Concours d´Hippique International de Crans-Montana,
a very prestigious and challenging jumping competition. Regarding another
sport totally different, that site was a relevant stage of the European
Championship of Rally IRC which inserted that site in many occasions in the calendar of its competition.
Cars continues to be protagonists in that Alpine paradise with
the classic International meeting dedicated to the legendary Fiat 500
celebrated every year in August with owners of those unforgettable small
vehicles coming from all around Europe.
In September since 1997 takes place another meeting with protagonists American Jeeps and that event is called Jeep-Heep-Heep, an event which is in its kind a hymn to the world of the best examples of that kind of vehicles made in U.S.A.
In September since 1997 takes place another meeting with protagonists American Jeeps and that event is called Jeep-Heep-Heep, an event which is in its kind a hymn to the world of the best examples of that kind of vehicles made in U.S.A.
Not only Sports and Cars events but also culture
and art appear with extreme relevance in that famous centre of the Swiss Alps. The famous
International Forum since 1989 takes place in summer
and also in that season is performed Le Festival Les Sommets du Classique
devoted to classical and orchestra music.
Spring is highlighted by a great appointment as the Festival de Musique Caprices which boasts the participation of many VIPs and prominent personalities.
Spring is highlighted by a great appointment as the Festival de Musique Caprices which boasts the participation of many VIPs and prominent personalities.
International events, festivals, nightlife, an emblematic Casino, Golf, the
beauty of a place which is the magic essence of the splendour of the Swiss Alps, an infinite list of things to do and other reasons have
often create glamour around many special destinations and also Crans-Montana with its
coquetry profile called and call distinguished people as artists, actors and
sport champions.
The captivating charm of that place attracted many
people of the International Jet Set and one of them was Roger Moore, the famous British actor found there a sort of
Eden for his peace and serenity also practising his beloved passions such as golf, skiing and his compatriot actress Kathy Burke did the same.
A legend of the Italian Cinema as Sofia Loren awarded with two Oscars and inserted in the 21st position in the Top Ranking of the best actresses all time established by the American Film Institute did not have hesitation to buy a luxury chalet bewitched by the beauty of Crans-Montana.
A legend of the Italian Cinema as Sofia Loren awarded with two Oscars and inserted in the 21st position in the Top Ranking of the best actresses all time established by the American Film Institute did not have hesitation to buy a luxury chalet bewitched by the beauty of Crans-Montana.
Also Michel Roux, one of the most regarded chefs and icon of the international culinary art panorama chose to have a house in that so popular and famous resort.
The cuisine of the Canton of Valais offers a notable
range of delights and next to the notorious and delicious Suisse Fondue but you can find an exquisite variant as the emblematic Fondue Bourguignon which
is different than the classical because it has in its preparation as ingredient minced beef meat while a further is that one named Chinoise made with strings of veal meat in broth.
You will have the chance to taste another famed traditional national dish, the Rösti well known worldwide but do not miss a typical delicious Valais plate called the Croute au fromage consisting in sort of Swiss Mousaka prepared with fresh local cheese, bread, wine, butter, all that is baked and completed by a delectable touch of traditional "gratin au fromage".
The gastronomic scene also boasts other delectable specialities as the famous Raclette served with potatoes, gherkin, baby onions simply great accompanied by a glass of distinctive white wine Fendant.
Do not miss to try the delectable Crepes au Fromage similar for their process of preparation to those made in the nearest France but using different kinds of cheeses and a further popular delight is the Chapeau Tartare consisting in slices of beef meat cooked very slow and served very hot over a pot of warm vegetables.
You can taste an excellent variety of venison and beef stews and the plateau of Mund is well known for the cultivation of saffron of supreme quality, a spice often present in local rice recipes, soups and casseroles.
You will have the chance to taste another famed traditional national dish, the Rösti well known worldwide but do not miss a typical delicious Valais plate called the Croute au fromage consisting in sort of Swiss Mousaka prepared with fresh local cheese, bread, wine, butter, all that is baked and completed by a delectable touch of traditional "gratin au fromage".
The gastronomic scene also boasts other delectable specialities as the famous Raclette served with potatoes, gherkin, baby onions simply great accompanied by a glass of distinctive white wine Fendant.
Do not miss to try the delectable Crepes au Fromage similar for their process of preparation to those made in the nearest France but using different kinds of cheeses and a further popular delight is the Chapeau Tartare consisting in slices of beef meat cooked very slow and served very hot over a pot of warm vegetables.
You can taste an excellent variety of venison and beef stews and the plateau of Mund is well known for the cultivation of saffron of supreme quality, a spice often present in local rice recipes, soups and casseroles.
A special chapter could be dedicated to the exquisite and emblematic Cheeses
absolutely outstanding and very versatile because they can be used as ingredients
in a large variety of plates.
Used in sauces, added as gratin, present in starters, appetisers, combined with ham or salam in several assorted buffets, some of the most prestigious are Cime D´Or, Fromage de Raclette de Valais DOP, Fromage de Bagnes, Fromage de Liddes and Lourtier among others.
Used in sauces, added as gratin, present in starters, appetisers, combined with ham or salam in several assorted buffets, some of the most prestigious are Cime D´Or, Fromage de Raclette de Valais DOP, Fromage de Bagnes, Fromage de Liddes and Lourtier among others.
The mild climate permits the production of apricots and apples among the best of the
entire Switzerland and excellent is also the pear Williams used to prepare a famous distilled drink called Eau de vie de poire de Valais AOC.
Absolutely relevant is the selected offer of fine
wines such as a superb Fendant du Valois notable is also a local Pinot
Noir and of high quality are also Chasselas, Gamay, Cornalin and Arvin
among others.
Those smooth wines boasts a noble and old superb tradition, result of vineyards implanted on hills at a right altitude. Those several sunny days during all year with very ventilated evenings play an important role next to a fertile soil not too humid but neither too dry containing perfect mineral compounds permitting the right maturation of very resistant grapes simply perfect after an always fruitful harvest.
The Vin Brulée is another highlight consisting is hot wine adding sugar, cinnamon and other spices very traditional in winter.
Very popular is a typical liquor called Kirsch, a famous brandy made from a double distillation of morello cherries traditionally served cold with ice but also consumed as aperitif.
Those smooth wines boasts a noble and old superb tradition, result of vineyards implanted on hills at a right altitude. Those several sunny days during all year with very ventilated evenings play an important role next to a fertile soil not too humid but neither too dry containing perfect mineral compounds permitting the right maturation of very resistant grapes simply perfect after an always fruitful harvest.
The Vin Brulée is another highlight consisting is hot wine adding sugar, cinnamon and other spices very traditional in winter.
Very popular is a typical liquor called Kirsch, a famous brandy made from a double distillation of morello cherries traditionally served cold with ice but also consumed as aperitif.
The nearest Airport is the Regional Airport of Sion located just 27, 0 kilometres away
and from there exist excellent connections while another option is the International
Airport of Geneva situated at 181,
0 kilometres, once there you can a rent car and in a stupendous Fly & Drive you can reach Crans-Montana
driving by A9 Motorway in approximately two hours and half.
If you are travelling driving across Switzerland enjoying a
tailor made route you can reach Sierre by
two roads leading to resort. One is via Chermignon if you are coming from
Sion along the Autoroute du Rhône or from Mollens north of that town and in the case you decided to stop there you can take the funicular
reaching Crans-Montana in about 15 minutes or in alternative by
Bus service.
I added below some links with information and suggested accommodations for your future trip to that Alpine dreamland.
I added below some links with information and suggested accommodations for your future trip to that Alpine dreamland.
Crans-Montana is something simply splendid, a great
destination and it is enough once reached its boundaries to take a look around you admiring the
extraordinary natural frame surrounding that Eden to feel in a while a
sensation full of pleasure facing the unique beauty of its landscapes simply unique thinking to live a dream.
Beautiful mountains, wonderful Alpine forests in an
unforgettable scenery and that inviting chance to spend sunny stays beneath a
majestic glacier all year is something can capture the pleasant imagination of everyone with the immediate wish to be there planning without hesitations holidays thinking about the endless list of things to do you will enjoy in La
Vallée du Soleil.
That very special place is all to enjoy from the 1st
January to the 31st December in a sort of yearly no stop, every day is perfect
to organise a trip with certainly the desire to repeat the experience of another
unforgettable stay returning to Crans-Montana with immense pleasure soon, once again.
Francesco Mari
Recommended
Hotels in Crans-Montana
Hotel
Guarda Golf
Hotel
Alpina & Savoy
Hotel Les Crans & Spa
Hotel Central
Hotel Le Mont Plaisible
Hotel l Art de Vivre
Hotel Bella Lui
Hotel Du Lac
Recommended
Restaurants in Crans-Montana
Restaurant
Le Petit Paradis
Restaurant
Le Cervin
Restaurant
Le Desalpe
Restaurant
La Dente Blanche
Restaurant
Le Chalet
Useful links
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Thanks a lot to read and note.