Crans-Montana: 140km of slopes and a glacier accessible at 2927m in Valais

140km between 1500 and 3000m

The domain comprises:

17 blue runs (55km), for beginners and intermediate skiers on the plateau and gentle slopes.

20 red runs (70km), the heart of the domain for confident skiers.

4 black runs (15km), technical slopes, principally on the Aminona face.

Pointe de la Plaine Morte at 2927m marks the highest point, accessible by cable car from Violettes. It is the departure point for several long descents, including the renowned “Piste Nationale” which descends 12km across the glacier to the resort.

The Plaine Morte glacier: skiing at 3000m

Plaine Morte is one of Europe’s largest glacial plateaux (8km long, approximately 9km² in area). Its name derives from the fact that, at the height of the season, the ice is so compact and flat that it long appeared “dead” to geologists.

For skiers, the glacier offers:

Alpine skiing on wide, gentle slopes, with views across the Valais Alps.

A cross-country ski trail situated at approximately 3000m altitude, one of Europe’s highest. An exceptional setting for enthusiasts.

Snowshoe excursions and fat-biking in season.

The glacier is, however, fragile, with its retreat documented year after year. Summer skiing has been discontinued by the lift operators, a sign of local warming.

Sunny plateau: 300 days of sunshine per year

Crans-Montana claims approximately 300 days of sunshine per year, among the highest records in the French-speaking Alps, comparable to Alpe d’Huez and Avoriaz. The geography of the plateau (south-facing, sheltered from the north by the mountain ridge) explains this climatic distinction.

Practical consequence: for skiing, the south-facing slopes (Cry-d’Er, Violettes) quickly soften the snow in the afternoon, whilst the north-facing slopes (Plaine Morte) retain dry snow longer. The local rule: north in the morning, south in the afternoon.

For whom it is designed

Crans-Montana attracts:

International clientele (Italy, Germany, United Kingdom, Russia, United States), with a more cosmopolitan positioning than neighbouring French resorts.

Intermediate to advanced skiers, who appreciate the variety of the domain without the extreme difficulty of Zermatt or Verbier.

Affluent couples and families, drawn by the resort-village format and premium hotel offering.

The resort is also known for its golf tournaments in summer (Crans-sur-Sierre Golf Club, one of Europe’s most prestigious), establishing Crans as a four-season destination.

Lift pass and access

The daily adult lift pass is approximately 85-95 CHF (Crans-Montana is in Switzerland, payment in Swiss francs, with prices consequently higher than French resorts). The Magic Pass, a multi-resort season ticket for Swiss resorts, grants access to Crans-Montana and more than 80 other resorts for a single price.

Access is via:

Car, from the A9 motorway (Sierre exit).

Train and funicular: TGV Lyria Geneva/Brig, then connection to Sierre, then SMC funicular (15 minutes) to the plateau.

When to visit

Ski season: early December to mid-April. Peak season extends from January to mid-March.

For spring skiing, the Plaine Morte retains its snow late into the season (until May in some years), a notable advantage of the domain.

For the golf season, June to September, including the Omega European Masters in early September (an event on the DP World Tour).

Planning a stay at Crans-Montana

AEC Collection curates and represents premium chalets and apartments at Crans-Montana and throughout Valais. Lift passes may be purchased at the resort or online via the official CMA (Crans-Montana-Aminona) website, with the Magic Pass remaining the most economical option for extended stays.