Crans Montana is a Swiss resort in the central Alpine region of Valais - though it is actually a fusion of three villages; Crans, Montana and Aminona. The best places to stay in Crans Montana offer easy access to both town and slopes.

Like many alpine resorts, Crans Montana was ‘discovered’ by British winter sports folk in the early twentieth century. Set on a plateau 1500 metres above the valley the town enjoys panoramic vistas towards the South. On a good day, one can see the Matterhorn - and Mt Blanc is clearly visible too.

There are over 140 kilometres of marked piste including the glacier at Plaine Morte (3000m). Most of the runs are of an intermediate standard, however, the sunny South facing aspect and sophisticated low-key atmosphere appear to attract a high standard of skier - this is where the discerning choose to practice their turns!

The resort itself is very stylish in an old fashioned way and the skiing - despite it being a World Cup venue - is not the be all and end all. In the summertime, Crans is part of the European golf circuit, and it has also featured as the finishing post for stages of the Tour de France and the Tour de Suisse cycle races. And for music fans, there's an annual Caprice Rock festival - the only one in the Alps.

Aside from walking and sport, this is a great place to simply come and relax. Everything is of the highest order that one would expect from a first-class Swiss resort. Crans-sur-Sierre is a shopaholics paradise with boutiques galore, Montana is more ‘bon marche’. Many stars have chosen to make a home here; Roger Moore and Sophia Loren to name but two!

Whether you're here for winter skiing or a relaxing summer break, use our guide to the best places to stay in Crans Montana to help plan your visit.

What Not To Miss

• The Fondation Suisse des Trains Miniatures is a truly fascinating place to spend a couple of hours.
• Alternatively, head over to the Art Collections Museum which houses an eclectic display of Inuit art.
• Enjoy a day out with the family and go off on the Bisse du Ro walk to take in some fantastic views of the area.

The best places to stay in Crans Montana

For Crans Montana

• Le Crans Hotel and Spa. Just a short walk from Crans village this exclusive luxury chalet is minutes from the piste. It offers a top of the range spa experience not to mention a Michelin starred restaurant. This is the ultimate romantic mountain retreat!
• The minimalist Chetzeron, set in a converted cable car station, oozes contemporary class. With chic rooms, stunning views, and exemplary cuisine served up in their panoramic restaurant, it's a top choice.
• Helvetia Intergolf boasts spacious rooms with plenty of wooden features and an indoor paul, sauna, and a hot tub in which to unwind after a day out on the slopes. Ideal for families.
• Hotel Central, Crans-Montana is a charming spot whose comfortable rooms have warm hues and easy access to the slopes. A nice base.
• Crans Ambassador is a luxurious alpine stay with stunning views. The accommodation is ultra-chic, and there's also a roof-terrace as well as a choice of bars and restaurants.
• Hotel Art de Vivre boasts excellent wellness facilities and lovely rustic-chic rooms with various contemporary influences.
• Ad'Eldorado offers traditional rooms with private balconies, lovely regional food served up in the restaurant and a sauna in which to unwind after a day skiing.
• Guarda Golf Hotel oozes 5* luxury, with its smart wood-panelled rooms, two gourmet restaurants, and spoiling spa.
• Hotel Royal features pine-clad, super smart rooms with a spoiling spa and delectable cuisine served up in the restaurant.
• Hostellerie Du Pas De L'Ours is a 5* chalet with gorgeous accommodation boasting stone walls, fireplaces, and some even have spacious balconies. With an outdoor pool, spa, and jacuzzis, it's a top all-around spot.

For Leukerbad

• Les Sources Des Alpes is a luxurious spot with plush rooms and extensive spa facilities. The restaurant also serves up truly scrummy food - a wonderful choice.
• Parkhotel Quellenhof is a contemporary stay with accommodation featuring plenty of wooden influences and a restaurant serving up gourmet cuisine. Ideal for families.

For Grimentz

• Hotel de Moiry is a charming stay with pine-clad accommodation and plenty of activities on offer.
• Hotel Alpina boasts ski-to-door access and simple rooms featuring plenty of wooden influences. Very family-friendly.
• Hotel Cristal, Grimentz is a charming stay with simple but comfortable rooms and a Finnish sauna.

For St Luc

• Grand Chalet Favre boasts four ultra-cosy, traditionally-alpine rooms which are bound to please. Enjoy regional cuisine on the terrace (if it's warm enough, that is!).
• Bella Tola is a 19th-century stay with traditionally-styled rooms which feature lovely bathrooms. Unwind in the spa or indoor pool before tucking into delicious cuisine from the restaurant.

For Elsewhere

• Maya Boutique Hotel boasts contemporary rooms with pine furniture and gorgeous views. What's more, there's also a spa and a restaurant.
• Chalet Des Alpes is a traditional stay with simple but comfortable rooms and lovely views over the Rhône Valley.

For an apartment or holiday home

If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Crans Montana?

• The nearest place to fly into is Bern Airport, located 70km away from Crans Montana.
• From there, either take a shuttle bus or drive yourself over. Consider hiring a car with Rentalcars.
• If you're visiting for the skiing then come between December and March.
• However, Crans Montana is also lovely in the summer - the average temperature rises to 15°C in July.

Still not sure?

• Browse our list of all the best places to stay in Crans Montana.
• Extend your search to include our recommendations in Verbier or Zermatt.
• If you're still stuck, feel free to contact a friendly guru for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Crans Montana