Sunshine Skiing in Crans-Montana – InTheSnow

Where the Alps Shine Brightest

One of the world’s great ski resorts, Crans-Montana is where the Alps shine brightest. Perched high on a sunny plateau, the resort offers skiers a spectacular 180° panoramic view stretching from the Matterhorn to Mont Blanc. It’s not just the views though, while skiers seek to escape icy slopes and days in shadow at other ski areas, Crans’s Montana’s wide-open slopes bask in sunshine all day long, making every descent feel like a celebration of light and landscape. It’s sunshine skiing with a view, and what a view!

But Crans-Montana is more than just pistes. It hums with the energy of a small mountain town, alive with cafés, boutiques, galleries, and events. Whether you’re gliding across the ice rink, exploring alpine trails, or catching a concert in the village square, there’s always something happening and somewhere to go off the slopes as well as on. It’s a place where skiers and non-skiers alike find their rhythm, relaxed, vibrant, and effortlessly stylish.

Families love Crans-Montana for its thoughtful mix of terrain, activities, and atmosphere. From gentle nursery slopes to snow gardens and ski schools, younger guests are well looked after. Besides the ski slopes, parents and grandparents can enjoy scenic walks or spa days, while teens tackle terrain parks or join group lessons. It’s a resort that brings generations together, on the slopes, around the fondue pot, and in shared alpine moments that linger long after the snow melts.

18 Peaks Above 4000m

Crans-Montana’s panoramic view is one of the most spectacular in the skiing world. From the upper slopes and glacier, visitors can admire a vast sweep of 18 peaks rising above 4000 metres. The Matterhorn and Mont Blanc dominate the skyline, flanked by the Weisshorn, Dent Blanche, and Dufourspitze. This breathtaking backdrop is a natural amphitheatre of jagged summits and shimmering snowfields, visible from pistes and terraces. Whether you’re skiing, snowshoeing, or enjoying lunch in the sun, the view is ever-present, elevating every moment. On clear days, the horizon feels infinite, with peaks stretching across Switzerland and even into France and  Italy.

Sunshine from Sunrise to Sunset

Crans-Montana enjoys a rare alpine privilege: uninterrupted sunshine from dawn till dusk. Thanks to its elevated south-facing plateau, the resort is never cast in the shadow of surrounding peaks. From the first lift to the last run, the slopes glow with natural light, a gift for skiers, photographers, and sunseekers alike. Morning rays warm the nursery slopes and snow gardens, while afternoon sun bathes the glacier and panoramic terraces. It’s a resort where sunglasses are essential and whether you’re skiing, strolling or simply soaking up the view, Crans-Montana’s sunshine is a constant companion.

Many Routes Up – All Connected Above

The resort’s ski area is one single giant snowy playground, but with multiple lifts between each end of the resort to whisky you up from a convenient spot close to your accommodation. Whether you’re staying in Crans, Montana, or one of the surrounding hamlets, you’re never far from a lift. The resort’s infrastructure is cleverly designed to connect different sectors of the mountain, allowing skiers to start their day from various locations and converge on the same expansive ski area. This flexibility is ideal for families, groups, and mixed-ability skiers, making meet-ups and route planning simple. It also means less congestion and more choice, from long glacier descents to tree-lined pistes on the lower mountain, all accessible without long transfers or bottlenecks.

An FIS World Cup Alpine Ski Destination

Crans-Montana is a proud annual host of the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup, welcoming elite athletes and fans every year to its legendary slopes. The women’s downhill and super-G events are a highlight, held on the demanding Mont Lachaux piste, a course renowned for its technical challenges and for generating thrilling speed. Next up though In 2026 though it will be the turn of the men, racing a  downhill on the newly shaped Nationale, starting from Bellalui all the way down to Barzettes. Then the winter after Crans-Montana is hosting the prestigious FIS Alpine Skiing World Championships, four decades after first hosting the in 1987. On race days in particular the atmosphere is electric, with grandstands, live music, and village celebrations creating a true festival of skiing. Looking ahead to 2026 and indeed 2027, the resort is preparing for another spectacular edition, with upgraded facilities, enhanced spectator zones, and a renewed focus on sustainability. Expect fierce competition, dramatic descents, and a showcase of alpine excellence. For visitors, it’s a chance to witness world-class racing in a setting that’s both intimate and grand.

90 Restaurants and 23 Mountain Terraces – All South Facing

Crans-Montana is a culinary playground, with over 90 restaurants to peruse and sample, offering everything from gourmet dining to cosy alpine classics. Whether you’re craving fondue, sushi, or wood-fired pizza, the resort delivers with style and variety. On the mountain, 23 restaurants serve skiers and sunseekers alike, each with a south-facing terrace that catches the day’s best light. These panoramic spots are perfect for long lunches, après-ski drinks, or simply soaking up the view. One of the must visit spots is the LeMontBlanc restaurant at the LeCrans Hotel, a Michelin starred establishment offering a spectacular view of Mont Blanc, as well as amazing cuisine and the highest levels of service. You can access the restaurant from the slope Chetzeron making it perfect for a ski break for lunch. Across the slopes and down in town, from rustic chalets to sleek modern lounges, the dining scene reflects Crans-Montana’s blend of tradition and innovation. Local produce, Valais wines, and international flair come together in menus that celebrate both the region and the season.

Ski Academy in The Resort Centre

In winter the snow-covered golf course in the heart of Crans-Montana transforms into a vibrant ski academy. This unique setting offers a safe, central space for beginners to learn and progress, with six magic carpets and two drag lifts serving gentle slopes and practice areas. It’s ideal for children, first-timers, and anyone looking to build confidence before heading higher. The academy is staffed by experienced instructors who create a fun, supportive environment with tailored lessons and group activities. Parents can watch from nearby cafés or join in the fun, while the town’s amenities are just steps away. This in-town location means no long transfers or remote meeting points, just easy access and a welcoming atmosphere.

Snow Island – Family Fun in the Heart of Town

Snow Island is Crans-Montana’s dedicated zone for family fun, located right in town on the snow-covered golf course. It’s a lively winter playground where kids (and grown-ups) can enjoy snowtubing, sledging, and mini electric snowmobiles in a safe, supervised setting. The atmosphere is festive and relaxed, with music, hot drinks, and plenty of space to play. Snow Island is designed for all ages, making it perfect for multi-generation holidays. It’s also a great après-ski option for those who’ve had enough of the slopes but still want to enjoy playing in the snow.

Ice Park – Skating, Curling, and Winter Magic

Crans-Montana’s Ice Park is a hub of winter activity, offering skating, curling, and festive fun for all ages. Located by the frozen lake in the centre of town, it’s a lively space where locals and visitors gather to glide, spin, and play. The main rink is perfect for casual skaters and families, with rental gear and instructors on hand. Curling lanes add a touch of Swiss tradition, inviting friendly competition and group games. It doesn’t matter whether you’re perfecting your pirouette or just want to try curling for the first time. The Ice Park also hosts events, music nights, and themed sessions throughout the season, creating a vibrant après-ski alternative. Surrounded by cafés and shops, it’s easy to drop in for a quick skate or spend an entire afternoon soaking up the atmosphere.

The Enchanting Lantern Path

As dusk falls in Crans-Montana, the Lantern Path comes to life. This mile long illuminated trail winds through snowy woodland near Snow Island, offering a magical evening experience for families and couples alike. From 5pm onwards, lanterns light the way, casting a warm glow on the snow and trees. Along the route, whimsical installations and gentle music create an enchanted atmosphere, perfect for storytelling, exploration, and quiet wonder. Children can follow the lights with wonder, spot woodland creatures, or simply enjoy the adventure of a night-time walk in the snow. It’s a gentle, accessible route so is also good for pushchairs, grandparents and little legs. The Lantern Path is more than a walk; it’s a shared moment of alpine magic, where the forest whispers, softly lit, joyfully quiet, and full of charm.

Stay at LeCrans

LeCrans is a luxurious winter retreat in Crans-Montana, offering ski-in convenience, panoramic Alpine views, and five-star indulgence close to the slopes. Perched above Crans-Montana in a tranquil pine forest, LeCrans blends Swiss elegance with ski-focused convenience. This boutique five-star hotel is ideal for winter visitors, with direct ski access to a nearby red run and a complimentary shuttle to nearby lifts and resort amenities. Guests enjoy Michelin-starred dining at LeMontBlanc, a heated outdoor pool sunk into the snow, and a spa with sauna, steam room, and massage treatments. Each room and suite is uniquely themed around global mountain ranges, featuring fireplaces, terraces, and sweeping views of the Valais peaks. Skiers can start their day with à la carte breakfast, return to fireside lounges, and unwind in the Alpine spa. With warm hospitality, designer interiors, and seamless access to Crans-Montana’s ski domain, LeCrans is a serene, stylish base for unforgettable winter adventures.

Getting There

Crans-Montana is very easy to reach from the UK either self-driving or by train or flying to Geneva Airport from where there are fast, frequent trains to Sierre in the valley below. There you can jump on the funicular railway the final bit up to the resort. You can book accommodation direct with Crans Montana’s tourist office. A number of British ski tour operators also offer package holidays to Crans Montana including Crystal and Ski Weekends. You can also book via ski travel agencies like Heidi, Iglu and Ski Solutions.

Crans-Montana is where alpine elegance meets high-altitude hedonism. Think sun-drenched slopes, panoramic peaks, and a cosmopolitan buzz that blends Swiss chic with mountain soul. From designer boutiques to glacier views, it’s a playground for skiers, spa-lovers, and style-seekers alike. The après scene sizzles, the pistes sparkle, and the vibe? Effortlessly glamorous.

More Info: Crans-Montana

InTheSnow Resort Guide Crans-Montana