It all adds up

Crans-Montana is well-known for its exceptional panoramic views and beautiful scenery stretching from the Matterhorn to Mont Blanc. However, there is more to this 100-year-old ski resort than meets the eye. Make the most of it with our list of the top things to do in Crans-Montana.

1. Skiing under bluebird skies

Extending across a plateau above the Rhône valley, the villages of Crans-sur-Sierre and Montana bask in sunshine year-round, and you can often squeeze nine hours of sun out of a winter’s day. Sun doesn’t mean slush, however, as the 3,000-meter Plaine Morte glacier at the top of the resort ensures plenty of snow. The ski terrain also pleases just about everyone, from long cruises to the impressive Adrenaline snowpark, Olympic halfpipe, and forest trails. The Alaia Chalet is a new 5,000-square-meter indoor playground for freeskiing, snowboarding, skateboarding, BMX, and more. Ramps, an airbag, and a pump track provide cutting-edge training facilities for all action sports fans.

To make your ski experience even more delightful, our Six Senses ski concierge and team are on hand to arrange lift passes or lessons and store or service your skis. They’ll also whisk off any wet boots or clothes to dry while you settle back and relax in our lounge.

2. Stretching your way to recovery

Six Senses is synonymous with wellness, so it’s no surprise there’s a 2,000-square-meter spa, which includes a Biohack Recovery Lounge, Alchemy Bar, indoor and rooftop pool, and state-of-the-art floatation pod. With its serene relaxation area, nail and hair salon, nine treatment rooms, sauna and steam facilities, and fitness and yoga studio, you are more than welcome to hang up your ski boots and spend all day here instead.

If you spend the day on the mountain, however, you’ll still find some out-of-the-ordinary recovery benefits too. Everybody is talking about our Stretch Pod, where dedicated therapists will use deep stretch movements to increase maneuverability, strength, and injury prevention. 45 minutes later, you’ll wonder why you have never considered booking a post-skiing stretch before. You’re welcome!

3. Freeriding and ski touring

The adventurous (and equipped) can head to the Col du Pochet behind the Bella Lui for some challenging off-piste skiing, with long descents and snow-filled chutes. The towering Mont Bonvin massif offers plenty of options both on and off the piste. From the glacier, there are often less-intensive lines to build your confidence in plain view of the slopes so you can bail out halfway down!

Ski touring, where you place skins on the bottom of your skis and walk them uphill, is popular in this part of the Alps. Crans-Montana has responded by creating Europe’s largest ski touring area with 40 kilometers of marked paths and varying grades of difficulty. One of our many advantages at Six Senses Crans-Montana is that we are located right next to the Crans gondola so seize the day, beat the queues, and enjoy the early-morning magic while conditions are at their best.

4. Practicing your swing

Best-known for the annual European Masters Tournament, Crans-sur-Sierre is only one of four golf courses in Crans-Montana. Right next door is the 9-hole Jack Nicklaus course, which has been voted the most beautiful in Switzerland four times. You may notice your game improves as the ball flies further above a certain altitude and the mountain air will keep you cool even in the height of summer.

After the 18th hole, come back and use the NormaTec boots in our Biohack Recovery Lounge to massage tired legs ready for the next round.

5. Eating and drinking

Crans-Montana boasts Valais wines, Michelin stars, and artisanal cheese and chocolate. If, however, you need to work up an appetite, why not try our Hike & Wine experience, which takes you up the famous Grand Blisse de Lens while learning about the Valais wine region? In the end, clink your glasses to the beautiful mountain views.

Back at Six Senses Crans-Montana, our all-day brasserie Wild Cabin, serves classic Swiss dishes, seared meat and fish, and sharing plates. For something a bit different, Japanese-inspired hoba miso, sushi, hotpots, hot stones, and grills are served up at Byakko, with a fun and funky bar for sake blends, cocktails, and live music nights.