Crans-Montana is a destination that is particularly family-friendly. Its vast sunny plateau, accessible infrastructure and diverse range of activities enable both parents and children to enjoy winter to the full in a comfortable and friendly setting. Everything has been designed to make your stay easier, to encourage those learning to ski, and to offer original experiences for an unforgettable holiday.
Every winter, Crans-Montana welcomes visitors from all over the world, attracted by its friendly, open-minded atmosphere. Different cultures mingle at this cultural crossroads, united by a shared passion for the mountains, in a resort that is just as family-friendly as it is cosmopolitan.
Among the many activities on offer in winter, there is of course skiing, sledging, skating, dog sledding and walks, as well as Snow Island, an extraordinary activity park on the snow-covered golf course in the very heart of the resort, and the magical Lantern Path with its treasure hunt. If little ones get cold, there are also plenty of indoor options for fun, including a climbing wall, horse riding, the Alaïa Club, a library/games library, a 3D cinema, bowling alley and the Swiss Model Train Foundation.
The destination owes much of its charm to the balance between tradition and modernity. The authenticity of its Alpine heritage shines through in the contemporary infrastructure, family-friendly services and a diverse cultural offering. This combination creates a unique atmosphere, combining the timeless character of mountain villages with the comfort of a resort which is looking to the future.
Crans-Montana has two snow gardens especially designed for beginners: Snow Island on the Severiano Ballesteros golf course in the resort, and the Jardin des Neiges on the slopes in Arnouva.
Snow Island is located right on the snow-covered Severiano Ballesteros golf course, and is one of the most iconic winter family attractions in Crans-Montana. Its location in the heart of the resort makes it extremely accessible, ideal for parents who want to offer their children fun activities without having to take the ski lifts or travel far from the village.
Designed as a proper snow leisure park, Snow Island brings several experiences designed for younger children together in one place. Children can have a gentle introduction to snow sports, thanks to a beginners’ area equipped with conveyor belts and suitable slopes. They can also have fun sledging, snow tubing, on an airbag, a snowmobile or even on a fun obstacle course, all in a safe environment supervised by professionals. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, encouraging little ones to experience snow at their own pace, without pressure.
Bibi’s House completes this area, offering children a cosy indoor area, themed around Crans-Montana's mischievous mascot. It welcomes little ones with games, reading and a variety of activities such as crafts, painting or snowman competitions. Bibi regularly comes to greet children in person, and take part in the activities, much to their delight.
The site has snack bars and restaurants offering panoramic views of the mountains, an ideal setting to get warm and take a break after outdoor activities. Deckchairs are also available to allow you to make the most of the sunshine.
More information about the Snow Island
Those who wish to head up into the mountains to learn the joys of skiing can head to the Jardin des Neiges in Arnouva, located right on the slopes. Accessible in just three minutes from the centre of Montana with the Montana–Arnouva cable car, this area is suitable for both pedestrians and skiers and is the ideal place for a first taste of skiing.
The Arnouva Jardin des Neiges, or snow garden, has a covered carpet lift and gently sloping runs, perfectly suited to children and beginner skiers. An additional learning area, with another carpet lift and several small adjacent runs, allows novices to progress gradually and gain confidence in a calm and safe environment.
While children are learning, parents can relax on the sunny terrace of the Arnouva restaurant, which offers direct views of the learning areas.
At Arnouva, just like Snow Island, it’s possible to take ski lessons supervised by Crans-Montana's partner schools, which offer individual or small group lessons. These lessons are not just designed for children who are trying skiing for the first time, they are also for those who want to improve their technique or gain confidence.
With the support of professional instructors, everyone can progress at their own pace and discover the joys of skiing in complete safety. Depending on their level, children can stay in the beginners' areas or go straight to the ski area slopes to continue learning on different terrain suited to their abilities.
For beginner skiers that don’t have a season pass, the Step One Pass is the best solution. This pass is valid at Snow Island and Arnouva, and on the Verdets ski lift. As a bonus, it also gives access to the Ycoor ice rink!
Starting at CHF 10, the Step One Pass is available for children aged 3 and over, and adults. What's more, the whole ski area is free for children under 9, provided they are accompanied by an adult with a valid ski pass.
In Crans-Montana, winter is not just about skiing. The resort offers a wide variety of activities that allow you to enjoy the cold season in other ways, both outdoors and indoors.
The Ycoor centre, located in the heart of the resort, is one of the favourite meeting places for families in winter. It is home to one of the largest outdoor ice rinks in Switzerland, complete with a curling hall and a friendly café. The site regularly hosts events such as ice hockey matches, ice discos and carnival entertainment, making it an unmissable destination for enjoying the winter atmosphere in Crans-Montana.
Nature lovers can explore a wide range of winter hiking trails for all levels, on foot or snowshoes. These varied itineraries allow you to explore the resort on paths that are accessible even with a pushchair, or discover snow-capped peaks and immerse yourself in the peaceful tranquillity of nature. And for an extraordinary experience, you can also go horse riding, dog sledding or even trekking with yaks!
When the temperatures drop or the weather turns unpredictable, there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy. Cinema, climbing, skateboarding, badminton, tennis, bowling, museums and play areas are just some of the wide range of options available to keep all ages entertained all day long.
Children can join camps and courses in the Crans-Montana region, giving them the opportunity to discover new sports and try out original and fun activities. From snow sports, to nature, creative workshops and indoor leisure activities, the possibilities for fun are almost endless!
As the festive season approaches, Crans-Montana is covered with a blanket of white snow and the streets are illuminated, creating an enchanting atmosphere that delights all ages.
The Lantern Path between Lake Moubra and Étang Long offers a truly magical experience every evening. Guided by over 160 twinkling lanterns, visitors can explore light installations, entertainment and concerts along the path, as well as enjoying gourmet treats. Children can even embark on an exciting treasure hunt, packed with clues and riddles!
Place Victoria is home to the Crans-Montana Christmas Village, where 22 chalets offer crafts, local creations and seasonal treats. Every evening, La Cabane, the market's central stage, hosts after-work entertainment with musicians, storytellers and artists of all kinds, while Father Christmas makes memories and shares smiles with everyone, whatever their age. Visitors can stroll around, warm up with a glass of mulled wine or a tasty treat, and enjoy the cosy festive atmosphere.
The New Year's concert, organised by Crans-Montana Classics, has been a feature of cultural life in the Crans-Montana region for many years. Performed by the Cameristi della Scala and guest soloists, it reflects the classical music’s strong roots in Crans-Montana.
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Crans-Montana offers a range of services designed for families, to make their stay as enjoyable and convenient as possible. Free shuttle buses make it easy to get around the resort, some spas also welcome children, and kid-friendly restaurants adapt their menus to younger guests, often reserving special areas for them. Many high-end family accommodations offer special facilities and services, ensuring comfort and peace of mind for all ages.
The resort also has a nursery for visitors, allowing parents to really make the most of their stay. It’s called Croc'Montagne, and welcomes children between the ages of 18 months and 6 years for half or full days, all year round. Themed around the world of Bibi, Crans-Montana's famous marmot mascot, the nursery offers entertainment, games and activities supervised by professionals, both indoors and outdoors.
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