Where to admire the most beautiful panoramic views this winter

In Crans-Montana, winter is best enjoyed in the great outdoors. From snowy forests to sun-kissed peaks and deep blue lakes, every viewpoint reveals a different facet of the Alpine landscape.
Whether you're on skis or hiking in sturdy walking boots, here are a few places where the view alone is worth going for, places where it is easy to simply enjoy the moment.

1. Plaine Morte, infinite views

Plaine Morte, at an altitude of almost 3,000 metres, offers a rare sight: a vast glacier surrounded by mountains which stretch as far as the eye can see. You can spot dozens of peaks in a 360° panorama, in an atmosphere that conveys the immensity and silence of the high mountains. It’s even possible to go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing on the glacier.

• The most exceptional moment is sunrise. On certain dates you can book to be in the ski area to witness this breathtaking spectacle.
• Access is via the Violettes Express cable cars from Les Barzettes (bus/shuttle bus stop «Crans-Montana, télé Violettes’), then take the Funitel to the summit. Once at Plaine Morte, enjoy the area on snowshoes, skis, cross-country skis or even with a snowkite.

2. Cry d’Er, the great Alpine spectacle

At an altitude of 2,200 metres, Cry d’Er is the ultimate viewpoint. The panorama looks out onto the region's most beautiful 4,000-metre peaks, and the atmosphere is as lively as the view is breathtaking.
The highlight has to be at the end of the day for the après-ski as the sun goes down, the colours of the sunset over the mountains are worth stopping for.
Access on skis or on foot:

• From Crans, simply take the Crans-Cry d'Er cable cars (bus/shuttle bus stop «Crans-Montana, télé Cry d’Er »).
• From Montana, you can take the Montana-Arnouva cable car (bus/shuttle bus stop «Crans-Montana, télé Arnouva» or «Crans-Montana, Ycoor» and take the escalator up), then the Arnouva-Cry d’Er chair lift, which is also accessible to pedestrians.

3. La Vache Noire (Aminona), the spirit of nature

Away from the main roads in the mountains above Aminona, the Vache Noire restaurant is a charming spot, in an area that feels a little wilder. You’ll find less mountain cabins and terraces, instead there is authentic mountain scenery, dominated by the Tsa chairlift and the surrounding peaks.

• Why go there: to enjoy natural views far from the hustle and bustle in the heart of the ski area.
• Access on skis (head towards Aminona via the Toula then La Tsa chairlifts) or on cross-country skis ( 12. Vache Noire piste, a black slope or 14. Grand Loup, a red slope).

4. Chetzeron, the mountain with a designer twist

Chetzeron is a former cable car station which has been converted into a mountain hotel-restaurant , which combines contemporary architecture with panoramic views. Luxury here is all about tranquillity and the feeling of being at one with the mountains, treating yourself to a moment out of time.

• The bonus: the rooftop swimming pool and the opportunity to spend the night here to admire the everchanging views from evening through to morning.
• Accessible on skis or on foot (snowshoes or groomed trail from Cry d’Er).

5. Colombire, a balcony overlooking the valley

Nestled above Aminona, Colombire is an authentic and charming stopover which offers traditional mountain huts and silence, with an opportunity for a gourmet break on a terrace overlooking the Rhone valley.

• The experience: head up on snowshoes and come back down on a sledge after a tasty fondue at the Relais de Colombire (booking required).
• Access on skis or on foot (snowshoes or winter path from Aminona, bus/shuttle bus stop «Aminona»).

6. Lake Grenon, reflections of the peaks

Between Crans and Montana, Lake Grenon and its giant letters offer soothing views that are very easy to get to. The snow-capped mountains and giant letters reflected in the lake create a magical setting just a stone's throw from the centre of the resort.

• The exceptional moment: at dusk the view is even more magical, when the giant letters are illuminated.
• Access on foot (bus/shuttle bus stop «Crans-Montana, Lac Grenon»).

7. Severiano Ballesteros Golf Course, a signature viewpoint

At the end of the hiking trail on the golf course, even in the snow, hole n°7 remains one of the most spectacular spots in the resort. The view from here plunges down to the Rhone valley and Lower Valais, offering a magnificent panorama.

• Bonus: next to the giant letter A, look at the landscape through the educational telescope.
• Access on foot or snowshoes from the centre of Crans (bus/shuttle bus stop «Crans-Montana, Sporting»).

In Crans-Montana, every viewpoint has its own character: some have to be earned, others come effortlessly, but they all have the power to make you feel at one with the mountains. Whether you're on the slopes, on a trail or by a lake, the best view will always be the one you take the time to savour. Now where are you going to start…

Enjoy winter in Crans-Montana