Autumn getaway: A weekend of nature and gourmet delights in Crans-Montana

Autumn, a season full of charm, colours and scents, awakens all your senses. Stroll through sun-drenched vineyards and meet chefs who know how to bring out the best in local produce.

Whether you're a nature lover or a gourmet, or just looking to relax for a while, Crans-Montana and its authentic villages are full of activities to delight your senses and make your autumn escapades ones to remember. From peaceful hikes to gourmet discoveries, here are a few ideas for a perfect weekend in the heart of the Alps.

Day 1

To begin with, explore the village of Lens, which boasts a wealth of architectural and historical heritage, as well as 2 museums: the Fondation Opale, a jewel of modern art, and the Musée Le Grand-Lens, which reveals secrets from the village’s history. Don't miss its GaultMillau-rated restaurant, its cafés, or the many different walks and the Christ-Roi statue on the hilltop overlooking the valley.

Just a stone's throw from the Christ-Roi statue from which it takes its name, Le Monument sits opposite the Saint-Pierre-aux-Liens church, built in the mid-19th century in the Piedmont style. Whether on the terrace, in the bistro or in the dining room, good humour reigns, and the Italian accents in the air are also present in the cuisine.
The autumnal twist: The menu changes with the seasons, and an autumnal menu awaits you, inspired by local produce.

The afternoon continues with a visit to the Musée Le Grand-Lens, and on to explore the Grand Bisse de Lens with Valais Wine Tours guide Catherine Antille. This connoisseur of Valais history, vineyards and local walks will give you key facts to understand Valais today.

Finish the day with a visit and winetasting at Château de Vaas - Maison des Cornalins. Nestled in the heart of a typical hamlet, surrounded by an exceptional vineyard, this charming centuries-old building houses a wine bar where you can discover the region's finest vintages and products. Continue the evening by savouring the famous ‘Brisolée’, which highlights roasted chestnuts, cured meats and local cheeses.

After a busy day, a night in one of our charming Bed & Breakfasts is a must! Head to the peaceful hamlet of Diogne, where the La Forge de Diogne or Chalet Diognysos B&Bs will delight nature lovers in search of peace and quiet and a friendly welcome.

Day 2

Start the day with a home-cooked breakfast prepared by your hosts with fresh, local produce - a real treat to get your day off to a good start.

Then set off on a morning walk along the Chemin des Contrées, a route that takes you through forests and past scree slopes and streams with breathtaking views. This walk, which is accessible for everyone, can be shortened or extended as you wish.

At lunchtime, take the path to the village of Chermignon and enjoy an exquisite meal in one of our 2 favourite restaurants:

• Le Chermignon, a restaurant offering quality cuisine made with fresh local produce in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
• Le Relais Fleuri offers breathtaking views of the Rhone Valley from its terrace, as well as in its dishes. Everything is homemade here and prepared with care and also reflects the seasons, for an authentic, gourmet experience.

In the afternoon, enjoy a stroll through the vineyards. Watch the grape harvest and admire the landscape and its flamboyant colours. It's a poetic spectacle that's sure to fill you with wonder.

Before leaving Crans-Montana and its authentic villages, take a stroll at sunset to explore the architecture of these old buildings that reflect the region’s charm and authenticity.

Explore Crans-Montana’s autumn colours.