A winter weekend with the family in Crans-Montana

Winter’s here in Crans-Montana, offering a host of activities for all the family. How about getting away for a weekend to share magical moments in an enchanting setting?

From the legendary Lantern Path to the many different experiences the destination has to offer, Crans-Montana promises an unforgettable stay in the heart of the Alps.

Discover our suggested programme and treat yourself to a wonderful family weekend.

Friday

Arrival at your hotel followed by dinner at the hotel

As a family destination, Crans-Montana has hotels perfectly suited to a family weekend:

• L’Etrier: this 4 star hotel has a mountain charm and offers spacious rooms with breathtaking views of the Alps.

Make yourself comfortable, then take advantage of the Spa l'Alpage, which offers a range of treatments specially designed for children. In the evening, savour authentic local dishes at Le Fer à Cheval restaurant.

• Helvetia Intergolf: located in the centre of Crans-Montana, this 4-star hotel offers comfortable apartments with hotel service.

Relax with the family in the wellness area, before sampling Swiss specialities in Le Carnotzet restaurant.

However if you want to explore other possibilities, the destination offers a very wide range of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets. Find out what's on offer.

Saturday

A morning at the ice rink

Start your day at the Ycoor ice rink, in the very heart of Crans-Montana. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skater, the whole family can enjoy this wonderful area. Ice skate hire for children and adults is possible at the rink, and skating lessons are available.

If skating isn't your cup of tea, why not try an introduction to curling? Supervised by an instructor, try this friendly sport in a 2 hour introductory session in the indoor curling hall next to the Ycoor ice rink.

Booking is required 24 hours in advance.

A little extra: after this exercise, warm up with a hot drink at the Café d’Ycoor.

A well-deserved lunch break

After a great morning on the ice, stop off at one of the many restaurants close to the Ycoor ice rink.

A little extra: Le Mayen, Oli’s Break and Brasserie Pizzeria Gerber offer children's menus.

An afternoon strolling and shopping in Crans

After a lovely family meal, take a pleasant stroll through the centre of Crans. From Ycoor, start by exploring the charming streets where local artists display their work in shop windows, then head for the Rue du Prado, the epicentre of shopping in Crans. You'll find plenty of shops here for children and adults, from clothes boutiques to sports stores and toy shops.

A magical evening on the Lantern Path

As soon as the sun begins to set, the Lantern Path is illuminated and it provides the backdrop for an enchanted tale.

Take a stroll along this enchanting path to see original light artwork inspired by the mysteries of the Universe.

A little extra: set off on a thrilling treasure hunt scattered with clues. Along the way, children are invited to share a wish with the Bella Lui Fairy by posting them in dream boxes.

Practical info:

• You can collect everything you need from the Crans-Montana Tourist Offices (before 18.00).
• You can enjoy the treasure hunt during the Lantern Path opening hours, from dusk until 22.00.

Gourmet evening in an authentic 'Mayen'

Halfway along the walk, treat yourself to a well-deserved break at the Hameau de Mayens, where winter takes on the delicious taste of local produce. On some evenings, the Hameau de Mayens comes alive, offering you magical moments with concerts and enchanting shows throughout season.

Check the programme.

A little extra: with the family, with friends or for a special occasion, book a gourmet evening in an authentic Mayen, at the heart of the Lantern Path. For groups of 8 to 12 people, booking is required.

Sunday

Ski day

Ski lessons: Snow Island or Snow Garden

It wouldn’t be a weekend in the mountains without a skiing session! Two different places offer experiences tailored to families with children:

• Snow Island: located in the resort and easily accessible on foot or by shuttle bus, Snow Island is the perfect place for a first experience of skiing. With its gentle slopes and qualified instructors, your children will learn the basics of skiing in a safe and fun environment.
• Ski Kindergarten: this specially designed area is located at Arnouva, which is easy to get to with the gondola lift, and it welcomes beginners in a natural setting. The Ski Kindergarten also offers direct access to the slopes, making it ideal for families with different levels of skiers.

A little extra: And don't forget that children under 9 ski for free in Crans-Montana!

After a busy morning, it's time for refreshments! Whether you're at Snow Island or Arnouva, there are restaurants nearby where you can relax:

• Restaurant Le Sporting: located close to Snow Island, Le Sporting is a family restaurant which offers a menu that's suitable for both little ones and their parents. It’s an ideal place for a gourmet break before continuing with your afternoon activities.
• Restaurant Arnouva: located at the top of the Montana-Arnouva cable car, this mountain restaurant offers a warm welcome and a range of dining options, from fast food at the Family Snack to more traditional brasserie dishes.
  A little extra: the restaurant has a special children's corner.

A «fun» afternoon at Snow Island

Once you’ve refuelled, head to Snow Island, a favourite playground for families.

Once there, little ones can enjoy Snowtubing or go sledging. For 5 to 12 year olds, there are also electric snowmobile rides.

And for thrill-seekers, slide down the slope on a buoy, jump and fly through the air before landing safely and gently on a giant airbag. For children 5 years and over.

Don’t miss:

• The Boardercross, new this season, takes children on a fun obstacle course, it’s a must!
• La Maison de Bibi Crans-Montana's famous mascot welcomes children with a variety of activities: arts and crafts, snow painting, sledging races and much more. Meanwhile, parents can relax at the refreshment bar while admiring the magnificent Alpine views.

Practical info:

• Access from Arnouva: take the Arnouva-Montana cable car to the resort, then get to Snow Island with the free shuttle bus from Ycoor.
• The mascot Bibi is present at Snow Island every Saturday from 3pm to 3.30pm, but also on Wednesdays from 3pm to 3.30pm in high season.
• The sledge run is free, there is a charge for the magic carpets up the slope.
• The electric snowmobiles and airbag are for children aged 5 to 12.

We wish you an excellent stay in Crans-Montana!