Neither resort limits its allure to wintertime diversions. During the summer Montana tends to focus on spa cures and general health and well-being, and Crans transforms itself into a golf center. Nearby facilities include the 18-hole Plan-Bramois course, on the western outskirts of town, and the 9-hole Jack Nicklaus (formerly known as the Xires) course, on the resort's southern perimeter. For golf information, call tel. 027/485 97 97. The Omega European Masters, held at Crans each year in September, draws top golfers from all over the world. Tennis, hiking, and mountain climbing are the main summer sports at Crans-Montana; others include horseback riding, hiking, and fishing. Winter sports include skating, ski-bobbing, and ice-hockey matches. Skiing is available year-round.
There's a spectacular ascent to Point Plaine-Morte, at nearly 3,000m (9,840 ft.); but even at such a great height, there are still runs suitable for novice skiers. To get here, take the gondola from Montana-Barzettes to the east of Montana, stopping at Les Violettes first. There's a restaurant at Plaine-Morte.
Cry d'Err, which looms north of the resort, rises to 2,264m (7,426 ft.) and has a large restaurant and a sunbathing terrace. To get here, take the Grand Signal gondola from Montana or the Crans-Cry d'Err gondola from Crans.
Piste Nationale is known for its steep, narrow runs, which attract many skiers. Mount Tubang, especially its La Toula run, is another slope only for the advanced skier.
All-inclusive ski passes that provide access to all the cable cars and chairlifts in the Crans-Montana district cost 118F ($97/£50) for 2 days and 301F ($247/£128) for 6 days. Children between the ages of 6 and 15 are charged 71F ($58/£30) for 2 days and 181F ($148/£77) for 6 days. A passport-size photo is required for anyone who wants to buy a ski pass.
