"Crans-Montana" Crans by lifeisatrip

Originally two separate villages, the natural advantages and resulting popularity of Crans and Montana led to the two resort villages joining under one name in the 1960s. It is in a wonderful location, on a sunny terrace of lakes and woodland with views across the Rhone Valley and out towards the mountain peaks of the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc.

A large, cosmopolitan resort boasting over 80 international restaurants, an excellent range of shops, lively nightlife and culture, a comprehensive program of activities and a wide-ranging choice of sporting activities beyond skiing.

Crans Montana manages to attract big spenders with designer shops, beautiful chalets and hotels, exclusive clubs and a fantastic, easy-going mountain. There is fantastic skiing to be had here (take it from an perpetual beginner). The whole area sits on a plateau overlooking the Rhone valley and receives incredible sunshine.

The city do not appear to be affected by the global economic crunch; at least from the surface.

Crans-Montana was my first skiing adventure here in Europe. My gear had just been collecting dust. I feared I may not be able to get in my snow pants nor boots, but I did. I tried on everything except the skis. Darn! Wouldn't I look like a pro when I wipe out! :)

I am not a good skier, but I can manage to stay upright (50% of the time) while going down the slopes. Blue runs, no reds. Since I haven't gone down hill for about three seasons, I wiped out big time the first time I went down. I did not hit a tree, but I went past a barrier, ended up on the sloping side of the trail, where it was mostly snow. My boots sank everytime I put my foot down. Just getting back up on the trail took most of my energy. I wiped out a few more times but not as bad as the first one. Did I have fun? Of course I did!!

• Pros:Good skiing for beginners.
• Cons:Expensive!!!
• In a nutshell:It is a nice getaway.