In the winter of 1987, travelers from all over the world arrived in western Switzerland to attend the FIS Alpine World Championships, held in Crans-Montana. Journalists sent to cover the event not only spoke of exceptionalism on the slopes but also of the hosting town. One reporter from the New York Times said of the alpine resort, “The sense of a village survives. The main drawing points are a terrain suited for strolling, a variety of ski trails and, above all, sunshine.”
Now, 35 years later, Crans-Montana is set to once again host the World Championships in 2027, begging the question—how has this Swiss resort town changed in the last four decades?
Aerial view of the twilight over the Crans-Montana village.
If you had asked the director of operations at FGP Swiss & Alps, Sébastien Gentilini, that question some 10 years ago, he may have said that not much had changed at all. “The resort used to be very famous in the 80s, but as of ten, fifteen years ago, not much growth had occurred because no one was investing.”
However, in the last five years or so, Gentilini says that investors have returned to Crans-Montana, bringing about a wave of renovation and new developments, like the upcoming Six Senses Resort & Spa. “People started investing again, not just in the hotels but in the infrastructure and education. They’re reconstructing the success of 40 years ago.”
Many come to Crans-Montana for superb skiing or other winter recreation activities.
While new construction stands to update the small ski village, the striking beauty of Crans-Montana has always endured thanks, in part, to its unique setting. Seated at roughly 1500 meters on a flat shelf in the heart of the Swiss Alps, the town’s level landscape makes for ample sunshine and a dryer microclimate, all with sprawling views of the legendary mountain range.
Overlooking Crans-Montana from a prominent position, this enhanced chalet features designer … [+]
Homes In Crans-Montana
Following suit with most ski resorts in Switzerland, the primary architectural style of Crans-Montana’s luxury homes is the modern alpine chalet, which aims to blend classical and contemporary elements.
Exteriors are often where more traditional touches are on display, like gabled roofs, timber framing and ornamental woodwork. Moving inside, features suited to modern tastes include floor-to-ceiling windows, cove lighting and bold accents walls. The most premier of homes often house high-end amenities, like indoor pools, spas and saunas and wine cellars.
New and old styles come together inside the residence, which pairs floor-to-ceiling window with … [+]
Serviced residences like those at Six Senses often offer a convenient location near the main gondola paired with luxury services including concierge, housekeeping and in-house dining with a private chef.
Older, stately chalets also make up a large portion of the market. These well-attended properties can be found in a wide range of interior designs, from European classical to minimalist to art-deco.
This manicured property in the heart of Valais consists of three buildings: the main chalet, a … [+]
Property Prices In Crans-Montana
Compared to other top Swiss resorts Crans-Montana leans towards the more affordable, says FGP Swiss & Alps agent, Jean-Christophe Bruniaux.
“Pricing in Crans-Montana is more approachable than in Verbier or Gstaad.” Bruniaux added, “The market is doing very well. People are still wanting this style of living.”
Lifestyle properties in premier locations are some of the most sought after properties. Living … [+]
With the recent increase in investment and renovation, the market stands to change in the years to come, says Gentilini. “What you’re hearing from people investing in the region is that there’s a lot of potential for growth.”
The Crans-Montana Lifestyle
In addition to world-class skiing, Crans-Montana is also known for its excellent golf courses. Several international tournaments are held at the Crans-sur-Sierre Golf Club, including the Omega European Masters. Don’t be surprised if you spot some superstars hitting the links on an average day as the likes of Adam Scott and Sergio Garcia own properties in town.
Large outdoor pavilions invite outdoor entertaining during the warmer months. Crans Montana is … [+]
Sunny summers also provide opportunities for other recreation, such as hiking, mountain climbing or even swimming in one of the five lakes right next to the village.
During the peak-winter months, when the population grows tenfold, several town events occur, perhaps the most popular being the Etoile Bella Lui, a month-long festival based on the story of “the Shepard and the Bella Lui Star.”
Options for fine dining are plentiful and prestigious, including four Michelin Star-rated restaurants. Centered in the Rue de Prado, luxury shopping includes brands such as Prada, Louis Vuitton and L’Atelier du Temps.
For the most exclusive of areas, head to the popular Plans-Mayens area.
Schools In Crans-Montana
There are only a handful of schooling options in Crans-Montana, the most notable being Le Regent International School.
Built in 2015, Le Regent boards children ages 3-18. As one of the newest schools in the country, Le Regent boasts a state-of-the-art campus and a modern approach to education.
Traveling to Crans-Montana from Geneva is about two-and-a-half hours away by car.
Surrounding Crans-Montana
Geneva and the Geneva International Airport reside just about two-and-a-half hours away by car.
An hour-and-a-half northeast is the popular Regional Park Gruyère Pays-d’Enhaut, home to many historic sites and most commonly known for cheese making.
MORE FROM FORBES GLOBAL PROPERTIES
FGP Swiss & Alps is a founding member of Forbes Global Properties, a consumer marketplace and membership network of elite brokerages selling the world’s most luxurious homes.