Hikes

Sentier Panorama 4000

Suone von Tsittoret oberhalb Crans-Montana

Crans-Montana

Closed

Hiking trail above Crans-Montana with fantastic views of the 4000-meter mountain range and several attractive mountain restaurants along the way.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Length

13.42 km

Duration

4:20 h

Description

The name of the hike says it all: panoramic view of the Rhone Valley and the sparkling four-thousanders on the other side. Hikers enjoy an unobstructed view of the opposite Val d’Anniviers, majestically framed by five four-thousand-meter peaks, with the Matterhorn as the highlight in the background. The starting point is the mountain station of the Cry d’Er gondola with its popular restaurant and sun terrace offering fantastic views. The first section leads to the Cabane des Violettes (2208m), manned by a mountain guide. The traditional seasonal cuisine is simple but excellent: the Michelin-starred chef also runs one of the best gourmet restaurants in Crans-Montana. From there, the hike continues to the slopes of Petit Mont Bonvin, where a descent down to Aminona begins and the hike ends. One of the most beautiful sections on this part leads along the Bisse du Tsittoret, a 15th-century irrigation canal. Its water springs from the Tièche in the east, which flows downstream into the Raspille, the linguistic border of Valais.

Turn-by-turn directions

The hike is divided into three parts. The first third is rather flat, and the path follows the flanks of Bella Lui, then continues north to the highest point of the hike (2,347 m) on the slopes of Mont Bonvin. The trails are good and clearly marked. The route initially heads northeast to the Cabane des Violettes before turning north to ascend the valley flank. The last two thirds of the hike consist of a long, steady descent. The path first leads over open slopes scattered with large boulders above the tree line before reaching the Bisse du Tsittoret. From the Cave du Sex, the hike continues through the forest to Aminona.

Start

Cry d'Er, gondola mountain station (2252m)

Destination

Aminona (1516m)

Author's recommendation

Take your binoculars to observe the local wildlife – especially the birds of prey and the numerous marmots living in the rocky slopes.

Technical information

Altitude

2347m

1499m

Ascent

+500m

Descent

-1240m

Stamina

Experience

Landscape

Best time of the year

  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec

Tags

  • Linear route
  • Scenic
  • Geological highlights
  • Fauna
  • Refreshment stops available
  • Cultural/historical interest
  • Flora
  • Cableway ascent/descent
Getting there
Information

Public transport

Train to Sierre. 350 m on foot to the valley station of the funicular towards Montana. The funicular can be reached from Sierre station by following the red marking on the ground. To get to the valley station of the Cry d’Er gondola in Crans-Montana, either take the bus towards Crans-sur Sierre (stop Téléphérique) or walk (approx. 2 km, 20 min). Gondola ride to Cry d’Er. After the hike, take the bus from Aminona to the funicular mountain station in Montana and return to Sierre. Detailed timetables for trains and Postbuses can be found at sbb.ch.

Approach

Highway A9, exit 28 (Sierre-West) coming from the west or exit 29 (Sierre-East) coming from the east. Follow the signs to Crans-sur-Sierre (road to Chermignon) and then "Parking Crans-Cry d’Er".

Parking

Large parking lot at the valley station of the Cry d’Er gondola. Follow the local parking guidance system in Crans-Montana.

Equipment

We recommend:

  • Good footwear
  • Weather-dependent clothing: always carry a waterproof vest
  • Headgear
  • Sunscreen
  • Water bottle
  • Picnic
  • Camera
  • Binoculars (optional)
  • Walking poles (optional)
  • Printout of the hiking trail (click «Print» to download) 

For certain hikes:

  • Swimsuit

Safety information

The mountains, a place of joy to share and respect. The mountain world is a place to meet and create unforgettable moments together – whether by bike or on foot. For all users to benefit, it is essential to share this space with respect towards nature and agriculture. Respectful behavior allows everyone to engage in their leisure activities under the best conditions. Inform yourself about recommendations and rules. Assess your own skills and fitness well. Using the various routes is fundamentally at your own risk.

For all hikes:

  • Carry a map. Download the complete description of the hiking trail with a large-scale map by clicking "Print" at the top right of the page.
  • Use only marked hiking trails and observe all signs and instructions – for your own safety, to protect grazing animals and out of respect for wildlife.
  • Close gates after passing through.
  • Behave considerately towards other trail users, plants, and animals.

For mountain hikes:

  • Carry additional sun protection. UV rays at high altitude can be very strong, even in cloudy weather.
  • Plan your hike carefully: consider the required fitness level of all participants, weather forecasts, and seasonal conditions.
  • Weather conditions can change very quickly and without warning in the mountains. Appropriate clothing and sufficient provisions (food and drink) are very important. In unsettled weather, turn back early.

For high alpine hikes:

  • Inform your family about your hiking route. Avoid hiking alone if possible.
  • Do not go onto glaciers without a mountain guide.
  • Observe warning signs indicating hazards at riverbanks, along watercourses below dams and reservoirs: water levels can rise quickly and without warning.

Proper behavior on the trail

Preparation for a hike

Additional information

View this route on SchweizMobil: 

More information about the destination: 

Literature

The tourism office in Crans-Montana provides you with informational material and brochures about hiking in the destination.

Maps

SwissTopo national maps: 1:25,000: 1287 Sierre

Source

This activity is brought to you by Valais/Wallis Promotion

The Swisspeak Resort in Vercorin in a winter setting

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