Mountain bike tours

Alpages Bike

VTT alpages

Crans-Montana

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This mountain bike route explores the region's high alpine pastures. It is a sporty way to discover the local wildlife and plant life, with superb views across the surrounding peaks.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Length

21.31 km

Duration

3:00 h

Description

The ride starts in the centre of Crans-Montana, at the Maison du Tourisme, and climbs steadily via Lake Chermignon and Arnouva. A first descent leads down to Marolires, before the trail climbs again towards Courtavey and Colombire, through landscapes dotted with traditional mayens that are so typical of the region. The ascent continues to Prabaron, also known as the Colombire alpine pasture, the highest point of the route, where a majestic panorama opens up across the surrounding Alps. The descent then winds between high-altitude mayens and the forests of Aminona, revealing a peaceful, untamed atmosphere. The route alternates between forest tracks and trails. It is a demanding but rewarding mountain bike loop through the iconic alpine scenery of Crans-Montana.

Turn-by-turn directions

Starting from the centre of Crans-Montana, the route quickly reaches the large CRANS MONTANA letters on the edge of Étang Grenon, before continuing towards lac de Chermignon. This first section gradually leaves the resort atmosphere behind, with rolling tracks and a pleasant warm-up before the ride gets more serious.

The climb then settles in towards Arnouva, following tracks through the forest. The route continues up towards the heights of Vermala, passing close to Le Cervin restaurant, then heads on towards Marolires. The terrain stays varied, with a lively mix of tracks, playful traverses and more open sections that give the ride a good rhythm.

From Marolires, the route continues towards Plumachit, then Colombire, as the atmosphere becomes increasingly alpine. The mayens, pastures and wide-open views give this part of the ride real character. The climb then carries on to the Cave du Sex, the furthest point of the route and an ideal place to pause.

At the Cave du Sex, the route turns back via Prabaron, then returns towards Plumachit, Marolires and Vermala. This second half is especially enjoyable to ride: the return is smooth, well-paced and lets you experience the same places from a different angle, with a balanced mix of rolling sections, woodland passages and faster stretches.

The final kilometres lead gradually back to the centre of Crans-Montana, following a natural and enjoyable line all the way to the starting point. A complete and panoramic mountain bike loop, linking several of the area's emblematic sectors and bringing together effort, alpine atmosphere and the simple pleasure of riding.

Start

Tourist Office, in the centre of Montana. (1502m)

Destination

Tourist Office, in the centre of Montana. (1502m)

Author's recommendation

Stop for a well-earned gourmet break with a local speciality at the Relais de Colombire or the Cave du Sex, and take in the view.

Technical information

Altitude

1985m

1501m

Ascent

+918m

Descent

-917m

Stamina

Experience

Landscape

Best time of the year

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

Tags

  • Cross-Country
  • Singletrail/Free ride
  • Round trip
  • Refreshment stops available
  • Cultural/historical interest
  • Flora
Getting there
Information

Public transport

From Sierre SBB/CFF train station, ride to the SMC funicular station and take the funicular towards “Crans-Montana, gare” (final stop, journey approx. 13 minutes, departures 3x/hour). From the top station, ride about 5 minutes to reach the start of the route at the Montana Tourist Office.

Approach

From the A9 motorway exit at Sierre (east or west), follow signs to Crans-Montana (approx. 20–25 minutes). Once in Crans-Montana, follow the signs to the Stephani/Casino car park. Parking is available on site.

Parking

The spacious Stephani underground car park is available on site. Charges apply.

Equipment

We recommend: bike in excellent working order, helmet, gloves and bell, clothing suitable for the weather (always carry a waterproof), food and drink.
Preparing for mountain bike outings

Safety information

The mountains are a place of pleasure to be shared and respected, offering space in which to meet up and share unforgettable moments, whether by bike or on foot. For all outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy them properly, it is essential that mountains are shared in a way that respects both Nature and agriculture. Respectful behaviour enables everyone to enjoy their hobby in the best possible conditions. Find out about the recommendations and rules in place.
Best practice guidelines

When planning, take into account participants’ fitness level and ability. All riding is at one’s own risk.

Additional information

Check out the tourist office website for mountain biking tips.


The route includes an electric bike charging station. The most common rapid charging cables are available on site.

Literature

Mountain bike & Downhill map Crans-Montana – 1 :25'000, available at the tourist office.
Digital map

Source

This activity is brought to you by Crans-Montana Tourisme & Congrès. Valais/Wallis Promotion is not responsible for the content provided.

View of the Cervo hotel with the Matterhorn in the background, Zermatt. Valais, Switzerland.

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