Cry d'Er

Cry d'Er is a mountain station and ski sector above Crans-Montana, in the Valais, at about 2,250 metres, and it is the main gateway to the high-altitude part of the area. Crans-Montana is a resort on a broad, sunny terrace high above the Rhône valley, between Sierre and Sion, facing south, and its position gives it a wide view over the Valais Alps. From the terrace you see a long line of 4,000-metre peaks, from the Weisshorn and the Matterhorn in the east to Mont Blanc in the west, and the vista is often described as one of the finest in the Alps. Cry d'Er is the point where visitors reach the upper slopes and the best part of this view.

The cable car from the village climbs to Cry d'Er in a few minutes, rising above the resort and the golf courses that spread across the plateau. The plateau is known for golf as much as for skiing, and the Omega European Masters, a professional tournament, is held at Crans-sur-Sierre. In winter the same terrain is a ski area, and from Cry d'Er lifts lead higher to the Plaine Morte glacier, at around 3,000 metres, which extends the skiing season. The area is known for its sunshine, and the slopes face south or south-east, so the snow can soften quickly in spring, and early starts are recommended.

The pistes from Cry d'Er suit a range of abilities. Broad, groomed runs descend toward the village, and there are blue and red runs where intermediate skiers can cruise in the sun, with steeper options for stronger skiers. A snow park for freestyle skiers and snowboarders offers jumps and rails, and its features change with the season. Mountain restaurants and huts on the slopes serve local food and drinks, and terraces with views over the Alps are popular lunch spots. Other winter activities include snowshoeing, winter walking and cross-country skiing on the plateau.

In summer, Cry d'Er is a starting point for walks. Trails lead across alpine meadows to lakes, viewpoints and the old irrigation channels, or bisses, of the Valais, which provide gentle walks with water running beside the path. Mountain biking is also popular, and the cable car carries bikes. The area is part of a network that includes the Plaine Morte glacier, where in summer visitors can take a lift to the edge of the ice and enjoy views over the Bernese Alps, and a lake at the foot of the glacier that appears and disappears with the meltwater, a phenomenon that has attracted scientific interest.

Cable car timetables and ticket prices depend on the season and weather, so check the resort's website before you go. The sun is intense at altitude, so wear sunglasses and sunscreen, and bring layers, since it can be cold and windy at the top. Crans-Montana is reached by a funicular from Sierre or by a road with many bends. The area suits skiers, golfers, walkers and families. Allow half a day for the summit in summer, and a full day for skiing.