The best après ski in Crans-Montana
The nightlife in Crans-Montana is spread out between the two distinct villages rather than focused in a central area. Montana tends to be younger and livelier with a more traditional après vibe and cheaper venues; while in Crans bars and clubs tend to be more expensive and attract an older crowd. However, while there’s a mix in both areas of the resort, there’s been something of a switch in recent years, compounded by the opening of the new Ala?a Lodge bar, and nowadays it’s Crans which has the youthful following and Montana the quieter of the two.
Many of the upmarket hotels have laidback lounge bars and terraces open to the public, and there are also three wine bars dedicated to the local Valais grapes. For late nights, two nightclubs, huge Pacha and long-standing Sky, stay open until the early hours in Crans.
For further Crans-Montana inspiration, see our guides to the resort's best accommodation and restaurants.
Monk’is Bar
In the centre of Crans, Monk’is is aimed at a youthful crowd. The atmosphere ramps up after around 10pm with music until 2am. It has a panoramic terrace for early après, themed party nights, and serves cocktails and snacks including burgers, chips and salads.
Contact: monkis.ch
Zero Dix
By the Cry d’Er lift station in Crans, Zero Dix is open all day and has cosy, indoor tables or a south-facing terrace, where heaters and blankets are provided on chilly days. From around 3pm it becomes a buzzing, après meeting place with live music and DJs, an upbeat atmosphere and friendly staff. It also serves well-presented, tasty food.
Contact: zerodix.ch
Le Tirbouchon
On Avenue de la Gare in Montana, Le Tirbouchon is a classy bar specialising in local Valais wine. Sample by the glass or by the bottle, with snacks of local meat and cheese. Open until 8pm (Monday to Thursday) and 9pm (Friday and Saturday).
Contact: letirbouchon.ch
Le Senso
For a clubby vibe and cocktails in a relaxed lounge atmosphere with live music and DJs, Le Senso in the middle of Montana, is the place to go. This apero bar serves food all day but is more of a party venue after 10pm and holds lively theme nights.
Contact: 00 41 78 204 14 78; facebook.com/lesenso
