Crans-Montana lies on a high, sunny plateau overlooking the Rhône valley, at an altitude of 1,500 m. In winter, the ski area extends to the Plaine Morte Glacier (3,000 metres above sea level). In summer, this Valais holiday destination enjoys the reputation of being a mecca for golfers, where the international elite meets for tournaments. Cycling enthusiasts, too, have plenty to enjoy themselves here: This circuit starts in Ycoor, in the centre of Montana, and leads to Aminona and back.

From the base station of the Violettes gondola, the route climbs to Plumachit. Passing the hamlet of Colombie, you reach the Col de Crans-Montana at an altitude of 1,800 metres. From the col, riders enjoy a breathtaking view of the “Imperial Crown” of 4,000-metre peaks on the far side of the Rhône valley: the Weisshorn, Zinalrothorn, Ober Gabelhorn, Matterhorn and Dent Blanche. The total vertical ascent of the itinerary is about 430 metres.

Further up the route, the little chapel of Aprili comes into view. The descent leads via Aminona, along quiet and safe road roads, to the centre of Crans-Montana, finally following the outward leg for just over a kilometre in reverse direction. All along the route, riders can observe exceptionally rich mountain flora, from forests of larch and pine to meadows of alpine flowers.