Crans-Montana's Mountain Biking Expansion: A New Chapter for Alpine Tourism
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Crans-Montana Embraces Mountain Biking to Boost Year-Round Tourism
Crans-Montana, a well-known ski resort in Switzerland, is making a significant shift towards becoming a top destination for mountain biking. This move aims to diversify its appeal beyond the winter season and create a sustainable, year-round tourism model. With the 2025 UCI Mountain Bike World Championships approaching, the resort is using this opportunity to kickstart its new focus on cycling.
Crans-Montana has launched a visionary roadmap that aims to make cycling a key part of the destination's future.
The resort has expanded its mountain biking infrastructure considerably. It now boasts 139km of trails, including 49km of newly certified routes. These trails cater to various skill levels, from beginners to experts. Additionally, Crans-Montana is tapping into the growing trend of gravel cycling, offering routes that blend road and off-road riding.
To showcase its new cycling credentials, Crans-Montana will host the elite Olympic cross-country discipline of the UCI Mountain Bike World Championships from 10 to 14 September 2025. The event will feature a compact, forest-based course near the resort centre, including notable sections like the Rock Garden, Timber Garden, and Waterfall.
Crans-Montana's cycling strategy extends beyond hosting a single event. The resort aims to secure long-term certification for its Olympic cross-country course, positioning itself as a regular host for international competitions. This approach is designed to attract both professional athletes and cycling tourists.
The development of cycling infrastructure in Crans-Montana is being carried out with sustainability in mind. The resort is working closely with local stakeholders to ensure that the new cycling facilities coexist harmoniously with other mountain activities and the natural environment. This balanced approach aims to create a diverse and appealing destination for all types of visitors, solidifying Crans-Montana's position as a leading Alpine resort for both winter and summer activities.