Its lofty position in the Valais Alps has long made the adjoining towns of Crans-Montana a prime ski and snow destination, but there’s more to this elevated resort area than winter. Regardless of the season, arrival via the Glacier Express train is preferred, thanks to the heart-stoppingly beautiful scenery en route. Once there, hike the bisses du Tsitorret, a series of old irrigation channels that lead through the sloping hillsides, then head to L’instant Chocolat for a reward. The shop is the domain of Swiss chocolate master David Pasquiet, where his culinary imagination is allowed free rein in the creation of luscious and memorable confections, including a handcrafted dark chocolate that’s paired with star anise.

Enjoy more high-altitude hiking along the Plaine Morte glacier and boating excursions across the Grottensee, an underground lake that stretches between the nearby towns of Sion and Sierre. With a total of five other lakes shimmering beneath the mountain sun, there are plenty of watery options for sailing and swimming. For cycling fans, trails include the Kona Bikepark and 73 miles of marked pistes, with two exhilarating downhill tracks. For golf with a memorable view, the Crans-sur-Sierre Golf Club provides four choices, including the 18-hole Severiano Ballesteros Golf Course and 9-hole Jack Nicklaus course with the Matterhorn presiding on the horizon.