Playground of Etang-Long: the large playground by the lake in Crans-Montana

A large playground by the edge of Lake Long

In Crans-Montana, on the Valais plateau at an altitude of 1455 meters, the playground at Lake Long is one of those places that families willingly share. Situated right by Lake Long, it features a beautiful wooden structure with a climbing net, suspension bridges, a slide, a zip line, and towers to explore. All around, the water, mountains, and the path that runs along the lake create a setting that is different from a neighborhood playground. People come here for a snack break, a whole morning, or a detour between two activities on the plateau. Everything is freely accessible and completely free, making it a reliable choice for an impromptu outing as well as for a planned day.

What your children will discover

The centerpiece is the large wooden structure designed for climbing and tackling challenges: climbing net, suspension bridges, slide, zip line, and interconnected towers. Younger children will also find enjoyment with swings, spring games, and rocking animals. A vast sand play area completes the ensemble: buckets, shovels, and various construction sites keep children occupied for a good while. And since the playground directly overlooks Lake Long, observing the ducks and the sound of water are part of the experience.

What to do there and the atmosphere on site

Here, the children take the lead: they move from the net to the slide, head back to the sand, then zip down the zip line, while parents settle nearby. The space is generous, allowing several families to coexist without it feeling crowded. The atmosphere is relaxed, typical of an outdoor place where you can stay as long as you want. In summer, the Lake Long area also comes alive with water activities and, at certain times, WaterGames on the lake: a way to extend the outing beyond just the playground. Be sure to confirm the dates and schedule of these activities with the tourist office.

Before you go

• Recommended age: ideal for ages 3-8; older kids up to 12 also enjoy the zip line and climbing net.
• Duration: plan for 1 to 2 hours, more if you combine it with a walk around the lake.
• Price: free, open access.
• Reservation: none, you come when you want.
• Stroller/Accessibility: flat surroundings and large adjacent parking; the playground surface combines wood chips and sand. Stroller access to be confirmed based on your equipment.
• Transport: by train to Sierre (CFF), then bus to Crans-Montana; by car via the A9 (exit Sierre-Ouest), large parking next to the playground.
• What to bring: sunscreen, cap, water, a change of clothes for sand play, and a snack.
• Ideal season: from spring to autumn; the site is at altitude, so bring a warm layer even in nice weather.

Parent tips

• Arrive in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the full sun on the playground.
• Bring a bucket and molds: the large sand area is a magnet for children.
• Combine the playground with a section of the Lakes Promenade, which is accessible and designed for families.
• In summer, inquire about WaterGames and water activities at Lake Long to vary the fun.
• Keep an eye on the little ones near the water: the playground borders directly on the lake.

Useful information

• Address: Lake Long, 3963 Crans-Montana (Valais).
• Official site: crans-montana.ch.
• Hours: open access; outdoor site mainly open from late spring to autumn. Specific dates to be confirmed with the tourist office.
• Access: train to Sierre then bus to Crans-Montana; by car via the A9, exit Sierre-Ouest, large parking nearby.

Looking for more outings? Find all our activities in Crans-Montana.

Why we recommend it

Because it brings together everything we look for in a successful outing: a large, varied, and free playground, a natural setting by a mountain lake, and the possibility to combine it with a walk or a swim in summer. It’s the kind of place that appeals to both little climbers and parents seeking a quiet spot to relax.

In a nutshell

A large free playground by Lake Long in Crans-Montana, featuring a climbing net, suspension bridges, a slide, and a zip line, in a natural setting at 1455 meters.