Étang Long - a large waterfall in the middle of a forest
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Étang Long

4.5
·40 reviews·, Switzerland

A tranquil alpine lake in Crans-Montana, offering serene walks with breathtaking mountain views and nearby upscale amenities.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Calm waters, clear skies

CrowdLow
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Étang Long - a large waterfall in the middle of a forest

Étang Long

Best Time

Summer mornings

Calm waters, clear skies

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil alpine lake in Crans-Montana, offering serene walks with breathtaking mountain views and nearby upscale amenities.

4.5
(40 reviews)

"A beautiful place in Crans-Montana, surrendered by beautiful chalets. Nature is great."

Vertical photo
TIP

🅿️ Parking Pass Needed

Grab a free 12-hour parking ticket from the machine and display it on your dashboard.

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Ideal for leisurely strolls around the lake and exploring nearby paths.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Étang Long Lake

Étang Long Lake

Crans-Montana

A serene alpine lake offering breathtaking mountain views and a peaceful atmosphere for walks.

Mountain Vistas

Mountain Vistas

Surrounding the lake

Enjoy panoramic views of majestic mountains, perfect for photography and quiet contemplation.

Nearby High Street

Nearby High Street

Adjacent to the lake

Explore upscale shops, including luxury brands, offering a contrast to the natural beauty.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Alpine Serenity

Étang Long offers a tranquil escape with stunning mountain backdrops. While not requiring strenuous hikes, comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the lake's perimeter and nearby trails. Check weather forecasts as mountain conditions can change rapidly.

Access and Amenities

Parking is available nearby, often with a free 12-hour limit, but requires obtaining a ticket from a machine. While the lake itself is a natural wonder, nearby high-end shops and a small waterslide offer additional amenities for visitors.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Calm waters, clear skies
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

✨ Hidden gems that don’t require a hike? YES, please. These stunning waterfalls along Haast Pass are just a few steps from the carpark—perfect for road trippers or those short on time! 📍 Thunder Creek Falls & Fantail Falls Save this for your South Island adventure! #WaterfallTok #NewZealandNature #HaastPass #NewZealandTrip #HaastPass #WaterfallsNZ #SouthIslandNZ #NatureLovers #RoadTripNZ #Hidden...
@imadetravelogs
5.6K likes • 77.2K views

🅿️ Parking Pass Needed

Grab a free 12-hour parking ticket from the machine and display it on your dashboard. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Ideal for leisurely strolls around the lake and exploring nearby paths. Instagram

Étang Long. 💙🤎💚🤍 Un lago a 2.125m de altitud en Ariège, Francia. Poco antes de llegar al Refuge les Estagnous y coronar el Mont Valier. Un deleite para la vista que encontrarás si haces la primera etapa de la travesía Pass'Arán. .
maremoto_mar
63 likes • 1.9K views
C'est parti pour la réserve du Mont Valier et ses étangs ! L'étang Long et l'étang Rond sont les deux plus grandes étendues d'eau de la réserve qui se situe dans la vallée du Biros dans le Couserans. Le départ de cette randonnée se fait depuis la maison du valier sur la commune de Bordes-Uchentein. Sur votre chemin vous passerez les cascades des échelles, de Nerech et de la Lauze qui sont de véri...
claire_razloznik_photography
28 likes • 555 views

📸 Capture the Views

The mountain scenery provides stunning photo opportunities, especially during golden hour. Instagram

☀️ Sun Protection

High altitude sun can be intense; bring sunscreen and a hat. Instagram

From my hike yesterday: Étang Rond and Étang Long (Round Tarn and Long Tarn). Beautiful hanging valley in the Couserans area of the Pyrenees. #hiking #lakes #mountains #couserans #pyrenees #ariege #france
bike.run.hike
12 likes • 213 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🅿️ Parking Pass Needed

Grab a free 12-hour parking ticket from the machine and display it on your dashboard. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Ideal for leisurely strolls around the lake and exploring nearby paths. Instagram

📸 Capture the Views

The mountain scenery provides stunning photo opportunities, especially during golden hour. Instagram

☀️ Sun Protection

High altitude sun can be intense; bring sunscreen and a hat. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(40 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Étang Long for its stunning natural beauty and serene atmosphere, calling it a 'very nice place' surrounded by picturesque chalets and mountains. The convenience of nearby parking and amenities like shops and a waterslide are also appreciated, though some may find the high-end nature of the surroundings less appealing.

"Come and surf and have a sun bath in a lake.
Very nice place."

Rami Arja

"A beautiful place in Crans-Montana, surrendered by beautiful chalets. Just next to it there is a free parking for up to 12 hours but you must get the free ticket from parking machine and display it on your dashboard.
Not far from it, there is a nice high street with high end shops including Rolex, Omega and more
Next it also there is a small waterslide.
Hope you like my review and I will be glad if you hit the like icon 😊"

DZ CAMERA

"Nature is great."

Ahmet Burcin Yereli

What People Like

Beautiful mountain views
Serene lake atmosphere
Convenient parking

What People Dislike

Upscale shopping focus

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Étang Long is located in Crans-Montana. Access is generally straightforward, with nearby parking available. Reddit

Yes, there is free parking available for up to 12 hours. You'll need to get a ticket from the parking machine and display it. Reddit

Information on direct public transport to Étang Long is limited, but Crans-Montana is accessible by bus and train, with local transport options likely available within the resort. Reddit

Walking is the most recommended way to enjoy the lake and its surroundings. Comfortable shoes are advised. Instagram

Absolutely! Étang Long is a perfect destination for a relaxing day trip, offering beautiful scenery and nearby amenities. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no entry fee for Étang Long itself. The lake is a natural public space. Reddit

Étang Long is accessible at all times as it is an outdoor natural attraction. Reddit

The primary fee to consider is for parking, which is free for up to 12 hours with a ticket. Reddit

While some sources mention surfing and sunbathing, swimming conditions and regulations may vary. It's best to check local advisories. Reddit

No, the high street shops are open to the public for browsing and shopping without an entry fee. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings and late afternoons, especially during the golden hour, offer the most beautiful light for capturing the lake and mountain scenery. Instagram

You can capture serene lake reflections, majestic mountain backdrops, charming chalets, and the vibrant atmosphere of the nearby high street. Instagram+1

Drone regulations can vary by location and season. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing distant mountain details. A polarizing filter can enhance reflections. Instagram

The entire perimeter of the lake offers beautiful perspectives. Exploring slightly off the main path can reveal unique angles. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Étang Long offers a gentle introduction to alpine beauty for families. The easy accessibility and flat walking paths around the lake make it manageable for little legs. The nearby small waterslide provides a fun diversion for children after enjoying the natural scenery. Reddit

Parking is convenient with a free 12-hour limit, making it easy for a day trip. While the high-end shops might not be of interest to kids, the open space around the lake allows for running around and enjoying the fresh mountain air. Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities directly at the lake might be limited. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Nature Walkers & Photographers

For those who appreciate serene landscapes, Étang Long is a gem. The calm waters often create beautiful reflections of the surrounding mountains, offering fantastic photographic opportunities. The easy, flat paths around the lake are perfect for a leisurely stroll, allowing ample time to soak in the views and capture them. Instagram+1

Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' – early morning or late afternoon – for the most dramatic lighting. The area is also part of a larger region with more extensive hiking trails, so Étang Long can serve as a beautiful, accessible starting point or a peaceful interlude. Instagram

🛍️ Shoppers & Leisure Seekers

Étang Long provides a unique blend of natural beauty and upscale leisure. After enjoying a peaceful walk by the lake, you can explore the adjacent high street, renowned for its luxury boutiques and watch retailers. This offers a chance to indulge in some high-end shopping. Reddit

The availability of free parking for up to 12 hours makes it convenient to combine a nature visit with a shopping excursion. The overall atmosphere is one of refined relaxation, appealing to those who enjoy the finer things in life alongside scenic beauty. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of Alpine Lakes

Étang Long, situated in the picturesque setting of Crans-Montana, is a prime example of the serene beauty found in alpine lakes. These bodies of water, often fed by glacial melt, are characterized by their crystal-clear waters and dramatic mountain backdrops. The name 'Étang Long' itself, meaning 'Long Pond' or 'Long Lake' in French, hints at its elongated shape, contributing to its unique charm. Instagram+1

The surrounding landscape, dotted with beautiful chalets, enhances the idyllic atmosphere. Visitors often describe the place as 'very nice' and a 'beautiful place,' highlighting the natural splendor that draws people to such locations. The tranquility of Étang Long makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature's grandeur. Reddit

While the lake is the main attraction, its proximity to other amenities adds to its appeal. The nearby high street offers a touch of luxury with its upscale shops, providing a contrast to the natural serenity. This blend of natural beauty and sophisticated amenities makes Étang Long a well-rounded destination for various visitors. Reddit

Exploring the Surroundings

Beyond the immediate beauty of Étang Long, the surrounding area offers opportunities for both relaxation and exploration. The description of the lake as being 'surrounded by beautiful chalets' points to a well-developed yet charming alpine resort. This suggests that while the natural landscape is paramount, the human element has been integrated thoughtfully. Reddit

For those looking for a bit more activity, the mention of a 'small waterslide' nearby indicates family-friendly options. Furthermore, the presence of high-end shops, including luxury watch brands like Rolex and Omega, caters to a different kind of visitor, offering a chance for some retail therapy after enjoying the natural scenery. Reddit

Reddit discussions about similar areas in the Pyrenees, like the 'Pass'Arán' traverse, mention lakes like Étang Rond and Étang Long as part of hiking routes. This implies that Étang Long could be a starting point or a stop on longer treks, offering a taste of the broader hiking opportunities in the region. Instagram+1

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