8.65

Golf Club Crans-sur-Sierre (Ballesteros)

Course info

ACCESS
Public
EST.
1929
GRASS
Bentgrass
SEASON
May–October
CART TYPE
Electric
avg. Price
$
160
?
CADDIES
Unknown
Type
Championship
Unknown
Par
72
Unknown
Holes
18
Stimpmeter
10
City
Crans-Montana

Score

8.65
Design
40%
8.7
Conditions
25%
8.3
Desirability
15%
8.7
Scenery
10%
9.6
Fun
5%
8.2
Uniqueness
5%
8.7

Difficulty

Overall
Moderate

Slope 132

75
155

Scratch Rating

-10
0
+10

Stimpmeter 10

7
15

Walkability Moderate

Easy
Brutal

Weather

Average Rain Medium

Low
Extreme

Average Wind Medium

Low
Extreme

Price

?
?
?
$
140
$
160
$
180
Low
Average
High

Yearly Rounds

0
75,000

Course Report

Crans-sur-Sierre has been the annual venue for the European Masters, an official European Tour event, since 1972—the longest-running European Tour venue at one club.

About

The Severiano Ballesteros Course at Golf Club Crans-sur-Sierre is perched at 1500 meters in the Swiss Alps and hosts the annual Omega European Masters. Originally laid out by Harry Nicholson in 1929 and redesigned by Severiano Ballesteros in 1999, this championship layout features undulating fairways and breathtaking mountain panoramas.

Caddie Tip

On holes where the greens are perched above the fairway, always aim for the center and factor in strong alpine winds which can cause balls to balloon. Approach shots play shorter due to altitude; take a club less but beware of firm, fast greens and punishing bunkers.

The Main Challenge

The real challenge comes from the sloping fairways and the need for precise distance control into raised or domed greens, especially under breezy mountain conditions. The finishing stretch is infamous for decisive risk-reward decisions, with narrow approaches and tricky putting surfaces testing even top professionals.

The Good

Golfers consistently praise the sweeping alpine vistas, particularly on the closing stretch, and the conditioning of the greens. The unique atmosphere during the European Masters, blending top-tier golf with a festive, international crowd, stands out as a memorable highlight for many visitors.

The Not So Good

Some golfers note the course can become crowded and slow during peak tournament periods, and the challenging terrain makes walking tiring for less athletic players. Occasional renovation work or temporary greens during event preparations can impact the usual playing experience.

Signature Hole:

#

18

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The 18th hole, a par 4, is the most iconic at Crans-sur-Sierre, playing slightly downhill with a green set dramatically beside the clubhouse. With mountain vistas as a backdrop, the approach over water to a well-guarded green creates an unforgettable and challenging finish, often decisive during the European Masters.

Clubhouse

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Expect a social, alpine-themed clubhouse offering locker rooms, a well-appointed bar and restaurant with panoramic views, event spaces, and terrace seating overlooking the 18th green. Additional amenities include meeting rooms, spa treatments at some connected hotels, and staff fluent in several languages.

Practice Facilities

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The club provides an expansive driving range, short game practice areas, and putting greens. Modern teaching facilities and on-site instruction are available, as well as a pro shop offering top equipment, club rentals, and gear for all weather conditions.

Dress Code:

Standard

No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.

Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.

Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.

Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.

Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.

Switzerland