Hostellerie du Pas de l'Ours - Our story
Armand Bestenheider, an iconic figure in the hospitality industry in Crans-Montana
Born into a modest family in Montana, Armand Bestenheider grew up in an environment marked by hardship, but also by deep family solidarity. In 1957, after his father’s death, his mother found herself raising four children on her own with very limited means. Despite these difficulties, Armand remembers a happy childhood, sustained by strong family ties.
A hockey enthusiast, he made a name for himself in the local community of Crans-Montana before turning his attention to the hospitality industry. His professional career began with an apprenticeship in the kitchen, the first step in a journey that would lead him to become a leading figure in the resort’s hospitality sector.
In 1962, driven by his entrepreneurial spirit and determination, Armand Bestenheider took the reins of the Hôtel Aïda, then a modest establishment that he would gradually expand. Alongside his wife and their four daughters, he laid the foundations for a family-run hotel business deeply rooted in Crans-Montana.
This story of passion, perseverance, and passing on a legacy embodies the values that still drive the spirit of the Hostellerie du Pas de l’Ours today: a sincere welcome, attention to detail, and the joy of hospitality.
The luxury of an Alpine chalet; fine dining as a way of life
In Crans-Montana, the Hostellerie du Pas de l'Ours embodies the art of hospitality in the warm, intimate atmosphere of a Swiss chalet. From the moment you arrive, the aged wood, natural stone, and fireplaces create an authentic setting where luxury is experienced with simplicity and elegance.
In winter, when the peaks of the Valais Alps are blanketed in snow, the hotel becomes a true refuge. After a day in the mountains, guests rediscover the pleasure of relaxing by the fire and savoring cuisine inspired by the region and the seasons.
Gastronomy plays an essential role in this experience. Through the cuisine of Chef Franck Reynaud, particularly at the gourmet restaurant L’Ours, Alpine ingredients and flavors are celebrated with creativity and sensitivity.
More than just a stay at a 5-star hotel in Crans-Montana, Le Pas de l’Ours invites you to enjoy an experience where family-style hospitality, mountain charm, and the pleasures of fine dining come together naturally.
The Art of Hospitality: Attention to Every Detail
At the Hostellerie du Pas de l'Ours, hospitality goes far beyond a warm welcome. Every stay is an encounter, and every thoughtful gesture is a way of making our guests feel right at home.
In the intimate atmosphere of our inn in Crans-Montana, the charm of the aged wood, the warmth of the fireplaces, and the spaces designed for relaxation invite you to slow down and savor the moment. In winter, after a day on the slopes or a walk through the snow-covered landscapes, the pleasure of returning to this warm atmosphere takes on its full meaning.
Complementing this relaxed lifestyle is attentive and discreet service, provided by a team that values attention to detail and the joy of hospitality. Whether it’s a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a reunion with loved ones, our goal remains the same: to make every visit a personal experience, filled with sincerity and beautiful memories.
