Social Events

This page contains information about the social activities planned for the conference. Please check it regularly for updates.

Lake Grenon and the mountains of Crans-Montana

25.06.2026

Conference Dinner

We are delighted to invite you to the conference dinner at Fondation l’Opale starting at 7.30 pm, a truly special venue where art, nature, and gastronomy come together.

 

The restaurant is part of the Fondation l’Opale museum, and throughout the evening you will have exclusive access to the current exhibition—an opportunity to explore contemporary art in a relaxed and festive setting.

 

Nestled directly beside a beautiful lake and surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, Fondation l’Opale offers an unforgettable Alpine atmosphere. For the courageous among you, the lake is just steps away—so feel free to bring your swimsuit if you’re tempted by a refreshing dip.

 

The venue is located approximately 10 minutes by car from the conference center.

Shuttle buses will depart between 7:00 pm and 7:20 pm and will bring you back to Crans-Montana between 11:00 pm and 12:00 am, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey.

 

Shuttle buses departure : Centre sportif le Régent, Rue du Bisse, 3963 Crans-Montana, Rue du Bisse · 3963 Crans-Montana 

 

We look forward to sharing this memorable evening with you in an inspiring setting.

Conference Dinner
Student Mixer

24.06.2026

Student Mixer

Venue : Brasserie La Marmotte

 

All students attending EPDIC19 are warmly invited to a dedicated student mixer at Brasserie La Marmotte (the groundhog brewerie), beautifully located on the emblematic lake of Crans-Montana — the iconic setting marked by the large letters spelling the town’s name along the shore.

 

This evening offers the perfect opportunity to connect with peers in a relaxed and lively lakeside atmosphere.

 

Entry, music and a guided tour of the brewery with a beer tasting (approximately two beers) are included with the student conference registration.

 

Participants will also have access to pedal boats, offering a unique way to enjoy the lake and the alpine surroundings. A memorable evening of networking and fun awaits you one of Crans-Montana’s most picturesque locations.

SELF ORGANIZED

To participate in one of these workshops, you may contact the designated coordinator directly using the email address provided in the description of each.

Cheesemaking Workshop and visit of the ecomuseum

24.6.26 & 25.6.26

Cheesemaking Workshop and visit of the ecomuseum

The Hameau de Colombire, located at 1,850 meters above sea level above Crans-Montana Aminona, offers a stunning setting for nature lovers, with breathtaking views of some of Switzerland’s most beautiful mountains.

 

Immerse yourself in the world of cheesemaking by taking part in the process and savoring each stage along the way.

 

During this activity, you will have the opportunity to learn more about traditional cheesemaking and Swiss heritage through a visit to the eco-museum. A small tasting is included as part of the experience.

 

The activity takes place outdoors or, if necessary, inside a mayen (traditional alpine hut) in case of rain.

 

Contact : info@colombire.ch

 

Location: Hameau de Colombire (in front of the “Barzettes” mayen).

 

How to get there: To reach Hameau de Colombire (Route de Colombire 2, 3974 Aminona) from the Le Régent Congress Center, we recommend using the free shuttle buses operating from Crans-Montana.

 

  1. Walk for approximately 5–10 minutes to the “Scandia” bus stop.
  2. Take bus B431 towards Aminona and get off at “Crans-Montana, télé Violettes”.
  3. From there, take bus B435 towards Aminona Plumachit and get off at “Aminona, Colombire”.


Indicative outbound travel times:
• 12:50 – 13:26 (36 minutes)
• 13:10 – 13:56 (46 minutes)

For additional information and full timetables, please refer to the official website.

24.6.26 & 25.6.26

Walk along an irrigation channel (bisse) and wine tasting

Walk along the Bisse du Sillonin irrigation channel.

Includes explanations about the surrounding nature, the history, and the evolution of viticulture in the region. 

Enjoy a glass of wine from the backpack while strolling among the vines.

 

After the walk, travel to the La Romaine winery, voted Swiss Winery of the Year. (approximately 20 minutes on foot – easily doable within the excursion's timeframe).
 
Visit the magnificent La Romaine winery with explanations of its winemaking process. Enjoy a guided tasting of several wines typical of the region. 

 

Recommended equipment :

  • Good walking shoes.
  • A hat or rain gear in case of light rain
  • Water bottle

 

Contact : info@valaiswinetours.com

 

Location: 3978, Flanthey (15 min by car from Crans-Montana)

 

How to get there: by privat transport or by private vehicle. Watch out for narrow roads.

 

 

Walk along an irrigation channel (bisse) and wine tasting

There is so much to explore from Crans-Montana. Here are a few suggestions for your free time during the conference. 

These activities are at your own risk and peril .

For even more activity ideas, you can visit the website of the Crans-Montana tourist office.

There are many magnificent hikes accessible from Crans-Montana.

The Plaine Morte Glacier is easily accessible from Crans-Montana. Cable cars' summer map, timetable and price list here.

Via ferrata routes near Crans-Montana offer secured climbing experiences with stunning alpine views.

Zermatt is only about 2 hours away by train from Crans-Montana.

Find out how to go there by train.

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is about 2.5 to 3 hours from Crans-Montana by train and cable car.It offers offers breathtaking high-altitude views and year-round glacier access.Information on lift access is available here.

The Fondation Pierre Gianadda in Martigny features the Rodin exhibition “Rodin according to Rilke” (from June 26, 2026) and a permanent exhibition on Leonardo da Vinci’s inventions. Martigny is accessible from Crans-Montana in train in a bit more than one hour.

The medieval city of Sion, known for its historic old town and iconic hilltop castles, is about 30–40 minutes from Crans-Montana by bus and train.