Author: sarah

Did you say cheese ? The emblematic cheese producers of our mountains are the vital link in a whole chain of values. Generations of pastoralism and mountain grazing have shaped Les Gets and helped make this landscape into the recreational treasure trove we know today. Mountain pastures in summer, ski slopes in winter, and always an Opinel knife at the ready to cut you an amazingly tasty piece of raw-milk cheese.

We take you on a walk in the mountains to discover the local farms and their gourmet heritage.

Raclette des Reines, wickedly good

Name: Raclette des Reines.
Producer: La Ferme de Caroline, Route de Chavannes, Caroline and Noël Anthonioz.
Characteristics: cheese made entirely from the milk of Hérens cows, a mountain breed with horns and a black stocky body.
Weight: about 4.5 kg.
Rind: orangey and quite thin.
Texture: ivory coloured, creamy and dotted with small holes.
Aromas: mountain pastures and raw milk. Full of character yet easy on the taste buds.
Production period: all year round.
Maturing: 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 months.

Serving tips

Forget non-stick pans, with raclette cheese you’re supposed to use a “raclette” (scraper). A half-wheel of cheese licked by the flames of a wood fire, boiled potatoes and a few slices of dried Hérens meat. Delicious!

Did you know ?

Hérens, Nature & Progress

The milk from the Hérens cows bred by Caroline and Noël Anthonioz is as rich as can be. In summer, the queen of the herd and her subjects enjoy a grass-and-wildflower banquet on the Mouille Ronde mountain pastures. “There’s always a queen in a herd of Hérens cows” says Noël, who’s totally besotted with this breed that has always grazed in the mountains. For the Hérens is an endemic breed of the Alpine arc, a full-blood mountain-dweller with a 5,000-year history. Although she’s not the greatest dairy cow in terms of volume, her milk reaches the highest summits of nutritional quality!

Caroline and Noël have about twenty cows as well as goats of rustic breeds. They run their farm with an ecofriendly “Nature & Progress” approach that respects life, the land and the people that live on it.

Chevrotin cheese, the taste of the land

Name: Chevrotin AOP.
Producer: Chèvrerie des Félires, Route du Mont Caly, Léa and Emmanuel.
Characteristics:  a round-shaped, washed-rind pressed raw cheese typical of the Savoie mountains.
Weight: 250 to 350g.
Rind: pinkish, sometimes almost beige/yellow, covered in a fine white bloom.
Texture: soft, creamy texture, ivory colour, with virtually no holes.
Aromas: mild as cotton wool, with goaty hints of great finesse.
Production period: practically all year round. The goats stop producing milk in October and November.
Maturing: Minimum 21 days and up to 1 month on spruce-wood boards in a brick cellar.

Serving tips

On a cheese platter. Remember to remove it from the refrigerator 30 minutes beforehand. Serve with an autumn loaf containing figs, for example. In cooking, it is the ideal cheese for “tartichèvre”, the goat’s cheese variant of tartiflette. Extremely tasty and easy as pie.

Did you know ?

Alpine goats & Mont Blanc

The 80 Alpine goats of the Félires goat farm live in a picture-postcard setting, against the beautiful backdrop of the roof of Europe. This local breed flourishes on the steep mountainside. Léa and Manu choose not to remove the goats’ horns even if it means they get a few bruises. At 1,490 metres above sea level, the goats graze on a menu of rich grass and pure mountain air. The end result is a selection of beautifully-made farm cheeses – tomme, crottin and sérac – that perpetuate the purest of Savoie traditions.

Both in and of their time, Manu and Léa showcase the land and their expertise at this gorgeous goat farm.

Ash-coated goat cheese, great texture

Name: ash-coated goat cheese log.
Producer: La Chèvrerie des Ours, Combe de Magy, Chemin des Grangettes, Véronique Sublet.
Characteristics:  soft texture and naturally-forming rind covered in wood-ash.
Weight: cylinder of about 10 x 3 cm.
Rind: soft and creamy, blue-grey colour.
Texture: very white, smooth and creamy.
Aromas: goaty taste of great finesse. The ash adds salt and subtle flavours.
Production period: 8 months of the year, until the goats’ milk dries up
Maturing: 3 days for fresh cheese and up to 15 days for the more creamy, runny versions.

Serving tips

Room temperature with walnut bread and in good company. Or heated in the oven on slices of toast that have been lightly rubbed with garlic, to accompany a salad made with plenty of fresh herbs.

Did you know ?

Alpine cuddles from Raiponce, Mulan and Image

Histoire and Image are well-behaved, naturally, but then there’s Heidi and Noiraude who enjoy a spot of boxing in the milking shed. The 70 Alpine goats of the Chèvrerie des Ours goat farm have characters that match their names. “I look after them like chidren”, explains Véronique Sublet, a former teacher’s aide whose passion led her to a different career. From May to September, they graze at the Combe de Magy below Mont Caly. They’re like walking strimmers. They produce large quantities of delicious milk and are amazingly well-suited to the mountains.

Véronique is totally smitten with her herd and they reward her well. A happy goat produces tasty milk and the result is a delicious cheese. Generosity that works both ways.

Le P’tit Gêtois, as local as they come

Name: Le P’tit Gêtois.
Producer: Les Pâtres des Reines, Alpage du Lachat, Pauline and Valentin.
Characteristics:  Soft cheese in a spruce-wood ring, from the milk of Hérens, Valdostana and Abondance cows.
Weight: 500g, flat and round.
Rind: orangey with a naturally-occurring white bloom.
Texture: ivory in colour and creamy as can be.
Aromas: milky taste from the raw milk, with woody hints produced by the spruce wood.
Production period: winter
Maturing: 21 days to 1 month in a naturally cool, underground stone cellar.

Serving tips

With a rye or einkorn bread, or one made with a traditional bread flour. It can also be melted over hot potatoes and washed down with a fine, local craft beer.

Did you know ?

The poetry behind the Valdostana breed

The aptly-named piebald Valdostana cow comes from the Aosta Valley. From a distance it looks much like the Abondance breed except that it has no “glasses” and is shorter and stockier. Valdostanas are really cut out for mountain life. At the farm Les Pâtres des Reines, the Valdostanas live in a 10-strong herd that also includes Hérens and Abondance cows.

Pauline and Valentin, aged 24, run a pleasant farm where the produce is both tasty and healthy. Nature takes care of everything, from the troughs to the treatments. Organic feed, animal wellbeing and responsible farming are the priorities that led them to join the “Agriculture Poétique” network.

And you, what is your superpower ?

On International Women’s Rights Day, 8 March, we would like to highlight the women of the Gets who, each in their own way, have superpowers.

Emblematic figures, medal-winning skiers, guardians of heritage and culture, seasoned mountain women, culinary chefs or working in the background, many women contribute to the development and dynamism of the resort thanks to their activity, their profession and their passion.

Although we have not been able to show all the faces of the heroines of Les Gets, we would like to pay a collective tribute to all the women of Les Gets.

Discover their portraits below

  • Sylvie BASTARD – Managing Director of the Town Hall Services, Sylvie has been at the service of Les Gets community for 40 years and has been involved in the completion of many of the resort’s facilities. Passionate about skiing and mountaineering, she has a fine record of achievements in high mountain races.
  • Jeanne RICHARD – A rising star in biathlon, Jeanne won gold in the relay and silver in the individual event at the Youth Olympic Games in 2020. Most recently, she was crowned U19 World Champion in both the individual and relay events in Austria.
  • Laetitia ANTHONIOZ – For 25 years, Laetitia has been taking care of the resort with passion and in all seasons: first-aid tracker in winter, maintenance of leisure areas in summer and slope tractor driver in autumn.
  • Emilie LE ROUX – Emilie, who has a hotel background, decided to change course and turn to the wellness offer. Since 2019, she has been managing the Spa des Sources du Chéry, a natural and refined wellness area of more than 1000 m².
  • Déborah ANTHONIOZ – With several World Cup podiums and a silver medal at the 2010 Winter Olympics, Deborah is one of the greatest Snowboardcross athletes the resort has ever seen.
  • Léa TREMBLET – A goatherd and cheese maker, Léa and her husband have embarked on a beautiful human adventure in the enchanting setting of Mont Caly: La Chèvrerie des Félires.
  • Anouk et Nathalie BONHOMME – Shepherdess, potter, graphic designer… Anouk and Nathalie merged their talents, their passion and their creativity to create, 12 years ago, the Poterie artisanale des Gets.
  • Adeline MUGNIER – This pure gêtoise has brought some very nice trophies back to Les Gets. She participated mainly in the Winter Olympics in Sochi in 2014 and PyeongChang in 2018.
  • Laurence REMY – Art Advisor at the Art’N’Chéry Gallery, Laurence is invested in this place of curiosity where one can see and discover art in all its forms. Coming from the press advertising world, she brings to the gallery her creativity and her constantly renewed staging.
  • Mireille MARTEL – Elected to the Town Hall for 20 years and administrator at the Tourist Office for 25 years, Mireille is one of the resort’s emblematic figures. She is also very involved in the mountain bike events that have made Les Gets famous.
  • Claude BARRAULT – President of the Jean-Marie Delavay Association, Claude is keen to pass on the botanical heritage bequeathed to us by Jean-Marie Delavay, a missionary in China in the 19th century.
  • Chantal DELAVAY – Ambassador of Les Gets and president of the association L’Espérance Gétoise, Chantal likes to gather the Seniors of Les Gets around various activities and good meals!
  • Florence DELAVAY – It’s a bit like a guardian angel who watches over the ski area… Florence, who has been in charge of the Piste Central for 20 years at Sagets, coordinates the rescue services on the slopes and manages the care of people who have had an accident.
  • Caroline ANTHONIOZ – At the age of 37, Caroline had the courage and the example of her in-laws to start a new life. Defending common sense in farming with her husband, they welcome at Caroline’s farm to share their production labelled Nature & Progrès.
  • Sandra BALAGNIA – A pastry chef and child of the country, Sandra trained with several starred chefs before opening her restaurant in the heart of the village and proposing, with her husband, a refined and tasty cuisine.
  • AMELIE & VALENTINE – Happy couple and mountain dwellers at heart, they invite you to spend a unique night under the stars in their Chéry Dôme, and share with you their little corner of paradise.
  • Mia CLERC – Originally from Madagascar, Mia started skiing at the age of 5 on the slopes of Les Gets, where she grew up. She quickly reached a high level of alpine skiing, and was lucky enough to represent Madagascar at the 2018 Winter Olympics.
  • Isabelle DUBOIS – With 20 years at the service of La Sagets, Isabelle takes care with dynamism and enthusiasm of the sale of packages and the reception at the cash desks.
  • Océane AVOCAT GROS – Always higher and further in ski jumping. In the French B Team since 2016, Océane has been in the top 30 in the World Cup and is determined to win her place for the 2022 Olympic Games in Beijing.
  • Audrey DEFRASNE – In charge of the Museum of Mechanical Music, where she has been working for 20 years, Audrey enriches the collections of the Museum, a place steeped in history presenting musical instruments and unique pieces.
  • Jo WATTS – A self-taught English chef with a passion for healthy eating, Jo has gained experience in English pubs and restaurants and on her travels to the 4 corners of the world. She offers a healthy, colourful and multi-vitamin cuisine!

Did you know that when you ski in Les Gets you’re skiing across the bottom of an Alpine ocean? On a 50 km stretch between Lake Geneva and Mont-Blanc, the Chablais Geopark retraces the amazing story of how the Alps have formed since a time when all the continents formed a single land mass. Once upon a time, a very very long time ago…

A rolling stone gathers no moss. Perhaps. But a rolling stone tells Earth’s story. And what an amazing story it is that lies just beneath our feet. Like a trip in a time machine, the exceptional geology of the Chablais region reveals a lot about the natural landscape around us. The role of the Chablais Geopark is to protect this region, spread the word and support its sustainable development.

A UNESCO label

What is exactly a Geopark ?

The «UNESCO World Geopark» label was created in 2015. It is awarded to regions featuring a rich geological, natural and cultural heritage. This of course means lakes and mountains, springs and caves, but also traditional built heritage, legends and customs, and even cheese and wine. A UNESCO World Geopark endorses the strong rapport that the people have with the land. It is a seal of approval that recognises the quality of the region’s geological features and its rich heritage.

The Chablais Geopark stretches for 900 km2 across 62 towns and villages, from the south bank of Lake Geneva to the Portes du Soleil summits. It features 85 official geosites including 23 that the public can visit (La Mouille des Boittets in Les Gets). Amid water and rock, lakes and mountains, these sites tell the story behind the heritage.

Among these remarkable geological sites, we find the resort of Les Gets and its peat bogs, vectors of a very rich geological identity, playing an important role in our eco-system.

Learn more

Gems of Les Gets

The village of Les Gets is built on ancient marine sediments piled up when the continents came together. Before the birth of the mountains reigned here the alpine ocean, La Téthys, whose sediments gradually formed the rocks of the Chablais.

So there is lava in Les Gets ? That’s right! The Vuargne ridge at Joux-Plane Pass features some extraordinary pillow-lava fragments that were sent skywards from the Tethys bed as the ocean closed and the Alps emerged. Due to the effects of erosion, they can now be seen at the Tête du Vuargne on the very surface you walk across. Amazing no?

The impermeable subsoil of the Lac des Ecoles geosite was also formed by ocean sediments. This peat bog is now home to protected species such as the Alpine newt, the intermediate wintergreen and the marsh trefoil. Used as an ornamental lake in summer and a mountain reservoir in winter, the Lac des Ecoles geosite highlights the major challenges of water management in the mountain environment.

Indeed, there are very few springs in Les Gets. The impermeable rock of the subsoil, constituted by supercharged sediment from the Alpine formation period, prevents water from filtering through. So water remains at the surface and flows downhill.

  • Vue d'ensemble d'un lac de montagne en été avec pelouses, toboggan et réserve d'eau

Left : the Joux-Plane Pass. Right: the Lac des Ecoles

An exploration of our region reveals an extraordinary geological heritage that’s been hidden right under our noses. Let’s drink to our thirst’s content from the fount of knowledge. Welcome to Chablais.

To find out more : https://www.geopark-chablais.com/

On the occasion of the Olympic and Paralympic Week, held from the 1st to the 6th February in Les Gets, we met up with three Les Gets Ambassadors who told us all about their experience at the Olympic Games and what they think about competitive sports.

Three champions, two different disciplines but one view: sports for women! About Adeline Mugnier, Mia Clerc and Océane Avocat Gros.

Adeline Mugnier

Adeline Mugnier, born and bred in Les Gets, has brought some great trophies back. She participated in the Sotchi Winter Olympics in 2014 and in PyeongChang in 2018.

Les Gets was awarded the “Terre de Jeux 2024” label, and was selected to be an Olympic training centre for Cross-Country Mountain Bike Racing (XCO) from 2021 onwards. What do you think of that?

“I think it’s really interesting for the resort. This type of event (Olympics) brings a lot of sporting teams together, and can also be really beneficial for the hotels, apartments and shops of Les Gets. That is even more important, in light of the current situation. As a sports coach, it would be an opportunity to make my gym available for professional athletes coming to train in Les Gets. These athletes might then come back to Les Gets for their holidays or just for pleasure.” 

“Terre de Jeux 2024” aims to promote sport more widely. You grew up in a sporty environment yourself, so why is it important to encourage sports? 

“I was lucky to be surrounded by sport from a very young age, and I can appreciate the advantages of that today. It’s really important to teach children to enjoy exercise in general, even if it’s just going for a walk. In Les Gets, there’s a wide range of activities on offer, in summer and in winter: skiing, snowshoeing, biathlon, hiking, mountain biking and so much more. We could also go further and try out sports that are not usually on offer in the mountains, such as boxing, judo, dancing, etc.”

Since you first participated in the Olympics in 2014, do you think the world of Olympic sports has changed? 

“Not really. Compared to a World Championship, the Olympics involves so much more publicity and is much more complicated to manage. Everything is larger-than-life and more intense. I think it’s all a bit too much just for an event that lasts one day, even if that event is decisive for an athlete’s career.

I found myself in a strange situation in Sotchi for the Giant Slalom event. It was a horrific day with torrential rain, awful snow, and everything was wet. I was on the chairlift with my technician and I found it hard to believe that I was at the Olympics. Because whatever the weather, your event is held on that day, not another and you have to perform well, and that’s it. If not, come back in 4 years’ time!”  

What advice can you give young athletes from Les Gets who are preparing for the Olympics or the Paralympics? 

“It’s easier said than done, but you have to try and stay focused, concentrate on what you can control and don’t try to go overboard, and don’t let yourself get distracted by everything else. My advice: stay focussed on yourself and your event.” 

Océane Avocat Gros

After several years of alpine skiing competitions, Oceane discovered ski jumping at 14. From then on, she has been in the top 30 in many World Cup events and is determined to participate in the 2022 Olympics.

What did you do when you found out that Les Gets was to become a Cross-Country Mountain Bike Racing (XCO) training centre for the 2022 Olympics?

“I think that it’s really cool. It will attract a lot of people to Les Gets and there will be a great atmosphere. This is a testament to the diversity of activities on offer in Les Gets. It’s not only a ski resort, Mountain Biking is also really popular here in the summer. It’s an all-year-round resort. Hosting this kind of event in Haute Savoie and in Les Gets will be an opportunity to showcase what our mountain resorts have on offer, and the economic and cultural benefits of this will be astounding.”

How are you preparing for the 2022 Olympics?

“We train all year round, in all seasons, to make sure we perform as well as we can at the various World Cups and World Championships. Because it is based on our World Cup results that we are selected for a place in the Olympics. The World Cup events act as warm-ups for the Olympics.

If I’m selected for the Olympics, I’ll have to really give it my all, and use everything I’ve learnt over the past years. It will be much more stressful than what I’m used to and I’ll need to stay focussed. I will need to stay concentrated on myself and not get distracted by the glitz and glamour of the Olympics, if I want to perform well on my jumps and show the very best I have to offer.” 

The women’s ski jumping event only made an appearance in the Olympics in 2014. Do you think this discipline deserved more attention?

“Very few people knew about ski jumping in France, and don’t even get me started on women’s ski jumping! The French media barely show an interest in the women’s events. If young people don’t know about this sport, they won’t even think of trying it. Right now, there are not many women at all who could possibly take over and join the team with us. It’s a shame.

It would be a good idea to provide ski jumping introductory sessions, available to everyone. A few years ago, a small jump was set up just below the village of Les Gets. It was a great idea!”

Are there any significant differences in what is on offer for men and women in this sport?

“We fought tooth and nail to be considered on the same footing as men, to be included in World Cup events, to participate in the same competitions such as the Four Hills Tournament. We are starting to make a place for ourselves, the level is getting really high, but there are still some inequalities. The prize money for World Cup events isn’t the same for men or for women. As a female athlete, it’s not easy to make a career out of your sport and it’s complicated to find sponsors. The whole system means that we are still left in the shadows far too much.”  

Mia Clerc

Originally from Madagascar, Mia had her first skiing experience at the age of 5. A few years later, she was selected for the 2018 Winter Olympics and was the first ever woman to compete for Madagascar. 

At the beginning of January, you had a serious fall during an event in Flaine, causing an open tibia-fibula fracture, which unfortunately meant that the season was over for you. How do you feel?

“At first, it was difficult for me to accept but I have to keep my spirits up. I already feel better. I immediately started physiotherapy and in 1 week I’ll be able to start walking again. At the end of February, I’m going to stay at a recovery centre. I’m going to work the weaker parts of my body and I’ll get stronger.” 

Where did your passion for Alpine skiing come from?

“At the age of 1, I was adopted by my parents who lived in Les Gets. They taught me how to ski. I started competing when I was 8, to discover a new activity and it very quickly became a passion. Sports at a professional level are quite a different ball game. I love the atmosphere at events. We are always learning something new about our body, our mind… What’s my favourite discipline? The Giant Slalom. That’s where I feel most at ease and I really progress.” 

What can you say about your first experience of the Olympics in 2018?

“It was a fantastic experience. I was very young so I didn’t go there with performance in mind. My goal was just to arrive at the bottom of the slope. I was also the 1st ever woman from Madagascar to represent the country at the Winter Olympics, so I was really proud to represent my homeland. I was also proud to promote the development of women in sport, as well as female sports in Madagascar.” 

As you know, Les Gets was awarded the “Terre de Jeux 2024” label and will have a role to play in the 2024 Olympics. What do you think of that?

“I am proud to be going back to my favourite resort where I grew up and where I learnt so much. There’s so much to do there, in summer and in winter. For example, when I was younger, as well as skiing, I also enjoyed skating. The resort also provides professional athletes with great facilities, for downhill skiing and mountain biking.”

What are your goals for the future?

“My season is over for this year, but I wanted to improve myself in every discipline, to be able to participate in the Junior World Championships in Italy. I’d like to finish in the top 30 in giant slalom or slalom or top 10 in the disciplines with less women on the starting lines, such as the speed trials. But the competition is very tough, so it won’t be easy.”

Stay connected to our mountains…

There are as many ski instructors as there are ways to make a living from this profession. Discover the portraits of Ryan, Luc and Cédric, three ski instructors from the ESI 360 school in Les Gets. Experienced, young graduates or still in training, they have very different backgrounds and universes but they all share the same passion: skiing and snowboarding. 

Zoom in on these instructors in flash blue suits who will help you discover the pleasures of skiing and snowboarding in all its facets.

Ryan – your perfect guide to Les Gets

Recently graduated as a professional instructor, Ryan is an avid sports enthusiast. Of French-Australian origin, he perfects his skills in both ski and snowboard teaching. A mountain lover, he shares his passion with young and old alike. On the slopes, with him, it’s educational and fun!

At the age of 25, Ryan is passionate about music. As a DJ in his spare time, he sets the atmosphere of the resort in certain bars here in Les Gets. After lessons, he goes on to work at a bar-restaurant in the heart of the village. Meet Ryan on the slopes, in the restaurant and in the bars : the perfect instructor to get to know the resort at your fingertips !

“When I give ski or snowboard lessons and the contact is established, it’s always interesting and pleasant to meet the same people out and about. In our profession, you can really make some great connections”.

His dual nationality allows Ryan to welcome people from all over the world. Moreover, his experience in freestyle and free ride will be able to help those who would like to push their limits.

Luc – Born to ski

Born in Les Gets, Luc grew up with skis on his feet. After a number of years in the Les Gets Ski Club, Luc switched to the blue ski suit and started his ski instructor’s training as a matter of course for him! He’s French-Welsh and the youngest member of the 360 team, Les Gets. Luc started preparing his ski instructors training during 2016 juggling the Winter season and his studies at the Sports University in Lyon for 2 years.

With a DEUST APN degree, this future instructor is now concentrating on completing his instructors training.

It’s with enthusiasm, he explains, that being an instructor brings him heaps of satisfaction each day: « Having a profession that you are passionate about has many advantages and gives me the chance to meet, share and exchange with people who come from all over the world.  It’s really something very enriching on a personal level ! “

At ease with children, he always loves to share his passion with them being bi-lingual helps too !

When the pastures turns green, Luc likes to spend his days on the golf courses. An accomplished sportsman he can confirm that Summer is a completely different way of life but just as sporty.

Cédric – the all-road instructor

With his 25 years of experience in the field, Cédric is a passionate instructor who knows how to put forward his sporting skills as much as his pleasure of sharing. A lover of wide open spaces and nature, he will be the specialist for ski and splitboard touring as well as off-piste. He will share his technique and his many anecdotes about the natural heritage of our mountains with his customers.

“In my philosophy, the most important thing is to share my passion and moments of authenticity with those present. I try to create a connection. Despite everything, my job is also about keeping people safe, and I think it’s important to put all my experience at the service of both expectations and safety. » 

A true lover of snow sports, he perfects his skiing and snowboarding skills in the winter, and then the summer you’ll find Cedric instructing mountain biking and also rafting, kayaking and hydrospeeding.

Living through the seasons and the activities that the mountain areas offers him, Cédric is a versatile instructor. A veritable escape filled with a “return to the roots” awaits you.

Stay connected to mountains…

Are you tempted by a snowshoeing outing #MadeinLesGets during your stay in Les Gets ? In this article, you’ll find a selection of half-day or full-day outings, of varying durations and across varied landscapes.

As long as you stay on the marked and especially prepared tracks (see our trails guide), you can use them freely and without a guide. If you would like to explore the wilder parts of the ski area, we strongly recommend you go with a ski instructor or a mountain guide. To avoid any unfortunate incidents !

8 am – Wake-up call and hearty breakfast

Every adventure begins with a good breakfast. So make sure you recharge your batteries in the morning with a large baguette, a bowl of muesli or a stack of pancakes before heading out into the wilderness. 

Walking in powder snow certainly builds up an appetite! Before setting off, make sure you’ve got some refreshments:  1L of water per person, a snack and your lunch if you’ve planned to have a picnic in the great outdoors.

9 am – Equipment hire

You don’t need complex or expensive equipment for a snowshoeing hike. You can easily hire the snowshoes and poles from one of the many equipment hire shops in Les Gets. 

Before putting on your snowshoes, make sure you check one last time that you’ve got everything you need: waterproof shoes and good socks, warm and wind-proof coat, gloves, hat, scarf, backpack with food and water, poles, the trails guide and of course a camera or smartphone to capture these memorable moments. 

9:15 am – Meet up with your mountain guide

There are plenty of mountain guides in Les Gets to choose from, some are avid birdwatchers, passionate about botany or history, they know everything there is to know about the local wildlife, some are young and feisty, others are older and wiser, all of them can take you on an exploration of the ski area and beyond…

They are passionate and will expertly pass on their knowledge of nature, the environment and the history of Les Gets. they’ll take you to unique places that can only be accessed on foot and with a professional, and they will show you some breath-taking views that only a select few have been lucky enough to see.

Snowshoeing is in fact a mountain activity in its own right which requires extensive knowledge of the mountains: to prevent risks by choosing the right itinerary, awareness of the weather conditions and terrain, etc.

Here you’ll find a list of all the professionals at the resort who can take you on a snowshoeing outing:

Mountain leaders
Mountain guides
Ski schools
09:30am – Time to set off

Here is a small selection of half-day hikes along marked trails that you can do without a guide according to your desires, your shape and the time you have.

Chavannes sector

Option 1 :  Head towards Le Ranfoilly for some exceptional views

Trail N°4: Pleasant walk along a wide, groomed track, with benches and a superb view. To be combined with a picnic at the Trappeurs shelter (Grand Cry territory) or at the Nauchets Viewpoint (trail n°3). Some great views over the La Rosta ridges, the Pointe de la Turche, the Pic du Marcelly, Mont Caly, the Uble Mountains and Mont Chéry. Take the trail that passes through the Mappys beginners’ area and the Grand Cry territory. Go back along the same route.

Duration: 2.5 hours – 3 hours there and back
Length: 2.7 km
Change in altitude: 150 m positive inclination and 150 m negative inclination
Departure point: Chavannes cable car

If you want to go straight down to the village, you can go along trail n°5, via La Mouille Ronde.
Duration: 2 hours downhill
Length: 4.4 km
Change in altitude: 350 m negative inclination

Option 2 :  Head to Le Pleney for a family-friendly walk through the forest

Trail N°1: Superb walk through the forests and forest clearings, with a great view of the village of Les Gets, Morzine and La Manche valleys, Nyon plateau and the resort of Avoriaz.  The trail is mostly flat making it suitable for families with young children. If you are feeling sporty, and if you set off with a guide or instructor, we recommend carrying on until you reach the pretty Nabor Alpine pastures, the perfect spot for a lunch break.

Duration: 2.5 hours – 3 hours there and back
Length: 2.8 km
Change in altitude: 100 m positive inclination and 100 m negative inclination
Departure point: Chavannes cable car

Mont Chéry sector

Option 3 :  Head to Lassare for an adventure in the wilderness

Along trail N°4, you will discover some wooden sculptures and stop off at the Sheep Farm/Artisanal Pottery in Les Gets. You will be following the same trail there and back, with a superb panoramic view of the Roc d’Enfer, Côte d’Arbroz and Nantaux. From Lassare, follow the marked trail towards ‘Plan Bôdit’, until you reach Mont Chéry cable car, your arrival point. On the way back, you can either go left along a groomed track, or along the snowshoeing trail to Lassare.

Duration: 3.5 hours
Difference in altitude: 190 m positive inclination and 190 m negative inclination
Departure point: Lassare

Option 4 :  Head to Mont Caly for a nature and heritage outing

This hike begins at the hamlet of Les Places. Go along the snow-covered track that leads to the Mont Caly Alpine pastures (trail n°2), and you’ll be impressed by this charming and peaceful place. Then follow the trail to Mont Chéry cable car (trail n°1), through forests and across snow-covered fields. During this walk, you’ll be surrounded by a magnificent view of the Mont Blanc mountains. Come back along the same track.

Duration: 3 hours – 3.5 hours there and back
Length: +/- 5km
Change in altitude: 220 m positive inclination and 220 m negative inclination
Departure point: Les Places hamlet  

See details of the marked trails
Download the trails guide

Are you itching to get off the beaten track? Do you want to find out more about Les Gets’ history and heritage? Maybe see some animal footprints? Call upon a professional.

We met up with four guides (Pascal, Dominique, Laurent and Julien) who shared with us their passion for their job and their expert knowledge of the area.

“When we go out on snowshoeing expeditions, we try to venture off the marked trails as much as possible, to really explore the wilderness. We adapt the itineraries according to the needs and physical ability of the participants. For experienced walkers, we suggest exploring the Ranfoilly and La Rosta sectors, for some beautiful views of Mont Blanc, Samoens, Morillon and the Pointe Percée. I also like going to La Turche, Mont Chéry or outside of Les Gets for an even more thrilling adventure. I’d like to remind you that these itineraries are not marked, some passages can be quite technical and you shouldn’t go there without a guide”.

 “What I love about my job is taking people on a journey, telling them stories, showing them the exceptional heritage and environment of Les Gets. For example, I tell them about how the different hamlets got their names, the history of the farms and pastures we see along the way, traditions of Les Gets, etc.”

 “I particularly like the Lassare sector due to its wild nature. We walk across wide-open spaces covered in snow, and through dense forests with some great views of Avoriaz, the Roc d’Enfer and Mont Chéry. This place is perfect for observing animal footprints: deer, doe, roe deer, squirrels, etc. For a bit of added fun, I sometimes suggest sliding down through the powder snow in safe spots.”

 “Mont Caly is a preserved mountain hamlet, full of charm, and with traditional architecture and well-preserved or restored buildings. With the added bonus of superb views of Mont Blanc and the Roc d’Enfer on the other side. I must insist that if you venture away from the marked trails, snowshoeing is a mountain activity that requires good knowledge of the terrain, the environment and the potential dangers.”  

Mountain leaders
Mountain guides
Ski schools
2pm – Back to the village

There are so many ways you could fill your afternoon, and why not vary the pleasures: a ride on a snowmobile, some well-deserved pampering, a tour of a local farm or the Art’N’Chéry gallery, a stroll around the old village for a bit of shopping, sledging at the foot of the ski slopes, a ride on the merry-go-round or the children’s play areas, etc.

While the opening of the ski lifts is long overdue by alpine skiing fans, another mountain sport is on the rise this winter: Nordic skiing.

Cross-country skiing is the oldest discipline of skiing. Historically, it originated in Norway, where skis were indispensable for hunting and firewood collection in winter. It became a sport at the end of the 19th century.

In Les Gets, the Nordic area opens to the public from 19 December.

So don’t wait any longer to discover this sport, both recreational and physical, and which combines hiking and the pleasure of skiing.

A sport accessible to all

The ideal place to start cross-country skiing

The resort of Les Gets offers several slopes without great difficulty in an idyllic setting between snowy clearings and undergrowth. However there are also sportive routes for the more athletic of you.

Mostly located in the forest, the slopes invite you to reconnect with the very essence of Nordic skiing, a return to nature and calm.

The itineraries have been laid out on slightly hilly ground, the effort is progressive, making cross-country skiing accessible to all ages and all desires. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, there are several trails to choose from: the small green loop is ideal for learning the basics of sliding, the blue trail will take you a little more into the effort and the red route will be perfect for getting your cardio up !

See the itineraries

It’s good for the spirit and health !

A gentler mountain practice to give a boost to body and mind!

Nordic skiing is an endurance sport which exercises all muscles in a regular and progressive way. The use of the poles works your shoulders, triceps and abdominal muscles while the gliding movements tone your leg muscles. Cross-country skiing also improves your cardiovascular health and endurance.

Not forgetting that outdoor exercise, and even more so in the mountains, has a positive effect on stress management, mental health, brain activity and contributes to your general well-being.

Cross-country skiing is an ideal form of exercise to stay healthy, while minimising the risk of injury.

To each his own style

Skating

Couple faisant du ski de fond avec neige qui tombe

Classic

In cross-country skiing, there are two techniques of sliding:

  • Classic or alternative step: you ski in the 2 rails with the skis parallel, like a sliding walk. This is the traditional technique of the discipline which is also the most suitable for beginners for a first approach to Nordic skiing.
  • Skating: also called “skating step”, the movements are quite similar to ice or roller skating. The skis are spread out in a V-shape and pressure is applied to the sides of the skis to move forward, while pushing with the poles. This practice is more technical but also faster and more elegant.

Whether you opt for classic cross-country skiing or skating, the resort’s sports shops will advise you on renting (or buying) the right equipment for your winter sliding outings.

Indeed, skis are a little different in classic Nordic skiing or skating: classic skis are equipped with an anti-recoil system, which makes it easier to go up without hindering the descents.

See the rental shops

Follow the guide…

You have never done cross-country skiing before and would like to try it ? In Les Gets, the mountain guides and ski instructors will be delighted to accompany you on your outings and teach you the basics of this beautiful discipline.  

Ski schools
Mountain guides

2 or 3 reminders for a successful Nordic ski outing :

  • Dress appropriately for the weather conditions. But not too much either, because you will be warm once you’re on the move. As for all outdoor sports in winter, the 3-layer rule is the best way to avoid cold snaps. Don’t forget the hat and gloves.
  • Take some food and drink. Although cross-country skiing is a gentler mountain sport, it is still a full sport. Sport means energy expenditure and hydration. So don’t play Rambo and think about taking water and a snack for your outing.
  • A bit of theory before practice: before you start sliding on Nordic trails, and to avoid unfortunate falls, find out about the right techniques, positions and movements to adopt. Professionals from the resort are there to answer all your questions.

Now that you’ve learned the basics of cross-country skiing, and practical information on how to do in Les Gets, we can’t wait to see you in our Nordic area this winter!

Are you starting to give serious thought to the first slopes you’re going to tackle this winter ? Us too!

While we await the cheek-numbing cold, the warming-up sun and the thigh-burning descents, how about shaking things up a little and getting in tip top shape this winter ?

Don’t lose a minute of time on the slopes during your next skiing holiday

Below, we’ve shared some of our best practical and fun advice so you’re all set once the ski area is open.

1. Preparing physically for the ski season: good, strong thighs !

Below we share 5 practical exercises that you can do at home, to prepare for your return to the slopes, designed to help improve your pressure distribution and endurance, prevent aching muscles and, above all, injury.

1. Warm up: remember to warm up for 5 to 10 minutes before starting your strengthening exercises: joint rotations, jumping jacks, knee raises, heels-to-glutes, static jogging etc.

2. Cardio training: you can opt for the thrilling run round the block, sticking within the 1 km radius of your home. Otherwise the skipping rope is an excellent way of raising your heartbeat in no time at all. 

3. Strengthening lower limbs: alternate sets of squats, lunges (front, back and side) or wall sits. These exercises will strengthen your hamstrings, glutes and quads.

4. Core: we recommend that you work on your core to help prevent lower back pain and tension, often linked to weakness in the abdominal and lumbar regions. We have a soft spot for static and dynamic plank exercises. 

5. Walking up and down stairs: this is a very good exercise which works the glutes, quads and hamstrings.

There’s no need to embark upon a top-body challenge; the idea is to gradually get you back on track for an incident-free ski season.

Back to basics

2. Revisiting downhill skiing

If Jean-Claude still has problems planting his pole, that’s because he hasn’t take time to revise the basics of downhill skiing: body alignment, weight transfer, flexibility and range of motion etc.  

When the time comes to put on your skis and make fresh tracks, you may as well do it with style, control and panache. Which is why we’re offering you a little refresher course on the basics of downhill skiing: alignment and flexing of hips, ankles and knees, body weight forward, tilting of body to execute lovely, uniform turns etc.

Do you want to really impress your friends and family ? Forget about weddling and instead revise your position and angle to execute the perfect carve!

Freeride enthusiasts can take inspiration from the best in the field with videos of iconic skiers such as Candid Thovex, Sébastien Michaud and Marion Haerty.

3. Maintain your equipment: waxing with reblochon

farter ses skis depuis son salon

While your flatmate is perfecting his carving technique in his bedroom, why not have a go at waxing your skis before winter, using yesterday’s reblochon! Its creamy paste will lightly lubricate the bottom of your skis!

Joking apart, good ski maintenance starts with optimal storage at the end of the winter season. 

Here are a few good habits to adopt:

  • Never leave your skis in a bag after a day’s skiing as when they are damp their edges can rust.
  • Brush the base of your skis to get rid of any dust or dirt and then store them in a waterproof bag.
  • Store your skis in a dry room.

What’s the purpose of waxing and sharpening?  

Waxing the base of skis helps provide optimal glide for faster and more exhilarating descents. Sharpening skis is important to ensure they can properly grip the snow so as to prevent uncontrolled sliding.

If you’re a DIY enthusiast at heart, sharpening and waxing kits are available on the internet and in several stores. There are a number of tutorials on the internet to help you.

Otherwise, when you arrive at the resort our professional ski techs will prepare your skis perfectly. Visit this page to check out the sports shops in Les Gets.

4. Memorise the piste map

Do you, like us, hate wasting time looking at the resort map at every slope intersection? So, make the most of your free time to memorise the Portes du Soleil piste map. There are 12 ski resorts between France and Switzerland, 293 marked trails and 209 ski lifts…. So there’s plenty to keep you busy for a while 😉

Do you want to explore all the valleys and see all the peaks? You can start to plan and memorize some of the ski and snowboarding trails. For example, which is the most direct route to Chatel or Avoriaz from Les Gets ? Or, how do you pop over to Morgins or Champéry in Switzerland ?

Read also : Ski safari in the Portes du Soleil

Can you also name the peaks in the Haut Chablais and Valais regions? If you want to impress your loved ones, we recommend that you download the PeakFinder or Peaklens app so you can easily identify the surrounding summits.

The ski area

5. Start packing your case two weeks before you go

Now that you’ve memorized every nook and cranny of the ski region, here’s some advice on how to pack well in advance and prepare for every eventuality (especially for the opening of the ski resorts that we hope will be soon)

Before you start stuffing your base layers inside your ski boots, this winter shouldn’t we perhaps draw up an inventory of equipment? Boots, skis or snowboards, goggles, poles, various protective elements, backpacks, pairs of gloves: we figured right now was a good opportunity to sort through this merry mess!

Equipment: check!

Other essentials

You can never be reminded often enough about the 3-layer principle which will keep you warm and dry throughout the day:

  • Breathable 1st layer : avoid cotton and opt for synthetic fibres or merino wool (a must!)
  • Thermal 2nd layer, in the form of fleece or down jacket
  • Waterproof, windproof 3rd layer: jacket and ski trousers
  • Ski socks – remember to pack several pairs
  • Gloves or mittens, glove liners for those who feel the cold
  • Ski goggles or visor
  • Backpack with hydration pack, water bottle and picnic
  • Sun cream and protective lip balm
  • Ski pass

Not to mention your anti-Covid, approved mask or neck warmer for the ski lifts and queues.

As a reminder, here are some examples of approved masks/ neck warmers:
– Surgical paper masks
– Category 1, non-medical masks for the “general pubic”
– Category 2, non-medical masks for the “general pubic”

And as a bonus: a flask of genepi (herbal liqueur) to warm you up, your selfie stick for those Insta poses, your fondue pot… Well, pretty much everything that makes you happy !
For snowboarders

6. Practice stepping into your rear binding as quickly as possible when leaving the chairlift

As good skiers, we can hear you moaning from here about your friend, Michel, who always takes too long to get into his binding at the top of the chairlift 😉

Well things will be different this year! Michel has learnt a simple 2-step technique so he can step quickly into his binding when he leaves the chairlift.

1. While waiting at the bottom of the ski lift, he scrapes the bottom of his binding to remove any snow that has accumulated.  Which means he’ll be able to step straight in without any problem.

2. When he gets to the top, he lifts the spoiler, steps into the binding and tightens the straps, while carefully sliding on his board, avoiding potential skiers and toddlers waiting in line.

Tadaaaaam… Everyone is ready to leave in under 20 seconds!

7. Practise cooking an express fondue on the slopes

Even if you’re already on your 2nd raclette or 3rd tartiflette of the season, there’s nothing better than a nice Savoyard fondue to warm your hearts and fill your stomachs during an intense day on the slopes.

Yes but …the clock is ticking and you’ve only planned a 30 minute break for lunch. Here are two possible scenarios, depending on your preference:

Option 1 : the realistic
Do you want to make the most of every moment spent outside in the snow?

Why not cook an express fondue on the slopes with the added bonus of a spectacular view? From the logistical angle, nothing could be easier: a stove and gas cylinder, a large saucepan, a cheese fondue mix from a grocery store in the village, some baguettes and that’s it!

Option 2 : the humoristic
Do you like to go back to your apartment to warm up a bit at lunch time?

If so, we recommend the Smoothie Tartiflette which is ready in just a few minutes.

In a blender, mix two pre-cooked potatoes, an onion, a handful of diced bacon and half a reblochon. Something to perk you up for the afternoon!

8. Making a competition glove to take endless photos and videos

Filming a friend trying to do a backflip, recording an epic off-piste descent or taking a selfie against a breath-taking backdrop: we all want to capture memories of our unforgettable ski holidays. Yes but…you can waste valuable time getting out your phone, taking off your gloves etc. We have THE solution!

We’ve devised a must-have accessory so you can access your smartphone quickly,and at any time: a glove with easy thumb opening. Another gem to add to your collection of “ugly but practical “objects that everyone will envy.

We did try to make one, and then we told ourselves that we weren’t yet ready to lose an inch frozen by the cold 😉

Our elders never had a weather app. Their snowfall predictions were based on the scrupulous observation of nature – height of the gentians, behaviour of the bees and robins, and so on…

Old mountain wives’ tales or reliable indicators ? Here are ten of nature’s clues to look out for if you want to find out before everyone else if the snow will be good next winter.

1. Tall Gentians 🌷

The yellow Gentian seen in the Alps is a hardy perennial that can live for up to 50 years. So it has seen quite a few winters!

This true barometer has been considered for ages as one of nature’s best indicators of how much snowfall to expect. From a scientific angle, its height allows its flowers to remain above the surface and also helps it to reproduce by facilitating the spreading of its seeds. QED.

So fans of the white powder can now morph into botany experts and spend the summer monitoring the growth of the Gentians and dreaming, as it happens, of the “Gentianes” slope they’ll be hurtling down next winter.

2. Wasps in abundance in summer 🐝

Old scout’s honour, the more wasps you see during the hottest months of the year, the harsher the winter to come! Others rely on the height of the wasps’ nests; the taller the nest, the deeper the snow. Tangible proof? Not so sure. Only queen wasps last that long, the rest die before winter arrives.

All the same, a wasp sting or two during the summer is a small price to pay for a few extra metres of winter powder!

3. Magpies, robins and mice taking refuge in barns 🐀

No doubt about it, snow is on the way! This might make you smile, but never forget that animals are much more sensitive than humans to changes in atmospheric pressure.

4. Onions with more layers of peel 🧅

You cry more when peeling onions ? Don’t you worry, many people think it’s a sign that a harsh winter is on its way. Here again, it’s just nature’s way of preparing for an unusually tough season. In fact, legend has it that each layer of onion peel represents a month of snow. (All the same, don’t panic if you count 12 layers! )

5. Abundant rowan berries, plums, walnuts and hazelnuts 🌰

Perhaps nature’s generous gift to squirrels who will need greater stores to survive a harsh winter ? This is another of our elders’ favourite clues and one which demonstrates once again that animals and vegetation are indeed among the best predictors of bad weather.

6. An August craving for fondue or tartiflette 🧀

A sign that never fails… If by 15th August you’ve had enough of water melon and patio barbecues washed down with rosé, but really fancy a nice greasy tartiflette, charcuterie and all, then have faith in the very clear message sent by your inner radar.

After waxing your stomach with melted cheese, you can pop to the garage and start waxing your skis.

➡️ We take the opportunity to give you some good addresses where you can taste warm and tasty Savoyard dishes!

Discover the restaurants

7. Depletion of Moon Boot stocks across Paris 🥾

This has to be the most reliable indicator on our list! When our Parisian friends rush to buy the latest models, look to the heavens and expect to see a whole avalanche of fresh snow (or, failing that, an avalanche of skiers).

8. When the first snows arrive at the end of September ❄️


The Mont Caly with a white coat – 26 September 2020

26 September 2020: While summer is still present everywhere in France, winter has suddenly appeared and covered the Alpine peaks with a white coat. From Austria to France via Switzerland, the cold spell affected a good part of the Alpine arc, with up to 40 cm of snow above 1500 m.

Should we see these first snowfalls as a short-term winter offensive or the forecast of a beautiful snowfall next winter? One thing is certain, we are keeping our fingers and skis crossed with all our might.

➡️ For weather conditions and snow reports in Les Gets, go to our live weather page.

Live weather & snow reports

9. When your Instagram feed is packed with images and videos of powder snow 🏂

On Instagram and Facebook, your feed is invaded by images of fresh powder and freestyle skiing videos from the four corners of the earth. You follow the best riders in the world like Candide Thovex and Victor Muffat-Jeandet. The latest equipment from the best ski brands holds no secrets for you. And you’ve signed up for snowfall alerts at the five ski resorts around you.

Do these rituals mean that there will be fresh snow this winter? Nothing is less certain… But it is well known that if you dream very, very loudly of something, it may come true!

Watch our webcams !

10. Heavy snowfall on Coronet Peak in July 🌏

Can’t find Coronet Peak on your atlas? Hardly surprising, as this ski resort is located on the other side of the planet, in New Zealand. And when it snows heavily there in July and August (wintertime down under), you have every reason to believe that it’ll do the same here in a few months’ time.

For a short break, it’s easy from Paris, London and other cities to reach this endless ski area offering gourmet restaurants, lively bars, revitalising panoramic scenery and a mixed range of sports activities and more leisurely pursuits.

Follow Max and his friends to Les Gets resort in Haute-Savoie for a unique long weekend #MadeinLesGets!
Logo Made in Les Gets effet brush

Friday

3.30 pm – London Heathrow Airport : Start of the trip

A bit of last-minute stress with an urgent task to round off the week’s work but, just this once, I have to leave early. Buzzing like a kid at the start of the summer holidays, I rush to hail a Uber ride to the airport.

6.30 pm – Geneva Airport: Reunion time

Barely time to flick through a magazine and I’m already at the Swiss airport. I feel lighter than air. I’ve left the stress of the daily grind behind me in London. Outside the airport building, I’m reunited with friends who have come from across Europe, amid hugs and laughter, and the pleasant prospect of a weekend.losing track of time. The shuttle bus to Les Gets is already there. Just another hour of travel and our magical weekend getaway can begin.

>> Getting to Les Gets

9.30 pm – Les Gets / Wow factor

As usual, Emma has made the accommodation arrangements. As usual, she has got it spot on! A warm and cosy little chalet just for the eight of us, and a view that promises to be absolutely stunning when we discover it tomorrow morning. All in the heart of the resort, at the foot of the slopes.

 

Saturday

9 am – Excitement and preparations

Croissants, scrambled eggs, coffee and pancakes, great music playing in the background, perfect weather, the mountains that beckon… and above all, my friends. This is happiness defined.
The day gets off to a stress-free start. Our lift passes and skis have been pre-booked, we just have to pick them up on our way to the slopes. Our skiing gear isn’t a problem either. Jon suggested we rent that too, with Skichic.com. An original and very practical idea, although it won’t stop us from treating ourselves in the lovely boutiques of Les Gets during our stay! Our packs were delivered to our chalet before we arrived. So here I am, with all the right gear even after travelling light.

1 pm – Heaven on the slopes

What a great morning! My legs are killing me but what a heavenly morning! Picture-postcard snow, slopes groomed to perfection and panoramic views to die for. By lunchtime we’re starving. Our charcoal-grilled lunch out on the terrace in a decor like this should recharge our batteries for the afternoon’s descents.

7 pm – Nocturnal temptations

After a refreshing shower, we discover the buzz of Les Gets by night. The atmosphere is great, but not overdone. Plenty of places we can reach on foot, to enjoy the party atmosphere that’s just as we like it, not over the top. We feel very much at ease in the wine bars and pubs… So much so in fact that we end up at the Igloo, the historic night club of Les Gets. As I climb into my cosy bed, my smartphone tells me it’s 2.18 am.

Sunday

9am – It’s a beautiful day

You know those days that feel just perfect, as if all the stars are aligned in your favour? Those precious moments that stay in your mind forever and return to boost morale when you’re feeling low. Sunday is one of those days, in one of the world’s biggest ski areas: Les Portes du Soleil.

2.30 pm – Above the void

At the top of the Ranfoilly chairlift is the “Pas dans le Vide” (Step into the Void), a wide 27 m² platform offering a bird’s-eye view of Joux Plane lake. Opposite, the panoramic view over the Mont-Blanc mountain range really takes your breath away. It’s awe-inspiring, makes you feel dizzy. The photo machine takes a group selfie and sends it to our smartphones. Greetings from Les Gets!

3 pm – Time for a spot of cardio

We go to change our skis and meet Matt for our first cross-country skiing experience in the safety of the new trail marked out in the Mont-Chéry sector. The 3-kilometre climb with an elevation gain of 665 metres takes us to the top of Mont-Chéry where we find ourselves at sunset, 1,827 metres above sea level. I struggled for breath on the way up but it was worth it just for this feeling of elation at the top! Return via the slopes, working up a hearty appetite for our pre-dinner drinks and nibbles.

8 pm – Montagne chic

Choosing from all the restaurants in Les Gets isn’t easy. In the end we opt for “Montagne Chic” in the centre-resort, a gourmet restaurant which serves original dishes based on fresh, local produce. Bon appétit!

  • Panoramic view

    Ranfoilly Plateform

    A breathtaking view of the Mont-Blanc, at the top of Ranfoilly, with a free photo souvenir as a bonus.

    Discover

  • Cross-country skiing

    The ascent of Mont Chéry

    Les Gets offers a marked and safe cross-country skiing trail for all skiers looking for fresh air and physical exercise!

    Discover

  • After-ski

    Let’s have a drink

    Enjoying the end of the day with friends, a drink in hand on a high altitude terrace or in one of the bars in the resort, that’s what a skiing holiday in Les Gets is all about.

    Where to eat, where to go out ?

Monday

9.15 am – Let there be light

After a glance at the mirror I grab my woolly hat. I look healthy and happy with a glint in my eye. It feels as if I left London a fortnight ago. It’s amazing how good you feel in the mountains.

12 noon – Time to breathe

Another of those moments when time stands still… With picnics in our rucksacks and smiles all round, off we go to rent our snowshoes. We have chosen a picnic spot in the great outdoors: from Les Plasses village, a superb nature walk through the pine trees takes us to Mont Caly. We stop for a tea & coffee break on a lovely high-altitude terrace. The view over Mont Blanc is absolutely stunning. You never get tired of it.

4 pm – Wellness haven

I didn’t particularly want to go to the spa. But only a fool never changes his mind! So I follow the crew to the Spa des Sources du Chéry. Whirlpool baths, steam room, sensory shower, foot baths, sauna… The list is endless. A relaxing, energising experience. Very enjoyable!

8 pm – Change of atmosphere

After last night’s mountain theme, tonight we choose a restaurant where the atmosphere is just as warm and friendly but with a more urban feel. The decor is pleasant and the food is delicious. It’s great to have so much choice.

10 pm – The local bar

Our last evening… We all go for a drink in a bar with live music before returning to the chalet, again on foot! Clearly, this is a Monday evening with a difference.

Spa Sources du Chéry

a bubble of wellness

Discover

Tuesday

10 am – Feelings of gratitude

A stress-free morning relaxing on the terrace, seizing the moment and preparing to take all this happiness back home with us. Taking our time. Being grateful for the here and now… even though we’re already trying to find a date when we can come back!

11.30 am – Local supplies

We walk around the centre-resort shops to stock up on local specialities. It’s great not having to use the car. Charcuterie, cheese and other products made in Les Gets will help us fight the blues on our way home.

2 pm – All good things come to an end

Eddie, Isa and I have found a carshare for the return trip, with two friends who have spent the whole week here. It’s a practical and economical solution, and a nice way of finding out the best spots for powder skiing and addresses worth trying on our next visit. And it’s a last chance to enjoy the sound of that irresistible French accent! We board the Thalys train in Paris. End of weekend getaway. After just 4 days away, I arrive back in London after what feels like an eternity.

Always more tips & tricks…