sarah, auteur sur Les Gets

Border hopping in the heart of the first cross-border area is the stunning advantage of the Portes du Soleil. With twelve resorts in two countries and just one package, the Portes du Soleil offers an exceptional playground for sensations on a large scale.

From Les Gets, THE place to start your border hopping adventure, between France and Switzerland.

Ski, rock, bike and much more

Europe’s largest mountain bike area, 650 km of snow in a natural powdery reserve, and a home of events, Portes du Soleil can definitely win over visitors.

It must be said that since its creation in the 60s, the desire to unite has never gone away, because it was born of a deep friendship between two mountaineers, who were dreamers but, above all, visionaries. On the French side we have the Olympic downhill champion Jean Vuarnet, and on the Swiss side there’s his friend from Valais, Gustave Trombert.

From a crazy seed of an idea to build cross-border ski lifts, this huge Franco-Swiss ski project is growing. Originally called the ‘Haute Route des Familles’ (Family High Road), when it was presented at the Swiss National Exhibition in Lausanne in 1964, it became ‘Les Portes du Soleil’ in 1965.

Welcome in les Portes du Soleil

THE place to start your border hopping adventure

Through a combination of will and passion, twelve resorts in Haut Chablais and Valais joined together to offer holidaymakers a ski safari paradise: Abondance, Châtel, La Chapelle d’Abondance, Les Gets, Montriond, Morzine- Avoriaz, and Saint-Jean-d’Aulps, on the French side, and Champéry, Morgins, Torgon, and Val-d’Illiez-Les-Crosets- Champoussin in Switzerland.

Over 50 years later, the Portes de Soleil continues to shine and adapt its huge playground for new activities. Skiing in winter, mountain biking or walking in summer, why not hop from France to Switzerland for some fun without frontiers? It doesn’t matter which flag is flying, we’re just giddy
with… boardsports!

A family resort in the heart of the Portes du Soleil

Nestled in the heart of the area, Les Gets displays its Savoyard identity on the façades of its chalets and in the hearts of its residents. The stones and wood, borrowed from the mountains, and the alpine pastures and herds are a reminder of the village’s pastoral roots, long before it became a resort.

Here, under a generous sun, take a deep breath of authenticity. In an exceptional location between Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc, and with a direct link to the Portes du Soleil, Les Gets combines the delights of a recognised ‘Famille Plus Montagne’ resort with those of a huge Franco-Swiss playground.

With ski departure on foot from the heart of the village, Les Gets goes to infinity and beyond. Les Gets opens up onto the immensity of the Portes du Soleil area. With one, single package, the twelve Franco-Swiss resorts are open to skiers’ tips. 286 runs and 196 lifts in Portes du Soleil. If climbing makes you dizzy, push back the borders for unlimited skiing.

Leaving from Les Gets, more than 650 km of white gold are open to those who love skiing or boardsports; because here, all forms are possible. Telemark, snowboard, cross-country skiing, the possibilities are endless and the beauty of the setting gives you the chills. After a nice warm-up on the slopes of Mont-Chéry, with its breathtaking view of the Mont-Blanc chain, why not go over the Chavannes slope to reach Morzine, Avoriaz, with a quick jump to the Swiss resort of Champéry. It’s always more fun without borders.

Ski & rock, the winter cocktail in the Portes du Soleil

We’ve got French culture, we’ve got Swiss culture, but in the Portes du Soleil, we’ve also got rock culture!

Concerts on the slopes during the day and later in the resort, the Rock The Pistes festival brings the area together for a wall of sound, live and at altitude. 7 days of rock, 5 giant concerts on the slopes, 50 gigs off piste in the 12 resorts and 28,000 festival-goers, a unique cocktail in Europe.

For music lovers, this is a unique opportunity to discover the area, from resort to resort in pursuit of a great sound. The atmosphere melts the snow each year as there’s dancing in ski boots. Before a slide down the slopes to enjoy this amazing scene right to the end. In the centre of the village in the evening, the fervour continues with vibrant concerts by young talent.

Ski, sun and sound… See you in March 2021 for the 10th edition of Rock The Pistes Festival !

Public assistant à un concert en plein air lors du Festival Rock the Pistes

Always more tips & tricks…

The morning mist, the blazing colours, the shaving sun, the multicoloured carpets of leaves, the smells of rain, pine and humus… It is all these little things that give autumn its charm and character.

If you are still hesitating to get out of your sofa, we give you 5 good reasons to jump in your car, on a train or a bus to discover the wonders of the mountains in autumn.

1 – Recharge your batteries in the open air

In an easy or sporty way, mountain hiking in autumn will delight all nature lovers! Go mushroom-picking, capture the contrasting landscapes in photos, scan the first snow-covered summits, take small or large strides on the wet paths…

In Les Gets, we offer several walks to stroll between fir trees and mountain pastures, with a breathtaking view of Mont Blanc or the Roc d’Enfer. And for those who would like to prepare themselves physically before winter, there are also itineraries to warm up the thighs and get the cardio up.

Hiking paths

Trail routes

Let’s walk in the woods…

2 – Hunting for for mushrooms and chestnuts

This is by far our “good outing plan” for the weekend while waiting for winter to show up…

We put on a warm, waterproof coat, granny’s scarf, a woollen cap, walking shoes, with a wicker basket and a knife. You are now ready for the autumn pickings !

In this period, the humid conditions and lower temperatures favour the development of mushrooms and chestnuts in the forests and undergrowth. Enough to delight all our senses, from the delicate and meticulous touch during picking to the awakening of our taste buds during tasting.

Fauna, flora & mushrooms

Alta Lumina

3 – Embark on an enchanted journey into the heart of the forest

This is what the Alta Lumina experience in Les Gets offers you.

At nightfall, follow in the footsteps of a music peddler and his hot air balloon, and follow his incredible journey over the mountains. In an enchanting and uniquely immersive environment, you enter a world of wonder, where music can be seen and light can be heard.

➡️ Alta Lumina is open every Friday and Saturday evening, and every day during the All Saints’ Day holidays.

Info & tickets

4 – Visit local mountain farms

The alpine farms are still accessible on foot in autumn, so take advantage of it! Les Gets has a well-kept living treasure: its Tarines, Abondances and Montbéliardes cows and numerous herds of goats and sheep.

We invite you to go and meet the local farmers who produce their own milk and process it into cheese.

Let’s meet local producers

All Saints’ Day holiday

5 – Enjoy magical moments with your family

Apprentice wizards, young Dracula and other little monsters, your children will be the kings of Halloween during the All Saints’ Day holiday in Les Gets.

Our entertainment team will put together a hell of a programme for you during the holidays: making Halloween decorations, magic wands, candy buckets, magic shows and a disguised parade through the streets of Les Gets.

Learn more

Always more tips & tricks

We are in the year 2020 after Jesus Christ. The whole planet of mountain biking is being turned upside down by a pandemic that is disrupting many sporting competitions. All of them? No! A village of indomitable Gétois is still resisting the invader.

Driven by a passion for mountain biking and the desire to offer the public a life-size show, the P2V association has decided to organize a DH race in Les Gets from 18 to 20 September 2020 with the world’s best riders… behind closed doors.

A high-flying challenge brilliantly taken up by the P2V team, with the support of Les Gets resort !

Genesis of an unexpected event

From 18 to 20 September 2020, the world’s best riders were once again to compete on the slopes of Les Gets and offer the public an exceptional spectacle on the occasion of the Mercedes-Benz 2020 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup.

For obvious health safety reasons, Les Gets resort, in agreement with the International Cycling Union (UCI) and the French Cycling Federation (FFC), was forced to cancel the event. This was a huge disappointment for the resort.

So the P2V association, made up of local mountain bike enthusiasts, embarked on the rather crazy project of inviting the 30 best world riders to a race on the Mont Chéry, behind closed doors in order to comply with government directives.

A competitive line-up for a fast-paced descent

Around thirty pilots competed on a downhill (DH) track shaped in only 3 weeks and especially for the event. Both complete and demanding, the P2V Invitational track is a mix of difficult jumps, technical parts in the undergrowth in the roots, steep slopes, overhangs and bike park type turns.

« It’s rare to have tracks where the level, speed and technique are the same as in the World Cup (…) Thank you for that, the track is crazy ».
Loic Bruni (Number 1 UCI ranking 2019)

The event brought together a top-notch line-up, including four-time World Champion Loïc Bruni, three-time South African World Champion Greg Minnaar, and French rider Marine Cabirou, 2019 World Championship medallist, not to mention Loris Vergier, Benoît Coulanges, Troy Brosnan, Steve Peat, Fabien Barel, Tracey Hannah, etc.

On this amazing new track, Loris Vergier did well and set the best time in 3’20”35 followed by Benoit Coulanges 3’22”59 and Loïc Bruni 3’23’’21. Among the girls, Marine Cabirou won the race in 3’58’’96 in front of Tracey Hannah 4’01’’00. A thought for Mélanie Chappaz who unfortunately injured herself during the training sessions.

« It’s quite crazy to get such a long track in three weeks of shaping. I would like to thank all the organization and staff for this incredible event and track »
Troy Brosnan (Number 3 UCI ranking 2019)

« We hope that we will be able to use this track in 2021 »
Hugo Frixtalon

An original live show on social networks

The competition was broadcasted during all-new show commented by Florian Letondeur, Loïc Bruni and McFly on Sunday 20th September at 6.30 pm on Les Gets Officiel Facebook page.

« The only event where we thank the public for not coming »
A follower on Facebook

If the public was not allowed on the edge of the pistes, they were certainly there for the live show on Facebook. Nearly 70,000 people watched the programme in 48 hours.

At a time when more and more sporting events are being cancelled for sanitary reasons, this event shows us that, even from a distance, the passion for sport continues to gather and that video is an incredible way to share strong emotions.

To watch and re-watch the highlights of the show :

➡️ Track preview : 3’15
➡️ Training clip : 7’35
➡️ Interviews : 9’35
➡️ Live race : 12’55

Once upon a time…

A story of passionate friends

The staff and volunteers of P2V spared no effort to organize this weekend of high-level competition. Around one hundred volunteers were mobilized before and during the event to carefully prepare the new track (sometimes at night by headlamp), manage the logistics, carry out the titanic work of producing and broadcasting the programme, welcome the athletes in optimal sanitary conditions, etc.

“One day, you have a crazy project. Almost too big… But thanks to a team of locals, enthusiasts, friends who believe in it and give absolutely everything, the dream comes true! What a great reward and what an inspiration to see a group of friends and its resort go to the end of an incredible and unprecedented adventure“, thanks Florian Letondeur, organiser and founding member of P2V.

We would like to thank the staff and volunteers for their commitment and professionalism. Thank you to the event’s partners and sponsors (Les Gets Tourisme, Oakley, Michelin and Jean Lain Automobiles), and thank you to the public for respecting the closed door.

Photo credits : Keno Derleyn – Remi Fabrègue – Richard Bord – Mel Carle

Stay connected to mountains…

That juicy, slightly acidic burst in the mouth, your purple-stained fingers (and T-shirt), and a tongue so blue you could join the Smurfs… We all have memories of summer afternoons spent picking and eating wild blueberries along the mountain paths.

The blueberry is an excellent wild fruit of the mountains. It is found between June and September, at altitudes that differ from one mountain to another.

As the summer holidays come to a close, you can continue enjoying those sun-filled flavours at home with this recipe for one of Savoie’s greatest culinary specialities, blueberry tart.

A souvenir dessert, like the Proust’s madeleine

There are of course as many versions of this recipe as there are cooks in our kitchens. This one is from Sandra, pastry chef in one of Les Gets’ restaurants, who unveils her secrets for a blueberry tart that’ll fire your tastebuds as well as those childhood memories.

“For me, blueberry tart brings back memories of afternoons at my grandmother’s house. I love this simple, authentic dessert because the crispy shortcrust pastry and the naturally sweet, acidic fruit go so well together”, Sandra tells us as she places the mouthwatering round berries on the pastry.

Notebook ready…

Here’s some precious advice from the restaurant-owner from Les Gets :

It all starts with the harvest:

“Picking blueberries by hand requires a little effort!”, warns Sandra. But above all it’s great fun and… tasty too. One blueberry in the basket = five blueberries in the mouth. “To gather the berries without damaging them, I use a plastic bucket that’s fairly wide and not too deep, to avoid crushing the small fruit.”

Then you sort them:

This tip from Sandra makes sorting the berries much easier: “Place the blueberries at the higher end of a slightly-tipped tray. Gently shake the tray from side to side so that the berries roll to the bottom, leaving the leaves and twigs at the top, as if by magic.”

Then wash the wild blueberries thoroughly. Ideally, bake them for 5 minutes directly on the tart base. Blueberries can be eaten up to 3 days after harvesting. Otherwise, they keep well in the freezer.

For those who enjoy raw blueberries, Sandra suggests an alternative, which is none other than her grandmother’s recipe.

“If you don’t want to use crème pâtissière or chantilly cream, you can brush the tart base with a beaten egg and flash bake it for 5 minutes at 180°C.” This will create a protective coat to ensure the base stays nice and crispy.

Another suggestion to stop the pastry going “soggy” is to brush it with a thin layer of melted white chocolate and leave it to cool in the fridge for 3-4 minutes.

RECIPE – serves 8 to 10 people

Sweet Pastry:

150g butter (unsalted)
1 egg
90g icing sugar
270g flour
30g ground almonds
Pinch of salt

In a bowl, first cream together the butter and icing sugar. Mix in the egg, then the flour, followed by the ground almonds and, finally, the salt.

Place the pastry in a tart tin and bake at 180°C (gas mark 6) for about 15 minutes (keep an eye on its colour).

Crème pâtissière:

1 litre vanilla-infused milk
180g eggs
150g sugar
80g cornflour

Bring the vanilla-infused milk to the boil. Remove from the heat and pour it over the mixed eggs, sugar and cornflour. Return to the heat, bring back to the boil and cook for 2 minutes, whisking constantly over the entire surface of the pan. Remove from the heat, place the mixture in a gratin dish and cover with plastic film, ensuring the film touches the cream in order to prevent a skin forming. Place in the fridge. Once the cream has cooled down, pour it into a mixing bowl and whisk again until perfectly smooth.

Neutral coating:

As an extra touch, you can glaze the fruit to give it a colourful, appetizing shine. You may already be used to making your own glaze with water and sugar or honey.

If not, here’s a great tip: use red-fruit jelly diluted in a little warm water to coat your blueberries and give them a shine.

To finish your tart, just spread or pipe the crème pâtissière over the cooked pastry base, then carefully place your blueberries on top.

Bon appétit !

Always more tips & tricks…

Enjoying the simple pleasures of walking across the great outdoors, discovering exceptional panoramic views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding mountains… this is what hiking in Les Gets is all about.

What should you pack in your rucksack? Where are the best spots to watch the sunset, enjoy a picnic or pitch your tent?

This article reveals all our best ideas to ensure you get the most out of your future hikes.

Your rucksack essentials

Preparing your bag before a day’s hiking couldn’t be simpler! We know your priorities are wine, cheese and saucisson. OK, so you have the basics, but there’s a little more to it. Here’s our checklist of essential items to take with you for a perfect day-long hike.

Walking shoes: if your hike is intended as a sporting challenge, opt for lightweight, low-cut shoes with a good grip. Trail-running shoes are ideal. If you need good ankle support, choose stiff, high-cut shoes instead.

Rucksack: For a half-day or full-day hike, a 20-30 litre bag is ideal as it’ll be light and not too big. No point in being weighed down to skip across the pastures or scramble up mountain paths.

Technical hiking socks: Comfort gets you everywhere! Of course, when hiking, it is vital to look after your feet if you want to walk further and higher. Start with a good pair of socks. They should be reasonably thick and stop at the ankle, to avoid overheating or getting blisters.

Appropriate clothing: Remember to take adequate gear for the time of year and weather conditions. Winter or summer, always take a wind-proof jacket, one of the classics that has saved many a hiker from hypothermia! When it’s hot and sunny, don’t forget to take a sun hat or cap as well as sunglasses and sun cream. In cold weather, a technical sports garment, a winter jacket, a warm hat and a pair of gloves will be much appreciated at high altitudes. A buff is also an essential item for keeping your neck or head warm.

A pair of hiking poles: Hiking poles are often forgotten or used in the wrong way, yet they make precious allies when you’re walking all day. Don’t hesitate to seek advice for purchasing the right poles for your hiking needs. Both uphill and on the way down, using poles can relieve the pressure on your joints by 30%. Your knees will thank you for it!

And if your walking companion isn’t moving fast enough, you’ll know what to do to pick up the pace

Sufficient water: No, you’re not (yet) capable of walking for miles like a camel without drinking a drop of water! To avoid fatigue, cramp and headaches, it is important to stay hydrated. For a day of hiking we recommend you take at least 1.5 litres of water per person and check beforehand if there’s anywhere along your itinerary where you can refill your bottle.

Food: We all agree that on any hike the picnic is sacred ! Besides your sandwich, remember to pack some nutritional snacks to stave off those moments of weakness during the climb. Our favourites are fruit compote, fruit jellies, cereal bars and fresh fruit*.

*We must insist that you refrain from littering nature with organic waste (fruit peel etc.), as this can attract rats and other predators that endanger the region’s protected species.

Read also : our TOP 7 picnic spots in Les Gets.

First-aid kit: Carry disinfectant and plasters to treat minor cuts, scratches and grazes. For more serious injuries (sprains) make sure you have a support bandage with you. And don’t forget the sun cream! For longer distances, it’s a good idea to take a survival blanket as well.

Map: there’s nothing to stop Mike Horn fans taking a topographic map, a compass and a GPS. But the truth is, you don’t need an ordnance survey map to discover the little treasures of Les Gets! Simply download this guide to the footpaths of Les Gets. It includes the detailed descriptions and itineraries of all the region’s hiking routes.

Head torch: just in case you get delayed and are still hiking when the sun sets. And say thanks to dear uncle Johnny whose brilliant sense of direction made you walk an extra 10 km.

Not quite so vital, perhaps a bit heavy or cumbersome, but great to have all the same

- Binoculars, to scan the landscape for wildlife hiding in the trees or out on the pastures. You’ll be able to tell your friends you spotted a chamois on the opposite slope.
- A camera, to capture the low light of the declining sun with your new 400mm lens that weighs at least 3 kilos.
- The fondue pot, to enjoy a delicious meal, Savoie-style, facing the Mont Blanc.
If you prefer professional supervision, a number of mountain guides are on hand to accompany you.

Mountain guides

Our (sort of) secret spots :

Sunrise at the top of Mont Chéry
Sunset on the Ranfolly ridge
Picnic at Jacquicourt Chapel, a remote site concealed in a superb setti
For the wildest of panoramic experiences, follow the ridge path between Mont Chéry and Mont Caly
Get a little high on the Ranfoilly platform
2 ways to bivouac*:
(1) “Roots” in the beautiful unspoilt setting of the Mont Chéry, facing Mont Blanc
(2) “Chill” at the top of Mont Caly with after an easy approach by car

* Bivouacking rules to remember: allowed for one night only, with or without a tent, between dusk and dawn, generally between 7 pm and 9 am. The bivouac site must be left in an impeccable state.

Always more tips & tricks…

At Les Gets, hiking fans can make the most of the summer season to tranquilly enjoy the spectacle of nature. Mountain hiking is the perfect way to discover the local animal and plant life.

So who do you think you might meet along the way?

Marmots: stars of the moutain pastures

These pleasant, cute little creatures can be spotted with the help of their melodic whistle call. You may well see marmots appear while walking between the Belvédère du Mont Chéry and Mont Caly on La Boucle des Clarines.

At this time of year, the rodents enjoy the warmth of the sun as they feast on wild flowers. The best time to look out for them is when they feed, early in the morning and at the end of the day. They’re fairly timid so you’ll have to be particularly discreet if you want to get a close look without scaring them away.

La Boucle des Clarines

Goats & cows: hikers’ companions.

It’s impossible to explore the mountain paths without seeing herds of goats and cows grazing peacefully on the lush green, flowery pastures. The stuff of picture postcards!

At Les Gets, goats and cows are part of the decor too and they’ll make your hiking experience even more enjoyable.

To meet them, walk near the mountain farms of our slopes, such as the Ferme des Félires(Les Places), the Chèvrerie des Ours (Magy) or the Ferme de Caroline (La Mouille Ronde) which you’ll find on the Tour des Mouilles hiking trail.

At Col de Lachat, a pass on the Mont Chéry balcony trail, you’re sure to come across (and hear!) the cows from the Ferme Les Pâtres des Reines, home to 3 rustic breeds, Herens, Valdostana and Abondance.

The farmers and herdsmen of Les Gets will be happy to welcome you for a unique discovery of their Alpine pastures, a demonstration of their milking ritual and a sampling of their farm products. You’ll also be able to purchase products from the farm shop. Advance booking required.

Local farms tours

Espèce à protéger

Black grouse: an Alpine icon we must protect.

At the bend of a path, if you are lucky, you may be able to see a Tétras-Lyre.

The black grouse, a protected species, is an emblem of the Alps. It is mostly seen in the Ranfolly and Mont Chéry sectors, where measures to protect them have been implemented. Indeed, the development of tourism, leisure facilities and off-piste activities causes significant disturbance in the winter season and this has made the birds more vulnerable.

Want to explore the Ranfolly sector ? Go on the Grand Tour of Les Chavannes

Find out more about Tétras-Lyre protection

oiseau marron au sol — Tétras-Lyre female

Please remember that weather conditions, the time of year and the state of the pastures all have an influence on the presence of such wildlife… as does your discreetness.

Plants or mushrooms: to each his own picking

As for plant life, Les Gets is festooned with a beautiful array of edible and medicinal plants that you can taste on the spot or enjoy later back in your kitchen.

If you can’t wait that long, we suggest you try the raspberries and blueberriesthat you’ll find in abundance along the paths… who cares if you end up with a blue tongue !

Fine gourmets will be surprised by the wide array of edible fungithat can be harvested in the woods from August to October : porcini, girolles, boletes, chanterelles and horn of plenty. You can even find morels in spring. There’s a mushroom for every taste ! To optimise your harvest, hunt for mushrooms near conifers, beech and spruce trees. There’s nothing like an assortment of mushrooms fried up with local wild garlic or Alpine spinach.

Beware : if in doubt as to whether or not the fungi you’ve harvested is edible, ask at a pharmacy.

If you fancy yourself as a herbalist, you can seek out arnica, caraway or valerian in the company of Michel Rostalski, Les Gets’ very own wild flora specialist.

Read also: Arnica, a plant of many virtues.

Always more tips & tricks…

Both in winter and summer, the mountains are a great destination for a healthier body and mind.

Several studies, including one carried out on behalf of Auvergne- Rhône-Alpes Tourisme by SPRIM, a leading agency that specialises in medical and scientific monitoring, have shown that the mountain environment has a noticeable positive impact on human health.

Observed benefits include:

Stress reduction
Improved cardiovascular health
Resistance to obesity
Strengthened immune system

Together, these factors demonstrate the positive effects of the mountains on life expectancy and the quality of life. Such rewarding virtues can only enhance our relationship with the mountains.

And that’s before we even mention the extraordinary scenery to feast your eyes on.

A holiday in the mountains oxygenates you with a breath of fresh air. It gets you away from city life and closer to nature. It puts you on a high (literally) and lightens your heart. Did you say Les Gets ?

It seems the ideal atmospheric pressure to re-en- ergise you is found at elevations of between 800 and 2 000 metres.

Like top athletes who train at high altitude before major events, we can strengthen our organisms by breathing that fresh mountain air, not to mention the memorable experiences to be had that boost our minds and overall wellbeing.

So YES, we can shout it on the mountain tops. Mountains for health !

Always more tips & tricks…

Yet how beautiful the mountain is… Jean Ferrat must surely have walked around of Les Gets to find inspiration for his song ‘La Montagne’. Here not only the mountain is beautiful but there are beautiful plants too, edible or medicinal, yet rare and precious.

Little arnica

The daisy was formerly called little arnica or arnica of the plains. Used like ladies fingers in a tea or maceration, it relieves trauma and bruising. It also has firming properties, and is used in the care of the bust, chest and face contours. Get ready for the bikini !

A biodiversity to preserve

« We are lucky to have extremely well-preserved sites where we discover plants which are rare elsewhere but abundant here. »

Michel Rostalski, a specialist in wild flowers, sets the scene: Les Gets is a small paradise for the amateur herbalist and the curious hiker. Walking boots on, carrying a wicker basket, the incomparable heritage of generous nature is revealed, alongside the challenges of biodiversity. Coltsfoot, to be used in doughnuts, Alpine spinach, wild garlic and caraway are just some of the edible species that make their way into the kitchen. For the medicine cabinet, there’s soothing valerian, ribwort plantain or common lady’s mantle for female ailments.

Arnica, a plant for every occasion

But for Michel, the cream of the crop is arnica, which can be found on the slopes of Mont-Chéry, in its preferred acid soil, sheltered from the wind. « Arnica is a very precious plant, it heals blows, bruises, and muscle pain but it is also a great help in emotional shocks and troubles. As an oil, ointment or mother’s tincture, it works wonders. »

Not just one nor two, a beautiful armful of arnica fills the basket, but only one flower out of ten, to preserve the heritage and to ensure responsible picking. Then it’s time to don the apron for the preparation. Here there is no chemistry or smoking mixtures, these are remedies that come from tradition, a nod to our grandmothers whose knowledge continues to travel down the corridors of time.

A small plant with big effects, prepare to be surprised by its benefits.

Do It Yourself : your arnica-based products

Solarized arnica oil :

• 200ml of vegetable oil (50% olive, 50% sunflower)
• Arnica flowers
Fill a small clear glass bottle with arnica flowers, without packing down. Add the vegetable oil. Leave the bottle outside in the sun for 3 weeks. Filter. Rub it onto bruising. External use only.

Arnica ointment

• 3g of beeswax (from a bee-keeper or organic shop)
• 45ml solarized arnica oil
• 5 drops of lavender essential oil (optional)
Melt the beeswax in a bain-marie. Add the solarized oil and mix. Add the lavender essential oil and mix again. Pour into a clean container and leave it to set. Use in massage on twists and muscular pains.

Always more tips & tricks…

In summer or winter, spend carbon-free holidays at Les Gets, the resort that’s committed to green tourism. Ready for a challenge?

Travel green to Les Gets

It couldn’t be easier! Just take a high-speed and/or regional express train (TGV/TER) to Cluses or Thonon-Les-Bains, then jump on an Altibus shuttle bus to reach the resort. Its a practical, economical and friendly way to travel. Carsharing is another possibility. A third option is to drive here in an electric vehicle. The resort is equipped with E-vehicle charging stations that you can use during your stay.

Source sites:
www.oui.sncf
www.altibus.com
www.covoiturage.fr • www.tribu-covoiturage.com • www.easycovoiturage.com • www.skivoiturage.com

Opt for soft mobility within the resort

Once you’re here you can again choose green travel solutions. In this human-sized resort you can make many of your trips on foot. In summer, the little tourist train of Les Gets runs between the resort and the Lac des Ecoles lake, and also proposes a heritage tour. In winter, the same little train travels back and forth between the Mont-Chéry and Chavannes gondola lifts whenever the slopes are open, and shuttle buses operate all day long between the centre-resort and the hamlets. If you book ahead, you can even use them in the evening. In summer, you can also use the self-service Getslib bikes with electrical assistance.

Moving around Les Gets

100% de sports respectueux de l’environnement

During the summer

A whole mixture of summer activities awaits you – walking, hiking, trail running, mountain-biking, cycling, Ebiking, lake-swimming at Lac des Ecoles, dog-hiking (with the dog attached to your waist), paragliding and much more. Why not make your golfing debut on a green that’s very… er… green! The 18-hole course at Les Gets is at the golfing forefront in environmental terms.

>> Summer activities

During the winter

The list of eco-friendly activities is just as long in winter, with snowshoeing, Nordic skiing and ski-touring, as well as electric snowmobiles for children, fatbikes (mountain-bikes with huge tyres), yooners and dog-sleds! When it comes to downhill skiing, the resort’s ski-lift management company is the first in France to boast a power supply based entirely on renewable energy sources. Not only that, but skiers arriving at the resort by electric vehicle get 20% off a full-day Les Gets-Morzine lift pass.

>> Winter activities

In the heart of nature

Organise an activity programme with Zero Emissions

Culture, leisure activities, heritage, well-being… the range of activities is so vast that the hardest thing of all is to choose! We can’t list them all here, but we can still make a few suggestions.

Open all year round, the Alta Lumina concept is a first in European resorts. It is a finely-tuned spectacle that follows a trail in a natural environment amid shows of light, a video screening and some highly original sound effects. The concept focuses on the preservation of wetlands and works around these environmentally sensitive areas in order to keep disturbances to wildlife and vegetation to a strict minimum. Furthermore, the site’s power supply comes entirely from renewable sources.

Another must-try: a voice-guided relaxation session in the middle of nature. Or, for something totally different: nourish your inner child on a visit to the incredible museum of mechanical music.

All Summer activities

Opt for eco-friendly accommodation

Accommodation in Les Gets is truly going green, as more and more buildings are designed with the environment in mind, using eco-friendly materials (wood, bio-sourced insulation, etc.).

Nestling in the tranquil hamlet of La Turche, the “Du Changement dans l’air” chalet guestrooms reflect this trend to perfection. In fact, they push out the boundaries of the whole idea. Thought up by Agathe Le Roux, former restaurant owner and future naturopath, and Barbara Porret, a yoga teacher, this zero-waste concept makes a point of showcasing new consumption habits. The female duo also propose 6-day live-in courses on topics that fall perfectly in line with this sustainable development theme. “Detox & Nature”, “Acroyoga & Nutrition”, and “Phototherapy & Hiking” are just a few examples.

Learn more : www.duchangementdanslair.com

Les Gets resort also has a selection of accommodation with the Escale Nature and Escale Vélo labels.

Escale Nature Accomodation

Learn a little more about the fauna and flora

Vue d'ensemble du jardin botanique avec sapins en fond

Groupe écoutant une femme donner des explications sur l'environnement en été

Getting to know a habitat is an important step towards preserving it! Here’s your to do list, full of Les Gets experiences not to be missed.

Among other must-dos, plan a visit to the botanical gardens of ̀Father Delavay (certified bý the Conservatoire des Collections Végétales Spécialisées) to ́discover some plants you’ve probablý never heard of. A hike across the Loex Plateau, a site certified by the Natura 2000 European network, is a life-sized lesson in local biodiversity. As for the wetland of Les Boittets at Lac des Ecoles, this is an ideal place for educating people on issues pertaining to mountain water resources. And you’ll have plenty of opportunities to gain insight into the richness – and the fragility – of the Les Gets habitat which is part of the Chablais UNESCO Geopark.

Promote local sources

Besides the environmental commitment, this is a true act of eco-citizenship. It supports authentic farming methods, mindfulness of animal welfare and the respect of nature. Local distribution channels are only natural in Les Gets!

Etal de marché avec des fromages savoyard en vente

So, do your bit by shopping at the lovely market organised every Thursday morning, when the small retailers of Les Gets propose the entire array of local flavours and savoir-faire.

Or you can go to the farm shops to meet the producers. Léa and Manu, for instance, whose delicious cheeses can be found at the Chèvrerie des Félires goat dairy.

Les Pâtres des Reines is a farm run by Pauline and Valentin, an enthusiastic young couple who champion “poetic agriculture” with a passion that respects available natural resources and the principle of locally-distributed produce. Gourmets will appreciate the quality of their meat, cheese and other dairy products.

Meanwhile, Caroline and Noël organise delicious encounters and tastings at their farm, La Ferme de Caroline, to showcase their work as mountain farmers alongside their herds of goats and the famous Herens cows.

Another must-do is the authentic Fruitière des Perrières dairy, which collects milk from local farms and turns it into delicious Abondance, tomme and raclette cheeses.

Last but not least, make sure you pay a visit to the traditional pottery studio for an out-of-the-ordinary experience and a chance to take away a handy utensil or decorative souvenir made in Les Gets. There’s a sheep farm here too!

www.chevrerie-felires.com
www.lafermedecaroline.net
www.fruitiere-lesgets.com
www.poterie-des-gets.fr

Terroirs visits

More and more tips and tricks…

In a galaxy named Portes du Soleil, you’ll find a ski resort called Les Gets, a category apart when it comes to cycling terrain. Over the last 25 years, the local tracks and the famous bike park have built themselves a solid reputation in the mountain-biking world. So here are 7 ideas for mountain-bikers of every style and level to try in Les Gets. We think we’ve covered the whole (cycling) terrain!

Les Gets’ reputation stretches way beyond the national borders. This mountain-biking area is a European reference! Some of the stars of the sport, the likes of Fabien Barel, Julien Absalon and Pauline Ferrand-Prévot, are among Les Gets Bike Park’s number one fans. The mountain-biking Elite have been coming here since 1992. Les Gets is once again to welcome the world’s best mountain-bikers as the resort hosts stages of the UCI World Cup which will climax with the Mercedes-Benz UCI Mountain Bike World Championships in 2022.

Les Gets is bike

Champions aside, a complete range of facilities that everyone can enjoy

Approved by all publics ! Les Gets Bike Park is the beating heart of the resort’s exceptional mountain-biking facilities, with some 128 km of waymarked trails that attract both experts and beginners, of all ages. The site embodies many years of expertise and local know-how, gradually developing to make this discipline accessible to a wider audience.

The icing on the cake in this mountain-bike heaven is that road cyclists can enjoy it too. There are also fatbikes and self-service Ebikes, and even balance bikes so the little ones can join in.

Bike Rental in les gets

Option 1 / DH

Happiness is choosing from 18 slopes

The benchmark resort of Les Gets boasts a total of 18 downhill runs covering some 130 km of marked-out trails. A distinguishing feature of this reputed site is its extremely wide variety of trails which range from easy greens to double-blacks! “The more challenging Mont-Chéry sector of the bike park is more suited to expert mountain-bikers, while the Chavannes and Nochet areas offer easier trails where the slopes are less steep” explains Christophe Gressent, manager of Les Gets Bike Park. “It is rare to find such a range of possibilities in a single bike park.”

Let your preferences dictate your choice, between the prestigiously historic black slope, Dans L’Gaz” (700-metre elevation drop), visited by the very best during the World Cup, or the dizzying and highly technical Gets Airline run (double-black) with tree-root sections to negotiate as well as a few impressive bridges. Another unmissable section is the Coaching Track that the instructors make good use of, according to Christophe Gressent: “This fabulous blue run for intermediates is fairly easy but dotted with a few technical sections – steps, roots and some gentle natural berms to help you master speed control.”

Damien Chaudron, an MCF cycling instructor at Les Gets, prefers the green Ecureuils trail, the longest in the entire MTB area. “You can hurtle down the slope or take it more gently but it never gets too challenging. This well-designed trail offers a great opportunity to observe the vegetation growing at different altitudes. You start on grassy meadows, winding between copses before reaching the forest lower down.”

Option 2 / Enduro – XC

Six different itineraries to try including the inevitable Loex plateau circuit

Six trails marked out from the top of the chairlifts ensure you avoid the steep uphill sections and enjoy a relatively easy enduro/cross country ride. At Les Gets, enduro mountain-biking means you don’t have to cycle up any steep slopes to enjoy the superb scenery.

There’s something for everyone here, from the very easy Boucles des Clarines loops (5.7 km with a 190-metre climb and 190-metre descent) to the famous Loex Plateau Circuit. Concerning the latter, our first tip is to pronounce it as “Loa” and not “Loex” if you want to sound savvy! This great sporting challenge across the wilderness covers nearly 15 km (310-metre climb, 760-metre descent) from the Chavannes plateau through a pristine habitat with some beautiful wetlands and superb views of the Mont Blanc massif. “A truly great nature excursion which will take you a half-day or full day depending on your level of fitness” advises Damien Chaudron.

Option 3/ Electric mountain biking

Breathtaking scenery along the great Portes du Soleil trail

Six safe, waymarked trails that share certain sections with other itineraries, a chance to try a mountain Ebike which you can rent from one of the resort’s many outlets. And for those who fancy letting technology help them explore further afield, we recommend without hesitation that you take to the beautiful 80-km Portes du Soleil trail which is now within your reach, especially as you can recharge the bike battery at the charging terminals installed along the way. More than just a bike ride, this is a whole adventure on the trail of the Pass’Portes du Soleil MTB event that’s organised every year in June. You’ll discover ancient Alpine chalets, exceptional plant and wildlife, enchanting waterfalls, and beautiful views of the Dents du Midi mountains! As an added bonus, with the Portes du Soleil lift pass you get to avoid a few difficult uphill sections.

Alternative option: the Golf Course trail : A lovely itinerary (6.5 km, 120-metre climb, 500-metre descent) near the golf course and lakes. Ideal for families and/or beginners as there are no discouraging technical sections.

Discover

Option 4/Road Cycling

3 successful climbs (maybe even 4) without leaving Les Gets

The day’s highlights include a succession of three iconically high places in the Mont-Chéry sector above Les Gets.

From the resort, you’ll warm up by climbing the Lassare road before descending again, then tackle the long but not too steep Mont Caly climb (1,487 metres). Take advantage of the second descent to recover your strength for the most challenging part, the steep climb to the Belvédère du Mont Chéry (1,535 metres)! You’ll probably never forget the short, sharp burst of effort required for this 4 km climb on an average slope of around 10%. The record is held by Alberto Contador who covered it in 11 minutes and 36 seconds. If that doesn’t wear you out, you can continue up to the Plateau des Chavannes on the other side of the mountain.

No worries If you’re not quite fit enough, as you can split this Grand Slam challenge into 3 or 4 separate stages!

discover

Option 5/ Fatbike

Try a bike for all seasons with XXL tyres

Whatever the season, mud or snow needn’t stop you from enjoying those pedalling pleasures! No route is too slippery for the grip of your fatbike’s enormous tyres. In summer, you can take to the slopes and trails with this amazing machine. And to enjoy an even wider choice of routes, you can take your fatbike on the Chavannes and Nauchets chairlifts in the Chavannes sector. Access to the Mont-Chéry gondola lift is also allowed for bikes weighing less than 25 kg.

And in winter ? A whole new experience awaits you when there’s snow on the ground. You’ll discover sensations of comfort and stability that make it every bit as exhilarating! Throughout the season, the resort organises free sessions to introduce you to this activity. The Intersport shop (at the bottom of the Chavannes lifts) proposes fatbike rentals along with plenty of tips to help you get started

Option 6/ Balance Bike

Sign your toddler up for the cutest event of the year

At Les Gets, they catch the bike-park bug young. Very young ! Straight from the cradle? Not quite, but almost! So until their little feet can actually reach the pedals and make the most of the pumptrack, mini jump park, green DH slopes or kidzone before competing like their older siblings, your 2/5 year-olds can race on balance bikes in an event organised by the resort during the MTB World Cup.

A Run Bike Challenge just for them on the centre-resort’s main street which is closed to traffic for the occasion. We love the very concept!

Option 7/ Getslib

An effortless climb to the lake

Les Gets is also a ground-breaking resort when it comes to self-service Ebike rentals! In 2015, Les Gets launched GetsLib’, a soft mobility service that can be seen in many cities but is quite a novelty in a mountain resort. Perfect for exploring the resort’s every nook and cranny, popping to the shops or getting to your activities.

To really hit the summit, jump on a GetsLib bike and ride up to Lac des Ecoles for a dip in the lake. It’s a great feeling of freedom, it’s relaxing and it’s good for the planet. The return descent offers the added bonus of turning the bike into a giant ecofriendly hairdryer!

Always more tips & tricks…

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