Les Gets
Les Gets: A complete guide to this alpine resort
Located between Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc, one hour from Geneva airport, Les Gets is an authentic mountain resort at the heart of the Portes du Soleil ski area. This Savoyard village combines traditional charm with dynamism, offering a multitude of activities in all seasons.
Location and surrounding communities
Les Gets is located in the French department of Haute-Savoiein the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of southeastern France. The village nestles on the pass between Taninges and Morzineat the western end of the Portes du Soleil ski area.
Find out more about skiing in Les Gets, read our article here
Nearby communes include Morzine, a famous ski resort, and Taninges, known for its historic heritage. These localities offer additional opportunities for visitors wishing to explore the region.
Origin and Etymology of the Name "Les Gets
The name "Les Gets comes from the Savoyard term "gitte" or "gittaz"meaning a place where water flows, a passage between valleys. This name aptly illustrates the village's geographical location between the Chablais and alpine valleys.
From the Twelfth centuryThe Gets region is documented as a passageway for peddlers and farmers linking France and Switzerland.
Les Gets through the Centuries
1. A village dedicated to agriculture and forestry
Until the 19th century, Les Gets was a rural village where the inhabitants lived mainly from agriculture and logging. Thanks to its vast forests, the wood was very much present here, with sawmills fed by the waterways. This craftsmanship is still evident today in the local architecture and carved wooden chalets.
2. The influence of the monks of Aulps Abbey
The Cistercian monks of theAulps AbbeyIn the past, the village's inhabitants, not far from here, played a key role in the development of agriculture and the territorial organization of the village. They encouraged cultivation and land management, while introducing forest management practices that are still in use today.
The arrival of tourism and skiing in Les Gets
1. The beginning of tourism in the early 20th century
With the improvement of roads and the rise of the railwayLes Gets is becoming a popular destination for travellers in search of fresh air and alpine landscapes. Tourism began timidly with the arrival of the first curists and hikers.
2. The Essor of Skiing and Winter Sports Resorts
In the 1930At the end of the 19th century, skiing began to develop in Les Gets with the installation of the first rudimentary ski lifts. But it was only after the World War IIAs winter tourism took off in France, the resort began to modernize:
- 1954 Installation of the first chairlift on Mont Chéry.
- 1970 Integration of Les Gets into the Portes du Soleil ski areaone of the world's largest ski areas.
- Years 1980-2000 Development of hotel infrastructures and downhill and cross-country skiing activities.
Today, the resort offers more than 120 km of trailsattracting thousands of French and international visitors every year.
Sights in and around Les Gets
Les Gets is home to the Mechanical Music Museumwhich features an impressive collection of automatic instruments. Every two years, the village organizes a mechanical music festival, attracting enthusiasts from all over Europe.
Nearby, the village of Samoëns is worth a visit for its alpine botanical garden, La Jaÿsinia, and its traditional architecture. Lac de Montriond, near Morzine, is ideal for peaceful walks and water sports in summer.
Possible hikes around Les Gets
Les Gets offers numerous hiking trails suitable for all levels. The Mont Chéry trail offers panoramic views of Mont Blanc. The trail to Mont Caly is also popular for its picturesque scenery.
For mountain bikers, the resort boasts dedicated trails, regularly hosting downhill mountain bike events. Les Gets was the site of the World Mountain Bike Championships in 2004 and 2022.
Cultural and sporting activities
In winter, Les Gets is an integral part of the Portes du Soleil ski area, offering a variety of slopes for all levels. Families particularly appreciate the "Le Grand Cry" area, a themed zone dedicated to children.
In summer, the resort offers activities such as golf on an 18-hole course with views of Mont Blanc, accrobranche courses, and cultural events such as open-air concerts.
Restaurants in Les Gets
Les Gets boasts a variety of restaurants serving Savoyard specialties such as tartiflette, fondue and raclette. Establishments such as "La Pela" are renowned for their authentic cuisine and warm ambience.
Cinemas in Les Gets
For cinema fans, Les Gets offers regular screenings of recent films. Visitors can consult the schedules and films on show to plan a movie night.
Hotels in Les Gets
The resort offers a range of accommodation to suit all budgets, from traditional chalets to modern hotels. Establishments such as Hôtel La Marmotte combine comfort and proximity to the slopes, ideal for a successful stay.
Read our article on accommodation in Les Gets
The Haute-Savoie department and the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region
Les Gets is located in Haute-Savoie, a department renowned for its Alpine landscapes and majestic lakes such as Lac d'Aigle and Lac d'Aigle.Annecy and Lake Geneva, as well as historic towns such as Annecy and Chamonix.
The region Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes is rich in cultural and natural heritage, offering a multitude of outdoor activities, historic sites and culinary specialties to discover.
Les Gets Practical information
The Les Gets Tourist Office is at your disposal for any further information. It offers services such as baby-changing facilities, free Wi-Fi internet access and registration for various events.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the opening hours of the Les Gets Tourist Office?
In winter, the Tourist Office is open every day from 8.30am to 6.30pm. Opening times may vary according to the season.
What activities are available for children in Les Gets?
Les Gets offers a wide range of activities for children, including the "Le Grand Cry" area on the slopes, mechanical music workshops and outdoor games.
How do I get to Les Gets from Geneva?
Les Gets is about an hour's drive from Geneva International Airport. Shuttle and car rental services are available to facilitate the journey.
Are there any major cultural events in Les Gets?
Yes, the Mechanical Music Festival is a major biennial event, attracting artists and visitors from all over Europe.
