PRESS PACK
W I N T E R
2 0 1 6 - 2 0 1 7
WWW. L E S G E T S . C O M
SUMMARY
WHAT’S NEW THIS WINTER?
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2017 EVENTS } Father Christmas lives in Les Gets } The "Grande Odyssée Savoie Mont Blanc" } Skicolor } Rock the Pistes Festival
} Sled Dogs Snow skates – an exciting new sport in Les Gets } Vintage, Independent and Family-run - La Turche drag lift celebrates its 70th birthday } “TooFruit Academy’ - Organic skin care workshops for children } Improvements at the Crychar Hotel } The Grande Lanière, restaurant and après ski bar } Antique wooden merry-go-round restoration project } Portrait: Frédéric Tarride, the new head chef at the Chasse Montagne
THE SKI AREA
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} Lose yourself in the Portes du Soleil } Special offers in the ski area and the Youcanski offer } Two great playgrounds: - The Mont Chéry Training Centre - Les Chavannes – First for family fun } Activity areas - The Mappys area - The Grand Cry Territory - The Mauve Milka piste - The Perrières Videopark - The Deborah Anthonioz Boardercross - The Snowpark
FOR FOOD LOVERS
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} Apres ski } Gourmet adresses on the slopes and in the village
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ECO-TOURISM
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} Les Gets - An Escale Nature } Eco-Actions
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THERE’S SKIING… AND SO MUCH MORE! } Family activities } Nature activities } Heritage } Well-being
KEY STATISTICS
WHAT'S NEW THIS WINTER? Largely inspired by extreme sports like Ice Cross downhill and competitive skiing, this new discipline has been introduced in Les Gets to open the sport to a wider public. Anyone can try snow skating - ice-hockey players, artistic skaters or roller skaters now have an exciting opportunity to try their sport on snow! Beginners can learn to skate on snow during their winter holidays. Equipment is available to rent in the Skimium shops in Les Gets.
SLED DOG SNOW SKATES – AN EXCITING NEW SPORT IN LES GETS Sled Dogs is a winter sport originating from Norway where skaters wear snow skates – called Sled dogs - to descend the slopes. A snow skate is a boot with a flat skate moulded to the bottom. The boot is light and comfortable and the ski-width sliding surface ensures a grip on all types of snow. Snow skates are easy to control, so are perfect for skiers of all levels to either learn or perfect their snow-sport skills, improve technique, get fit or train for competitions – with little risk of injury.
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The official European Sled Dog Centre will set up home by the Turche drag lift in Les Gets this winter. Free trials will be available to the public. For the first time ever in France, a World Championship stage will be held in Les Gets in January 2017 bringing over a hundred competitive skaters together for a fun, new event rounded off with a show and after-ski party…
" Snow skates are easy to control, so are perfect for skiers of all levels to either learn or perfect their snow-sport skills… "
VINTAGE, INDEPENDENT AND FAMILY-RUN – LA TURCHE DRAG LIFT CELEBRATES ITS 70TH BIRTHDAY
" The area seems to spring straight from a black and white film… "
La Turche drag lift is the last independent ski lift in Les Gets. Built in 1946 by Georges and Denise Combépine, it is still run by the third generation of the same family today. Pierre, the founder’s son and his daughters Christelle and Virginie have fought to retain their heritage and it is thanks to their passion that it still endures to this day.
This “remonte-pente” (sloping climb) is the emblem of La Turche (and can be accessed either from the pistes or the road leading from the village centre). Its fame knows no boundaries! People come from far and wide to meet the Combépines, whose renowned hospitality is equalled only by their kindness and generosity. It is common to see Portes du Soleil ski instructors and their groups, welcomed by the strains of 80s music, stopping to quench their thirst with a small glass of local white wine. The area seems to spring straight from a black and white film, from another era, charged with history and where the only things that matter are a genuine passion and a love of snow. Next January, the lift celebrates its 70th birthday. There will be an open celebration welcoming old regulars, new enthusiasts and anyone and everyone who has helped keep the story of this legendary drag lift alive.
“TOOFRUIT ACADEMY" ORGANIC SKIN CARE WORKSHOPS FOR CHILDREN
Fun, hands-on sessions where children from 5 to 12 years old can enjoy new sensations on their skin and learn the benefits of specially created age-adapted skin care products. With product tests, games, guessing games and a snack and little present for each child you have the recipe for a wonderful workshop. Mums are welcome too, to learn about their skin and pick up daily skin-care tips and advice. The product brand is "TooFruit" 100% natural - 100% pleasure! Registration required. Maximum 4 children. Price €15/ person
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" Six bedrooms; two prestige and two suites are being created. "
IMPROVEMENTS AT THE CRYCHAR HOTEL
The Crychar hotel is undergoing renovation and expansion work to gain 4-star classification. Six bedrooms; two prestige and two suites are being created. There will be more for everyone; romantics will enjoy sipping a pre-dinner drink beneath the stars on the new roof-top terrace, sportsmen and women will enjoy the new inside boules room with billiards and darts, and children will love their new playroom which can be turned into a television or meeting room as required. The ski storage area is also being renovated and will now be accessible directly from the slopes. And, following the creation of the new bar, Bacchus and the spa last year, a new reception and entrance hall with a lift will complete the transformation of this popular stylish establishment. www.crychar.com
ANTIQUE WOODEN MERRYGO-ROUND RESTORATION PROJECT
Despite its exceptional condition given its 145 years of age, the last merry-goround of its era open to the public and the oldest known model in France, finally requires a complete overhall. It has given over a quarter of a century of good and loyal service and will now be restored to its former glory. The plan is that the merry-go-round will re-open under cover in the Place de la Maison des Gets. This will mean it can be used all year round and will no longer need to be taken down and re-erected each year – hugely reducing maintenance requirements. Saving this testament to popular French culture is part of an overall
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desire to preserve and enhance the village heritage and promote the capital of Mechanical Music. Its hand-sculpted animals, gondolas, rare paintings and Limonaire organ have a traditional charm and authenticity that touches everyone who sees it. An appeal for donations was
launched this summer 2016 seeking funding from local heritage groups to restore the merry-go-round to its original state. A dedicated platform, Dartagnans, has been set to help find funding for local heritage preservation through corporate sponsorship.
LA GRANDE LANIERE, RESTAURANT AND APRES-SKI BAR
The bar-restaurant La Grande Lanière will open its doors this winter under new management and with a new team. Ideally situated at the foot of the Turche pistes and conveniently open throughout the day, skiers and non-skiers can enjoy this welcoming, retro atmosphere where friends and family, laughter and good-humour are the order of the day! It is an ideal place for a social apres ski drink on the terrace, a delicious lunch at the crêpe or pizza bar between runs or to enjoy a more leisurely ‘bistronomique’ meal in the evening. Regional dishes, grills and world cuisine, all created from fresh produce are available in the evening accompanied by a selection of carefully selected wines and champagne.
PORTRAIT
FREDERIC TARRIDE, NEW HEAD-CHEF AT THE CHASSE MONTAGNE RESTAURANT
Originally from the Rhone Alpes, Frédéric has returned to his roots serving “Bistrot-Lodge” seasonal cuisine, which is simple, pure and uses good quality local produce. He also offers an original local “market cuisine” sourcing fresh food typically found in the local lake and mountain environment and seasonal produce from the best local suppliers - resulting in a delicious selection of dishes. Filet of Féra (a freshwater white fish) with home-made potato puree and truffle jus, burger-style Alpine Ballavaoud or myrtilles served with Breton shortbread. His passion for cooking began early and increased over the years. He first worked alongside chef Alain Ducasse before becoming head chef at “L’Epicurien” in Val Thorens, "L’Appart du 17" in Annecy, the "Ku.De.Ta" in Porto Vecchio and the "Market" in Lille - a rich career full of interesting and inspiring experiences. His desire to share his knowledge and experience with others ensures food-lovers dining in the cosy interior of the Chasse Montagne this winter will be treated to an exciting choice of dishes. www.lechassemontagne.com
" Bistrot-Lodge seasonal cuisine, which is simple, pure and uses good quality local produce. "
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2017 EVENTS With its expertise and experience in major event organisation, Les Gets has compiled a wonderful seasonal events programme for visitors with a wide variety of events and activities to share with friends, family… Find the full programme at www.lesgets.com/evenements-animations
FATHER CHRISTMAS LIVES IN LES GETS
" Father Christmas feels at home here, but he’s shy and keeps to himself, very busy preparing all the Christmas gifts. "
FROM THE 18TH TO 3 0TH DECEMBER At the end of each year, the village bubbles with excitement thanks to Father Christmas and this special magic-filled Christmas event. Father Christmas feels at home here, but he’s shy and keeps to himself, very busy preparing all the Christmas gifts. He spends most of his time with his helpful, loyal friends the elves in the enchanted forest where he lives. On the programme for these 15 exciting days are story-telling visits to the heart of his beautiful world in the enchanted forest and numerous activities and surprises for the whole family:
} The Elf workshop: make Christmas-themed objects with the help of Father Christmas’ elves (snowmen, Christmas baubles, dream catchers, cinnamon candels, land-art, snow sculptures, Christmas dens) } Chistmas market on the 19th December: The residents of Perrières invite you to discover their traditional skills and taste delicious local food } Shows: Ice sculpture demonstrations, indoor and out-door shows. } Local Christmas fairs: A Christmas drink at La Turche, heritage walks through different parts of the village } Unmissable Christmas activities; Visits to the Enchanted Forest, fireworks, the arrival of Father Christmas on the 24th December… Dedicated internet site: www.lesgets.com/noel
THE SAVOIE MONT-BLANC GRANDE ODYSSEE
LES GETS STAGE: 9TH JANUARY This exciting winter event, bringing together the best mushers in the world, returns to Les Gets for a stage this year. It is a long-distance race inspired by the legendary Yukon Quest and Iditarod mushers and is a great opportunity for lovers of the Big North to indulge in their passion. Competitors depart from the village centre and follow a two hour circuit over the Chavannes slopes following a spectacular section under the Maison des Gets before finishing in the village at the end of the day. A wide choice of themed shows and family events are planned for all ages throughout the week!
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ROCK THE PISTES FESTIVAL
FROM 19TH TO 25TH MARCH A festival with a difference!! Kick off the festival season with this epic event combining snow sports and music! Piste-top concerts are organised throughout the Portes du Soleil in France and Switzerland. The concert site changes resort every day and skiers ski from venue to venue to find the festival stages erected overnight.
" Fun and entertainment guaranteed in the Skicolour village… "
SKICOLOR, NEW EXCITEMENT ON THE PISTES
11TH MARCH Skicolor is a celebration of Ski and Colour!! Skiers ski down a slope, dressed in white ski suites, through clouds of multi-coloured powder! The paint is 100% natural and skiers are covered from head to toe by the time they reach the finish line! Great fun, great location – in the Skicolor village opposite Mont Blanc - and great memories. The day ends with music and entertainment from a live DJ and pom pom girls … www.skicolor.com
Artists arrive in style at the Rock the Pistes Festival in gloves, scarves and hats chauffeured to the site on piste groomers or snow-mobiles!! Dance in your ski boots, drink in the breath-taking views and enjoy a unique party experience. Many well-know artists have already graced our slopes: Selah Sue, The Do, Ben l'Oncle Soul, Pete Doherty, Klaxons, Izia Higelin, Superbus, Shaka Ponk and Thiefaine. Full 2017 programme available on www.rockthepistes.com And remember … the party doesn’t end when the lifts shut. Continue to enjoy the evening après-ski concerts back in the resort.
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THE SKI AREA THE SKI AREA IS OPEN FROM 17TH DECEMBER 2016 TO 17TH APRIL 2017 There will be some early opening weekends from the 26th November, depending on snow conditions.
S
ituated between Lac Léman and Mont Blanc, Les Gets is an integral part of the Franco-Swiss Portes du Soleil area. A charming village with sympathetically retained Savoyard architecture, it draws mountain lovers seeking traditional values and tranquillity from the world over. In winter, the ski lifts are quickly and easily accessible making skiing the obvious choice to discover the ski area and its forests and pastures. On either side of the village are the two slopes of Les Chavannes and Mont Chéry. Each ski area has its own individual characteristics making them the perfect playground for skiers of all levels.
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LOSE YOURSELF IN THE PORTES DU SOLEIL
Les Gets is part of the Portes du Soleil, one of the biggest ski areas in the world, comprising 12 interconnected resorts in France and Switzerland. Close to Geneva, it is a region without frontiers, with breath-taking panoramic views. Despite its size and over 50 years of existence, the Portes du Soleil has retained its human element, a strong local identity and community values enabling it to enjoy parallel cultures - past and present. To ski in the Portes du Soleil is to enjoy a protected and valued natural environment. Ski lifts melt into the countryside, mountain chalets offer the ideal location in which to savour the local gastronomy and ski runs follow the natural and varied contours of the land providing a ski area suitable for all levels. Try your own ‘ski safari’ and master the art of winter mountain living.
SPECIAL OFFERS IN THE SKI AREA NEW: PORTES DU SOLEIL – FREE KIDS CHRISTMAS SKI PASS Buy 1 adult 5 – 9 day ski pass between the 17/12/16 and 25/12/16 and receive 1 child (-12yrs) ski pass free. Offer valid for purchases in the resort, on the internet or through Les Gets Reservation when you book your accommodation.
FAMILY SKI-PASS -10% REDUCTION THROUGHOUT THE SEASON To benefit from this special offer, which is also valid during the school holidays, book a minimum of 4 Les Gets/Morzine Ski-passes, for between 6-14 consecutive days, in advance. Either book them at the same time as your accommodation or on-line at www.lesgets.com/ pass, up to 3 days prior to your arrival in the resort.
10% REDUCTION ON DAY PASSES AND 5-HOUR PASSES BOUGHT ON-LINE Recharge your ski pass on the website and get a 10% reduction on the cost of your 5-hour or day (full price) Les Gets/Morzine ski pass. 20% REDUCTION FOR ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE VISITORS Environmentally concious skiers arriving in the resort by electric car have two charging points available and in addition can enjoy reserved VIP parking places up to 11am in the Perrières car park – all this in addition to a 20% reduction on their day ski pass.
RECHARGE YOUR SKI-PASS ON LINE Avoid queues at lift pass offices during busy times and recharge your lift-pass on-line. Use your mobile or computer and simply connect to www.lesgets. com and you can ski 30 minutes after recharging.
40% REDUCTION ON LES GETS/ MORZINE SEASON PASSES BOUGHT BEFORE 30TH NOVEMBER 2016. €390/adults, instead of €650 €290/children, instead of €483 €340/seniors, instead of €567
SPECIAL OFFER –20% REDUCTION ON SKI-PASSES BOUGHT BEFORE 31ST OCTOBER 2016 20% reduction on individual prices when reserving "Les Gets/Morzine" 6-14 consecutive day ski-passes (excluding 17/12/16 to 06/01/17 and 04/02 – 03/03/17) at the same time as booking accommodation. This offer applies to all reservations made before the 31st October 2016. Further information and reservations: www.lesgets.com/reservation or www/lesgets.com/pass
5 CONSECUTIVE-HOUR SKI PASS Choose when you start skiing and ski for 5 consecutive hours to maximize ski time and avoid busy times on the slopes.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THE YOUCANSKI OFFER, the first all-inclusive beginners ski package, is available from ski schools in the Portes du Soleil. Exclusively for adults, various package options including ski classes, ski passes and ski rental are available. Further information from www.esf-lesgets.com
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ACTIVITY AREAS
Les Gets – The Family Friendly resort par excellence An accredited ‘Village Famille Plus Montagne’, Les Gets actively welcomes children and offers numerous facilities adapted to all age groups together with specific services and over 500 children’s activities, both on the piste and in the village itself; the snow garden for the little ones, the ‘Grand Cry Territory’ – a themed ski area with Native Americans and Trappers, the Mauve Milka® ski run, boarder cross, luge (sled) runs, an ice skating rink in addition to the wide variety of craft and artistic activities on offer in the village. Endless possibilities to ensure everyone enjoys fun in the snow and heads back home with stars in their eyes! MAPPYS AREA The "Espace des Mappys" beginners’ ski area, is a fantastic innovation in Les Gets. It is free of charge and provides the perfect environment for tomorrow’s champions (of all generations) to learn to ski safely, protected from faster more confident skiers. Easily accessible from the top of the Chavannes bubble lift, this beginners’ zone is in a calm, safe area just beside the main ski slopes. It has 2 moving carpets and 2 tow-ropes on a gentle beginners’ slope.
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THE “GRAND CRY” TERRITORY An American Indian frontier village complete with tepees, wild-west decor and Indian face-painting. This snowy paradise for children is Les Gets’ key product for ages 5/12. Situated in the heart of the forest, it consists of ski-runs decorated with giant scenery including totem poles and tepees. There’s a ski-run complete with loud-speaker system, bumps and a cowboys’ log-cabin full of games and music. Every week during the season, there are drawing competitions, face-painting and
treasure hunts. Skiers can record their own personal video with the help of the videototem located in the trappers’ cabin as they do a rain dance, or simply have fun with the musical games. THE MAUVE MILKA® PISTE Fun, educational and a great introduction to the mountain environment, this ski run starts from the top of the Grand Cry Territory. It includes large animals and information boards so that children can learn visually about mountain flora and fauna. There are
TWO FANTASTIC PLAYGROUNDS
THE "MONT CHERY TRAINING CENTRE"
Opposite the Mont Blanc mountain chain, Mont Chéry’s slopes are generally the choice of more experienced skiers, freestylers and ski-clubs, who regularly train in the area. There are special prices for ski-clubs, regular competitions and posts and stopwatches are available for training purposes. It is ideal for the more reflective skier and great for powder skiing. The runs are mainly red and black with two slalom runs and a snowpark.
CHAVANNES, FAMILY SKIING
The Chavannes slopes are varied and suitable for families and skiers of all levels, with special zones reserved for beginners and children grouped in the same area: Mappys area, Grand Cry territory, Mauve Milka® piste, boarder cross...It is also the departure point for connections to the other ski resorts in the Portes du Soleil.
" Endless possibilities to ensure everyone enjoys fun in the snow and heads back home with stars in their eyes!"
skiing games and you can have your photograph taken with the famous Mauve cow. The cow is present during the French school holidays to provide entertainment and distribute mini-chocolates to the delight of clients! THE PERRIERES VIDEOPARK You can now watch yourself improve over the parallel slalom on skis or snowboard thanks to this exciting area fitted with integrated cameras and stopwatch. The video system starts automatically when you scan your ski pass at the top of the slalom. Watch
your personal video on a screen at the end, or see it on the website and share it on social networks. It is free of charge and open to all skiers. The videopark is accessed via the Perrières Express chairlift from the bottom of the Mélèzes ski run. DEBORAH ANTHONIOZ BOARDERCROSS This piste was designed and developed with advice from the local Olympic silver-medalist (Vancouver’s 2010 winter Olympics), Deborah Anthonioz, originally from Les Gets. Extremely
popular with skiers, particularly the young, it is open to the skiing public (2* level or above recommended). SNOWPARK What better way for snow sport enthusiasts to improve their skills and enjoy one of the most stunning panoramic vews in the region. The Mont Chéry snowpark has 20 modules including rails, kicks, hip, a wall and a dedicated chair lift over the park.
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FOR FOOD LOVERS APRÈS-SKI NEW FACES AT THE GRANDE LANIERE The bar-restaurant La Grand Lanière opens its doors this season under new management and with a new team. Located at the foot of the La Turche slopes, it offers a retro ambiance, relaxing apres ski, quick lunches and relaxed “bistronomique” evening dining. Full details on page 7, “What’s new this winter”. LE BACCHUS, "THE PLACE TO BE" ! This cool, jazzy piste-side bar overlooking the village is the new venue seducing chilly skiiers with its warm, welcoming atmosphere. Wine bar,
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with nearly 200 wines, tapas bar with various slates of delicious tapas, and tea room for afternoon tea… AT THE FOOT OF THE SLOPES - THE APRÈSKI Conveniently situated at the bottom of the slopes in the village centre, this snowline terrace is a great place to unwind to music at the end of the afternoon. On various days of the week live bands and DJs liven up the dance floor for a relaxed, dynamic end to the day.
" This snowline terrace is a great place to unwind to music at the end of the afternoon. "
THE IRISH PUB - "THE GETOISE BREWERY" Drop in to the Irish Pub for a relaxing evening with friends after a day on the slopes. Enjoy the live weekly concerts, delicious tapas and home-made beers. Brewing is an art and Colin the owner’s passion. Various beers flow from his kegs the most renowned of which is the delicious ‘Getoise’. THE BLACK BEAR On entering this wood clad pub one is hit by the warm and welcoming atmosphere. Its cosmopolitan clientele and cosy, intimate interior make it an ideal place to relax after a day on the slopes.
"This restaurant will charm anyone for whom holidays and fine dining go hand in hand. "
GASTRONOMIC RESTAURANTS LA PAÏKA Located in the Perrières area above La Turche aux Gets, this beautifully renovated old farm will seduce skiers with its large, sunny terrace and traditional wood interior. The menu offers fresh and varied dishes including meat grilled on the open fire and sumptuous home-made desserts guaranteed to titillate the taste buds of any food lover. Open during the day and until the ski runs close, this restaurant will charm anyone for whom holidays and fine dining go hand in hand.
LA GRANDE OURSE Located in the Mont Chéry area, this mountain restaurant offers a fairytale panorama over the Mont Blanc range and surrounding mountains. The terrace is the place to sit and comtemplate life while the warm cosy interior with its huge glazed windows allows you to enjoy the view in the warmth of the crackling open fire. For skiers with discerning palates this restaurant is the ideal place to take a break between pistes and enjoy refined, traditional cooking and some very British dishes. THE QG A restaurant to enchant the taste buds! The QG (HQ) serves beautifully presented traditional Savoyard specialities alongside more refined cuisine. Its charming, piste-side terrace makes the QG the perfect spot for a last drink before the lifts close.
GAULT AND MILLAU RESTAURANT SELECTION THE SAINT LAURENT Savour refined cuisine inspired by traditional flavours in beautiful Savoyard surroundings. Crayfish ravioli, lobster and cèpe risotto, beef roasted on the open fire, vanilla and citrus fruit soufflé ... a true treat for the tastebuds! LES SOUPERS DU CRYCHAR Succumb to the delights of these carefully crafted dishes in a relaxing family environment. Pan-fried foie gras with chestnut cream, scallops, Jerusalem artichoke cream with orange zest, pistachio panacotta with a pear and hazelnut coulis or the delectable Guérande salted shortbreads. It ia also possible to eat in the cosy Bacchus bar – the Crychar hotel wine-bar.
THE UNMISSABLE FRUITIER DES PERRIÈRES ! Diners will delight in the delicious Savoyard specialties served in these original 100-year old cheese-maturing cellars. Try the cepe or péttilant de Savoie fondues, raclette, reblochonnade or potée Savoyard. Various ancient farming and culinary artifacts grace the walls and rooms. Traditional, cosy with a retro feel and with an open fire burning in the corner, this is a restaurant not to be missed, with no warmer atmosphere to be found in Les Gets.
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NON SKIING ACTIVITIES FAMILY ACTIVITIES
GEOCACHING IN THE SKI AREA Discover the Les Gets ski slopes in a fun, original way and join this exciting interactive activity. Download the official Geocaching app and set of in search of geocaches spread over the ski area. When you find one, sign the “logbook” to prove you’ve found it, and leave a little souvenir in the box. Over 2.5 million geocaches are recorded in 222 different countries on the various web sites dedicated to this game. www.lesgets.com/geocaching GOURMET WORKSHOPS AT THE CHALET DU CHOCOLAT How would you like to leave the pistes for a while, take off your skis and put on a chef’s hat and apron instead? Isabelle invites you to join her in the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere of one of her renowned chocolate-making workshops. A wonderful creative family experience, guaranteed to titillate the tastebuds and from which everyone returns home with their own delicious creation. Duration 1hr 30 mins. Reservation required. From €15 per person. Tel. 00 33 (0)6 84 34 36 75. LEARN ABOUT MECHANICAL MUSICAL Every week during the season, the museum runs a workshop where children from 5-years old can learn about mechanical music. It is a wonderful occasion giving each child the opportunity to learn about music from another era in a fun, instructive and hands-on way.To begin with children are shown the different systems that make insturments like barrel organs or mechanical pianos work and have the opportunity to try them. They will learn about the component parts and their function: what are organ pipes, bellows, reeds or perforated cardboard? Price: €3/person (for 1hr), every Wedsnesday at 5.30pm. Reservation (recommended) at the museum Tel. +33 (0)4 50 79 85 75 www.musicmecalesgets.org
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NATURE ACTIVITIES about his subject, who will let SKI-JOERING you into the secrets of these If you enjoy snow sports and " … ski-touring is a wonderful mystical animals, the chamois animals, getting away from it sport and offers a unique (mountain goats) and mountain all, seeing the mountains from opportunity to see a different side sheep. a different perspective while Price (chamois and sheep trek respecting nature – Ski-joering of mountain life… " with a snack): €27/person. is for you! Other guided themed walks available on request. This activity can be practiced from a young age - once Mountain Guides: Tel +33 (0)6 81 05 60 82 children can balance on their skis and slide down a slope – www.lesgets-raquette.com they are ready to go!! (about 5yrs). The ski-joering session is run by a qualified instructor in a secure, specially prepared SKI TOURING WITH JEAN-LUC - HIGH MOUNTAIN area. GUIDE 1 hour outing (skis provided) €60 Jean Luc Tamanini began his career as a mountain rescue Tel +33 (0)6 08 18 78 54 - skijoering-lesgets.com trainer with the police force. 15 years later, he moved to Les Gets and continues to indulge in his passion for the A RELAXATION AND WELL-BEING WALK … And the incremountains. A qualified ski instructor and high mountain dible power of voice-guided meditation. guide (for both summer and winter), he is now a hugely If you love nature and are looking for different way to pass competent and reliable mountain guide. a relaxing afternoon during your stay in Les Gets – then Seal-skin randonnée (or touring) is a sport increasing in this is the walk for you. A walk that benefits both mind and popularity and beginners often start on the ski pistes, body. Walkers meet, with their snow-shoes on, at the Les something which is prohibited and strongly discouraged for Gets yurt, in its quiet corner of the countryside. Then simply security reasons. Ski instructor and high mountain guide, relax and enjoy a meditation session. An innovative journey Jean-Luc Tamanini will take you to tracks away from the organised each week during the season. ski area in quiet, unspoilt countryside. Security concerns Every Thursday afternoon in winter from 2pm to apart, ski-touring is a wonderful sport and offers a unique 5pm (Christmas holidays) and from 2.45pm to opportunity to see a different side of mountain life, away 5.45pm (February holidays). Reservation required (min. from traditional skiers racing down the pistes. It is physically 5 people). challenging, but the results more than compensate … Further information: Tel +33 (0)4 50 75 80 03 incredible views, the satisfaction of scaling a summit, www.esf-lesgets.com the pride of achievement and the joy of sharing a rare experience… FIND MYSTICAL CHAMOIS AND LONG-HORNED Various sport shops in the resort have appropriate MOUNTAIN SHEEP equipment for rental. Discover unspoilt countryside with the family, seek out wild Half-day guided randonée - €280 (high season) animals and escape into the heart of nature for a refreshing www.evolution2-lesgets.com mountain experience. This walk is led by a guide passionate
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HERITAGE MECHANICAL MUSIC MUSEUM For both its originality and historical interest, the museum is well worth a visit. Covering 1500m2, it is home to one of the most interesting collections of mechanical musical instruments, some of which date from the 17th Century. From musical boxes to record players via barrel organs and automatic pianos, the museum takes you back in time to reveal the ancestors of today’s CD. The exhibits are all in perfect working order and are exhibited chronologically throughout the museum’s various rooms. One of the galleries is home to the automated musical instrument collection owned by the renowned perfumiers Roger & Gallay and which once animated their boutique windows. During the visit you will find newly discovered treasures in the “Talking Machines Room” where phonographs, record players and juke boxes are on display. Included in this magnificent collection is an Aeolian Philharmonic organ, owned by the museum and classed as an historical monument. It is an imposing structure which works in both
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manual and automatic modes and is now housed in Les Gets’ church. There is also one of the oldest carousels with its original Limonaire organ dating from 1871 and the mechanical bells marking the 150th anniversary of the Savoie’s annexation to France. Price Adult €9, Child €5. Tel +33 (0)4 50 79 85 75 www.musicmecalesgets.org See page 6 for details of the wooden merry-go-round restoration project - the last of its kind still runing and the oldest known model in France… HAND-MADE POTTERY IN LES GETS The Bonhomme sisters have renovated an interesting property; half pottery, half sheep stable. These wonderfully skillful enthusiasts have their workshop opposite Mont Blanc. Anouk throws the pottery on her wheel and Natalie decorates the end product. Their pottery is made from natural minerals and has a colourful, delicate, traditional mountain style. It is also possible to visit the adjoining sheep barn (by appointment). www.lesfermesdelasarre.fr
" The museum is well worth a visit. Covering 1500m2, it is home to one of the most interesting collections of mechanical musical instruments… "
" The Bonhomme sisters have renovated an interesting property; half pottery, half sheep stable. "
WELL-BEING
RELAX IN A YURT Holidays are the ideal time to relax and recharge. For those needing to escape the stresses of daily life, Noëlle Letessier has the answer. She runs relaxation sessions in a yurt in the heart of the countryside. Her voice will lead you into deep relaxation, tranquillity and restorative calm. Tensions will gradually drift away, leaving internal harmony between body and soul. Prices from €50 to €70 (depending on the session) Information and reservation: Tel +33 (0)6 70 11 81 71 www.capsolution-etvous.com SERINI CIMES SPA A spacious 800m2 beauty centre with a cosy and sophisticated mountain chalet ambiance of reclaimed wood and Mont Blanc stone, just inviting you to relax and unwind. The treatment list is rich and varied and includes different relaxation techniques inspired by countries around the world - just tempting you to de-stress on a poly-sensorial voyage. The techniques used are designed to help you to completely let go and unwind and are perfect at the end of the day on the slopes or to relieve stress. In addition, the Spa’s founder, with over 35 years’ experience, gives more specific
treatments including Vodder manual lymphatic drainage, reflexology and the spa’s signature treatment; fascia pulsology. Tel +33 (0)4 50 79 86 09 - www.serenicimes.com THE CLAIR MOMENT BEAUTY CENTRE Designed to invoke a calm, pure and relaxing environment, Clair Moment is a beauty treatment centre in a league of its own, with a larger beauty product boutique and nail bar. A wide choice of a la carte beauty treatments are available using either Phytomer or the more local Pure Altitude products, both of which perfectly complement the natural, organic mountain philosophy of this beauty centre and its desire to provide tailor-made original treatments like the candle or energy massage. Other treats on offer are: ‘invitations aux voyages’ for a choice of treatments to be taken over several hours or days, gentle pampering treatments for new and expectant mothers, or original massages such as the skier or the snow crystal body wrap… Open every day during the season from 9am to 8pm and between seasons from Tuesday to Saturdays from 9am to 7pm. www.clairmoment.com - Tel. +33 (0)4 50 50 75 84 44. See page 5 for details of the new beauty workshops for children …
" … for a choice of treatments to be taken over several hours or days, gentle pampering treatments for new and expectant mothers, or original massages such as the skier or the snow crystal body wrap… " “YOGA ATTITUDE” WITH BARBARA Throughout the season Barbara offers visitors the opportuniy to try yoga, promising a ‘magical experience’! A discipline that is becoming more and more popular, yoga has multiple physical and mental benefits. Yoga with its numerous virtues, is suitable for anyone; adults, beginners, experts and children - including the very young. For 4yrs – 16yrs Barbara offers specifically tailored sessions, either privately or with a parent where clients can chat, share private thoughts and issues in confidence and help their child improve their coordination, increase self-confidence or help them feel more at ease with their body. Courses for everyone are available throughout the day. Information and registration : Keolan Yoga. Tel +33 (0)6 99 75 66 52 barbara@keolan.com - www.keolan.com
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" … the village is dedicated to preserving its mountain environment. "
LES GETS, "UNE ESCALE NATURE"
With its philosophy and positioning as an eco-tourism destination, the village is dedicated to preserving its mountain environment. To this end many initiatives have been introduced in both the village and the ski area: wood-fired heating for 13 municipal buildings, the distribution of pocket ashtrays, low impact transport with electric mountain and road bikes available in the summer, low emission local public transport (busses complying with Euro 6 antipollution requirements), little trains for transport between the two ski areas, electric car recharging point at Perrières with a reduced price lift pass for skiers and events limiting their environmental footprint. The ski lift operating company, the tourist office and the 18-hole golf course all have the ISO 14001 environmental certification.
ECO-ACTIONS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR This global commitment is reflected by a quality guarantee and concrete actions in both the village and general area throughout the year:
LOW IMPACT TRANSPORT } Semi-pedestrianised area: closing the Rue du Centre on certain days giving pedestrians priority. } Visitors can arrive via public transport and get around the village during their stay without a car using the inter-resort and resort mini bus service, little train, low emmission Euro 6 bus and ‘transport on demand’ (evening bus service). } 20% reduction on a day ski pass and reserved parking places for visitors with electric cars. Provision of recharging point at Perrières.
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" The ski area, the Tourist Office and the Les Gets Golf Club (first club in France) are certified ISO 14001. " } GetsLib’ – a service offering self-service electric bike rental in summer - with a fleet of 15 bikes and support stations in the village. } Electric MTB rental from certain sport shops in the resort with dedicated electric bike routes in the Portes du Soleil mountain bike area. } Official recognition of accommodation providers encouraging mountain bikers to stay. ENERGY } Wood-fired central-heating. Since 2000 a wood-fired heating system using re-claimed wood has heated 13 municipal buildings via a network over 1km long. } New, more energy efficient snow cannons. } Reduced energy use by the ski lifts. } 100% of the electricity used by the ski lift company is purchased from renewable energy sources } Use of solar panels where possible in the resort (Mont Chery for radio transmitters and Ranfoilly for the control centre). WASTE } Provision of pocket ashtrays at all lift kiosks. } An annual litter-collection day over the ski area. } Optimisation of rubbish collection points. } Purchase of guaranteed ‘eco-cups’ for events. } Environmentally–friendly purchasing policy and waste management systems at SaGets, the
Golf Club and the Tourist Office. } Lift-pass recycling. } Use of bio-degradable oil for piste groomers. } Additive-free artificial snow manufacture. } Sorting and recycling of all industrial waste by specialist companies COMMUNICATION AND LOCAL AUTHORITY POLICY } The ski area, the Tourist Office and the Les Gets Golf Club (first club in France) are certified ISO 14001. An independent audit is carried out each year to ensure standards are maintained. } Raised awareness of employees in the Maison des Gets (Tourist office, Ski Lift Operating Company and Town Hall) of the need to reduce their daily environmental footprint. } Raising awareness among visitors of the different accommodation choices, events and activities on offer throughout the season. } Official recognition of environmentally responsible accommodation providers (apartments and hotels) with the introduction of the Escale Nature accrediation. } Involving local services and businesses and encouraging increased use of geothermal systems, heat pumps, organic wines, local produce and organic cleaning products. } Involvement in National and European initiatives promoting environmental awareness such as
the European Transport week in the autumn. } Ensuring visitors are kept informed via the various events, activities and publications available in the resort. } Ensuring local professionals are kept informed via newsletters, documentation and meetings. WATER } This winter 2017, piste groomers will be equipped with a GPS to optimise artificial snow production. } They will measure the snow depth in the ski area in real time to ensure snow is only produced where and when it is required. } More water-efficient artificial snow production. } Water reservoirs (2 most recent of 6,000 and 12,000m3) to increase the water network dedicated to artificial snow production. } Rigorous water controls and drinking water reservoirs. } Excavation works during the summer to create gentler slopes and preserve snow cover to reduce piste-bashers’ work and limit snow canon use in winter. } Inventories and action plan for wet-land preservation in the ski area. URBANISM } New building controls, preservation of local architecture. } Extend existing pavements. } Landscaping project from the west entrance of the resort and the creation of more parking spaces.
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NATURE AND LOCAL HERITAGE } A protection zone for the Black Grouse winter habitat has been established with signposting explaining the protected species. } The Loex Plateau has been designated a Natura 2000 site, to protect flora and fauna and minimise human impact in the area. } All proposed groundwork projects in the ski area are designed, studied and developed in advance to ensure they are suitably adapted to the various environmental constraints and requirements of the area and ensure minimal negative impact. } Re-turfing of the summer activity area. This protects the ground from erosion, integrates the pistes with the natural countyside, helps stabilise snow cover and encourages biodiversity. } Preservation of nature reserves and wet-lands in the ski area. Work has been carried out which both preserves the local eco-system and the ski area in winter. } The golf course is maintained in harmony with the environment; some areas intentionally left unmowed, wet-land areas protected and sign-posted, limited use of pesticides and the purchase of a hybrid lawn mower. } Environmental initiative "Target Zero Pesticide" signed by the municipality, to ensure respectful management of municipal green spaces. } Creation of a ‘Grand nature’ vegetable garden in the summer. } Fun, imaginative, environmentally-friendly activities for visitors during their mountain holiday: hiking, snow-shoe walking or ski-joering in winter, electric MTBs, 18-hole golf course with electric golf carts in summer and events organised to maximise sensibility to our environment throughout the year. } Learn about local culture: the 100-year old wooden merry-go-round, the Mechanical Music Museum and historically listed organ, pottery workshops, traditional mountain village architecture, the Chablais Goepark. } Support local agriculture and enjoy regional products on farm visits, at the cheese dairy or farm shops and through the delicious local dishes prepared by our restaurateurs.
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" Fun, imaginative, environmentally-friendly activities for visitors during their mountain holiday… “
LES GETS/MORZINE SKI AREA KEY STATISTICS
} 66 ski runs: 5 green - 24 blue - 28 red - 9 black } 12 km of cross-country skiing } 46 Ski lifts } Total flow: 72 144 people per hour (2011-2012) } 1 videopark, 1 videototem } 1 boardercross, 1 snowpark } 1 beginners ski area (Mappys) } 3 carpet lifts for beginners } 4 rope-tows } 1 cable cars } 3 bubble lifts } 27 chair lifts } 15 drag lifts } 4 sled runs (in Les Gets) } 385 snow cannons covering 120 ha (34% of the snow area can use artificial snow)
PORTES DU SOLEIL KEY STATISTICS
} 12 resorts in both France and Switzerland } 122 000 beds } 196 ski lifts } 287 ski runs: 34 green - 121 blue - 100 red - 32 black } 800 snow cannons
LES GETS VILLAGE AND FACILITIES KEY STATISTICS
} 1303 permanent residents } 40 restaurants } Bars, pubs, bowling alley, discos, cinema } 1 health and beauty centre } 1 spa } 16 000 beds - 521 rooms/1300 beds } Hotels : 3 hotels**** / 6 hotels*** / 3 hotels** / 5 non classified hotels } 3 furnished rental properties with hotel services } 2 holiday villages } 2 bed and breakfasts offering food } Hostels } Rental apartments, studios and chalets
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Contact: Chrystelle FELISAZ Tel. direct : +33 (0)4 50 75 81 70 - Mobile : +33 (0)6 10 23 77 47 communication@lesgets.com
Office de Tourisme des Gets B.P. 27 - 74260 Les Gets - France Tel. standard : +33 (0)4 50 74 74 74 lesgets@lesgets.com GPS COORDINATES Longitude: 6,66994572 - Latitude: 46,15869936
www.lesgets.com
PLEASE NOTE THAT FREE WIFI IS AVAILABLE IN THE TOURIST OFFICE AND AT THE LIFT PASS OFFICES.
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