SUMMER 2014

Press PACK
SUMMER 2014
Summary
ACTION PACKED LES GETS - SUMMER EVENTS 2014.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 4
• 27 - 29 June: Pass’Portes and MTB show in Les Gets
• 18th - 20th July: International Mechanical Music Festival
• 28th July - 3rd August: Lounge Music Festival
• 11th - 17th August: 4 Elements Festival
• 23rd and 24th August: Alpine Battle - MTB Orienteering race
th th
ACCOMMODATION PACKAGES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 6
• First Stage of Renovations at Hotel Regina
• Marmotte Hotel Renovations****
• Hotels, Apartments, Chalets, Bed and Breakfast Accommodation
MOUNTAIN BIKE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 8
• New MTB trails
• Our Local Ambassadors – Tahnee Seagrave, The New Recruit
• The pumptrack
• The videopark
• Bikepark by numbers
• Electric MTBs in the Portes du Soleil
• 20 years of Mountain Bike History in Les Gets
HIGHLIGHTS
Summer
2014
ALPINE BATTLE,
23-24 AUGUST:
p 5 “Les Gets Events”
FIRST STAGE OF
RENOVATIONS AT THE
REGINA HOTEL:
p 6 “Accommodation Packages”
MARMOTTE
HOTEL**** RENOVATIONS:
p 6 “Accommodation Packages”
SPORT AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 12
• Hiking for geeks with the Spot’Les Gets App
• Evening walk with a fondue and traditional music
• Trail running has arrived in Les Gets!
• Acrobatic Paragliding
• The 18-hole Golf Course
FAMILY ACTIVITIES.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 14
• Apprentice Potters
• Apprentice Farmers
• Pony rides and Little Indian riding lessons
• Walking with Donkeys
• Chocolate workshops with Isabelle
• Portes du Soleil Multipass
• The Mechanical Music Museum
• Make Musical Instruments at the Mechanical Music Museum
WELL-BEING AND RELAXATION .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 17
• The Sereni Cimes Spa
• The Clair Moment Institute
• Relax in a Yurt
NEW MTB TRACKS:
p 8 “MTB”
A NEW RECRUIT - NEW
RESORT AMBASSADOR:
p 9 “MTB”
HIKING FOR GEEKS WITH
THE SPOT’LES GETS APP:
p 12 “Sport and Outdoor ”
TRAIL RUNNING HAS
ARRIVED IN LES GETS !:
p 13 “Sport and Outdoor”
APPRENTICE POTTERS:
p 14 “Family Activities”
GASTRONOMY .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 18
• Portrait of Miti, the Japanese cheese maker
• A New Chef at the Indigo Restaurant
• La Fruitière des Perrières
• Visit the La Sarre goat farm
•The Best Restaurants - Gault and Millau Restaurant selection
ECO-TOURISM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 20
• Alpine Pearls
• The Chablais Geopark
• The Tourbières Educational Circuit
• Eco-Actions (in the MTB/Ski area and village)
MADE IN LES GETS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 22
• Les Gets village key statistics
MUSICAL INSTRUMENT
MAKING AT THE
MECHANICAL MUSIC
MUSEUM:
p 16 “Family Activities”
A NEW CHEF AT THE
INDIGO RESTAURANT:
p 18 “Gastronomy”
Action packed LES GETS
28TH JULY - 3RD AUGUST
LOUNGE MUSIC FESTIVAL
See another side of Les Gets - relaxed
and chic. Over 4 days more than 30
concerts are planned in different venues
throughout the village.
Relax on a chaise longue, cocktail in hand
and soak up the blues, house or jazz
music while the children enjoy making instruments or inventing new cocktails. One
aim, relax and unwind - to music.
Further information and full programme of all the summer’s big events
on en.lesgets.com/events
27TH - 29TH JUNE 2014
PASS’PORTES DU SOLEIL
Join us on the tracks of the Portes du Soleil for the 11th annual mountain bike rally between France
and Switzerland. The race starts from Les Gets and 6 other resorts. With the help of the adapted
ski lifts, the varied route takes you along some of the most stunning tracks in the region, revealing
magnificent panoramic views along the way. Refreshment stops on the course offer a revitalising
pause and a chance to taste local products and specialities of each village.
In 2014 Les Gets hosts the Pass’Portes MTB Show - your chance to discover the essentials of
mountain biking, browse the different stands and free test-ride one of the numerous big-brand
MTB bikes on show.
For these 3 days the atmosphere in the village is equally charged with activities and shows
open to the general public. Two un-missable highlights of this year’s Pass’Portes are the
“Night Ride - by Hope” on Friday and the “Pass’village” short-track race through the village
streets on Saturday evening.
11TH TO 17TH AUGUST
4 ELEMENTS FESTIVAL
This festival celebrates the Earth’s four elements (water,
air, earth and fire) through imaginative entertainment
promoting awareness of the Les Gets identity and
environment. Lively street shows, stories, exhibitions,
experiments and other surprises are planned during
the 5 days of family fun. Learn to make a heat mill,
rockets, gliders and windmills. See fire jugglers and fire
eaters, watch a parade of huge inflatable giants, learn
to fly a kite or join a workshop to learn more about the
air we breathe and the role of Lichen in our environment.
18TH - 20TH JULY
INTERNATIONAL MECHANICAL
MUSIC FESTIVAL
This year’s theme is ‘Gastronomy’
This year the 16th edition of this flavoursome
festival promises to be a delicious artistic fusion,
to be enjoyed to the full! For two and a half
exciting days, more than 400 participants from
around Europe will again converge in Les Gets
and transform the village streets and squares
into an eclectic musical masterpiece.
One hundred shows, conferences and concerts
for all ages are planned. Your eyes, ears and
taste buds will be enchanted by the automatic
musical instruments, Barbarie organs and other
sumptuous sounds all based around this year’s
theme - Gastronomy.
On the menu, from the afternoon of Friday 18th,
a magical mise en bouche is proposed in the
company of the largest transportable concert
organ in the world. Hungry for more? No
appetite will be left unsatisfied by the opening
gala in the Salle du Baron overlooking the
majestic Lac de Montriond, a neighbouring
resort in the Portes du Soleil. It was here that
the Baron de l’Espée (1852-1918), a great lover
of traditional and mechanical organs had his
home.
On the morning of Saturday 19th July is the
Grand Gastronomic opening parade including
musical machines made from cooking equipment and Barbarie organ players and street
singers dressed as chefs and crazy caterers!
To round off the parade there will be an Orgarêve performance - an extraordinary organ with
48 pipes - performing with the Cors des Alpes,
saxophone, bells and …. A bottlephone!
The entertainment will continue into the
evening and night as the organ and barbecue
handles rotate in harmony and public and performers eat together. Then, after a short pause,
it all starts again on Sunday continuing through
to the spectacular closing musical firework
display in the evening.
23RD AND 24TH AUGUST ALPINE
BATTLE
This new generation MTB endurance event is an orienteering race open to all mountain bikers
with a good level of technical ability and safety awareness.
Teams are formed of 2 competitors, equipped with a route map, who must pass through as
many designated checkpoints in the area as possible during the two days of the race. Using
GPS technology organisers can verify the position of each team in real time and ensure that all
the checkpoints have been crossed. Ski lifts may be used. Competitors start together and each
team must race to find the various compulsory routes and complete them in the fastest time
possible. The checkpoints can be crossed in any order participants choose, with each team
choosing their own route and tactics to maximise their speed and gain precious time.
With 3 different categories to encourage as many riders to participate as possible: advanced,
leisure and family, both experienced and less experienced riders can enjoy the mountain bike
area from a different perspective.
Further information: en.lesgets.com/alpinebattle
Don’t miss this wonderful
gastronomic symphony.
PRESS PACK SUMMER 2014 / PAGE 5
GOLFING BREAK
Accommodation
Situated at the summit of Chavannes, the renowned Les Gets 18-hole golf
club has a varied course with exceptional mountain views as it meanders
through a gentle wooded environment. For comfort, the club has a fleet of
high performance electric buggies at your disposal.
From 07/06/14 to 05/10/14: 1 week including accommodation + 1 green fee/
person (20% reduction) from: 104€ /week.
PACKAGES
These prices are given as examples only and are subject to conditions.
For more information contact Les Gets Reservation :
Tél. +33 (0)4 50 75 80 51 www.lesgets.com/reservation
TREAT YOUR SENSES AT THE LABRADOR HOTEL****
Far from the stress and strains of cities and towns, this charming, characterful chalet-hotel sits in the heart of beautiful, peaceful countryside giving
you the time and space to appreciate your spectacular surroundings. In this
exceptional setting, under the eye of a discrete and helpful staff, guests can
enjoy a uniquely relaxing holiday.
In the kitchen too, guests are seduced by the inspired and creative cooking.
A true artist, the chef feels strongly about selecting and working with only
the best ingredients ensuring their provenance and quality.
Price based on a double or twin room: From 105€ /person /per day.
Tel +33 (0)4 50 75 80 00 - www.labrador-hotel.com
KEEP FIT AND RELAX AT THE TAPIAZ HOTEL****
Try one of the new family suites in this magnificent chalet-hotel with interiors combining contemporary and traditional mountain styles. Old wood,
vintage parquet floors, Italian tiles and little Scandinavian wood burning
stoves give a warm and cosy atmosphere. To top it all off… Direct access
to the spa at the foot of the stairs!!
Price based on a double or twin room: 130€/day/person, including buffet
breakfasts, a green fee for the 18-hole Les Gets Golf course, a Portes du
Soleil Multipass with unlimited access to activities (museum, lake, pedestrian lifts…) a guided mountain walk, access to the swimming pool and the
hydro-relaxation centre in the Séréni Cimes Spa.
Week-long stays possible from 14/06/14 and the 28/06/14 and from
30/08/14 to 07/09/14. Price: 710€ /Person / for 7 nights.
Tel. +33 (0)4 50 75 80 33 - www.hotel-marmotte.com
BED AND BREAKFAST WITH LOCAL FOOD
AT ‘CHEZ LA FINE’
ACCOMMODATION NEWS
FIRST STAGE OF RENOVATIONS AT THE REGINA HOTEL
MARMOTTE HOTEL**** RENOVATIONS
Ideally located in the heart of the rue du Centre of Les Gets, the Regina has
been a family hotel since 1946. Sold to new owners this year, a transformation
of the hotel has begun. The first stage of renovation has involved a total redesign of the reception and restaurant areas and the creation of 7 family suites
designed to accommodate from 4 to 8 people. Inside, Meike Dauchez, an
German interior designer has beautifully retained the Savoyard spirit through
use of traditional wood and combined it with her own personal chic, contemporary style. The interiors have a luminous Scandinavian feel with walls and
wood floors contrasting with shades of white and slate, giving a pure, sleek,
bright finish. The 23 bedrooms will be renovated shortly.
Take a new look at this charming family hotel, owned
by the Mirigay family since 1947 and ideally located at
the bottom of the pistes. From only 6 bedrooms when it
opened, it today boasts 48 in addition to its little sister
hotel “La Tapiaz” with its 8 luxury suites built last year. A
magnificent 800m2 spa, an infinity swimming pool and
Jacuzzi combine to make this a first class hotel.
In 2014 the drawing rooms, bar, restaurant, reception and
children’s playrooms have had a total makeover. To keep
the cosy, contemporary feel, the owners have again called
upon the skills of Julie Lambertini, interior designer and
founder of the ‘Un amour de Noël’ boutique in Les Gets,
who oversaw work on the Tapiaz and Hervé Lefillatre, a
reputed traditional decorator, operating in the Alps since
1978, who has also left his mark on a many well-known
establishments in the region.
www.hotel-marmotte.com
On the ground floor, the owners have had the clever idea of developing what
promises to become one of the top après ski spots for those wishing to wind
down in peaceful, cosy surroundings. From 3pm, “Le George”, christened after
the future king of England, is a tea room and more importantly a wine bar serving
finger food and dinner for a relaxing evening with friends (open in winter).
www.chalet-regina.fr
ACCOMMODATION PACKAGES
FAMILY MULTIPASS BREAK
Make the most of unlimited access to activities in the Portes
du Soleil with the MultiPass for only 8€ (pedestrian chairlifts,
lake, museum, tennis, little tourist train…).
From 06/06/14 to 06/09/14 : 7 nights in a 2 star, 2-room
apartment for 4 people + 4 x 6-day Multipasses (depending on what activities are open): 79€ /adult.
MOUNTAIN BIKE (MTB) BREAK
Discover the Les Gets Bike Park, Jump Park and huge
choice of signed trails in the Portes du Soleil area, perfect
for holidays with friends or family. Take your pick from
downhill or cross-country MTB trails. There is the Kid Zone
and Mini-Jump Park for children and the 4-cross and Jump
Park for more experienced riders.
From the 14/06/14 to the 07/09/14 : 7 nights in a 2-star
apartment for 4 people + 1 six-day adult Portes du Soleil
special MTB lift pass: 149€ /adult.
For a relaxing break in charming, traditional surroundings, visit this old farm, renovated
using traditional stone and antique wood. It has spacious, cosy rooms, a well-being
area equipped with a sauna and offers traditional local Savoyard cuisine - making it the
perfect place to relax with loved ones and family. Open all year round.
Price of double room with breakfast: From 100€ to 120€ /day.
Family suite with breakfast: From170€ to 210€ /day.
Dinner: 29€ (all inclusive).
www.chezlafine-lesgets.com - Tel. +33 (0)4 50 37 20 90 -Tel +33 (0)6 71 26 14 93.
GOLF AND GASTRONOMY AT THE CRYCHAR HOTEL
Synonymous with the art of mountain living, this family hotel is for those looking
to totally unwind and relax and for whom good food and wine are essential
ingredients of a good holiday.
On the menu at the «Soupers du Crychar», you will find an inventive selection of
dishes to titillate even the most experienced of palates. To accompany these delicious dishes is an extensive wine list of nearly 150 wines, some of which are produced organically. In partnership with the Les Gets 18-hole golf club the Crychar is
the perfect spot to unwind after a hard-day on the golf course!
From 25th June to 19th July 2014: 3 night’s half-board with 1 champagne
dinner, 1 rosé dinner and 1 dinner with Mont Blanc wines.
Price for 2 people in a double comfort room: 825€.
Price for 2 people + 2 green-fees per person: 1000€.
PRESS PACK SUMMER 2014 / PAGE 7
TAHNEE SEAGRAVE,
THE NEW RECRUIT
Downhill Junior World MTB Champion
Tahnee has signed a partnership contract
with Les Gets MTB. Originally from Great
Britain she now lives in the Portes du Soleil
and is a regular on the Les Gets slopes where
she has trained from a young age. This
September she will wear Les Gets colours
in the Elite World Cups and World Championships in Norway.
Following their agreement with Loïc Bruni
last year, Les Gets resort has reinforced its
commitment to support top Downhill MTB
champions.
THE
MTB
The Les Gets Bikepark is acknowledged as a top international MTB
destination. Suitable for riders of all levels, it is continually being
developed and improved and is a world- class playground for downhill,
cross country, freestyle or freeride mountain bikers.
FOR EXPERIENCED RIDERS
Covering over 3ha and equipped with bridges, spirals, jumps, forest
paths and wood modules, the Jump Park is the place of choice for
thrill-seekers. They will also enjoy the downhill runs, Freeride, North
Shore Zone, 4-cross and the new Pumptrack.
FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR WIDE, OPEN SPACE
There are 80kms of marked biking trails and tracks through beautiful
countryside, over alpine pastures with magnificent panoramic
mountain views. Perfect with friends or family either just in Les Gets
or further afield on the Pass’Portes du Soleil trails between France
and Switzerland.
FOR CHILDREN
Learning the basics of MTB in complete safety couldn’t be easier
than in Les Gets with its ‘Kid Zone’, mini jump park and coaching
track. The new Pumptrack in the village centre is also a great hit with
young riders looking to learn and/or improve. There are also MTB
schools with qualified instructors.
Downhill Achievements
•2013 - Downhill MTB Junior World Champion.
•2013 - Winner of the Junior Downhill MTB
World Cup.
•2013 - British Downhill MTB Champion.
•2013 - Top 10 in the Elite World Cup Downhill
MTB.
•2013 - Winner of the Elite European Cup in Pila.
•2012 - Downhill MTB Vice Junior World
Champion.
•2012 - Winner of the Junior Downhill MTB
World Cup.
NEW MTB TRACKS
The MTB highlights for summer 2014 are three newly created trails.
There are various levels of difficulty:
•Red Cross-Country trail : Leaving from the top of the Chavannes
Express chairlift, it goes along the top of La Rosta, with magnificent views of Mont Blanc, descends via Nauchets and finishes on
the Mouille Ronde forest road before returning to the village.
•Blue trail at Chavannes : This trail runs along the Grand Cry Territory, is gently sloping and has some small jumps.
•Freeride Module trail on Mont Chéry: Leaving from the top of
the Mont Chéry bubble lift, it runs parallel to the existing Dans Le
Gaz trail.
OUR LOCAL AMBASSADORS
For many years, Les Gets has enjoyed a privileged relationship with its local ambassadors. Whether keeping fit in the mountain air in winter or relaxing on family holidays; whether established MTB champions or aspiring newcomers, all have left their
mark on the history and development of their sport.
JULIEN ABSALON
Since his first Junior World title in 1998, Julien Absalon has climbed to the highest
echelons of world mountain biking. Today he is at the top of his sport and has won
a unique selection of sporting accolades. Multiple French, European and World
Champion, he has also twice been Olympic Cross- Country champion. He is often
in Les Gets where he enjoys relaxing on family holidays.
Cross-Country Achievements
•French Champion from 2003 to 2013.
•European Champion in 2006, silver medal in 2003, 2005, 2007 and 2011.
•World Champion from 2004 to 2007, silver medal in 2009 and bronze in 2011.
•Double Olympic Champion in 2004 and 2008.
•Winner of various World Cup stages.
LOÏC BRUNI
At just 20 years-old, Loïc is the rising star of French Downhill MTB and is already enjoying success on the World Cup circuit.
In 2013 he became a resort ambassador. The Junior World Champion title-holder is a regular on the Les Gets pistes where he comes each
year to train.
Downhill Achievements
•2013 : Elites French Champion.
•2012 : Junior World Champion, overall winner of the Junior World Cup.
•2011 : Junior French Champion.
•2010 : Under-17 French Champion.
PRESS PACK SUMMER 2014 / PAGE 9
LES GETS – 20 YEARS OF MOUNTAIN BIKE HISTORY
Les Gets is considered the historic birthplace of MTB - since 1992 it has
been the European forerunner in developing infrastructure specifically
dedicated to the sport.
Les Gets has been organising world class MTB events for 20 years:
Trophée de France des Jeunes Vététistes (TFJV), The 2004 World Championships and the French Championships in 2012.
Today thousands of mountain bikers come to Les Gets each season to
trace the tracks of champions and pay tribute to a resort that has become
part of mountain bike legend! Find the complete history of MTB in Les
Gets at www.lesgets.com/retrovtt
IMPORTANT DATES:
•1992: French Cup, Downhill national circuit opening
•1993: French Cup, Downhill national circuit opening
•1994: Final of the French MTB Championships
•1995: French Cup
•1996: ICU World Cup
•1997: French National Youth Mountain Bike Trophy (TNJV)
•1998: ICU World Cup
•1999: ICU World Cup
•2000: ICU World Cup
•2000: French National Youth Mountain Bike Trophy (TNJV)
•2002: ICU World Cup
•2004: ICU World Mountain Bike Championships
•2010: French National Youth Mountain Bike Trophy (TNJV)
•2011: Enduro Series
•2012: French Championships
Focus ON...
PASS’PORTES DU SOLEIL
27TH TO 29TH JUNE
AND THE MTB SHOW IN LES GETS
www.passportesdusoleil.com
See page 4
ALPINE BATTLE
23RD AND 24TH AUGUST
en.lesgets.com/alpinebattle
See page 5
ELECTRIC MOUNTAIN BIKES IN
THE PORTES DU SOLEIL
THE PUMPTRACK
Located in the Place de la Mairie, in the resort
centre, the Pumptrack completes the two-wheel
facilities of the Les Gets Bikepark.
Inspired by tracks carved out by BMX riders
in the 70s and 80s, the Pumptrack is a circuit
around which bikers ride without peddling. The
linked bends, dips and bumps can be ridden or
jumped in various combinations at a speeds of
over 30km/h depending on which technique is
used.
Open to the general public, the Pumptrack
unites all the MTB disciplines (cross-country,
downhill, freeride, dirt and BMX) with no distinction for age, equipment or standard. Not only
easily accessible and fun, the Pumptrack is also
a dynamic area to learn and improve. It is open
free of charge throughout the summer season.
On-line video en.lesgets.com/MTB/pumptrack
BIKEPARK BY FIGURES
•80kms of marked tracks
•12 Downhill tracks (DH)
•1 Freeride track
•6 Cross-Country tracks (XC)
•1 x 3 Hectare Jump park
•1 North Shore Zone
•1 Mini Jump Park
•1 Kid Zone
•1 4-Cross track
•1 ‘Coaching Track’
•1 Pumptrack
•1 Videopark
•3 dedicated mountain bike chairlifts including the Chavannes
Express chairlift, fitted with double hooks to enable 2 bikes per chair
•35 staff covering the information desk, lifts and lift-pass kiosks.
•8 Bike patrols ensuring the safety and upkeep of the tracks.
THE VIDEOPARK
Like giant slalom skiers this winter, mountain
bikers can make their own free personal video.
Located on the Gibannaz plateau in the mini
jump park at Chavannes, the ‘Video zone’ is
designed to film riders free of charge as they
ride the various modules. They can then watch
and analyse their performance on their mobile or
internet and/or share it on social networks.
en.lesgets.com/videopark
The first area of this scale to be linked with electric MTBs, the Portes du Soleil will be connected via a network of electric MTBs for the
second year running. Special routes marked with
coloured-coded dots (green, blue, red and black)
have been in place since 2013. There are 24 circuits coded relative to their length and technical
difficulty. Some cover a resort (1hr-2hrs), others a
valley (half-day) or further afield (full-day). Once
flat, batteries can be exchanged in any of the
partner shops or at any one of 7 specific relay
points located in mountain restaurants in the
Portes du Soleil.
Price guide: Half-day from 25€-50€, full-day
49€-75€ depending on type of MTB and battery
strength.
NEWS FOR 2014: Try out an electric MTB
free-of-charge for a few minutes every
Monday morning during July and August
at any of the participating shops (depending
on availability of bikes),
Participating shops in Les Gets: Evasion
Sports, Intersport and Nevada Sport all
have Electric MTBs.
en.lesgets.com/MTB
Go to EN.LESGETS.COM/MTB for the latest MTB news from les Gets.
PRESS PACK SUMMER 2014 / PAGE 11
tions are optimal: strong thermals are required to gain as much
height as possible.
The results are thrilling, soaring through the air performing figures
like a wingover, sat or helicopter. Go upside down, forwards,
backwards – even the bravest are guaranteed thrills and adrenaline
highs!
Price: 120€, including video.
Contact Antoine Tricou : Tel. +33 (0)6 10 12 37 79.
18-HOLE GOLF COURSE
The Les Gets Golf Club was the first golf course in France to obtain
the ISO 14001 certification (environmental accreditation) in October
2010. The audit applauded the initiatives of the Golf Club in ensuring minimal negative environmental impact. This accreditation reinforces the eco-tourism philosophy of the village alongside those
obtained by SAGETS (the lift company) and the Tourist Office.
The fact that the course is situated in a stunning natural environment
with incredible views of Mont Blanc partly explains the success of
this mountain golf club. But golfing aficionados also appreciate the
tree-lined fairways offering scope for a large diversity of play.
This season’s diary is packed with exciting dates and promises a
summer full of enjoyable, memorable events.
GOLF COURSE DETAILS:
•Opening Dates : From Saturday 7th June to Sunday 5 th October
2014
•18-hole course of 5264m – par 70, located on the Chavannes side
of Les Gets
•Member of the Golfy network, premiere golf course network in
France
•30 Golfing Buggies available to players
•Golfing Academy: Lessons for all standards from a qualified professional.
•Restaurant du Golf: Something for everyone from an express
menu to a selection of gastronomic delights.
For more details of the course, videos, calendar, events, special
offers…
connect to: www.lesgets.com/golf
Sport AND Outdoor ACTIVITIES
From the keenest, fittest sports enthusiast to the more moderate participant - the choices in Les Gets are
endless! On land or in the air, on horseback or in the tree tops - there really is something for everyone!
HIKING FOR GEEKS WITH
THE SPOT’LES GETS APP
Spot’Les Gets is a new smartphone app a free, interactive game giving mountain
hiking an original, fun twist. Gain points
as you solve puzzles, answer quizzes
and complete challenges and win holidays and other goodies throughout the season. There are a
total of 6 possible hikes - for families, adults and teenagers –
something for everyone. Points are carried over from one hike
to the next allowing for continuous classification. Check your
status on-line.
Infos : en.lesgets.com/spotlesgets
EVENING WALK WITH A FONDUE AND TRADITIONAL
MUSIC
This gentle walk begins at 6.30pm and lasts for about an hour. An opportunity
to chat, meet friends and enjoy the local countryside. Throughout the walk
your guide will enchant you with fascinating local history and anecdotes. The
route itself offers its own surprises with a few short stops to appreciate the
music of traditional bagpipes from Central France. To round off this delightful evening, walkers are led to a traditional mountain chalet where a delicious
fondue awaits. What better way to end this Savoyard experience?
Weekly on Wednesday evenings.
Price: 44€/person (including guided walk, pre-dinner drink, fondue, wine,
dessert and digestive).
Information, prices and reservations: Tel. +33 (0)6 81 05 60 82.
TRAIL RUNNING COMES TO LES GETS
This year on Mont Chéry, three new signposted Trail Running circuits, including a beginner’s circuit for families, have been created.
Run over beautiful countryside, through forests and mountain pastures, and feast your eyes on exceptional panoramic views with
Mont Blanc as the backdrop. It is also the perfect landscape for
experienced fell runners to improve or simply recharge their batteries in the mountains.
TRAIL 1 : BLUE - 5.7 km - 250 m D+
TRAIL 2 : RED - 10.5 km - 580 m D+
TRAIL 3 : BLACK - 11.5 km - 800 m D+
Access from the Mont Chéry bubble. All circuits begin and end at
the bubble arrival station.
Further information : www.lesgets.com/trail
ACROBATIC PARAGLIDING
Antoine Tricou is an experienced paraglider, who has been competing for over a decade and is a member of the ‘Pole France de
parapente’. Passionate about his sport, he has developed freestyle
tandem paragliders to offer thrill-seekers this new, intense flight
experience.
The take-off point is at the top of Mont Chéry, opposite Mont Blanc.
Flights are arranged in the middle of the day when weather condiPRESS PACK SUMMER 2014 / PAGE 13
PONY RIDING AND LITTLE INDIAN RIDING
LESSONS
These riding activities are organised every day at the Ranch du Lac,
from mid-June to the beginning of September. It is also possible to ride
at other times by prior arrangement.
Prices:
- Beginners Pony Ride: 10€
- 2-hour riding lesson (from 6yrs old): 35€
- Week-long ‘Little Indian’ Riding course (from 6yrs old): 150€
- 1-hour Baby Pony ride (from 3yrs old): 20€
Tel. +33 (0)6 08 18 78 54 - www.ranchdulac-lesgets.com
WALKING WITH DONKEYS
Funny, intelligent, sometimes headstrong and often greedy, donkeys
are great walking companions that particularly appeal to children! They
make walking fun and different and for either a day or short circuit will
plod happily along encouraging the children (rarely losing their cool)!
Price from 20€/child - 23€/adult.
Tel. +33 (0)6 81 05 60 82.
CHOCOLATE WORKSHOPS WITH ISABELLE
A fun, original family activity where everyone can create their own
delicious chocolate-based delicacy. Isabelle organises various
workshops: Caramel, Guimauve (marshmallow) and Fete Foraine
(Fairground) for children and a chocolate-based patisserie making
workshop for adults too.
Price 10€ - 20€ depending on workshop.
Duration 1hr 30 mins. Every Thursday.
Information and reservations: Chalet du Chocolat Tel. +33 (0)4 50 37 67 43 ou + 33 (0)6 84 34 36 75.
Family ACTIVITIES
Immerse yourself in the splendor of the mountains, slow down a gear and enjoy the huge
range of family activities on offer in Les Gets. The village has been awarded the ‘Famille Plus
Montagne’ accreditation in recognition of the welcome it gives to families with children and its infrastructure
adapted to all age groups. There are endless activities to ensuring everyone leaves with wonderful memories.
APPRENTICE POTTERS
Eager to share their passion, Anouk and Nathalie, the two Getoise
farmer/potter sisters are running beginners’ pottery workshops at the
Ferme de la Sarre throughout the summer.
From the age of 12, children are dextrous enough to use the potter’s
wheel. Anouk teaches her students traditional pottery turning techniques. The end results are the product of the imagination and skill of
each child - whether a bowl, a pot or some other decorative object whatever it is, it will be unique!
Children under 12 learn a different type of pottery. They can delight
in the feeling of clay between their fingers as they knead it, play with it
and model and sculpt it into imaginative shapes. They will learn how to
make things using the Colombin technique of moulding pieces of clay
together to create shapes. So younger children too can make their own
bowls, plates… anything that sparks their imagination!
The goal is for each child to leave with their own finished piece of
pottery (fired by the potters) at the end of their holiday.
Remember - this special location is not only a pottery, but a sheep
farm that is open to the public for visits every week.
Price 20€ /person.
Duration: 1hour. Reservation required. Every Monday.
Tel. +33(0) 6 82 58 28 40 - www.poterie-des-gets.fr
APPRENTICE FARMERS
Feed rabbits, make cheese, look after pigs - children from 3 years
old can play at being farmers for a morning, in this fun, child friendly environment. Learn about animals and how to look after them
during a happy relaxed morning at the farm.
Price: 15€/child from 10am to midday (reservation required).
Tel: +33 (0)6 26 92 60 62 www.lesapprentisfermiers.com
PORTES DU SOLEIL MULTIPASS,
ENJOY UNLIMITED ACTIVITIES FOR 2€/DAY
With a Portes du Soleil Multipass, hikers have
unlimited use of the lift network throughout
the Portes du Soleil for only 2€/day.
Many other activities are also included in this
multi-activity card; the swimming lake, the Mechanical
Music Museum and the little tourist train in Les Gets.
In the Portes du Soleil area, 4 swimming pools, 2 lakes,
24 lifts, 5 cultural sites, 9 tennis centres, 2 ice skating
rinks, 3 little tourist trains, an inter-resort mini bus
service, 800kms of hiking routes and numerous
reductions in shops and services are accessible with
the Multipass.
The price decreases for a 6-day pass :
8€ instead of 12€.
Family
ACTIVITIES
THE MECHANICAL MUSIC MUSEUM
The only museum of its kind in Europe, the fascinating mechanical music museum exhibits a huge range of instruments some
of which date from the 17th Century. From the musical box
to the gramophone, via Barbary organs and automatic pianos,
there are 500 working examples exhibited chronologically
throughout the museum’s various rooms. Thanks to the extent
and originality of its exhibits the Les Gets mechanical museum
is considered a renowned international collection.
Visitors are transported to a bygone era as they stroll
through the galleries and halls. Discover treasures such as
the Roger & Gallay (the famous perfumiers) automated music
collection, the talking machine or the beer garden dance
organs displayed in the new exhibition rooms.
The star of this magnificent collection is the museum’s prize
possession, the Aeolian Philharmonic organ, classed as an Historical Monument. This imposing structure now resides in Les
Gets’ church, and works in both manual and automatic modes.
Another unique exhibit are the commemorative mechanical
bells marking the 150th anniversary of the Savoie’s annexation
to France which dominate the entrance to the museum.
Price : 9€/adult - 5€/-16 ans.
Tel. +33 (0)4 50 79 85 75 - www.musicmecalesgets.org
MAKE MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS AT
THE MECHANICAL MUSIC MUSEUM
Every Wednesday, the museum runs a workshop where
children over 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 introduced to various
mechanical instruments (organ, piano, violin..) and
taught about the component parts (pipes, bellows…)
In the second part of the session, children make
their own percussion instrument/drum to take home
with them.
Price: 3€/person for a 1hr workshop
Registration at the Museum - Tel. +33 (0)4 50 79 85 75
www.musicmecalesgets.org
Well-being AND Relaxation
THE SERENI CIMES SPA
This sensational 800 m2 beauty-treatment centre resembles a cosy
but sophisticated mountain chalet. With its interior of magnificent
old wood and Mont Blanc stone, you feel cut off from the real world,
in a magical place to unwind and forget everyday stresses. Escape
from it all with a massage, detoxify in the Turkish bath or simply relax
in a stimulating shower.
Tel +33 (0)4 50 79 86 09 - www.serenicimes.com
THE CLAIR MOMENT INSTITUTE
THE 16TH EDITION OF THE INTERNATIONAL
MECHANICAL MUSIC FESTIVAL
will take place from 18th to 20th July 2014, on the theme of
“Mechanical Music and Gastronomy”.
For a wonderfully indulgent interlude and unique relaxation experience, this beauty institute offers top brand facial and body treatments. Clarins has selected Clair Moment as one of its ‘Clarins
Beauty Centres’ ensuring specific training for their beauty therapists. The centre also offers Pure Altitude treatments, using mountain plant extracts from the edelweiss and phytomer with their active
radiance restoring benefits.
Tel. +33 (0)4 50 79 86 09 - www.clairmoment.com
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 gradually drift away leaving
internal harmony between body and soul.
Noëlle can also organise sessions for people with specific issues,
sleep, weight, smoking…
Prices from 50€ to 70€ (depending on the session).
Tel +33 (0)6 70 11 81 71 - www.capsolutions-etvous.com
PRESS PACK SUMMER 2014 / PAGE 17
PORTRAIT OF MITI,
THE JAPANESE CHEESE-MAKER
AT THE FRUITIERE DES PERRIERES
THE BEST RESTAURANTS
GAULT AND MILLAU
RESTAURANT SELECTION
Passionate about cycling and enamoured by cows,
Miti originally wanted to be a farmer. While watching
the Tour de France on television in Japan a few years
ago, he made up his mind to live his dream in France
with its fascinating landscape. He arrived in Poitiers,
with only his bicycle for transport and soon realised
that there were no cows or farms close by. He was
not interested in industrial farming, so abandoned his
idea of trying Normandy and set out to look for an
more suitable area.
THE SAINT LAURENT
Savour refined cuisine, inspired by
traditional scents and flavours in beautiful
Savoyard surroundings. Crayfish ravioli,
lobster with cèpe risotto, beef roasted
on the open fire, vanilla and citrus fruit
soufflé. Clients just keep coming back
for more!
So he began work in Chambery in the Savoie. He
saw early on that farming was a difficult career unless
one came from a farming family. While staying on a
farm who gave him accommodation in exchange for
work, he discovered a passion for cheese-making.
He was in the right environment and at last he was
working with cow’s milk!
LES SOUPERS DU CRYCHAR
In this relaxing family ambiance, succumb
to the delights of original dishes created
with care and attention. Pan-fried foie gras
with chestnut cream, scallops, Jerusalem
artichoke cream with orange zest, pistachio pan-a-cota with a pear and hazelnut
coulis or the delectable Guerande salted
shortbreads.
In addition to Abondance, Tomme and Raclette
cheeses, he has created his own, the Blue des Gets
and the Saveurs de Gets (like a Swiss Gruyere). Miti
shares his enthusiasm with tourists and schools alike
during weekly guided visits to the dairy throughout
the season.
Miti was awarded the Bronze medal in
the ‘Abondance Dairy’ category at the
Concours Général Agricole at this years’
Agricultural show in February.
LE TOURBILLON
A beautiful menu offering traditional and
sophisticated food. The quality and
freshness of the ingredients is evident in
the varied menu of traditional Savoyard
specialities and imaginatively updated
traditional favourites.
Gastronomy
A NEW CHEF AT THE INDIGO RESTAURANT
Alan White is the new Head Chef at the Indigo restaurant in the Chamois d’Or
hotel. He has worked in the kitchens of renowned Michelin starred restaurants
including Gleneagles in Scotland, the Lanesborough in London and Raymond
Blanc’s Manoir Aux Quat’Seasons. As a result, he has a thorough knowledge of
classic techniques and believes that a successful dish is a marriage of traditional
and contemporary styles. He is constantly developing new classics to create
perfectly presented dishes with texture and quality. His dream is to get his first
Michelin star. Hardworking and ambitious, he has what it takes to succeed.
His food is stunningly presented and contemporary. Ingredients are seasonal
and sourced locally whenever possible. Sample dishes include slow cooked
and smoked rib of Black Angus beef with morel mushroom compote, crushed
peas and thyme and onion jus. The Indigo Restaurant at the Hotel Chamois
d’Or promises to become one of the top fine-dining experiences in Les Gets.
The restaurant opens at 7pm each evening, advance booking is recommended.
Three course evening meals are available from 45€ per adult.
See the menu at www.hotel-lesgets.com - Tel +33 (0)4 50 04 29 41.
THE FRUITIERE DES PERRIERES
The Fruitière des Perrières is an institution in Les Gets. This cheese-making dairy has been in existence for over 100 years and is where Miti, the
Japanese cheese-maker creates his excellent Savoyarde cheeses - Abondance, Raclette and Mountain Tomme.
The original cheese-maturing cellars have been converted into a charming ferme-auberge where customers can delight in delicious Savoyarde
specialties made from the home-produced cheeses. Surrounded by original historical and gastronomic artifacts – this charming, traditional
auberge is one of the most popular venues in Les Gets.
Tel. +33 (0)4 50 79 70 04 - www.fruitiere-lesgets.com
VISIT THE LA SARRE GOAT FARM
Jean-Claude Bonhomme is a passionate farmer. At his farm deep in the local countryside, sheep, rabbits, chickens, pigs, donkeys and goats live side
by side. He makes his Chevrotin, a delicious local cheese, d’appellation contrôlée (which can only be produced in specific areas), from his own goats’
milk. You can buy his Chevrotin directly from the farm each morning or try it in various Les Gets restaurants. Jean-Claude works with his son-in-law
Florent, following fast in his father’s footsteps, who will undoubtedly take up of reins of the family business in due course!
Every Thursday at 6.00pm, Goat farm visit (maximum 20 people, reservation only).
Price 5€/adult - 3€/child (from 3yrs to 14yrs).
Tel : +33 (0)4 50 79 71 62 www.lesfermesdelasarre.fr
PRESS PACK SUMMER 2014 / PAGE 19
THE CHABLAIS GEOPARK
WHAT IS A GEOPARK?
A Geopark is an area with many sites of geological interest. This
interest could be archaeological, ecological, historical or cultural
and due either to the site’s scientific importance, rarity, beauty or
educational value.
In 2012 the Chablais region joined the International World and European
Geopark network which is a UNESCO initiative. The Chablais Geopark is in
the Haute-Savoie and extends from the south banks of Lake Leman to the
mountain summits of Les Gets and the Portes du Soleil. This remarkable natural
area influences the life and culture of its inhabitants and the numerous visitors
to the area.
THE GEOROUTE, TOURBIERES EDUCATIONAL CIRCUIT IN LES GETS
AND SKI AREA
An important part of the Geopark is the establishment of the Georoute, linking
20 sites of geological interest to provide an interesting, informative tour of
typical local geology. One of the areas of specific geological interest is the wet
land area of Tourbieres in Les Gets with its rich geological identity. An educational circuit has been created close to these wet lands by the Lac des Ecoles.
It is free of charge and open to the public with information panels along the
footpaths so the whole family can enjoy learning about the challenges of water
in the mountains.
It is also possible to walk the Georoute with a guide trained by the Chablais
Geopark. This fascinating walk called ‘The secrets of the Les Gets/Morzine ski
area’ follows ski pistes and reveals millions of years of mountain history, back
to the time when the area was an alpine ocean.
Contact: Marion Lejay - Tel. 06 03 40 36 04.
For further information: www.geopark-chablais.com
Eco-Tourism
For years sustainable tourism has been important in Les Gets with priority given to the preservation and enhancement of the human and natural
environments. Various projects form part of the overall policy which aims to raise awareness among customers and encourage local inhabitants,
both residential and professional, to participate in these initiatives. Some examples:
•Environmental charters for accommodation providers requiring establishments to respect a certain number of environmental criterea.
•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.
Along with 28 other tourist resorts located in
6 Alpine countries (Germany, Austria, France,
Italy, Slovenia and Switzerland) Les Gets has,
since 2006, held the Alpine Pearl label in
recognition of our commitment to
environmentally friendly tourism. Alpine Pearls
actively promotes low-impact transport in the
Alps, in order to reduce CO2 emissions, by
giving clients choices on how to arrive and
leave a resort as well as get around within a
resort during their stay.
In Les Gets this commitment is reflected
by a quality guarantee and concrete actions
for our visitors.
In Les Gets this commitment is reflected by a quality guarantee and
concrete actions for our visitors.
•Sisitors can arrive via public transport and get around the village and entire valley
during their stay without a car, using ski lifts, the little train, the Balad’Aulps bus and
the P’ti Bus transport on demand system.
•Visitors can enjoy fun, imaginative, environmentally friendly activities during
their mountain holiday: hiking with donkeys, electric MTBs, 18-hole golf course with
electric golf carts, the Ranch du Lac with pony and horse riding and events organised
to maximise sensibility to our environment.
•Visitors can 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…
•Visitors can 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.
ECO-ACTIONS
IN THE SKI AND MTB AREA
•Provision of pocket ashtrays at all lift kiosks
•Preservation of wet-lands in the ski area. Work has been carried
out which both preserves the ecosystem and the ski area in winter.
•Re-turfing of the summer activity area. This protects the ground
from erosion, integrates the pistes with the natural countryside,
helps stabilise the snow cover and encourages biodiversity.
•A protection zone for Black Grouse has been established with
signposting explaining the protected species.
•An annual rubbish-collection day over the ski area in spring.
•Excavation work during the summer months to create gentler
slopes and preserve snow cover in winter. This reduces the
piste-bashers’ work and limits snow canon use.
•Speed regularisation of certain lifts. To avoid frequent stops,
certain lifts now move very slowly, reducing energy consumption.
•100% of electricy used by the ski lifts comes from renewable
energy sources.
•Rigorous water controls, reservoirs for drinking water, new generation snow canons (more energy efficient), additive-free snow
manufacture.
•Biodegradable oil for piste bashers.
IN THE VILLAGE
•Wood-fired central-heating. Since 2000, a wood-fired heating
system using re-claimed wood has heated 12 municipal buildings
via a network over 1km long.
•Semi-pedestrianised village centre with wide pavements. The
rue du Centre is closed on certain days. Night minibus service for
2€/ride during the winter, free electric inter-urban bus network,
Balad’Aulps Bus and P’tit bus (public transport on demand) service
to the valley.
•Local services and businesses involved: geothermal systems, heat
pumps, organic wines, local produce, organic cleaning…
•Participation in European environmental initiatives in conjunction
wth partners such as l’Ademe, Piorieterre, Mountain riders, Alpine
Pearls, Clim’Alp Tour.
•Ensuring visitors are aware of the different accommodation
options, events and activities throughout the season.
•Purchase of eco-cups for events.
•Environmentally-friendly purchasing policy at SaGets, the Golf
Club and the Tourist Office.
PRESS PACK SUMMER 2014 / PAGE 21
LES GETS VILLAGE KEY STATISTICS
1293 PERMANENT RESIDENTS
40 RESTAURANTS, BARS, PUBS, BOWLING ALLEY, DISCO,
MADE IN LES GETS IS:
•A charming Alpine village retaining its traditional values.
•The most beautiful views of Mont Blanc.
•A Mountain Bike Paradise - with 24 lifts open across the Portes du Soleil area.
•An 18-hole golf course with ISO 14001 certification.
•An Eco Tourism Village (with environmental certification for the lifts, the tourist office and the golf course).
•The Family Plus Montages accreditation - guaranteeing a first class welcome for families.
•Additional Activities: Adventure parc, rafting, hydro speed, hiking, bowling, archery, trampoline, pottery painting…
CINEMA
1 HEALTH AND BEAUTY CENTRE
16 000 BEDS
521 ROOMS
3 HOTELS****
7 HOTELS***
4 HOTELS**
3 SELF CATERING RENTAL PROPERTIES WITH HOTEL SERVICES
2 RESIDENCES
2 GUEST ROOMS WITH «TABLES D’HÔTES», SELF CATERING
APARTMENTS AND CHALETS, GROUPS ACCOMMODATIONS
CONTACTS :
Director: Flora RICHARD
Press Office: Chrystelle FELISAZ
Tel. direct : +33 (0)4 50 75 81 70
Mobile : +33 (0)6 10 23 77 47
communication@lesgets.com
www.lesgets.com
Office de Tourisme des Gets
B.P. 27 - 74260 Les Gets - France
Tel.: +33 (0)4 50 75 80 80
lesgets@lesgets.com
Press website access for Press-Pack PDF downloads and
photo gallery: www.lesgets.com/presse
Longitude : 6,66994572 - Latitude : 46,15869936
By plane: Geneva International airport 55 km away
(1 hour’s drive)
By train: TGV to Cluses 22 km away
By car: A40 motorway, Cluses exit.
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© Photos : JL.Armand - JM.Baud - A.Berkut - V.Bron
N.Joly - Marion_Co - Musée de la Musique Mécanique - C.Mutillod
E.Perdu - G.Place - Regardansleviseur - Séréni Cimes - S.Thomas