Snowshoeing in Les Gets, Portes du Soleil

To experience snowshoeing in Les Gets, Portes du Soleil is to step into a winter landscape shaped by both nature and tradition. Nestled between Mont Blanc and Lake Geneva, this Alpine village sits at the heart of one of Europe’s largest ski domains. Here, snow-laden spruce forests, open meadows and panoramic ridgelines create a tapestry of white under the crisp mountain light. The air carries the faint scent of pine and woodsmoke, while the silence is broken only by the crunch of snow underfoot or the distant call of a jay. Les Gets, with its Savoyard charm and proximity to Morzine and Avoriaz, offers a unique blend of accessibility and authenticity, making it an inviting base for exploring the Portes du Soleil’s quieter, untouched corners on snowshoes.

Setting out on a snowshoeing adventure in Les Gets reveals a side of the mountains often missed by skiers. Trails wind through ancient forests, across gentle plateaus and up to viewpoints where the Dents du Midi and the Chablais peaks rise against the sky. Routes vary from leisurely circuits around the village to more challenging ascents towards Mont Chéry or the Col de l’Encrenaz, with outings typically lasting from two hours to a full day. The sensation is immersive: each step sinks softly into powder, the cold air tingles on your cheeks, and the landscape shifts from sunlit clearings to shaded glades where animal tracks crisscross the snow. Whether you seek the meditative calm of a silent forest or the exhilaration of cresting a ridge at sunset, snowshoeing here offers both solitude and discovery.

Local guides in Les Gets are passionate ambassadors for the region’s natural heritage. These experienced professionals, certified and deeply knowledgeable about the terrain, ensure that each outing is both safe and enriching. They provide all necessary equipment, including modern snowshoes and adjustable poles, and adapt routes to suit the group’s ability and interests. Safety is paramount: guides monitor weather conditions, share avalanche awareness, and foster a culture of respect for the mountain environment. Their insights into local wildlife, geology and Savoyard traditions add depth to the journey, transforming a simple walk into a genuine exploration of the Haute-Savoie’s outdoor spirit.

The snowshoeing season in Les Gets typically runs from December to early April, when the snow is at its best and the landscape is transformed by winter’s touch. Most routes are accessible to beginners, though a reasonable level of fitness is recommended, as moving through snow can be physically demanding. Families, couples, solo travellers and groups of friends all find options tailored to their pace and interests. For those seeking a gentle introduction, shorter guided walks offer a relaxed rhythm, while more adventurous participants can tackle longer circuits or night-time excursions under the stars. The activity’s versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities, provided participants are prepared for the mountain climate and terrain.

Discovering snowshoeing in Les Gets, Portes du Soleil is an invitation to slow down and connect with the Alpine landscape in its purest form. Whether you are drawn by the promise of quiet forests, sweeping views or the camaraderie of a guided group, this experience reveals the region’s winter magic beyond the ski slopes. Book your snowshoeing adventure on Manawa and let the mountains of Les Gets inspire your next journey outdoors.