How to Get to Les Gets | The Ultimate 2026 Travel Guide

How to Get to Les Gets | The Ultimate 2026 Travel Guide

Quick Summary: The Les Gets Travel TL;DR

Reaching Les Gets is famously efficient, as the resort boasts one of the shortest transfer times in the French Alps. The primary gateway is Geneva Airport (GVA), offering a seamless journey of approximately 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes. For those arriving from regional UK hubs or other European cities, Chambéry (CMF) and Lyon (LYS) provide excellent alternatives with transit times of 1 hour 45 minutes and 2 hours 30 minutes respectively.

The resort is a quintessential Savoyard village, retaining its traditional charm while holding the prestigious “Famille Plus” certification, making it a top-tier choice for families with young children. For rail enthusiasts, the Cluses train station is the key hub, located just 22km from the village. Because of its low-altitude valley position compared to its neighbours, Les Gets is arguably the easiest resort in the Portes du Soleil to reach for a short weekend break or a stress-free family ski week.

Exploring the Portes du Soleil: Geography and Location

Les Gets is strategically nestled in the Haute-Savoie department, perfectly positioned between the southern shores of Lake Geneva and the majestic peak of Mont Blanc. It serves as a major gateway to the Portes du Soleil, a massive international ski domain encompassing 12 resorts and over 650km of linked pistes across the French-Swiss border.

The Dual-Mountain Dynamic

Unlike many Alpine resorts that follow a single linear valley, Les Gets features a unique dual-mountain layout that offers two distinct skiing experiences:

  • The Chavannes Sector: This is the resort’s primary hub, featuring wide, sun-drenched slopes and world-class nursery zones like the Mappys area. It provides direct lift and piste connections to Morzine, acting as the main artery for those exploring the wider Portes du Soleil circuit.
  • The Mont Chéry Sector: Located on the opposite side of the village, Mont Chéry is the “locals’ favourite.” It is typically quieter and offers more challenging red and black runs, along with what many consider the best view of Mont Blanc in the entire region.

This geographical split allows visitors to choose their atmosphere—from the bustling, family-friendly vibe of the Chavannes to the serene, expert-oriented slopes of Mont Chéry. To fully experience this Alpine versatility, utilizing professional Les Gets transfer services is the most effective way to arrive at your chalet door, ready to explore both sides of the valley.

Reaching the Village: The Nearest Airports to Les Gets

Selecting your arrival airport for Les Gets is a straightforward process, largely due to the resort’s northern location and proximity to the French-Swiss border. While there are several options, each offers a specific logistical advantage for the 2026 season.

  • Geneva Airport (GVA): This is the “gold standard” for Les Gets. Located a mere 55km to 60km away, it offers the fastest transit time (1 hour 15 minutes) and the most frequent flight connections from the UK and beyond. The sheer volume of transfer services operating this route makes it the most flexible and cost-effective choice for all travellers.
  • Chambéry Airport (CMF): A highly strategic choice for those arriving on UK regional flights. At 100km distance, the transfer takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes. It provides a smaller, faster terminal experience, which is often preferred during the busy February half-term weeks.
  • Lyon Airport (LYS): A reliable international hub located 190km away. Lyon is ideal for long-haul passengers or those wishing to stay entirely within French territory to avoid potential Swiss border congestion. The transfer time is roughly 2 hours 30 minutes.
  • Grenoble Airport (GNB): A key hub for low-cost carriers and weekend charters. It is a viable entry point for budget-conscious skiers, with a transit time of approximately 2 hours 45 minutes.

Travelling from Geneva Airport to Les Gets

The journey from Geneva Airport (GVA) to Les Gets is one of the quickest airport-to-resort transits in the Alps. Covering a distance of roughly 54km, the journey typically takes just 1 hour 15 minutes under normal conditions.

The Route: From Lakeside to Alpine Village

Professional drivers typically exit Geneva and join the A40 “Autoroute Blanche”, the primary artery leading into the northern French Alps. Depending on traffic flow, the driver will exit at either Bonneville or Cluses. From these points, the road transforms into a scenic Alpine ascent. The final leg is a quick, 20-minute climb that avoids the more daunting hairpins found on the routes to higher-altitude resorts, making it a much more comfortable ride for those prone to motion sickness.

Transfer Logistics in 2026

Because the distance is so short, you have a wealth of options:

  • Private Transfers: The preferred choice for families with young children. A private driver provides a door-to-door service, meeting you in the arrivals hall and whisking you directly to your chalet or hotel.
  • High-Frequency Shared Transfers: Due to the resort’s popularity, Geneva to Les Gets transfers run at high frequencies. Shared shuttles are a brilliant, cost-effective way for solo travellers and couples to reach the snow without the expense of a private car.

For the 2026 season, the “plane-to-piste” time at Les Gets remains unbeatable. If you land in Geneva in the morning, it is entirely possible to be on the Chavannes slopes by lunchtime.

Travelling from Chambéry Airport to Les Gets

Chambéry Savoie Airport (CMF) serves as a highly efficient “boutique” gateway for Les Gets. Located approximately 125km from the resort, the transfer typically takes around 1 hour 40 minutes. While it lacks the massive flight volume of Geneva, it is the preferred arrival point for many UK regional charter flights and private aviation.

The route from Chambéry is exceptionally scenic and avoids the often-congested Swiss border. Drivers typically head north via the A41 motorway, passing through the rolling hills of the Haute-Savoie before joining the A40 Autoroute Blanche. This route is particularly resilient during peak Saturday changeovers, as it offers several alternative backroads if the main arteries become slow. For travellers seeking a stress-free transition from the tarmac to the slopes, Chambéry to Les Gets transfer services provide a fast, reliable solution that capitalises on this airport’s proximity to the Portes du Soleil.

Travelling from Grenoble Airport to Les Gets

Distance: 210km | Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Grenoble Alpes Isère Airport (GNB) serves as a vital seasonal hub for the 2026 winter season, particularly for those arriving on low-cost carriers or weekend charter flights from the UK and Scandinavia. While it sits further afield than Geneva, it offers a reliable and often more economical entry point for budget-conscious skiers heading to the Portes du Soleil.

The Transit: Efficient Motorway Links The journey from Grenoble is a straightforward motorway transit that avoids the urban bottlenecks of Geneva. Professional drivers follow the A48 and A43 toward Chambéry, before merging onto the A41 and finally the A40 “Autoroute Blanche”. This approach allows for a consistent cruising speed, making the 2 hour 45 minute journey feel remarkably smooth and predictable, even during the peak mid-winter weeks.

Practical Logistics for 2026 For those disembarking at Grenoble, a pre-booked private transfer is the most pragmatic choice. As the airport is a specialised winter gateway, onward public transport to Les Gets can be complex, often requiring multiple changes in Lyon or Chambéry. Choosing a dedicated transfer ensures your vehicle is prepped with mandatory Loi Montagne winter equipment, providing a direct, door-to-door service that carries you from the Isère valley straight to your chalet in the Haute-Savoie. It is a strategic move for large groups and families who have secured competitive flight prices and wish to maintain that value through to their resort arrival.

Reaching Les Gets from Lyon Airport

Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) is a major international hub that offers a robust alternative for those heading to Les Gets, especially for travellers arriving on long-haul international flights. The distance is approximately 190km, with a transfer time of roughly 2 hours 30 minutes.

The primary advantage of flying into Lyon is the ability to bypass Geneva entirely, avoiding Swiss motorway vignettes and potential border delays. The journey is almost entirely on high-capacity motorways (A43 and A40), making it a very comfortable and predictable transit. This route is especially popular for larger groups and corporate retreats who value the reliability of a major French transport corridor. Booking Lyon to Les Gets transfers ensures you have a dedicated vehicle and a professional driver who can navigate the Tarentaise-bound traffic with ease, ensuring you arrive in the village relaxed and ready for the mountains.

Rail Travel: Access via Cluses and Thonon-les-Bains

For those who prefer the speed and environmental benefits of the rail network, Les Gets is one of the best-connected resorts in the Alps, served by two primary railway stations.

Cluses Station: The Primary Rail Hub

Located just 22km from the resort, Cluses is the most popular rail gateway. It is well-served by:

  • TGV Services: High-speed trains from Paris Gare de Lyon reach Cluses in roughly 4 hours 30 minutes.
  • Léman Express: The cross-border rail network connects Cluses directly to Geneva Cornavin, making it a viable option for those landing in Geneva who prefer the train.

Thonon-les-Bains: The Lakeside Alternative

Situated on the southern shore of Lake Geneva, Thonon-les-Bains is an excellent alternative hub. While the drive to Les Gets is slightly longer (approx. 45 minutes), it is a beautiful route that climbs through the Vallée d’Aulps. This is often the preferred route during heavy snowfall on the Cluses side, as the road from Thonon is generally less steep.

The Final 25-Minute Leg: Bus vs Private Transfer

Once you disembark at the station, you must complete the final leg of the journey:

  • Local Y92 Bus: This regional service runs regularly from Cluses to Les Gets. While affordable (approx. €10–€15), it follows a fixed schedule and can be crowded with gear.
  • Private Station Transfer: The most convenient option is a pre-booked Alps2Alps private transfer. Your driver meets you at the platform, assists with your luggage, and takes you directly to your chalet door in about 20–25 minutes, bypassing the need to navigate the village from the bus stop.

Private vs Shared Transfers: Door-to-Door Convenience

In Les Gets, your choice between a private or shared transfer should be dictated by your group’s specific needs and your accommodation’s location relative to the village centre. Because of the resort’s low-altitude position and short distance from Geneva, both options are exceptionally viable for the 2026 season.

Why Les Gets is the Perfect Resort for Shared Transfers

Les Gets is arguably the most cost-effective destination in the Northern Alps for shared transfers.

  • Short Distance, Low Cost: Because the drive from Geneva is only 75-90 minutes, shared shuttles operate at a high frequency. This keeps seat prices low, making it an ideal choice for solo travellers, couples, or small groups on a budget.
  • Central Drop-off: Shared services typically drop passengers at the Gare Routière (the main bus station) or the Office de Tourisme. From here, many hotels and residences are within a short walking distance, making the transition from shuttle to chalet relatively painless compared to higher, steeper resorts.

Private Transfers: The Family Essential

While shared shuttles are efficient, a private transfer remains the “gold standard” for families, especially those with small children.

  • Avoiding the “Gare Routière” Trek: If your chalet is located in the upper sectors like Les Perrières or near the Lac des Écoles, the walk from the central bus station with heavy ski bags and tired children can be a difficult start to your holiday. A private transfer ensures a direct, door-to-door drop-off.
  • Bespoke Scheduling: With a private service, you are on your own timeline. There is no waiting for other flights to land, which is a major advantage for maintaining nap schedules or simply getting to the slopes as fast as possible.

Logistics: Ski Passes and the Portes du Soleil Link

Managing your ski passes and understanding the resort’s connectivity is the key to unlocking the full potential of the 650km Portes du Soleil domain.

Where to Pick Up Your Ski Pass

Gone are the days of standing in long queues on a Monday morning. For the 2026 season, Les Gets has streamlined the process:

  • 24/7 Click & Collect: You can order your passes online and collect them from the automated kiosks at the Chavannes ticket office or the Perrières base. These are available 24 hours a day, allowing you to grab your cards the moment you arrive in the village.
  • Online Booking & Recharging: We strongly recommend buying your passes through the official resort app. If you already have a “Hands-free” magnetic card from a previous trip, you can simply recharge it online using the unique WTP number, meaning you can head straight to the lifts upon arrival.

The Avoriaz Connection: Expanding Your Horizons

Many visitors wonder: How easy is it to get from Les Gets to Avoriaz? While they are part of the same circuit, they sit in different valleys.

  • The Ski Route: From Les Gets, you take the Chavannes express, ski down into Morzine, and then use the “Petit Train” or a short walk to cross the town to the Super Morzine gondola, which whisk you towards Avoriaz. This is a beautiful journey that takes about 45–60 minutes.
  • The Road Route: If you prefer to travel by road, a direct taxi or bus from Les Gets to the Prodains Express cable car takes roughly 15–20 minutes. This is a popular option for those wanting to start their day directly in the high-altitude sector of Avoriaz without skiing across the Morzine valley floor.

Driving to Les Gets: Parking and Mountain Laws

For those choosing to drive to the Portes du Soleil, navigating the final approach to Les Gets requires both legal compliance and a strategic parking plan to avoid unnecessary costs in the village centre.

Loi Montagne: Winter Regulations for 2026

From 1st November 2025 to 31st March 2026, the Loi Montagne is strictly enforced on the D902 and D307 roads leading into Les Gets. To comply with French law, all vehicles must be equipped with:

  • Winter Tyres: Four tyres bearing the 3PMSF (Three Peak Mountain Snowflake) symbol. Note that “M+S” (Mud + Snow) only tyres are no longer sufficient without additional equipment.
  • Anti-Skid Devices: Alternatively, you must carry metal snow chains or textile snow socks in the vehicle to be fitted to the drive wheels during heavy snowfall. Failure to comply can result in a €135 fine and, more critically, your vehicle being turned back by the Gendarmerie during active storms, potentially stranding you on the valley floor.

Parking Strategy: Underground vs Free Options

Les Gets offers a range of parking solutions designed to keep the village centre pedestrian-friendly.

  • Underground Chavannes Car Park: Located directly beneath the main cable car, this is the most convenient but premium option. For the 2025-2026 season, it is paid from 15th December to 12th April. While the first 30 minutes are free, fees apply thereafter. Important Note: Due to temporary capacity reductions, no weekly or seasonal passes are being offered for the 2026 winter season, making this better for day-trippers or short stays.
  • Perrières Free Car Park: Located at the entrance of the resort (coming from Cluses), this large open-air car park is entirely free. It is the go-to choice for long-term stays. From here, you can hop on the free “Navette” shuttle (Line A or B) which runs every 15–30 minutes directly into the village centre.

Les Gets vs Morzine: Which is better?

This is the age-old question for travellers heading to the Portes du Soleil. While both resorts share a ski area, they offer vastly different holiday experiences.

Traditional Charm vs Bustling Town Life

  • Les Gets: A compact, postcard-perfect Alpine village. It retains a more “refined” and tranquil atmosphere, with low-rise chalet architecture and a pedestrian-friendly core. It is significantly quieter at night, making it the preferred choice for those seeking a relaxed mountain retreat.
  • Morzine: A much larger, bustling Alpine town that serves as the administrative heart of the region. It offers a wider variety of nightlife, expansive shopping, and a high-energy “après” scene.

Why Beginners and Families Choose Les Gets

Les Gets is a certified “Famille Plus” resort, and for good reason.

  • The Mappys Beginner Area: Situated at the top of the Chavannes cable car, this dedicated learning zone is entirely separate from the main flow of traffic, allowing novices to build confidence in a safe, quiet environment.
  • The Grand Cry Territory: A themed American-Indian ski area complete with tepees and face painting, designed to keep children engaged while they master their turns.
  • Compact Logistics: Almost everything in Les Gets is within walking distance. For parents managing ski school drop-offs and rental pick-ups, the reduced physical “footprint” of Les Gets makes the daily routine significantly less taxing than in the more spread-out Morzine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do you get to Les Gets?

The most efficient way to reach Les Gets is by flying into Geneva Airport (GVA) and taking a road transfer, which takes approximately 80 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a high-speed TGV train from Paris to Cluses (22km away) and complete the journey via a 25-minute taxi or local bus.

How do I get to Les Gets from London?

You have three main options for the 2026 season:

  • Flying: Fly from London (LHR, LGW, or LCY) to Geneva. Total travel time is approx. 5–6 hours including the transfer.
  • Train: Take the Eurostar to Paris Gare du Nord, transfer to Gare de Lyon, and take a TGV to Cluses. This takes roughly 9–10 hours.
  • Driving: Drive via the Eurotunnel to Calais and then south to the Haute-Savoie. This journey takes approximately 10–11 hours of driving time.

Is there a train station in Les Gets?

No, there is no railway station in the village itself. The nearest hub is Cluses (22km), which handles TGV and regional Léman Express services. Thonon-les-Bains is an alternative lakeside station used by those arriving from the north.

How much is a taxi from Morzine to Les Gets?

For the 2025/2026 winter season, a taxi for the short 10-minute hop between Morzine and Les Gets typically costs between €18 and €25. During late-night hours or heavy snow, rates may increase slightly.

Are Les Gets part of Portes du Soleil?

Yes. Les Gets is one of the premier “gateway” resorts of the Portes du Soleil, providing access to 650km of linked pistes across France and Switzerland. It is directly linked to Morzine via the Chavannes sector.

Is Les Gets good for beginners?

Les Gets is widely considered one of the best beginner resorts in Europe. The Mappys area at the top of the Chavannes gondola offers a safe, dedicated learning zone away from faster traffic. The resort also features numerous wide, gentle blue runs that allow novices to explore the mountain early in their trip.

Is Les Gets good for non-skiers?

Absolutely. The resort offers a rich cultural experience, including the famous Mechanical Music Museum and the Alta Lumina enchanted night walk. Other activities include an outdoor ice rink, the “4-Season” Alpine Coaster, and high-quality wellness spas.

How much is a ski pass in Les Gets?

For the 2025/2026 season, a standard adult Les Gets-Morzine local pass costs approximately €54 per day when purchased online (around €60 at the cashier). A full 6-day local pass is roughly €300, while the full Portes du Soleil area pass is higher (approx. €72/day).

Can I buy a Les Gets ski pass online?

Yes, and it is highly recommended. Booking online through the official resort portal usually secures a 5–10% discount compared to cashier prices. You can recharge an existing “Hands-free” card or order a new one for collection.

Where to pick up ski pass in Les Gets?

The primary collection point is the Chavannes ticket office in the village centre, which features 24/7 Click & Collect terminals. There are also automated kiosks at the Perrières base and the Tourist Office.

Can you see Mont Blanc from Les Gets?

Yes, the views are spectacular. The best vantage point is from the summit of Mont Chéry. From here, you get a completely unobstructed panoramic view of the Mont Blanc massif across the valley.

Is public transport free in Les Gets?

Yes. The resort operates a comprehensive free shuttle bus network (Navettes) that connects all the major residential sectors and lift bases. Additionally, the iconic “Petit Train” provides a free and fun link between the Chavannes and Mont Chéry sides of the village.

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