With its dual nationality and two different cultures, Les Portes du Soleil is a land that knows no borders. Mountain dwellers across these valleys, be they French or Swiss, are united in a common philosophy and a shared way of life.
It is the coming together of 12 resorts in a human adventure that began over half a century ago and resulted in what is now one of the most extensive world- class ski areas on the planet.
Whether you want to enjoy wide open spaces, pine forests and mountains pastures, gaze at exhilarating views and iconic summits, seek out discreet treasures, or just choose your route and ski at your own pace… you’ll love the snow-covered slopes of this outstanding playground between lakes and peaks that attracts winter sports fans year after year.
Ready to leave Les Gets for a ski safari?
Then follow the guide. Your lift pass and a beaming smile will be your passport…
The Chavannes Express departs from Les Gets centre-resort for Ranfoilly/Rosta. First selfie of the day, with Mont-Blanc as your backdrop, from the Ranfoilly platform, just one of the picture-postcard spots you’ll find along the way.
Your adventure continues on a section of the Joux Plane mountain pass road that the Tour de France cyclists often take in summer. That takes you to the Chamossière sector, then via Nyon towards the resort of Morzine.
After the tourist train and a few ski lifts, you’ll find yourself on the Zore Ridge, from where you’ll easily recognise the distinctive architecture of the resort of Avoriaz.
You’re now just a stone’s throw from Switzerland and very close to the hamlet of Lindarets (in Montriond), which owes its fame to the goats that graze here in summer!
Follow the slope markers to the Mossettes express chairlift.
You’ll be greeted at the top by a melodic accent as you cross the border. A great excuse to stop for a break and sample the local gastronomy. For example, you can try raclette cheese or dried meat from the canton of Valais and wash it down with a glass of Fendant.
Take note, the duration of your recreational pause depends entirely on your skiing level and will be every bit as enjoyable if it turns out to be a whole picnic. Either way, don’t forget to keep an eye on the time and, if necessary, adjust your skiing pace to make sure you head back before the lifts start closing.
A couple more corners and the emblems of Portes du Soleil, the Dents du Midi peaks, emerge before you, proudly reaching for the sky at an elevation of 3 257 metres. This majestic sight towering above the resorts of Champéry/Les Crosets and Champoussin has inspired many dreams.
You’ll already be making plans to return to see the mouflons of «Grand Paradis» or, you never know, to finally tackle the famous «Swiss Wall» descent. But for now, it’s time to head for the highly symbolic «Col des Portes du Soleil», the pass that gave its name to the ski area.
The excursion continues towards the snow- covered forest track of Tovassière. This is the perfect moment to challenge your skiing companions to a race and schuss at full pelt to be the first to arrive in Morgins!
The other mountainside brings you back to France via the Super Châtel sector which offers natural viewpoints over Lake Geneva and the Abondance Valley, a land of Art and History. Torgon, the Swiss resort of the Portes du Soleil ski area, is close by. You’ll continue to Châtel via a pleasant, rather challenging slope that leads directly to the sectors of Linga, followed by the Plaine Dranse.
There is still a little way to go before you reach the slopes of Super Morzine and approach your departure point, just a short distance away as the crow flies.
The day is coming to a close and you’re sitting in the Pléney gondola lift. But your skis still have some sliding to do before you complete your loop with an enjoyable return to Les Gets!
Clearly, you won’t cover the miles of slopes and discover every nook and cranny of Portes du Soleil in just one day, nor even one holiday.
But isn’t that what this timeless journey is all about ? Unending surprises, childlike enthusiasm at every new discovery, and the desire to return again next year for another dose of that feel-good factor ?
Practical information
This itinerary is suitable for experienced skiers only. Lift opening/closure times vary through the season as the number of daylight hours increases.
For guidance on the slopes, don’t hesitate to download the Portes du Soleil app.
Discover the Portes du Soleil ski area on the interactive map and find in a flash the essential information for your skiing days ! The application is free and available on IOS and Androïd.