In late March 2015, I went to France in search of the best and most affordable European skiing destination for South Africans. I’d never skiied before and was keen to find deals for learners. Les Gets in the French-Swiss Portes du Soleil region proved the absolute winner – a perfect ski destination for beginners, with plenty to keep more experienced skiiers happy too.
Also read: South African ski gear reviewed
Reasonable flights to Geneva helped keep costs down, but so did some very good prices for accommodation and some excellent ski passes/gear/lesson packages. All in all, I had so much fun I’m already planning a trip back.
Here are a few photos of my incredible trip.
Mist blankets the Les Gets valley as a skiier prepares to descend into town.
At the end of the season, the lifts and slopes are not too busy. March is an excellent time to visit.
My two ski instructors, Sylvain Gandy (left) and Jean-Luc Bastard (right), were friendly and patient.
Les Gets is a small town, but there are plenty of little deli shops with a wide range of local produce.
Like these delicious preserves.
And these even more delicious dried sausages.
Crepes are a delicious and reasonably-priced lunchtime option.
The area is well known for its cheeses. A visit to “La Fruitière des Perrières” restaurant is a must. This photo on the wall caught my eye.
La Fruitière des Perrières makes their own cheese for fondue and raclette. Abondance is unique to the region – the milk comes from Les Gets’ neighbouring village of the same name.
It’s always good to see a fresh dump of snow overnight.
A short drive out of town, you can take snow-mobile rides through the forest.
Nothing quite like riding a snowmobile through a snow-dusted alpine forest.
You share with a friend and swap drivers after half an hour.
Les Gets is very popular with families, especially British families, and the resort is well-geared for kids.
There are plenty of child lesson packages available.
And finally, my favourite moment of the trip. Catching some rays before another run into the valley.
