Les Gets: Yesterday and Today - A Journey Through Time
Yesterday: Deeply Rooted in Mountain History
The Village in the Middle Ages
The history of Les Gets dates back to the Middle Ages, when the village was a small, relatively isolated mountain community nestled in the Alps. At that time, the inhabitants primarily lived off farming and livestock, particularly raising cows and goats, as well as timber exploitation. Les Gets was part of the County of Savoy, which included much of the Alps, until the region became French after the Revolution.
The Rise of Tourism in the 19th Century
It was in the 19th century that Les Gets began to attract the first visitors from outside. The village became a vacation spot for French and European elites who sought the calm and beauty of the mountains. The first tourist infrastructure began to develop during this period, particularly with the construction of railways, which allowed for better access to the village.
The Impact of World War II
The village of Les Gets was also marked by World War II. During the Occupation, the region of Les Gets was an important stronghold of the resistance, where many fighters sought refuge. The surrounding mountains and forests provided ideal terrain for resistance activities. The memory of this period remains present, particularly through the Museum of the Resistance, which recounts local events from that time.
Today: A Dynamic Village Combining Tradition and Modernity
A Renowned Ski Resort
Today, Les Gets is a modern and dynamic village, but one that has not forgotten its past. The village has developed around tourism, particularly winter sports. The Les Gets ski area is part of the Portes du Soleil domain, one of the largest in the world, with over 600 kilometers of slopes. Les Gets has become a favored destination for skiing, snowboarding, and mountain hiking enthusiasts, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Modern infrastructures, such as recent ski lifts and comfortable hotels, coexist harmoniously with traditional Savoyard architecture. Many wooden and stone chalets remain characteristic of the village, helping preserve the mountain soul of Les Gets.
A Village in Summer Too!
The tourism in Les Gets is not limited to winter. In summer, the village transforms into a paradise for hikers, mountain bikers, and nature lovers. The region offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and even paragliding. In the summer, Les Gets also hosts major sporting events, such he MTB World Cups and MTB World Championships, which attracts visitors passionate about outdoor music.
Commitment to Sustainability
Today, the municipality of Les Gets is also committed to environmental preservation. Numerous initiatives have been put in place to make the village more sustainable, with efforts to limit the ecological impact of mass tourism. The resort has implemented waste management systems and works on eco-friendly practices to maintain the beauty of the landscapes while welcoming more and more visitors.
A Dynamic and Cultural Local Life
Beyond skiing and outdoor activities, Les Gets is also known for its dynamic local life. The village is home to numerous shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as cultural and artistic events throughout the year.
The Journey Through Time: Between History and the Future
Les Gets is a perfect example of a village that has managed to evolve while preserving its heritage. From a small, isolated agricultural village in the Middle Ages, it has become today a globally recognized tourist destination. However, it has never lost its mountain identity and continues to combine the best of tradition and modernity. Between its ski slopes, majestic forests, and friendly atmosphere, Les Gets represents this successful fusion of past and present and is looking toward a greener and more responsible future.
The village of Les Gets continues to fascinate, whether it be its visitors of yesterday, who witnessed its early steps into tourism, or its visitors of today, who rediscover a unique place where time seems suspended.