Is Les Gets Good for Beginners?

Yes – If you start in the right spots. Les Gets is a fantastic choice for beginner skiers.

Les Gets has a purpose-built learning zone called Mappys. This is a specially designed restricted-area lift pass (P’tite Glisse from €28 adult online). Les Gets also has a good supply of gentle green and blue runs ideal for early progress.

The resort’s free shuttles and beginner areas are great for beginners and families with kids.

This guide shows you where to learn, what pass to buy and the first runs to try.

Is Les Gets Good for Beginners?

Les Gets is very beginner-friendly, particularly on the Chavannes side of the mountain. It has a dedicated beginner area called Mappys. This area is located mid-mountain in a calm, crowd-free zone.

This area features two covered magic carpet lifts and four ultra-gentle pistes. Both of which are ideal for total beginners.

Access to Mappys for the 2025/26 season costs around €19 for adults and €14 for children. This price includes a return ride on the Chavannes gondola.

Once you’ve built confidence, you can move on to the P’tite Glisse pass. This lift pass covers 12 lifts and 13 runs (6 greens, 6 blues, 1 red). These are perfect for the second and third days of a beginner trip. Les Gets is also part of the larger Portes du Soleil ski area. This is the second-largest connected lift area in the world. Plenty of terrain to grow into, without feeling overwhelming.

Where First-Timers Should Stay

(Best Bases in Les Gets)

Choosing the right base is key to a smooth start. For beginners and families, the best place to stay is near the Chavannes side of Les Gets or the village centre.

These areas offer the easiest access to Mappys, the fun “Indians” kids zone, and green and blue slopes.

You’ll be close to beginner meeting points and ski school bases. This helps reduce stress on those first few mornings.

On the flip side, Mont Chéry, the opposite side of the resort, is home to steeper red and black runs.

This side of Les Gets is better suited to more advanced skiers and those wanting a greater challenge.

If you’re choosing between accommodations, staying close to Chavannes for your first days is best. Consider exploring Mont Chéry once your confidence has grown.

Start Here – Mappys and Beginner Passes

Your skiing journey should start on Mappys, a safe and well-designed beginner area located mid-mountain and accessible via the Chavannes gondola.

It’s tucked away from fast-moving traffic. This creates a relaxed environment to get started on skis.

The Mappys area has four mellow slopes and easy lifts, including two magic carpets.

For winter 2025/26, a Mappys-only pass costs around €19 for adults and €14 for children, including the gondola ride.

After a few runs here, most people are ready to explore more of the mountain with the P’tite Glisse pass. This restricted pass offers access to 12 lifts and 13 beginner-friendly slopes. It’s ideal for early progression.

It starts at €28 for a 1-day adult ticket when booked online in advance. Most beginners will find Mappys perfect for day 1. P’tite Glisse is useful for days 2 and 3, once ready to take your first green or gentle blue run.

Free Shuttles

One of Les Gets’s hidden perks is its free resort shuttle service, which runs daily in winter and includes a night service during the main season.

These shuttles let you move around the village and between accommodation and lifts. They’re perfect if you’re staying a little outside the centre or if your legs are tired.

Importantly, you don’t need a ski pass to use them. On your first day or on rest days, you can get around the resort easily without spending more.

Lessons That Work

(And Where to Book)

Ski lessons make a huge difference for beginners. This is for those starting from zero or returning after a long break.

Group lessons are great for learning in a fun, social environment. This is especially for kids or adults who prefer structured progress.

For those who want more personalised sessions, private lessons offer one-on-one coaching. These sessions are tailored to your pace and goals.

Book early, particularly during school holidays. Beginner group lessons can fill up months in advance. (Need help choosing? See our Beginner Ski Lessons in Les Gets and Private Lessons guides.)

Easy Runs to Try After Day 1–2

Once you’ve nailed the basics on Mappys, it’s time to branch out. One of the best progression routes starts from the La Croix chairlift. This gives you access to Gentiane and Bruyère. These are two flattering blue runs with wide turns and no nasty surprises.

Another favourite is Piste 64, also known as the Indians/Grand Cry zone. It’s a themed skiing experience within gently rolling terrain, perfect for kids and cautious adults alike.

If you’re ready to explore further, the Cyclamen blue is another soft and scenic option.

As a general rule, you’re tired towards the end of the day, take the lift down rather than risk a steep or icy home run.

It’s not giving up – it’s smart.

Sample 3-Day Beginner Itinerary

To get the most out of your first ski trip in Les Gets, follow this three-day structure.

Day 1. Spend the morning on Mappys getting familiar with your gear, terrain, and techniques. Take a midday break at a nearby café, then return for a short afternoon session.

Day 2. The P’tite Glisse pass to explore gentle greens and easy blues like Gentiane, Bruyère, and Indians. Break up your day with a hot chocolate stop in the village, and hop on the free shuttle back if you’re tired.

Day 3. Try longer runs like Cyclamen or explore different links within the P’tite Glisse zone. If your energy dips – download by lift. There’s no rush.

Which Lift Pass Is Right for a Beginner?

First-timers don’t need a full-area lift pass. Start with Mappy’s pass. This is cheaper and gives you all the terrain you need for day 1.

Once you’re able to link turns and handle gentle greens, move up to the P’tite Glisse pass. This gives you access to beginner-friendly terrain without paying for runs you can’t yet ski.

Only upgrade to a Les Gets – Morzine area pass once you’re confidently cruising blue runs. The full Portes du Soleil pass should be your goal once you are confident on skis and want to explore Avoriaz.

Always book passes online where possible – it’s cheaper and faster.

Practical Tips That Speed Up Progress

To make your first ski trip smoother, stay near Chavannes – it saves a lot of walking and maximises slope time. Save Mont Chéry for later in your week, once your confidence improves.

Aim for late January or March if you can. The snow is typically softer and the weather milder, which makes learning more pleasant.

Don’t overdo it on day one. Half days are more productive than pushing through fatigue.

If you’re visiting during the February half-term, check out the Wednesday torchlight descent. Even if you’re not skiing, it’s a fun event to watch.