The lively French alpine town of Les Gets is already well known as a winter ski resort and a summer playground but now it can add another string to its bow, the imaginary world of Alta Lumina.
New to the resort for 2020 is this magical, multi-sensory night walk that is the first of its kind in Europe.
Situated at the Lac des Ecoles, part-way up the mountain from the village of Les Gets, Alta Lumina Park is a whimsical experience open year-round. I visited the enchanting night walk after it had just opened and discovered a wonderful journey beyond the mountains that celebrates the history of Les Gets with some breathtaking light and sound technology.
[author] [author_info]There are lots of things to do in Les Gets, take a look at our guide to visiting with kids. If you’re thinking about trying mountain biking, make sure you read this first! [/author_info] [/author]
Alta Lumina
It wasn’t that long ago that no sooner did you finish on the mountain – wether on skis or a mountain bike – you headed straight for the bar. And while Les Gets still offers a lot of après-ski (and après-biking) fun, there’s much more to do than down jagermeisters. And, let’s face it, if you’ve got the kids with you it’s unlikely you’ll be propping up the bar for very long anyway.
These days, Les Gets provides plenty of additional entertainment, many of which is geared specifically for families. Alta Lumina is one of them.
While adults will enjoy the experience, children will love it. The 10-year-old in our group wandered around with the kind of wide-eyed wonder usually seen only at Christmas. When I asked her what she thought of if, she replied, spellbound, that it “was amaaaaazing”.
When visiting Les Gets, do make time to visit Alta Lumina. Here are six reasons why you should.
It’s the only one of its kind in Europe
Created by Canadian company Moment Factory, the Alta Lumina night walk is the first of its kind in Europe. The company have created ten similar journeys around the world, each one is unique to its destination. Alta Lumina took a year to design and build, and is the first of its kind in Europe.
[author] [author_info]The neighbouring town of Morzine also has lots to offer for families, read our summer guide here. [/author_info] [/author]
It shares the musical history of Les Gets
Les Gets is home to the only Museum of Mechanical Instruments in Europe and the dazzling Alta Lumina trail weaves the town’s history of music with cutting edge set design and interactivity.
The story is told of a travelling music-maker in a hot air balloon who gets caught in a storm and lands in the middle of the forest. The luminous pathway winds its way through the forest, allowing you to follow in the music-maker’s footsteps as he attempts to locate his lost melodies.
It’s an enchanting experience for all the family
The nighttime walk through the forest really is magical. There are clever video projections, beautiful light installations, an ethereal musical accompaniment and a wonderful imaginary world. In one corner, a field of glowing lights look like magical toadstools, in another you walk through a cloud-like forest.
It’s interactive
At the heart of the forest walk is a space where children – and their parents – can play musical instruments electronically. There’s also a model of the music-maker’s hot air balloon, which is perfect for a family photo.
[author] [author_info]Looking for more inspiration? These are the 25 best destinations to visit in France for families! [/author_info] [/author]
It’s suitable for all ages
From babes in arms to grandparents, the Alta Lumina experience is for everyone although remember that it’s a nighttime experience only. The only thing you need to take into account is the uneven paths – they’re not suitable for pushchairs or for those needing assistance walking. During the summer months the nighttime walks starts at 10pm until midnight. Winter hours will be earlier.
It’s going to get bigger and better!
The Alta Lumina trail currently measures 1km and takes between 30-45 minutes to complete. However, there are plans to add different spaces to the walk over the coming years. This means that the next time you visit, it will be a completely different experience.
[author] [author_info]For more information and to book tickets, visit the Alta Lumina website. [/author_info] [/author]
