Vallorcine, France

We arrived in France early this afternoon. Today’s was an easy hike thanks to Donna spotting an alternate route. We’re enjoying our time here at “Gite Mermoud”. Trail chores (showers and laundry) are finished and we’re about to take a nippy nap.
Donna and I did the hike yesterday, as Richard had decided long ago to take the “Princess Option “ as they say in cruising, when one of the couple sails, and the other flys, to meet up with the mate, and boat. He is a wise man.
The hike began beautifully as we walked the forest route out of Champex Lac. Then, we began climbing. And climbing. Not like our very first day on the trail, but steep enough. We did a couple of river crossings and are grateful the water was low.
Eventually we came to our planned lunch stop at Alpage du Bovine – check it out, here. We devoured a huge cheese omelette, and a chocolate milkshake (chocolate milk, no shake!) – it was delicious! After a lovely chat with some other hikers, we hit the trail again.

Very shortly, we reached our first “col”, and began the long, steep climb down to our home for the night : Refuge Le Peuty. Reputed to have the best food on the trail. Holy, moly, it was delicious! We found our beds and that was it for the night. Except for the thunder, wind and torrential rain! We were so grateful to be inside, rather than camping, which many were doing.

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