Walking in Europe

A blog of Angus and Alison's walking tour of the Tour de Mont Blanc, Via degli Dei the Dobratsch Circuit in Carinthia, Austria, the Dolomites, Venice, and Iceland

The kind of wet start to the day where the sound of intense rain on the tent “dampens” the get-up-and-go mood…

But after a slow start and a “linger longer” breakfast and chat with other hikers, the weather eased and we packed up and headed down to the edge of Triente and then began the slow steady climb up and up to the Col de Balme and over the border and into sight of the Chamonix valley which we left 10 days ago. It turned out to be a beautiful day, mixed clouds, and occasional sun. Ali always sets a perfect pace. We cover the ground but at an achievable pace. We always get to where we need to go, take breaks, take photos, and take our time. We are experimenting with lunch at 11 rather than sometime after 12. It just seems better to fill tummies earlier on the ascent!

The descent into Tre le Champs was another long walk down, surrendering all the elevation gained earlier. But we are camped on the grass of the Auberge Boerne tonight and had a lovely dinner with hikers from the UK and France at our table. Tomorrow we will begin the two day walk down the East side of the Chamonix valley and hope for good views of Mont Blanc.

Camping at Forclaz
Better check the map and the app!
Ok time to start today’s ascent
Where we’re headed
Started back there, the clearing above town
Rain coat on rain coat off
On the border
Starting down, Chamonix in the distance
Friends on the trail
These aren’t wind chimes, they’re cowbells!
Auberge Boerne

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2 responses to “Col de la Forclaz to Col de Balme: Switzerland into France”

  1. automaticnight6ba3034f49 Avatar
    automaticnight6ba3034f49

    Auberge Boerne looks like such a pretty spot. The cow bell recording is excellent! A lazy morning start was well deserved I am sure. I think Ali’s pack is getting bigger! Is that possible?

    What impressive altitude gains you have achieved. Are you now on your descent? Continued safe travels you two and thanks for posting all these wonderful photos and descriptions.

    Joc xo

    Liked by 1 person

  2. angus.r.graeme Avatar

    Yes, Ali snuck a few things into her pack I think. I tried to steal them back today!

    Liked by 1 person

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