This was a repeat of the hike done on 12 October 2023 that included 11 hikers and 3 dogs who enjoyed sunny autumn weather.
On this occasion our number was reduced to 5 hikers (Mark Watts, Andrew Neivens, Ross Linsley, Peter Taylor with Kobie, and Peter Strebel) possibly due the forecast of intermittent showers and colder than expected spring temperatures. Richard Saynor, with his backpack and special bottle at the ready, had to cancel the night before because of recommendations from his doctor.
The group gathered at the parking lot below the lower fort around 10 am. The mood was upbeat in the crisp morning air and under lighter skies. All forms of rain gear were donned including a fine rain jacket for Kobie.
The hike started with an uphill pull of around 170m through green beech forest to reach the Upper Fort.
Light rain had begun to fall with mists surrounding the Jura ridge and Vuache mountains. Questions were asked about the impressive fortifications but unfortunately the leader had forgotten to brush up on the history of Fort l’Ecluse.
After a gentle descent towards the village of Longeray and passage through a substantial metal gate, there was a right turn upwards following the sign indicating Leaz. The path continued uphill through fresh green-leaved forest and after about 45 minutes opened out into lush cow pastures.
There was a brief stop for a water break but with rain increasing the decision was made to continue walking.
On the farm roads down towards Leaz the rain began in earnest and there was growing concern about finding a dry spot for the picnic. Striding ahead with Kobie, Peter T found an empty water fountain shelter which provided a welcome break from the rain.
A somewhat hurried picnic ensued which was greatly enhanced by the combination of chocolate cookies (baked by Robin Linsley) and strong coffee from Mark 2TTs topped with a tot of whiskey to warm the spirits.
As predicted by the meteosuisse, the rain stopped around 1:40 pm and the group set out to the Belvedere de Leaz overlooking the Rhone valley. Miraculously, the sun came out and the mists lifted providing clear views of the west facing cliffs of the Vuache, the winding river below and the Upper and Lower Forts guarding the entrance to the Bellegarde gap.
As the brief patch of sun faded, the group began the descent into the Rhone valley. Despite the rain, the path down was not too slippery. Kobie opted to take the small bridge over a muddy stream rather than venture to the banks of the big river. The trail went passed the ruin of the Moulin de Condiere (alt 363m) and continued on crossing the TGV train tracks and up through the hamlet of Lavoux to reach parking lot. Under light rain, there were brief goodbyes as this was Ross’ last GIN hike before his return to Australia.
Overall, we covered 12 km in 5 hours with a denivelation of approximately 620m.
Certainly one of the wettest hikes of recent memory. But Kobie and I enjoyed it. Especially when we saw some sun after lunch ! Thanks PeterSt for the hike and Mark for the hot black coffee.