18 Aug 2022
The earlier forecast for this Thursday was for heavy rain but things changed and in the event we stayed dry and happy. What also changed was the line-up. Mark 2rrs had galvanised 9 punters to brave the elements and savour Frank’s croutes and genepi. In the event only 4 of us turned out – the excuses and apologies of others ranged from genuine to tenuous – but all were forgiven, they were sadly going to miss a treat.
Assembling at the Crozet lift, we spent the Eu 9 for return tickets and set off on the first lift. That is we got into the first bubble and then they started the system up. They turned it off after we got out at the top at Le Fierney.
Mark provided us all with chocolate croissants so we were fired for the gentle hike up to the Col de Crozet.
It was in no time at all that we found ourselves at the Table d’orientation du col de Crozet. And there was no lack of liquor as Richard produced some Lakka, at least that’s what it said on the hand-written label.. It was only 21.5 proof and for a Finnish spirit it had a sweet and fine finish, definitely more refined than the Saynor usual decouvertes.
It was very pleasant in the sun, but the cloud was soon to arrive as we heading across past La Catheline lift (nb others with health issues could have driven to Lelex and ascended this lift and wandered across Frank’s/La Loge).
We headed off in a SW direction traversing the hill but ascending on a path towards Sur le Crêt. The cloud started to envelop us and the going over stones and roots was damp and slippy. There were some fresh smells, welcome after all that heat.
In view of the slippery conditions and with beer in mind, Marks 1 and 2 opted to turn around shortly before the Crêt while Richard and I soldiered/sauntered on up for 10 minutes to the cloud-swept broad ridge.
We did not linger and indeed passed the Marks on the way down to La Loge as the heavens began to spit. Laos the Australian Shepherd was with Frank and Katie who greeted us warmly. Inside it was warm and cosy and I recalled our snow-shoe visit during the pandemic, with tinsel and christmas lights.
We were soon drinking beers and toasting absent friends unlucky not to be with us.
A very pleasant lunch finished off with coffee and Frank’s memorable genepi.
It was all too soon time to leave before we could play any chess. There remained the easy path back to Catheline and thence up to the col before an easy tootle back down to our cabin ride at Le Fierney. We stayed dry, which could not be said of the temperance aspect. May there be many more.
10.27 km and 530m or so. Moderate. To be repeated (again) in winter !
