Nathan initially proposed a hike that he knew well from the Col de la Faucille to the Colomby de Gex. During a subsequent discussion, Mark Warren indicated that there was an alternative itinerary beginning/ending at the Pailly car-park. The advantage of this route is that it is a loop rather than an up/down. The disadvantage is that it requires a bit more climbing/distance.
A compromise hike starting from the Col de la Faucille and ending at the Pailly car-park was proposed to the group. However, the 9 hardy participants (David C., 2 X Mark W., Mervyn P., Nathan F., Peter T., Peter S., Philip J. and Richard S.) unanimously preferred the longer route beginning/ending at the Pailly car-park. It was an excellent choice providing some splendid views of the Leman basin and the Alps. The weather fully cooperated with moderate temperatures and clear skies.
The hike began with a 40 minute rather steep but well marked path through the forest. Richard was not feeling well and unfortunately about halfway through the forest he decided to bail out. It was certainly a wise but painful choice for him. He managed to get back to the car-park where Carol came to fetch him. He was missed during the rest of the hike. We all felt very guilty that we did not offer to lighten his back-pack to ease his return (notably the heavy refreshment flaskš).
We enjoyed a brief pause after the steep climb.
We then followed various paths leading to the Montrond for another short pause. There, a waypost indicated 55 minutes to the Colomby. We could see the derrick in the distance, estimated that it was over 3 km from us and concluded that the waypost was somewhat optimistic.
1.5 hours later we were gathered in front of the Colomby de Gex derrick enjoying the view and beginning our well earned lunch.
While we were lunching we encountered a few hikers from the north of France who were impressed that our group of very mature men was able to hike all the way up to the Colomby, some even carrying the full weight of bottles of wine. Accepting their compliment, we shared some of our wine with them which they gladly accepted.
When the local colony of Colomby flies discovered us, we packed up for the long descent that began through a high plateau with a couple of successfully managed dodgy bits along the way.
The downward path took us through open areas with nice views of the Leman basin & the Alps, valleys, narrow & wide trails and forests.
The downward path terminated just below our starting point and a short climb on the āpavedā road brought us back to the car-park.
From the start of the descent, the group split into 2 smaller groups. The faster one (Mervyn and the 2 Peters) completely abandoned us about halfway down, racing ahead because of personal engagements at 17:30.
They arrived at the car-park at 16:45 and were able to make their appointments.
The other group arrived at the car-park at 17:45.
Accumulated climb: 900 m
Distance: 16 km
Picture credits: David Colledge, Peter Taylor & Mark Warren.
