Peter Taylor – Page 7

GIN Snowshoe – Marchairuz 19 Jan 23

Snowshoe outing at Marchairuz, January 19

Despite some concerns over a possible lack of snow the previous week it became clear that not only would there be an abundance of the white stuff, but that the gods would be in our favour with the forecast of blue sky for this outing. As it turned out the ten of us spent a special day of good exercise, beautiful snow conditions and good company.

Dawn was forecast to come in at -12 degrees Celsius, although it rose to – 8 degrees when we met up at the Col, so without too much persuasion we met up in the restaurant for coffee and hot chocolate. Noticeably absent were two dogs, Kobie and Nessie, but given the very cold conditions it was certainly for the best. It was good to see Coco the lunatic parrot again on his perch in the bar.

Ten of us with appropriate thermals enjoyed the trek. Peter T, Richard S, Mervyn P, Stephen L, David C, Mark2T, Nathan F, Mark2R, Mike M and myself (Rob (Ed. PT)).

The original plan was to trek as far along the route to Mont Tendre as the conditions would allow and return by the same trail eating our picnic lunch along the way. But mutiny was in the cold air. The prospect of a nice lunch in the warm restaurant at the Col was too much to miss, so with a lot of persuasion (truth be told, very little!), I was forced by a majority decision to change the itinerary to take the outward trip for an hour and a half to return in time for a lunch. A table for ten was booked.

Cabane du Grand Cunay visible on the far hill, our high point

The snowshoeing was excellent, the piste was well marked in deep and crisp snow and the trees stood out wonderfully.

Pano with Lac Leman glistening on the left

We reached the Cabane du Grand Cunay after a few “pechs”*, a few more for some of us, where unexpectedly there appeared cups and a fine Chasselas followed by some excellent homemade gluhwein. A nice break with fine views after 3.3k and 200m of ascent.

Downhill all the way, despite the few uphill bits, back to the warm welcoming restaurant where it was fondu all round, with some dipping genepi for the bread that went down well, and our usual coffee and Celtic water.

One good thing happened (at least). A friendly looking fellow from the table behind us came over and introduced himself. Larry French, lives part-time in Canada, part-time in Morges (December to mid-March and mid-April to July). He had been cross country skiing up to Marchairuz. Larry has now joined GINs and will be on the next snow shoe outing. Larry is currently the editor of the newsletter “the Grand Parents for the Climate Europe”. Welcome Larry!

Saddling up – er – how does it work now ?

Glowing and drowsy from the fondu, 9 of us set off for the second half of the day for an equally nice round trip short trek of 2.5 km with 70 m of ascent on the southwestern side of the col. Quite a few more peching* was heard, but it was well worth it. Only one of us manged to fall and loose his left snowshoe, but with the heroic aid of Mervyn all was recovered without loss.

A great day with great company.

Down but not out. Granin* perhaps ? Where was his pingle* ?

*Peching – “At last wi’ great peching an’ granin we gat with a pingle” 1754 Robert Forbes (Scots). Loosely translated as at last with lots of heavy breathing and grinding we made it with our sticks.

Rob

(NB I recorded a total of 8.7km and 346m deniv – ie. there was indeed some uphill on the way back in the morning (Pétros (Ed.)))

Snow Shoe Outing 6 Jan 2023

Snow shoe outing Thursday 6 January 2023.

12.5km with 300m height difference

The second snowshoe outing of the season was aptly described as a winter wander with no one even dreaming that there might be snow. Ten of us (Robert Pashley, Richard Saynor, Mervyn Powell, Nicolas Ulmer, Peter Taylor, Mark Watts, Mark Warren, Mike Hempstead, Paul Sochaczewski and Mike Muller) and three dogs (Kobie, Onyx and Nessie) consequently met at the parking in the Place de la Gare, Divonne les Bains from where we set off on foot for the Mont Mussy.

The trail was straight forward and we overtook the jeudistes ladies from CERN at the Grande Source (and it was Grande with all the rain we’ve been having). The Mont Mussy (704m) is well known to most of us and no leading was required. We ascended the path now covered in damp leaves to the Ferme de Mont Mussy, which sadly has been closed as a restaurant for several years, and on through the woods to the summit of Mont Mourex at at 755m. The gods were kind to us as we had a blue sky with some cloud instead of the forecast rain. The views whether Jura or Alps were good but misty. All this augured well for a typical GIN pause with suitable beverages served with thanks to those who brought them. Entertainment was assured with the usual high intellectual conversation and the dogs chasing each other around the monolith.

With about 45 minutes to go before our restaurant reservation, we took a short cut through some thorny bushes to a main path which confounded some who turned left on it instead of right. Thereafter the group were error free and we walked fast on the well-trodden path to the restaurant, the Accord Parfait. Everyone took the menu du jour and the only complaint was that a better wine should have been chosen.

There were two options for the return to the carpark – five took the direct route via the Grande Source and five the longer route by the golf course. On arrival, the Scottish fluid was produced and enjoyed.

Thanks everyone – a most enjoyable day out. Various options are being considered for the next outing on 19 January depending on…snow.

Mark Warren

GIN Hikers St Cergue-Cabane du Carroz-Jura and La Genolière 8.12.22

The weather dawned sunny and cold, perfect conditions for a last of 2022 season hike from La Givrine clockwise to Cabane du Carroz, and La Genolière. I had undertaken this hike the Friday before, in cold and freezing frost conditions. More snow had fallen since and the freezing frost had gone, but it was to be below zero out of the sun all day.

In the event 7 other brave Gintlemen signed up and turned out on time at La Givrine’s large newly surfaced parking area at 1207m. Attending were Stephen, Rob, Nathan, Andrew, Mark2ts, Philip, Mervyn and me, with Kobie as token protection from wolves (…).

The Route (roughly) was 9.7 km and 370m denivellation

Spirits were high. It was good to have Rob back with us again after a hiatus, but we missed other stalwarts who had various levels of excuses. Kobie was barking with excitement to start and off we went under the rail tunnel and up to the NW in bright sunshine on green grass.

Kobie, Philip, Mervyn, Mark2ts, Stephen, Rob, Andrew, Nathan

We had dressed for the cold (especially Nathan with his Canadian fur hat (in which Kobie took an interest later on)) but it was initially warm upward going, until we turned NE into a chilly combe.

Rob still needed no hat, but we all needed gloves

We gradually ascended into the light and into greener pastures, with fine views back to La Dôle.

Turning right up the summit slopes we met deeper snow, but nothing that needed a racquette.

It was not long before we arrived at a sudden right turn to the SAC hut the Cabane du Carroz Jura at 1508m, its terrace giving a fine view out to the alps with the Haut Cime and Matterhorn clearly visible. It was time (11.30 am) for coffee/wine/malt/schnapps or whatever your fancy standing in the sun – with thanks to providers.

Coffee stop – Nathan out of the picture to the right organising for his charity taxi efforts.

Kobie was behaving as was the party itself, and I can recall nothing occurring that could be described as untoward or mutinous. A very pleasant way mark on our route.

After we had replenished our tanks it was time to move on down the snowy trail through beautiful forest down to the road leading to La Genolière for our pre booked table for lunch. The hut dog Mousse was delighted to meet Kobie again (the third time in a week). It was so warm in the sun that we were able to order beers sitting outside in the sun, there being very few other diners that day despite the sunny weather.

Our orders placed we decided that the log fire inside was needed to keep warm and enjoy the croute fromages and röstis we had ordered from the friendly lady I had met twice before recently. In fact Kobie had met Mousse in the winters of 2020 and 2021 and they enjoyed friendly romps in the snow.

Those Croutes disappeared entirely in good time.

Selfie – no – I’m not wearing underpants on my head..

There was much lively discussion and we toasted absent friends. Scottish independence was back on the agenda as Rob was back, and it was a very convivial and lively lunch. Nathan informed us that he is looking for drivers to help his charity take old folk to appointments etc (please email Nathan directly). After desserts, coffees and digestifs it was time to amble back down through the snowy fields and forest to the cars at La Givrine with sun still in the sky albeit increasing cloud cover. A great day out enjoyed by gintlemen and dog in full measure.

The night saw the arrival of bad weather and a snow storm with a white mushy layer in my garden in the morning under falling snow. Handing over to Mark Warren now for the Snow-Shoe season must surely be starting.

I shall post a summary of 2022 hikes in due course. Thanks to all for being so accommodating of my big gentle hound. He loves you all.

GIN Hike Givrins to St Cergue from Trelex 24 November 22

The weather forecast seemed not unreasonable with clearing skies for this Thanksgiving hike. The question was – it was cloudy and threatening light rain – were we a little too early for the sun ?

Eight brave Gintlemen and two dogs turned out, eventually meeting up at the Parcours-vita parking (at 600m) on the Rte de St Cergue above Trelex at 9.45am. At least it was not actually raining. Attending were 8, Nathan, David, Stephen, Mark2ts, Nicolas, Rudi, Mervyn and me; hounds Kobie and Onyx. We had packed a picnic to allow for a promised return to our firesides by 3.30 pm, this timing would be helped also by a descent on the train from St Cergue to Givrins.

It was particularly good to see Rudi back in our ranks. Sad that Philip was not quite fit enough, others had good excuses. We set off in good spirit, the dogs were behaving, and so were the gintlemen with neither side having a full dip in the initial lake in the Bois de Ban. Underfoot was damp, perhaps wet at times, with fallen leaves aplenty, so we had to be careful to watch our footing all day.

Mervyn, Mark, Rudi, Stephen, David, Nicolas, Nathan – by the lake

Steady progress was made up through the woods lit up in orange and yellow, the final leaves of the year. We descended some 60m down to cross the bridge over the stream (called La Colline – I have always called it the Trelex River). Turning left the path steepens up to the level of the track that leads to the gorge that lies below St Cergue. A pleasantly level track allowed for chats and banter as the dogs hunted about left and right.

Near to where the gorge ends and the path turns back up right, there is a source – a little cave from which water emerges from under the Jura – but it was dry on the day. We were soon trending back out of the gorge and then up left towards the Parapente Seat (at 980m). Nicolas asked me who I thought were the greatest rock groups of all time, so the time passed quickly for me. I don’t think I would have chosen The Who though.

Just before the Seat below the parapente field, I slipped on a wet slanting rock and almost knocked Mervyn over. This happily was the only slip of the day. No damage done. Views from this seat are normally amazing, today less so as there were clouds on the Jura tops and over the alps. But we could see the Jet d’Eau.

Dogs were now put on leashes as chamois frequent the cliffs hereabouts and the path traverses above some steep and loose drops. Drops of light rain had begun and we had donned waterproofs, but there was still a hint of sun in the sky. Just after the Pilar Chinois (a bolted sport route on the limestone cliffs below the railway) the steps lead up to a picnic area with two benches just big enough for the 8 of us to sit, nicely dried by Nicolas with a towel (nb memo to self to pack a towel in wet weather).

While we were enjoying out picnic the light rain turned to sunshine ! With no Richard we were without strong liquor, but some pleasant reds from Italy/Puglia and Monastrell/Spain were in the offing. At least one spare bottle remained unopened. Kobie and Onyx were not forgotten either (re food not wine that is). Mark came round with his usual excellent hot, strong, black fluid and paper cups.

Checking the watch it was likely that we would make the 1.32 pm train from St Cergue as it was only a short stroll across to the station. It was here that we had the Problem. Several members attempted to acquire tickets from the machine – most of us used the SBB app on our phones. The train came in from La Cure, we all boarded and the doors suddenly closed and the train left. Wait a minute – there were only 7 Gintlemen and two dogs settled comfortably. Where is Nathan? Oh no! He had missed the train, he had been waiting to obtain a ticket from the machine and was last in line. The train did seem to leave all of a sudden, with no audible warning, and none from Nathan either. I did sort-of feel responsible, but I had a big dog to look after and sometimes leading Gintlemen is a bit like herding cats.

We sent Nathan messages with the intention to meet him at the coffee shop in Givrins (of biking fame). The train ride provided some fabulous views out over to the alps. The sun had come out in full and we enjoyed some pleasant caffeine in Givrins while waiting. Rudi stayed on the train to be picked up by his chauffeuse in Trelex. He had cruised the hike just fine. Nathan showed up 30 minutes later seemingly none the worse for wear, bearing no obvious grudges.

There remained the short stroll back down across the Trelex River and up into the forest back across to the cars. A pleasant hike, and one that apart from one incident, turned out just as I had hoped (sorry Nathan). We even got back on time! I clocked 8.7km and 606m denivellation. The dogs had a fine time too and behaved well (imho). Thanks to all for the great company and fine wines.

The route – Starting at the Green marker – ignore the green line. The train ride is not shown.

Bike raïd on Mts Musey and Mourex

3 Nov 2022

The weather forecast for several days had showed rain on the Thursday afternoon, and it was not wrong. The forecast was for sub 10C temperatures in cloud but little wind. Somewhat alarmingly 3 of the 6 starters turned out in shorts for this ride. Quel insouciance.. Anyway we set off at 10 am from the Evenness. Stephen, Mervyn, E-Reinier, Ivan, Mark and me.

My plan was to lunch at the Founex Tennis Club so that I could roll back down afterwards to my home in 3 minutes rain or no rain. Thus a route up heart-attack hill (Mourex) and across the wonderful woods including Mt Musey and round and back to Mourex then down was mooted and accepted by the party.

The weak sun was soon to disappear but there was a sense of optimism, there was little wind, and the run through the forest then up over the Versoix River to Grilly is always pleasant. Not quite so the hill after the short transit on the bike path. That hill to Mourex is Peter Drew’s favourite, but I cannot see why, as it is steep and not short. My heart went up to stratospheric levels just plodding up. Reinier surged past us with ease.

At the top we regrouped. My plan now diverged from our normal route (down and across to Vesancy) and turned up right to the parking before the open area of Mt Mourex. Trending right along the VTT trail which with a dog and good boots is a nice stroll, is a bit more of a challenge for bikes. Indeed the next 5 K was a little out of our ordinary fare.

There was layer of fallen leaves, albeit dry, hiding roots and stones and slippy stuff generally.

Reinier tackles a tricky descent in the forest of Mt Musey/Mourex

We survived and turned sharp left above the parking (above Divonne) to head up the main trail to Mt Musey and back to Mt Mourex. Some way up this trail Stephen and I waited for the others, then he went back to find them all. Ivan, Mervyn and Mark arrived, but not Reinier nor Stephen. Mervyn told us that Reinier had received a call to attend his doctor and had descended. (We have heard since that he survived). Eventually S returned having not found R, and we regrouped.

Stephen was pleased – after 4 years he had found that his bike had front suspension. Ivan was pleased – his new bike was 21st century and had low gears. Mervyn and Mark seemed pleased too; they had stayed upright on their less than VTTs and had cruised the bumps. I was pleased – nobody fell.

Fabulous views, across to a brooding Mt Blanc resplendent in new snow but under a menacing blue hue, welcomed us at Mt Mourex. This view stretches across the lower Rhone basin below Geneva, with the Jura chain on the right and Lac Leman and the Alps on the left, and is recommended for a fine day.

In view of the time and the weather forecast we opted to return the same way down to the valley, before a slightly different route back through Commugny led to the Founex Tennis Club. The restaurant was quiet, service friendly, the beers excellent as was the food.

Conversation at lunch was wide and varied (a new PM in the UK since our last ride was noted) and I recall we discussed cooking and coffee preparation as well as getting an update on Ivan’s Ukraine experience with the ongoing war. Much suffering. We are so lucky.

The rain came heavy and cold shortly after I got home, bang on the forecast time. I lit our fire and took a hot shower.

Only 27 km but 460 m – and some wonderful forest trails.

At Founex Tennis Club after a nice lunch

Disconcerting that the Heart Attack Hill up to the Loop above Grilly shows the descent heart rate Green, going up it must have been Purple. Founex Tennis Club marked.

GIN Hikers Bassins Bash 29 Sept 22

This had been billed as a 12km and 600m hike. However the forecast was for rain and the temperature had dropped, so after 6 of us plus dog met up at pte 971m in the Rte 7 above Bassins, we elected to change the hike to include the Refuge Les Pralets, which on the internet indicated to me that it would be open. That meant a changed start driving up to pte 1128m (by the i) on the same road. This would allow us to access Les Pralets for lunch.

So at 10.15am the team reassembled. Here was Stephen fresh from his ascent of the Barillette by bike in a snowstorm two days earlier (for which he is sure to win the GIN 2022 MOTY award), Andrew looking fit and fresh from Geneva, Mark2ts who had driven up alone as Lorna (Doone) had tested positive (he looked fresh), Mark2rs fresh from his Singapore sling adventure, RichardS not fresh from his London conference planning and me somewhat fresh back from Latvia with my faithful Cobberdog Kobie (from Coppet) looking forward to fresh air.

It was indeed fresh. With zero degrees at La Dôle and 7C at St Cergue, rain forecast and lowish cloud, no shorts were on display. Instead gloves, hats and warm clothing with rain gear was evident. We set off westerly and then NW along the green trail (shown) towards Les Pralets hoping it would be open as advertised. The rain had not yet started and spirits were reasonable.

Heading towards Les Pralets – still dry but a little chilly at 1250m

In order to revivify the party Mark2ts established a coffee stop under a tree, light rain was starting and as always he generously emptied his flask into cups provided. Seizing the moment, RichardS extracted his dreaded re-usable plastic Johnny Walker whisky bottle with who-knows-really-whats-inside.

The label read Slivovitch, but in reality he admitted that there was a mixture of sorts inside. It certainly went down well with the black coffee (there being no Mervyn with us to provide us with milk).

Suitably fortified and with a sure belief that we would find a warm welcome at Les Pralets we continued on up the fairly easy trail through woods and across a field with some big hairy beasts that Kobie avoided.

Arriving at our targeted lunch spot before noon, we were sadly disappointed to find that Les Pralets was closed, locked with no-one in sight. With light rain falling but nobody around, there was nothing to stop us disobeying the “NO PICNIC” sign and using the tables under the eaves for our repas.

It was another very convivial affair with some seriously good looking sandwiches on display that swiftly disappeared, some almost into Kobie. The Oath (GOC) prohibits the recording here of any details of our lunch discussion but there were reports back of recent travels, a joke about a zebra going to heaven, and some banter about the “new” UK government’s stellar start, Liz and Kamikwaze and much other amusing chat such that there was no need for recourse to RS’s Johnny Walker bottle. We toasted with our wine, to absent friends and to Deborah’s memory.

Kobie scored reasonably on behaviour. Some initial jumping up to greet people (to be worked on). No sandwiches stolen, and no getting lost in the forest.

Light rain had come and gone as had a large herd of cattle (the normal Jura variety), and it was time to go. The rain came back so Kobie was kitted out in his winter waterproof jacket (heck it is still September!).

The route back followed the small tarmac road until a left turn could be made uphill to Le Planet (green trail on the map above). From this high point a pleasant trail leads down to an expansive viewpoint above a small escarpment.

The viewpoint with Lac Leman hidden under clouds

Happily heavy rain held off and we were able to saunter back down and across to the cars after 10km and 310m. A fairly easy day in cold conditions made warmer by the company.

Apologies were received from several including Thatcher, Rob, Mervyn, Keith, Philip and David. We missed them; they missed a convivial Jura stroll in cool, dampish and fresh conditions.

What did I miss ?

Peter

PS. I shall be away for the next hike – so leave to to any and all to to plan a hike on 13 October.

On 27 October RichardS will be planning one of his infamous Tours of Lac de Joux.

Hike to the Barillette

Thursday 15 September 2022

An earlier hope to mount an attempt on Le Jalouvre was stymied by a poor-ish forecast, so we reverted to a tried and tested ascent in the Jura up to the Barillette. There were a number of members expressing regrets, excuses and some citing recovery from ginjuries, but a magnificent 7 turned out. With the leader (me) not specifying correctly to Andrew the meeting point we set off a little late from Divonne to join Rob at point “888” on the Barillette road in what turned out to be reasonable weather.

Attending : Andrew, Mark2ts, Mervyn, Rob, Peter, Richard S, Stephen.

Shorts were clear winners at 5 to 2 and a spritely crew set out up the trail to the Barillette mast. We made steady progress up the leafy trails that wind up through the forest, gently in the most part but with some steeper sections. Just before the exit from the woods we stopped in a clearing and Mark brought out a flask of strong coffee while Richard touted his not-so-strong-as-his-others, Finnish Lakka.

Thanks to both as we were delivered fresh and with renewed vigour onto the road. Rob inspired us to climb the final 50m to the mast at 1528m where we took in views the Lac Leman.

It was time to descend to make our 12.30 rendezvous at the Restaurant de la Barillette where we entered our old haunt of previous temperance encounters.

We scanned the menu but it was clear that, after some beer, 7 fondus were needed and before that two plates of charcuterie. The preferred wine was Debluy chasselas which helped the liquid cheese slip down rather nicely as we watched the rain pouring down outside.

My recollection of the lunch-time discussion is rather hazy, and without significantly breaching the Gin Oath of Confidentiality (GOC), I seem to recall that Fermat’s Last Theorem stated first in 1637 (for any integer >2 the equation a^n + b^n = c^n has no positive integer solutions) was given a welcome airing; however Mark chose not to explain the 92 page proof established by Andrew Wiles in 1994. (Editors note – I could not find how to type powers properly…).

We toasted absent friends, the King and recently departed Queen, as well as Deborah. Mervyn told us she would have certainly expected him to have attended today.

Other discussions covering such subjects as UK Politics, Scotland, Tunisian food, Ukraine, UK Sterling and dogs shall remain subject of the GOC.

There being no Alpenhorn party on this occasion, after tart and cream desserts, coffee and flask stuff, it was time for the descent back to the cars, passing under the Rochers de Pierre Lente.

The forest trails down through the Jura slope were traversed in some welcome sunshine, and despite some bum-slips on the steeper muddy tracks (at least by me), mostly without incident.

A fine hike in good company with a pretty decent fondu. The rain came along later that day.

I made it 11.9 km and 663m, albeit others might beg to differ.

My recommended podcasts 1. The rest is politics 2. Infinite Monkey Cage 3. New Statesman

Recommended film – 1917 (was on RTS last week).

Gin Hikers to Frank’s – La Loge

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.

Easy up the snow shoe path in fresh conditions

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.

On the ridge with Crêt de la Neige somewhere far behind

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.

Laos – he can open the door to come in, but not to exit.. Laos is known down in the valley in Lelex where he goes for the opportunities. Folk put him back on the Catheline if he is knackered.

A very pleasant lunch finished off with coffee and Frank’s memorable genepi.

Frank providing his genepi – a genial and welcoming host

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 !

GIN Bikers 11 Aug 2022

Another hot day forecast, over 30C, so we met early at Everness for a foray out, the first for some while allowing us to take it easy. This was also possible because our B leader was out of town somewhere, so the mice could play.

Apologies were received from Paul and Bill and others, and only four of us were out to play. Peter D, Mervyn, Mark 2tts and myself, slightly the worse for wear after a canicular BBQ the evening before.

Our aim and single goal was to arrive for lunch at Founex tennis club shortly after midday and before the big heat. With that in mind we set off through the forest across the V river to Gilly and up the bike track to Gex, the latter providing welcome shade. The grinding heat up to Vesancy was quenched by a pleasant coffee/beer at the Château – mercy to Mark, also for the photo.

We moved on towards a beckoning Bonmont in fine sun, but it was hot, our BLr was away and with time short and now feeling no need or desire to ascend the B hill, we turned right at La Rippe. PedroD led us down through a new lane towards Vésenex and thence to the bike path to Lac Divonne, then left and eventually to Petit Coudres where Mark left us. He had had Covid positives in his family and did not want to run the risk of infecting the rest of us over lunch, so he dutifully fell on his sword.

PD, Mervyn and I enjoyed some fine beers and lunch courtesy of Ismäel and his crew at Founex Tennis Club restaurant. Carpaccio de thon was excellent with chips allumettes.

Not sure how high or how far, but a nice ride to start the season.

Hike to the Barillette 23 June 22

With some members (including me) not at peak fitness, I decided it was not yet time to head to the Alps, and quite a few recalcitrant members were away and/or were providing apologies and a range of stories. So we stuck to the tried and tested Jura and the St Cergue train.

The dawn rose fine with some cloudiness over the hills, at least allowing for relief from previous very hot weather. Storms were forecast for later in the day – we had had a big one the night before – so it was essential to keep to an early finish, albeit this might require some chivying for the 13km and 940m denivellation. We started at Trelex forest parking, necessitating a hike across from the Givrins station to close.

The red line going west from the Green Marker to Barillette and then NE to St Cergue shows our track, with the short traverse back up from Givrins.

Kobie was obviously so keen to join me that I reversed an earlier decision to leave him at home and along with Mervyn we arrived at 9.20am at the start at the 600m contour and where Marktt, Markrr, Stephen and RichardS were already getting booted up. Thus 6 and a dog set off on time up towards the start of the trail at Les Allévays. This is a straight-up trail with few zigzags and we have ascended it several times before. There are several distinct stages which get progressively steeper until the 1250m level.

Looking back down the steepest part of the trail

We made good progress with an obedient dog and hiking team. Although the temperature was pleasant we did have a Putin stylist.

The forest changes continually – in time and elevation – and we were blessed with some wonderful greenery.

Kobie struggling to keep up with Stephen in the greenery

Dry going despite heavy rainfall the previous evening

This team needed little encouragement to keep the momentum up and it was at 11.45am that we crested the terrace at the Barillette restaurant at 1432m. Heck – that works out at an ascent of 370m per hour average, including several rest stops for water. Not bad for a group with an average age of 7*+.. Some of us needed to change our shirts.

Beers and panachès – even Kobie got in this selfie

Kobie behaved – what a well trained hound !

Various forms of sausage and potatoes arrived

We toasted absent friends, especially Philip lying in intensive care in Geneva – may he be back with us very soon.

After an excellent mountain restaurant lunch, including home made tart, coffee and digestifs, washed down with fine conversation and banter, it was time to head down to catch a train.

We were very soon back in the trees and passing by Guinfard. Realising we had some time to spare in catching the 3.02pm at St Cergue, Mark2ts produced a flask of coffee, 6 cups, a flask of whisky and some Stanley cups, and we were fêted by a log pile.

Suitably fortified (merçi Mark!) we were soon into St Cergue and across to the station. The train was on time and a restful but amusing 23 minutes later (barking dog (not Kobie) and noisy children) found us spilling out at Givrins where it was hotter, but it was only another 25 minutes and we were back at the cars at 3.50pm.

We had missed the rain – it duly arrived at about 5 pm – and had had a brilliant day out. No Ginjuries, Kobie had behaved and I believe that we all enjoyed the exercise, lunch and company. And the Jura hills are wonderful at this time of year. Thanks to attendees for being so kind to Kobie.

Next hike July 7th, Stephen will lead a circuit at Morgins (on the opposite side of the valley to last year he tells me).