The forecast showed no precipitation in sight just a little low cloud to mask the sun. Excellent cycling weather….. especially if we could get above the cloud! Seven GIN Bikers signed up for the outing which promised the usual “at least one hill” as well a hearty lunch and the usual comradery.
Mark2Ts Mervyn e-Paul PeterD PeterT e-Thatcher Stephen
Six of the group arrived at the Everness Hotel at the planned 10h, only Mark seemed to be absent. Perhaps the change of timing from the usual 09.30h had thrown him or perhaps a little longer mental preparation was necessary. Phone calls failed to contact him. In the event, it seems that he took a novel route which was longer than expected. However, when he did arrive, he arrived in style: he was the only one of the group to be wearing shorts on this fresh autumnal day.
All present and almost correct
We headed towards the Versoix woods, passing a new barrier designed to stop any motorists who thought this path would be an acceptable bye pass of the lengthy road closure on the usual route to Chavanne de Bois. The ride through the woods was delightful: dry, flat and with beautiful autumn colours. We stopped for coffee at the Vielle Batie Golf Club where we received a warm welcome and warm coffee/tea. There were a few golfers trying their hand on the driving range and the 9 hole pitch and putt course. One of Thatcher’s neighbours appeared with grandchildren. Junior clubs sized, they went off to start a potential career in golf (the children that is…..too late for the grandparents!). Paul kindly volunteered the coffee as a recognition that this outing had enabled him to reach 10,000km on his bike this year. Bravo!
The gentle climb up towards Cessy and Gex on paper seems just that but after a relaxing rest it somehow seems more demanding. The peloton spread out with the e-bikers at the front, accompanied by PeterT, who seemed to have a point to prove. The BLeader did his best to keep the group together and encourage the less speedy. By the time we arrived at Gex, the major part of the climb was still ahead of us. We reassembled adjacent to an e-bike hire hub which generated the usual conversation about whom of the non e-bikers would succumb to electronic aid first. There is still a lot of pride attached to pure muscle power riding. Mark thought that the time is approaching but was not prepared to act on the spur of the moment and rent one of the bikes from the stand. So, with the tough hill ahead and Wattage low, he decided to head back home for a comfortable ride and early siesta.
The rest of us gritted our teeth and headed through Gex and up on the road to the Col de la Faucille. The road itself zigs and zags it’s way up the hill and past our lunchtime destination, the restaurant Le Florimont. This has two disadvantages: firstly it is a lot longer and secondly there is a lot of traffic to contend with compared to the back route. Unfortunately, the back route being shorter for the same amount of elevation gain is consequently much steeper. Memories from earlier tackling of this direct ascent some years previously had faded (indeed, the Bikers had cycled to a GIN lunch here) and the level of effort required forgotten, replaced by the warm satisfaction of the well-oiled lunch. The climb rivals any of the other usual GIN Bikers challenges. The group strung out. PeterT determined not to be at the back forged ahead. The e-bikers, Paul and Thatcher, unworried about charge anxiety as they had plenty to spare, could enjoy the colourful seasonal display on the Jura. The rest of us had heads down, concentrating on the tarmac and sweating profusely as each pedal turn challenged the ageing leg muscles and lung capacity.
One by one the restaurant destination was reached. When 5/6ths of us were there the beers were ordered. When the sixth member had not appeared 30 minutes after the first, some concern was expressed. However, we had no doubts that PeterD would appear for beer. Some minutes later, the BLeader thought that a more positive effort should be made and managed to make phone contact and received a reassurance that our party would soon be complete. Definitions of “soon” can differ but eventually the BLeader started walking down the road in search of the lost rider. A further call and an acknowledgement that all was not well and maybe there would be a spare beer at the lunch table. Not a happy outcome and the incidence of a lost GIN biker would not make for a relaxed lunch. Stephen returned to the restaurant to impart this sorry story only to find both Peters sitting at the end of the table and the spare beer being consumed. In his keenness, PeterD had cycled right past Le Florimont and further on up the track before realising that he had expended more energy than necessary.
Pierre perdu tucks in
The other Pierre does the same
The last time Thatcher had been in this restaurant was 35 years previously. Apparently, little has changed….certainly the place mats were dog-earred. Lunch was excellent and plentiful. The menu du jour was salad, pierrade with chicken and then a café gourmand, all for a modest 25 Euro. Stephen offered drinks in recognition of the last formal ride of the season, Mervyn offered top up drinks including large digestifs (of a much more satisfactory quality than some other recent ones in Barme on the 2 day walk) in celebration of a recent birthday and Thatcher offered lunch as a thank you to the GIN organisers. What comradery!
Replete, relaxed and still a large digestif to round off the meal
Fully relaxed and with that warm glow from good food and drink, we wrapped ourselves up for the chill factor of the descent. It was an enjoyable downhill all the way, retracing our path until the old railway track in Gex, where Paul separated to head directly for home. The rest of us sped along the gravel track towards Divonne with the knowledge that we were not far from a comfortable chair and rest. Unfortunately, the progress was impeded by construction works just before Grilly and we had to descend a steep bank to the alternative road. The first there gingerly slid down the slope whilst Thatcher did an impressive forward roll, happily with only minor damage to his bike and no apparent personal injury.
At Grilly the group divided further with only a couple benefiting from the short new extension to the railway track, which avoids the earlier detour through the town. By the time Divonne was reached everyone was on their individual way home.
This was another exceptional day’s ride and a fitting one to end the formal season. The discussion on e-bikes continues but there is more weight towards the benefits after an ascent of this nature. The capability to go further to new cycling areas also is in favour of e-bikes. PeterT, for one, categorically stated that he would not attempt this route again without electronic assistance but he still is reluctant to set the trend. We’ll see what challenges the Bleader sets next season and what machines are being ridden.
Statistics for the day: +/-42km and ca. 650m ascent
Into October and still the weather forecast was indicating a sunny day. However, we hadn’t prepared ourselves fully for the chill of the morning which carried on throughout the day. Seven GIN Bikers met at the Everness at 09.30h, some wearing shorts and some having changed to their winter wardrobe ith long leggings. The starting team were:
Mervyn Mark2Ts (back after many absences) PeterD (back after some absences) PeterT (back) e-Paul e-Philip Stephen (Bike Leader)
Paul arrived last having been contemplating the wasted fruit on the ground in the neighbouring orchards…..seemingly good fruit but for some reason left to recycle into the ground. His panier basket seemed fuller than usual.
At this stage in the biking season, muscles should be fully formed and lungs ready for the more strenuous rides. E-bikers circumnavigate this need and can perform at all times but the purists can be caught short if they haven’t been active on a regular basis. The BL had chosen a route to test physical condition… the famous 3 hills circuit of Bonmont, Mourex and Vesancy.
“Cycle gently towards the Bonmont climb. Warm up with the climb up to 727m. Down to Crassier and a coffee. Along the old train track, through Divonne and onto the Mourex hill test. Down and then up to Vesancy. Down to the Accor Parfait for lunch. Home after lunch.” Compromise was made in the shape of a coffee break after the Bonmont hill and serious calorific restocking at lunch.
We set off in the now usual circuitous route towards the first hill, passing a fellow GIN member, Martin Vaughan, walking his dog, Terence. Martin declined the offer of joining the group blaming an ageing bike with a puncture in his shed.
PeterD commented at one stage that the route to the base of the Jura was a little too wayward….but he hadn’t been on the previous outing to make a balanced judgement. The group spread out considerably even in this warm up period and it became obvious who had not been exercising regularly and/or had older equipment. The potential to switch to e-bikes was discussed again but there are some stubborn classical cyclist in the group and they do not want to be seen to crack first. PeterT set off at pace up the Bonmont hill, anxious to dispel the demons of the previous ride. The rest followed with the e-bikers looking decidedly more relaxed and the BL doing somewhat of a corralling role to ensure no-one was left behind. At the 727m junction, the wait for the usual photo seemed prolonged as the backMarker was running on low Wattage. The photo was taken with the potential opportunity to photoshop in any missing member later and then the congregated group departed downhill, eager to get a warming coffee in Crassier.
Time and tide wait for no backmarker
The BL, feeling the responsibility associated with his position, backtracked to ensure that the missing biker was still pedalling uphill…which he was only a couple of hundred metres down the road. The summit attained Mark and Stephen sped down appreciating anew the chill of the day and the impact of wind chill. They arrived at the coffee stop in time to add their order to the open bill, which PeterT kindly settled, adding in some patisserie as well as a bar of house made chocolate.
Happy BL but doubtful GIN Bikers….where are we going next?
At this stage it became apparent that the group was going to fracture. PeterT was called away due an unwell Jill and Kobie, who was in need of his daily part-Everest ascent. Philip had earlier mentioned that he would not be able to complete the circuit as he had to get home for other commitments. Mark part-accompanied Philip on his way before finding an easier route to lunch, avoiding two thirds of the hills on the planned itinerary. The remaining 4 of us manfully adhered to the predetermined route and enjoyed (?) the challenge of the Mourex uphill slog followed by the lesser Vesancy climb. Even e-Paul found that he had to work hard….maybe a case of too many apples in his bag? However, we all made it, age and fitness levels deferring to sheer will-power.
The downhill from Vesancy in the direction of Divonne, via the hamlet of Saint Gix, was a joy apart from that persistent chill factor and we got to the Accord Parfait in good time to have a round of drinks before Mark joined us. Except Mervyn, who decided on the excellent maigret de canard, the rest of us opted for the three course 19 Euro menu, although Paul would have had the copious spare ribs had they not been out of stock. As indicated earlier, the three menu courses were plentiful: pâté en croute with salade, cheeseburger and fries, and an interesting desert of chocolate sauce with mint ice-cream and a thick layer of whipped cream (for those who could manage this). Paul’s often fruitless request for “super croustillant” fries was met on the second attempt as a fresh bowl of indeed crispy chips was supplied without argument by our friendly waiter.
Refreshed, vitalled and warmed we wrapped up again for the quick descent through Divonne and to our respective homes. Such was the eagerness to get to that siesta that the farewell formalities were dispensed with and we peeled off at our individual appropriate points. Overall ca. 50km and 750m ascent with quite large variations depending upon the individual.
A hike organiser needs to keep a close eye on weather conditions. So it was with some apprehension when the late summer from the previous week turned into a forecast for early winter with heavy rain and potential for snow for a planned 2 day hike in Barme. So much had been promised by the organiser in terms of stunning scenery only available in fine weather. 12 enthusiastic participants had responded to an early call with happy memories of the Tour of the Muverans and the Tour of the Dents du Midi still in mind. When one potential participant, with a Philippines’ warm weather habit, literally got cold feet, it was an indication that the rest of the group would have to be consulted to check on their resolve. Happily, the first response from a member (one happy to frolic in the snow) set the tone and suggested that this GIN group is more than used to adversity. After this, no-one else dared back out and the organiser had shared the weight of decision-making responsibility.
Backpacks were loaded with wet weather gear and layers of warm clothing (and in some cases copious supplies for canine friends) and then covered with waterproof membranes. The journey from respective homes to the Grand Paradis parking meeting place in the Portes du Soleil at the far end of the valley from Champéry was mostly smooth. The 11 eager participants arrived on time and were soon talking about the sole hiker who had decided that the best waterproofing was bare legs…. well, the Scots do have experience in this domain. The party consisted of Mark2Rs, Mervyn, MikeH + Rocco, MikeM + Nessie, Nathan, PeterS, PeterT + Kobie, Ralph, RichardS, Rob and Stephen (leader). As was commented, mad dogs and Englishmen were certainly present on this occasion as well as a representative sample of other nationalities with similar tendencies.
All present and correct. The team sets off.
The dogs set off excitedly, happy to also be part of this adventure, and the group followed in a more measured manner. There was a request for a coffee stop but unfortunately the one suitable restaurant had decided to take a few days off. So, we started the initial climb, past the closed restaurant and up towards the threatening sky and our luncheon spot. The rain held back and as those aging bodies warmed up there was perhaps a greater understanding of a choice of shorts. We started to find our rhythm with a group of usual front runners and backmarkers and those happy to be in the middle or alternating between positions. Plenty of time had been allotted for this shortish but steep ca. 500m climb to the Refuge de Bonavau at 1552m.
On the way up. No rain and warm….maybe the Scotsman has got it right
Nathan, with his dedicated trek tracker, is a dangerous companion to a hike organiser as he always seems to know in advance the exact location, elevation, steepness of climb/descent, etc. so it’s impossible to suggest any route is less arduous than reality. We arrived in good time at the refuge just as the rain started to fall and we installed ourselves in the dry as the only customers of the day. The refuge has checked the day before that we really would be coming as all their other reservations, including the overnight stays, had cancelled due to the weather forecast.
Good spirits and good beer.
Plenty of banter over lunch and memories of the first day of the Tour des Dents du Midi hike which had passed very close to here (but without lunch….a story often brought up to try, unsuccessfully, to embarrass Mervyn, the organiser of that great outing). The mountain fare was good with mostly a selection of croûtes and omelettes chosen, washed down with sufficient beer but leaving room for the tarte aux myrtilles before coffees. The dogs too had their nutrition, Kobie only being satisfied when the 80CHF bag of mega-chews was eventually opened. Unfortunately, we did have to leave this warm cocoon and venture out into the cold and now increasingly wet world. However, it appeared that all was not well with Rocco and his concerned owner, Mike, who felt that there was canine over-excitement. He took the difficult decision to head back down to Grand Paradis and onto St. Luc, a day earlier than initially planned.
After lunch outlook was not so promising.
By chance, Mike missed the wettest, muddiest, slipperiest, and overall not a very pleasant climb up to the col at 1793m and then sliding downhill to Barme. Normally this is a short and scenic walk but in these conditions, with little visibility and heavy rain, it seemed unusually long….atlhough Rob did claim to like these familiar conditions. However, expectations had been set for the rest of the hike…..Day 2 must be better, mustn’t it?
A pause at the high point before descent into Barme
The Cantine de Barmaz was welcoming, serving us hot drinks on arrival as we shed wet clothing and recovered from the afternoon’s exertions. The owner/waiter didn’t seem over stressed as we were the only customers (although another couple appeared for the evening meal…..from where and to where we do not know).
A warm, dry haven at last.
Out of the rain….time for a warm drink and relaxation
Feeling slightly less damp we moved operations to the bedrooms where the only predetermined arrangements were for the dogs and their owners, one individual room and one agreed double room. The rest of us looked around and hoped that we had chosen room mates with no unpleasant nocturnal habits. From the discussion the following morning it seems that we mostly succeeded. The rooms were compact, especially for PeterT and MikeM who had to share their accommodation with Kobie (no need to mention Nessie as she seemed to slot in unnoticed anywhere). There was a relief that MikeH and Rocco didn’t have to share this room as the owner was adamant that there could only be one room with dogs.
Dog tired …..but where do Peter and Mike sleep?
The bathroom facilities were also interesting with two closed showers , three basins and one open toilet all within a confined area. Happily, we discovered much more private toilets downstairs for the more meaningful visits.
After a change of clothes and a time for general relaxation, we congregated for the apéros before making our meal choices. With a room to ourselves, equipped with a stove, we soon were enjoying the warmth and letting the afternoon conditions recede into the distant memory (some poetic licence here). Were we all game for the game on the menu, especially when we were told by the owner that this was local. Wines were not quite so local but came from Saillon, just a little further down the Valais. Since MikeH had made a generous parting gesture of offering us some drinks, we decided to opt for one of the better bottles on the list to toast our friendship at his expense. It was very drinkable and, unfortunately, set the standard for the other bottles consumed, much to the concern of the leader/accountant. In fact, we didn’t hold back in this convivial atmosphere and enjoyed not only ample good wine but also copious helpings of cerf and/or sanglier in rack, medaillon or entrecote form with all the trimmings, without forgetting starters and desserts. Such were the helpings that Kobie benefitted from a large meal of left-overs the following morning….a veritable doggie bag. By the time we were at the coffee stage several were mellow enough to be persuaded to have a glass of the homemade pine liqueur. Sadly, the accountant was also mellow enough to allow this. Added to crème brulée in small quantities this liqueur was truly excellent but in pure form it transformed to a green sludge with a very unpleasant aftertaste, rivalling the worst of Richard’s flask offerings. Amazingly, Mervyn and PeterT seemed immune to these flavours (aftermath of COVID?) and were happy to help out those with more sensitive palates. Even they could not finish all 7 glasses.
A great choice of chasse and wine. No prices on the latter…..
Game for this plate of food.
Happiness is a warm room, warm food and warm company
To rival any of Richard’s
Replete and tired from the day’s efforts, people started drifting off to bed at an unusually early hour, leaving a hard core to have a final rinsing beer and to listen to the calls of amorous wild animals across the valley, mingled with the bells from more domesticated animals. The night passed without major incident, no loud snores or rampant dogs, just the frequent creak of old doors as aging men needed to make use of the open plan bathroom. The dog room had the worst of this as the only place for Kobie was in front of the door, causing a large obstacle for exit. Ironically, on an informal count the following morning, the human content of this room claimed the maximum number of nocturnal reliefs.
Is that sunshine behind us?
A new day dawned……and it was still raining. However, there seemed to be better visibility at times. MeteoSuisse promised a drier day from 09.30h until 16h, almost perfect for the planned walk. So we enjoyed a leisurely breakfast and repacked our backpacks ready for the rain to stop….which it did but visibility was still poor. Backpacks were left at the Cantine as we would be passing by again on our final way down and could pick them up them. The walk up from the Cantine to the end of the Barme valley can be spectacular under good conditions. We had tantalising glimpses between rising and falling cloud and started to gain an appreciation of our location. New snow on the peaks added an additional quality to those ethereal glimpses. We even managed to see some chamois high up on the hill, which Kobie felt obliged to get closer to. By the time we reached the end of the valley, we had a fairly good view of the impressive Dents Blanches and, looking back, the Dents de Midi were also making a partial appearance.
Majestic Dents du Midi
We met your cousins last night….
Richard, Mark and MikeM decided against a longer uphill loop to see the bird station at the Col de Bretolet. This added an extra 3-4 kms to the circuit. Instead, they took the ridge walk back towards the lunchtime Cantine des Dents Blanches at a leisurely pace (allowing time to find a wayward Nessie on a couple of occasions) and secured our table in the near empty restaurant. The rest of us made the detour. This involved a steep up and as we climbed the visibility reduced. At the top, on the ridge, we had zero view to our left and to our right and it started to snow. Not ideal conditions for seeing birds.
Up into the cloud and the bird ringing station
As we began the tranverse across to the bird ringing station, there was a hint of movement in the cloud cover. As we arrived, there was a biblical moment as the clouds parted and showed the Dents Blanches appeared in all their glory. Magnificent.
Rock and awe
The Lead Ringer, one of the two paid employees at this Swiss Ornithological Institute station along with several volunteers, gave us a fascinating description of their work and trends in migration. Over 10000 birds are ringed annually between April and October, at least half of them being chaffinches (what is a chaffinch in French?). Migration trends clearly indicate errors in President Trump’s theories on (or lack of) climate change. As we were listening we had a fly past of a bearded vulture and a griffin vulture. PeterS was able to make an internation connection with ornithological activities in South Africa. Interestingly, the work of this ringing station is not advertised strongly in Switzerland since there is a body of people who are not in favour of the stress to the birds despite the information and understanding this generates.
After three isolated months here he’ll even talk to the GIN Group
We retraced our steps enjoying the view and the autumnal colours of the azaleas and myrtille plants on the hillside. Amazingly, there were plentiful berries still on the plants….if only we had picked up that myrtille comb from the Cantine. Back on the ridge, the clouds were clearing from the Portes du Soleil side and we had a good view of the new border house at the Col de Cou. Due to the time, we headed straight down and along the ridge that the alternative party had walked earlier. The views on both sides were great, enhanced in some ways by the still swirling cloud and the uncertainty of how long we would have them. The snow had stopped and it was not as muddy underfoot as the day before. We made good time despite a seemingly endless zig-zag descent through the woods along the chemin “Nature”.
We arrived at the restaurant only about 15 minutes after the reservation and reunited with the rest of the group. There was another opportunity to sample local game but for some reason we all thought that would be an over-kill. Instead, the more modest ordered salade de chevre chaud and the more gourmand went for the croute and risotto options. Some people still had room for dessert and a chance to sample another tarte aux myrtilles. The food was excellent and we marvelled how two restaurants in a small hamlet could have such good kitchens. The famous flask at last made an appearance and several sampled it’s syrupy delights. If only we had known the night before…..
Appetit refreshed. Ready for more game?
A healthy salad is a sensible choice
After lunch we recovered our backpacks and headed the direct route home. A descent of ca. 500m over 3-4km, i.e .very steep in parts. However, this was a good quality gravel track and the rain was not due until 16h. At the bottom, we passed again the closed restaurant. Although part of the initial plan to stop here, this closure was a blessing as the budget had already been blown from the excesses of the night before and the rain was starting, very much on cue. We were keen to get back to the cars. Discrete top up contributions were made to the grateful accountant, so that the books balanced.
Farewells were exchanged and we all returned back to our homes with warm memories of another memorable GIN hike. GIN really is a great organisation….friendship, exercise, tolerance and a lot of fun, despite frequent discussion over aches and pains.
Bloggers note: Many thanks for all your photographic contributions. It was not possible to use them all! I’ve chosen a representative sample without reference to who took the photo
The biking gods offered us an autumnal day with blue skies, perfect temperature and clear views. What more could be done to entice out any reticent bikers? In the event 7 of us signed up for the ride with Mike H happy to join for the lunch, if not repeat his one and only earlier group participation some years ago.
Stephen (BL) PeterT e-Paul e-Thatcher “first outing” Pete (great to have a new member!) Mervyn e-Philip
Once again the e-bikers are making inroads in the group. Pete look resplendent in his aged but appropriate cycling gear and, as we found out during the day, he is not a novice for those inclines. The performance statistics of the group has gone up by a few points. Mervyn had just returned from some days in Provence trying out e-bikes with his alternative biking group. Peter, waiting for either Mervyn or Mark2Ws to crack in terms of a switch to electric power, felt some optimism that this event is getting closer. Mervyn explained the problems of power anxiety and the weight of an e-bike without electric motor assistance. Peter’s wait continues.
The leader had promised: “The usual mixture of up, down and refreshment points. Lunch at the Auberge Communale de Gilly, which has been advertising a menu AVS for 25 CHF for 3 courses and a glass of wine….sounds too good to be true! So the plan is to meet at 09.30 at the Everness Hotel and drift down by a circuitous route to the lake road by the tennis club, a little flat cycling before starting the climb through Prangins, Trelex up to Givrins for our usual coffee spot. From there we rely upon the caffeine to get us up past the Clinic in Genolier to Le Muids, on to Bassins and Le Vaud before descending to Gilly for lunch. After lunch a slightly longer ride than customary, but mostly flat, return to our respective homes.”
The fresh and eager starting group
We met on time at the Everness. Philip had to start earlier than anticipated due to a faulty fixture to carry his bike on the car and so he cycled the 19km to the start point. However, he already felt that the full circuit would be too much for him (power or condition anxiety?). Stephen started off the “circuitous” route to the lake road by heading in the opposite direction to the intuitive one. Peter keenly took on the theme and led us a much more devious route than originally planned but with the advantage that we could all view his house in the distance. Stephen redirected the group onto the lake road.
It’s been a while since the group tackled the path up from the lake road through Prangins, Changins, up to Trelex and then the last hard push to the path joining Gingins to Givrins (and coffee). It is quite a demand for an AVS lunch group and it took it’s toll. Along the way, even e-biker Paul was seen doing arm exercises in transit as his grip on the handlebars had obviously caused muscle fatigue. Peter said that he would stop at Givrins, saying he was done for and blaming a hard uphill walk the previous day with Kobie (isn’t that usual?). Co-incidentally, Peter’s wife passed in the car with Kobie on route for a tamer walk. Philip confirmed that he too would head home after coffee, his residual power rating lower than other e-bikers. The rest of us looked shaken but not broken although apprehensive of the hard part of the ride after coffee.
Happiness is a coffee stop….
The Givrins coffee shop always does us well and we enjoyed the refreshments and rest in the sunshine. Philip studied the map for the way home whilst Peter seemed to be wavering, although the final decision to go on or not would have to wait until Genolier. We said farewell to Philip and the remaining 6 of us cycled on to Genolier. 5 of us arrived there and waited for the unusual back marker, Peter. Bets were made and we felt sure that he would take the downhill route. However, manly resolved overcame the easier option and, without missing a rotation of the pedals, he cycled past us and up the hill towards the clinic. Actually, that unstoppable determination continued all the way until we eventually caught up with him again in Le Vaud at the highest point of the day. The rest of us took frequent rests to allow recovery at various points on this long uphill slog. By another co-incidence, Stephen’s wife passed us in the car just before the clinic. Now one wife is a low probability but two?….where was our resident mathematician when we needed the odds to be calculated?
Le Vaud, 815m elevation. Uphill over, time to recharge the batteries.
The reward awaited. Not only the economical AVS lunch in Gilly but the long downhill sweep to get there. This was glorious with spectacular views of Lac Leman and the Alps as we (mostly) free-wheeled the long descent to lunch.
On the way down…..lunch bells ringing!
The ache of the climb was forgotten and we settled to the first beer of the day at our table on the terrace. Mike’s arrival was not up to Swiss timeliness but we respectfully waited until we were all present before ordering the food. Unfortunately, the consequence (in reality due to fact that we had booked at 13h and not 12h) was that the meat option on the menu had already been depleted. However, the alternatives of salmon or pasta, following either soup or salad was more that acceptable. Our “free” glass of chasselas was poured and more beers ordered as required and the table revived with lively conversation. This was meaty discussion ….maybe spurred on by the lack of physical meat or maybe due the presence of a non-biker who has spent too long with just a dog for company. We covered topics including the referendum on rental values of property and whether we should take a personal of “for the benefit of the greater good” positions. Somehow the later was contorted to fall in line with the former. Inheritance tax in the UK came under scrutiny as well as tax generation in a broader sense for desperate governments. We also had a lightning update on Thatcher’s explosive home electronics. Desserts and coffee were ordered and despite the attraction of a longer stay, we realised that there was a way to go home and siestas cannot wait until dinner time.
No meat but the beer option is still available….
Although the ride from Gilly is flat or on average slightly downhill it always feels a long way, which is true. The lack of blood circulation to the legs after lunch hampers easy progress. Thatcher and Paul left us just outside DuillIer to make their own way back. The remaining 4 of us cycled the paths through Asse, Signy and Borex until Arnex was in sight. Offers of a refreshment stop in Arnex were declined and the remaining 3 headed as directly as they could to their home armchairs.
Electronic measurements differed slightly but, taking the higher values, we covered 66kms and ca. 800m ascent. A great day’s outing in ideal conditions.
To ride or not to ride, that was the question…..Meteo Suisse forecast was not looking hopeful for Thursday. After an exchange of emails with the GIN Biker community, some of who were half in, some half out, some taking the mean position and some the median, and some definitely excusing themselves, the Bleader said that a definitive decision would be made at 08.30h on the morning of the outing.
The evening before everything looked pretty gloomy with an over 50% chance of rain but by the following morning PeterT felt compelled to wake up the Bleader at 07.20h with the news that there was a window of possibility. A couple of strong coffees later and after studying in detail the latest reports, Stephen agreed that it did indeed seem as if we had a rain free morning with a storm predicted over lunch and then a chance to get home in the dry. The message went out to the eagerly awaiting Bikers that it was indeed a cycling day. Silence from the ether in way of reply apart from e-Paul who had sensibly (in view of earlier weather reports) organised alternative activities for the day.
So a slighty greater than averagely keen threesome made an appearance at the Everness Hotel at 09.30h: PeterT, Stephen and rather unexpectedly Mark2Ts, who, although he had opted for the mean position on decision whether to cycle or not, had not responded to direct contact attempts an hour earlier. A suggestion to make it a short sharp ride with the famous 3 hill circuit was unceremoniously quashed and replaced with one hill, the Genolier climb, with the motivation of lunch at the auberge in Coinsins.
The Bleader led the poorly populated peloton on a zig-zag course through Celigny, Crans, Eysins, Signy and Grens towards the foot of the Bonmont climb. Excitement and habit got the better of him at this stage and he suggested slipping in an additional hill to the previously agreed plan. Mark2Ts was definitely reassessing his position to participate to the lower quartile whilst Peter compensated by moving to the upper quartile….the mean stayed constant. (What about the median? In fact, what is the median in this context?). A compromise was found where Stephen and Peter completed a short Bonmont (up to the first junction before heading downhill and not completing the full 727m elevation) whilst Mark rode on the relative flat to the boulangerie at Givrins, where we would meet for coffee.
Over the coffee and croissants, kindly supplied by a relaxed looking Mark, an updated weather review took place. The animated forecast showed a 50 minute window to complete the Genolier climb and get to the restaurant before the heavens would open with an almighty storm. Even buoyed by caffeine this seemed too much for Mark, whose resolve to continue slipped to the zero percentile. He left on the quick route home.
A relaxed moment before difficult decision making
Peter and Stephen conquered the Genolier summit and managed to get to Coinsins before the threatened downpour. Two beers, two steak and frites and two coffees later we were still waiting for the storm. A difficult decision was made to make homeward dash for it as the alternative was more beer (and dessert?).
Weathering out the impending storm
We needn’t have worried, we managed the full itinerary via Duillier, Asse, Petit Eysins and the Landi car park crossing, Eysins and back to Arnex in the dry. Peter also made the additional 7kms back home without needing raingear….although he subsequently reported he did need magnesium salts for severe cramp.
The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune were kind to us. Those with less than mean/median weather optimism missed a good ride in the dry of just under 14kms with an elevation difference of either 600m or 1065m depending whose electronic device to believe.
The last GIN ascent of the Bellevue in Morgins was in September 2021. Memories from that occasion has meant that a repeat has been discussed many times since. Stephen was in Morgins for August 1st celebrations and so this seemed like a good occasion to ask the weather gods to be kind to facilitate the taxing straight up/straight down hike with the reward of a 360 degree panorama at the summit.
Despite heavy rain a few days earlier and cold and misty weather leading up to the planned date, July 31st started sunny with blue skies and little cloud as PeterT (+ Kobie), Mervyn, Mark2Ts, Ralph and Nathan set off from the Divonne car park. There were apologies from David and Thatcher who preferred to stay across the valley in Villars, several people claiming to be out of the country, one declination on grounds of excessive inclination and unfortunate withdrawals from RichardS and Rob on medical grounds.
Stephen could enjoy a leisurely morning and saundered down to the arranged meeting place for the 09.30h arrival. The core crew arrived ahead of schedule but the planned parking spot had been cordoned off due to Morgins’ preparation for the Fête Nationale, so some rapid arm waving was needed to redirect the cars to a suitable alternative. The group now gathered made a beeline for the local boulangerie for a coffee/tea to give time to mentally and physically prepare for the impending climb.
For those who had already been on this walk before it didn’t take long for the relentless uphill climb memories to come flooding back as we set off up the road. There was a fair amount of car traffic: a reminder that we hadn’t chosen the easiest means of ascent. However, we reached the Col de Culet base camp in good time with our backmarker taking his role seriously.
A break in the clouds with emerging Mark
Base Camp – Portes de Culet 1787m
The weather seemed to be taking a turn for the worse and even though there was no rain, the clouds were moving in and visibility was decreasing. By the time we reached the top after ca. 720m climb, admirably in under 2 hours, the panoramic tableau served only as a useful table for the refreshments and snack that people had brought.
Final push to the top and a false promise of blue skies.
Point de Bellevue (2042m) not living up to its name….. but a useful table
Cava and a Chilean Viognier served as useful lubricant to an assortment of sandwiches, crisps, nuts and some unusual dried chili mango. A toast was raised to our absent friends. A red wine was also available but was left untouched (are we becoming more sensible in our increasingly mature years?) and had to be transferred to a different rucksack, to someone with stronger knees, for the descent. Actually, knees and other bodily ailments were, as usual, a dominant subject of conversation during the day. Top athletes have been known to medicate for increased performance and this group was no exception….PeterT doing it overtly.
3 bad and 5 good kneesheading down
On the way down going up.….
The clouds were starting to separate and we caught glimpses of the Dents du Midi with fresh snow on their peaks from recent days as well as the surrounding mountains. Stephen’s promise of “stunning views” was partly fulfilled. The decent down to lunch was steady and less severe than some of the climb and we arrived at the Ferrage alpage almost exactly at the booked time of 13.30h. The multitude of other clients were well into their meals and the car park indicated that most had missed out on the physical exercise pre-cursor. Beers were ordered and consumed and we relaxed in the knowledge that the hard part was over and that it was “mostly downhill” from now on. The Ferrage is not known for light meals and whereas some opted for the substantial fondue and röstis, even the light salad that Mark thought he’d ordered turned out to be sufficient for at least two. Natham probably was wisest in his choice of omelette.
Replenishing the calories
Small omelette, lots of chips.
Happy with his fondue
Yes, the Dents du Midi are over there
Desserts looked meaningful but with the prospect of tarte and biscuits at Chalet “Les Longs” we opted just for coffees before departing.
The descent in Morgins from the Ferrage always surprises tired legs and full stomachs with an uphill section and with a steep road section down to the valley before a final climb up again to “Les Longs”. These ensure that the total climb for the tour passes the 800m. Kate was waiting for us with tea, coffee and promised edibles soon prepared whilst Stephen found some of his homemade beer for those brave enough to try and not driving.
A final stroll back to the village centre to find the cars and complete the circuit. Electronic devices agreed that the total ascent was 814m, exactly the same as 4 years ago and just over 14km. Unlike Mont Blanc, the height of the Bellevue has not changed…..to be reconfirmed in 4 years’ time?
At an earlier outing we discussed the possibility of varying our routes. Paul took up the challenge and with his friend David Baddeley, suggested a tour on the Salève. There followed a whole succession of emailed information with exact routes outlined and elevation differences detailed. The first involved a hefty 600m ascent after lunch which was quickly dismissed by Mervyn, who realised that the usual digestive processes would exclude this possibility. David managed to reduce this ascent to a mere 160m on closer examination of the map contours, with a realisation that when near the top of the Salève and additional 600m would take us airborne.
Paul circulated the final instructions with David’s map:
Meet at gare Lancy-Bachet at 09:10. Front of the gare, by the trams. For riders from Vaud, note the L4 train leaves Coppet at 08:34.
We ride to the start station of the téléphérique (coffee stop en route) and take the cable car to the crête of the Salève. Bike up and down to lunch at Auberge des Montagnards at La Croisette.
Eat and consume beers as per individual proclivity.
Modest uphill of about 160 m after lunch, then more or less flat until the la Grande Descente back to gare Lancy-Bachet. Regular trains to Coppet. Can change trains at Cornavin if your destination is Nyon.
Four additional GIN Bikers volunteered for the adventure. In the event, PeterD had to withdraw due to reduced mobility following an encounter with angry insect who had a liking for his foot, resulting in subsequent painful swelling. So the line up was e-Paul, e-David, e-RichardF, Mervyn and Stephen. Was this the first time the e-bikers outnumbered the traditional?…..a sign of the future.
With such detailed pre-work, what could go wrong? Richard, Mervyn and Stephen met on time at Coppet station only to find that the desired 08.34h train had been cancelled. In looking for alternatives, Richard discovered there was a 08.41h express train which actually arrived at our desired destination ahead of the planned transport. Communication with Paul alerted him of the situation as he too would have to adjust his travel plans. We agreed to meet at Lancy-Bachet station somewhat later than originally planned. In the event, the Coppet arrivals did get there early and Paul was already there having managed to catch an earlier train. The gained time was used trying to extract ourselves from the station labyrinth….which we eventually did and found David lounging patiently on a bench in the sunshine.
After this shaky start, we were in the safe hands of our guide for the day, David. We also learnt that David and Richard were old work colleagues from 40 years ago…. they had a whole day ahead to fill in those years. David led us out of the urban jungle into the countryside at the foot of the Salève. We had to negotiate a closed section of road (nothing new to the GIN Bikers), overcoming an irate local who clearly expressed that all traffic was prohibited, gently removing and replacing barriers as we went in and out of no man’s land. On the far side of this obstacle, Veyrier, the last Swiss town before the French border seemed an appropriate place to stop for coffee. Switzerland on this side of Geneva has a very different feel to that in Vaud…. the town having more of a provincial French nature but café au lait is still a renversé, as our waitress made very clear. Baguette with butter and abricot jam added to the atmosphere of this stop. Paul generously picked up the tab with the usual Swiss pricing.
Suitably refreshed, we started the long uphill ascent to the top of the Salève, made easier by the short ride across the border and then the aid of the téléphérique. We managed to squeeze in ahead of a large group of school kids, who were made to wait whilst their elders were carefully instructed in how to efficiently load bikes in the cable car and then fill all the space. The future generation had to wait for the next departure.
Bikes carefully loaded and aligned in a single direction
Bikers carefully loaded, definitely not aligned in any direction
Even an e-biker appreciates an easy ascent
At the top of the cable car, we stopped to admire the view down across Geneva and the Jura beyond. From here, we cycled up the winding road towards the observatory and the large telecommunications facility, clearly visible from the Plaine. The e-bikers revelled in the easy ascent, chatting as they went, whilst the old-school riders sweated up the slope determined not to let thoughts get hold about changing to motorised aid. On the way up we passed the incongruously positioned Tibetan Buddhist Monastery, The Shedrub Choekhor Ling, and Paul was inevitably drawn to this monument. We stopped to add to our spiritual wellbeing but avoided any material outlay on the numerous souvenirs on offer.
Spiritual, if not physical, replenishment
On up the road, past the road to the Observatory (and associated restaurant) and to the heights of the plateau with magnificent views across to Mont Blanc and The Alps. Spiritual overload. We descended to the sleepy hamlet of La Croisette where lunch was booked but all visible establishments seemed to be closed. However, tucked at the back, but with a terrace with a view, was the one open restaurant with a table ready for us but still too early for the chef to produce a meal. So, 5 beers later, the chef was ready and we made it easy for him by all ordering the menu du jour of roast beef, gratin and ratatouille. After this the muscle-powered-only bikers felt the need for the house tarte aux myrtilles speciality to add sufficient fuel for the promised post-lunch ascent and Paul was happy to join them even without the same excuse.
“I think I may still need a tarte aux myrtilles after this”
Once again the e-bikers raced ahead up the slope to the high point of the Col des Pitons (1335m) stopping en route to chat to some German tourists with camper vans taking advantage of the thermals to unsuccessfully launch a large model glider. Stephen and Mervyn pedalled on relentlessly eventually joining the leaders.
The loneliness of the long distance non e-biker
From the col we could all enjoy the long, winding, downhill run….happily speeding past bikers struggling uphill who had foregone the much easier cable car ascent. A right junction in the road kept us circumnavigating the Salève but also included an undesirable uphill stretch where a rapid gear change caused Stephen to lose his chain. By the time this was rectified and Stephen and Mervyn had caught up, the others were stopped in front of the impressive Château des Avenieres with a view down to the Lac d’Annecy. The group decided it would be good to reconnoitre the establishment for potential future GIN activities. It passed on all counts although cycling gear felt slightly underdressed.
Château des Avenieres – a future lunch spot
On down the hill at speed, the 60km/h barrier only just intact. At one point we crossed the path signposted for long distance pilgrims on their way to St. Jacques-de-Compostelle. We eventually met the main roads where the traffic rushed past as we kept close to the side or on the cycle track, where this was available. Crossing back into Switzerland between Bossey and Troinex, we headed towards the centre of Troinex for well-earned refreshment at David’s local café. After an enjoyable stop in the quiet town centre, sponsored by Richard, we were led by David back in the direction of Lancy-Bachet station a mere 10 minutes away.
Whilst Paul and Richard negotiated a small elevator, Mervyn and Stephen carried their lighter bikes down the 3 flights of stairs to the platform. As is often the case, the traditional bikes have the downhill advantage and were there first, the e-bikes arriving just in time for the incoming train. The L4 Express train is a bit of a misnomer in that it stops frequently but did allow us all to reach our own destinations. Paul alighted at Secheron, the rest of us at the Coppet end station, from where we made our individual ways home.
A truly great day, enjoying new and stunning scenery, reuniting with old friends and meeting new GIN members. Many thanks to Paul and David for making this possible.
Round ride from Genève Lancy-Bachet ca. 43km and ca. 660m climb by bike and the same by téléphérique.
Once again the weather forecast was kind to us: cooler than in the previous hot and humid days and only a small chance of rain….ideal for a GIN Bikers’ outing.
The Bleader had promised an interesting route, taking in the delights of the local countryside as well as a couple of uphill challenges:
“The plan is a 09.30h start at the Everness Hotel. From there the usual gentle start, similar to last time, in the pleasant countryside around Châtaigneriaz, God’s Crossing, Crans, Arnex, Eysins and up to Signy, Grens and Gingins, where we’ll stop for a coffee. Reinforced with caffeine (and maybe beer for PeterD?) we start the first of two hills: the first our Bonmont benchmark but up from the Gingins side…..some say a little more challenging. Having conquered the ascent to 727m we enjoy the downhill, passing above La Rippe and along the back border crossing into France. A small warm-up after the camp site before the short but steep Vesancy climb a little further on. At this stage in the season, we’ll save the brutal Mourex climb (the last of the hills in the famous 3 hill route) until our legs and batteries are used to discharging sufficient power and instead freewheel down towards Gex and onto Versonnex, where lunch is booked at the sur l’Ardoise. Suitably refueled all that is left is the attractive, non-strenuous ride back into Switzerland and through the Versoix woods to our starting point.”
Seven Bikers signed up for the outing, all arriving on time at the Everness Hotel meeting point: Stephen (BL), PeterD, Mervyn, Mark2Ts, Bill, e-Thatcher and e-Richard. Richard already making an excuse that he might again have to leave after the coffee stop, blaming a household injury (although could it have been another “important” webinar?). In his defense, he did complete the circuit, realising en route that e-biking is kind to leg injuries.
We set off in a non-intuitive direction, the BL keen to keep any independent-minded participants from guessing the way he would go and hence keeping them close. Bill was in fine fettle after a successful 3 day biking warm up with friends and even Mark the (sometimes diminished) Wattage was looking spritely, determined to show that muscle power alone is adequate, demonstrating that e-biking is still a way off for him…. and so not giving PeterT an excuse to also move to e-biking. The group kept mostly together up until the first incline to Signy and beyond although at one stage, as PeterD took the lead, confirmation was sought by some of the group that he had indeed gone the intended route (he had). As the coffee stop neared (Maison Brega on the outskirts of Gingins) the skies started to darken and PeterD was way up front. The BL made an attempt to haul him in to the desired destination and, with the help of the others, he indeed did correct navigation but Peter managed to cycle past the coffee spot and half way up the hill to Gingins before being recalled. There is a theme emerging here.
We shared the restaurant garden with a couple of ladies from the Nyon Ladies Group who seemed pleased to have seven such fit, Lycra-clad, GIN members join them. As we finished the coffees (and one green tea) the dark skies started to precipitate their contents and the ride up to the Gingins fountain became quite damp, necessitating some to out their rain gear.
Happy, if a little wet.
The Bonmont climb from Gingins is indeed a little longer and maybe steeper in parts than the traditional route with the result of the peloton spreading out behind the easy going e-bikes. Muscular and electrical power saw us all safely up to the usual 727m stopping point…..Wattage intact.
Good looking and fit, bikers at 727m (Richard behind the camera)
What a delight that downhill ride through the woods, the cool wind ventilating our exercised bodies and giving some temporary relief before the next uphill. This arrived all to soon and once again the peloton lengthened as the non-e-bikers manfully struggled up from St. Gix to Vesancy. Regrouping at the top, the general consensus was that the effort was not as tough as remembered (but then memories are perhaps getting hazy….). Once again we could enjoy a downhill ride: past Gex, through Cessy and onto Versonnex for lunch. At one stage e-Richard was seen to try and emulate Mervyn’s streamlining to get additional downhill speed (to no avail). With our lunchtime destination almost in sight, the heavens decided to unexpectedly open again but there was no stopping us this time to put on rain gear….the beers could almost be tasted.
Beer delivery……..
Ready to say “Cheers”!
The restaurant Sur l’Ardoise maintained it’s reputation for food and drink. A simple choice of two starters and two main courses on the menu du jour served our needs more than satisfactorily, with everyone opting for the cucumber soup and then a split between chicken and fish main course. The majority then felt that a dessert should be added to aid the calorific input for the trip home. The tarte tatin was excellent! There was some discussion about a possible spouse pick-up but this was soon lost in bikers’ chat about bike design, advantages of gravel bikes, positioning of water bottles etc. as well as not entirely favourable analysis of a certain President’s current activity.
The ride back across the border before Bossy and then onto Collex and through the Versoix woods was challenging enough even without major slopes. By this stage the sun had re-established itself and in the open it was hot and oppressive. The shade of the woods gave pleasant relief. By the time Stephen and PeterD passed our starting point all the other participants had peeled off (Thatcher making a now habitual stop at Jumbo).
Another perfect day, with only the Canadian smoke haze obscuring the views of the Alps and the Jura. It was going to be a Magnificent Seven but at a late hour we were augmented to an Awesome Eight participants: e-RichardF e-Paul e-Reinier PeterD Bill Mervyn Mark2Ts Stephen (Bleader)
We met at 09.30h at our usual place, part blocking the entrance and exit of the Everness Hotel much to the frustration of passing drivers.
Stephen had pre-warned what was in store: Meet at the Everness Hotel, gently pedal towards and past God’s Crossing, through Céligny, Crans and onto Eysins. Under the motorway and a small incline to Signy and further on through Grens to Gingins. From there we pass the opportunity to slip in a Bonmont ascent in order to save energy for later. Our usual route from Gingins to Genolier but stopping at Givrins for a timely coffee. Caffeine on board, we mentally prepare ourselves (if not physically) for the climb up on the new cycle track past the Genolier Clinic to Le Muids. A last push up to the top of the village and then a well-earned downhill sweep to Gimel but with that last irksome slope up to the village. From there our work is almost done! Downhill to Begnin, Vich and across to Coinsins and onto Duillier for lunch at the auberge with that spectacular outlook from the terrace (suggested on our last outing). Stomachs full we follow the leader along the route to Asse, farm track from Signy Centre to Signy village, Borex, Arnex and onto God’s Crossing, where we can disperse to our respective homes.
We set off in high spirits, unexpected by the Bleader as in his route plan he had mistakenly called Bassins, Gimel, which would have entailed a further 9km up the hill after Bassins at the end of an already steep climb. Once again the mettle of the group was displayed with not a negative murmur about the assumed task ahead. All went smoothly through Céligny and Crans with the group spreading out as we started up the gentle slope from Eysins to Signy and onto Gingins. By that stage, two of the e-bikers were at the front and were not aware of the regrouping at the Gingins fountain. Happily, they knew the way to the bakery/café in Givrins, but as it turned out they recognised the lack of peloton and waited along the route. For the first time this season, a coffee stop was on time and seating space was available outside the Givrins bakery. Richard and Paul fought over the rights to pick up the tab, which Richard won, much to the gratitude of all. Coffees paid, Richard declined the challenge of the Genolier hill as he had a “pressing webinar” to attend back home. Reinier also found an excuse to make an about turn. Perhaps, subconsciously, the potential of the Gimel destination was too draining for those with e-bikes……
Momentarily stopped at the Nyon-St.Cergue railway crossing outside Givrins, we slalomed the barriers but with due respect for safety (as we could see the train stopped at the Genolier station). On up through Genolier towards the clinic, where road signs indicated that the road was still closed after the clinic. A short debate resulted in the optimistic belief that GIN Bikers would be able to get through and PeterD led the way past somewhat irate workmen who questioned our ageing vison and sanity.
We regrouped at the top of the road with the backMarker still finding Wattage in his legs, although there were signs of the result of absence from the three previous outings. Digging deep, apart from e-Paul who was still comfortably charged, we made the climb through Le Muids until we enjoyed an all too short downhill on the way to Bassins before the final push up to the highest point of our ride (760m). Photographic evidence of this achievement was assigned to Bill. Having initially believed that he had a photographic or personal malfunction (couldn’t find the image on his phone) the result below was happily retrieved once safely back at home. The Gimel sign beckoned but all declined the opportunity to be late for lunch instead opting to be early for beer.
Relief at the highest point, some wistfully dreaming of Gimel
What an enjoyable downhill ride down from Bassins to La Cezille! Mervyn adopted a streamlined position on his bike, taking to the front and subsequently claimed to have reached 60km/h (safety warning: only Mervyn should try this on his aged bike). The Bleader decided on an amended route to stay high and not enter Begnins but double back to Genolier and from there, after a short uphill, enjoy the continuing downhill ride to Duillier via Coinsins. We arrived at the Auberge Malian in Duillier (under new management since our last visit) 45 minutes early, our table set and inviting with what would have been an excellent view across the vines to the Alps but for the haze. Beers ordered, we all opted for the menu du jour: salad, half a chicken and chips, coffee all for a modest 23CHF. Even the super croustillant chips ordered by Paul were included in the price.
A well-earned rest – no chickens here (yet)
Beered and dined we found it hard to leave the table but a siesta at home in a comfortable chair was an irresistible draw. Paul took his leave and headed down to Nyon station and from there to home. The remaining five of us slowly wound up the gears and returned via Asse and Signy Commercial Centre to the farm tracks running to Borex and beyond. Peter and Mervyn were on a mission and took the lead but unfortunately missed the planned turn in the route and ended up waiting at God’s Crossing alone whilst the peloton went the pre-determined way and dispersed before God’s Crossing, with Wattage on low and Bill feeling fit and ready for a multi-day outing with a cycling enthusiast friend.
Another memorable ride through our beautiful surroundings. In all ca. 50km and 700m ascent.
The GIN Bikers are a trusting group. Eight members signed up for the outing on Ascension Day before they knew in detail what was in store, apart from the promise of exercise, convivial company and a reasonable lunch. Those participating were: A trio of Peters: PeterT, PeterD and e-PeterS e-Paul Mervyn e-Mike Bill Stephen (Bleader)
Mervyn was careful to couch his participation with the desire that there wouldn’t be too much ascension (ironic for this particular day!). On learning that the circuit would involve some gravel track, Bill and his finely tuned racing bike decided to join us along the chosen route at the old railway station at Gex and avoid the converted railway track. So seven of us met at the revised starting time of 09.30 in front of the Everness Hotel. PeterT only realised the change in timing as his alarm woke him from a dream of climbing Everest in his slippers and he glanced at his messages from the previous day. The adrenaline kicked in and he was not the last to arrive. It was a perfect day, sunny but not too warm with a clear view of the surrounding mountains.
We set off in the direction of Grilly, stopping at our usual regrouping point of the village fountain. Since our last visit a book exchange cabinet had appeared and Paul, ahead on his e-bike, had time to peruse the selection and pick up a tome. From here we picked up the converted railway track, progressing smoothly in single file towards the meeting point for Bill. (The Bleader commented that we could have diverted via the testing Mourex hill but accepted that this could have caused a mutiny). Bill was duly waiting for us but the café was not operational until 12 noon so we headed into Gex to find a suitable stop for coffee. As it transpired, the centre of Gex is undergoing a renovation and the route was barred. PeterD wasn’t deterred and hoisted his bike and himself across the barriers and into no man’s land. The rest of us turned around and found a different route to a local café, where we were able to sit in the sun watching traffic pass.
Now that’s a coffee stop!
Where’s PeterD?
PeterT announced that this was the 30th anniversary of his arrival in Switzerland and was happy to finance the refreshments. As the coffees and unexpected lemon tarts arrived for this notable Swiss anniversary (albeit celebrated in France) we realised that PeterD was still absent. A phone call located him halfway towards Vesancy thinking that he was behind us. He decided to stay ahead and wait for us opposite our old watering hole in Vesancy, Ô Château (unfortunately now permanently closed). The spare coffee was shared and the spare lemon tart carefully packed so that PeterD could enjoy it once we caught up with him.
Content that for the first time this season there was a timely coffee stop, the peleton set off up the steady incline to Vesancy to regain our wayward colleague and full membership. The ride down from Vesancy is always agreeable after the summit of the town and allows mental preparation for the inevitable Bonmont climb once back into Switzerland by La Rippe. Concerned not to overstep his leadership role, the Bleader offered a democratic vote to only complete the first part of the Bonmont climb and not the final push to the full 727m elevation. Mervyn cast his vote without stopping at the decision junction and the rest of us had to follow up the extra metres. Well, all except Paul, who with the benefit of external power, decided to shoot ahead to the 888m junction and was consequently missing from the traditional photo at 727m. We recovered him subsequently in Gingins looking none the worse for wear after his additional climb.
Where’s Paul?
Our lunch spot was the Trois Tilleuls in Genolier. We all went for the menu du jour of trout pâté, quasi agneau (which we discovered is “rump” although other synonyms were used) with vegetables and fruit salad……all for a very reasonable 28CHF. It was well up to the usual high standard. The final price was somewhat higher after the necessity of liquid refreshments but still good value.
Serious food
Serious eating!
Mike left directly from lunch, his home being close by in Gingins. Paul left us after we descended through Coinsins and Duillier to Prangins to catch the train from Nyon back to Gd. Saconnex. The remaining six, continued down to the Route Suisse and along through Nyon before climbing up past the Nyon tennis club towards Crans and onto God’s Crossing (Evangelical Centre). At this point the party split and made their individual ways home.
All in all it was about 54km on average with individual variations and 670m climb. We all agreed that it was another excellent day on and off the saddle, meeting expectations of exercise, good company and good food with great weather and scenery thrown in.
