Stephen Long – GIN Club

Snowshoeing – March 13th 2025

Divonne- Mont Mourex-L’Accord Parfait- Divonne

As the leader for the day pointed out, snowshoes were not needed for this hike on Mont Mourex and Mont Mussy. The spring-like weather of the week before had reduced snow levels on the Jura and, despite some new coverage, the decision was taken to reduce altitude level to try and stay on relative firm ground. As it turned out the weather forecast for the day was unsettled and as we gathered in the car park next to the old station in Divonne it was indeed trying to rain as well as blowing a cold wind.

Eight intrepid GIN Snowshoers turned up on time (well almost) with two canine friends (Kobi and Rocco) happy to see each other and join in the circuit. Stephen (leader for the day) Mike H, Nathan, Richard S, Mark 2Ts, Peter T, Peter S and Ross made up the starting group. We set off through the Divonne housing in the direction of Les Crottes and onto the Chemin de Tir where the road melted into a track leading along the base of Mont Mussy to Mourex. Helpful “Deviation” signs showed us the way….intended for traffic but somehow seemed suitable for this group. Happily, any deviating individual had been properly admonished on the last snowshoe outing, consequently solidarity with the leader’s directions was unflinching.

Along the way, we experienced some unexpected hail and an attempt at snow but also some sunshine. Arriving at the road leading up through Mourex, several of the group, who are also members of the Biking Group, recalled the hard slog in the saddle up this hill from the old train track below. This forms part of the famous 3 hills circuit pioneered by Peter D. We followed the road up through the village until we reached the parking for Mont Mourex. At this point, our canine presence was swollen by a dog walking group of at least 8 dogs of various sizes and breeds. Extracting Kobi and Rocco took a little time.

We completed the hike up to the highest point (755m) where the vantage point and circular tableau offered not only a superb view but also a useful bar and table, albeit a little wet and slippery. The cold wind didn’t allow the Puglian Primativo to be enjoyed at it’s best and even the spirit bottle of many names was untouched in favour of Mark’s warm coffee. (That could also be due to the fact that it’s contents were unchanged from the previous outing and our memories of that tasting experience are still fresh). However, the increasing number of snacks that appear on these outings were happily consumed in an attempt to provide insulating fat and ballast.

Highest point – Mont Mourex

The “bar” in action

A happier Mike………amazing what abstinence can do

At this point the leader suggested retracing our steps to the car park to enable joining the track leading around the far side of the hill. Despite seasoned voices suggesting that there was indeed an alternative route to achieving this aim, not requiring backtracking, solidarity and compliance with the leader’s pre-determined route prevailed. As it transpired, this allowed a second encounter with the dog walkers and their canine posse, much to the delight of our two dogs.

With only occasional stops to ensure that we were taking the correct forks in the track, we arrived at the parking by the Ferme de Mussy. At this point Peter T, Ross and Peter S took the direct route back to the cars, foregoing the pleasures of L’Accord Parfait. In Peter T’s case this was probably due to concern that Kobi would ensure that he didn’t need a doggy bag as he would have benefitted from a tour of the restaurant and kitchen, sampling from any plate left unattended.

The five lunch-goers took the small meandering path to the back of the restaurant and arrived after a Tayloresque off-piste steep descent. Why there is no formal path down is a mystery. We joined Mark 2Rs who had arrived separately, recovering from a flu/fever but well enough to have ordered and consumed a kir prior to our appearance.

Beers were ordered and a bottle of Argentinian Malbec (at the correct temperature). All but Richard and Stephen opted for the menu du jour. This comprised of a salad and meat croute starter, sausage and mash, and an ice-cream dessert all for an amazing 19Euro. Richard and Stephen went for the more modest coquelet with fries, “modest” being relative only to the set menu lunch as Richard took half of his lunch away with him for later and Mike managed to find room for excess fries. Rocco behaved almost impeccably under the table apart from his penchant for destroying serviettes. He won over the waitress who ensured that he had adequate water. Conversation was varied and interesting, as usual, but don’t expect me to remember the details…..I was struggling with eating all that chicken meat.

Contemplation of the sizeable main course of the menu du jour…..the coquelet is arriving in the background

Lunch and dinner for one

The walk from the restaurant back to the parking by the old station was uneventful. It was a shame that the first part had to be along the main road but there was no appetite for a rescaling of the off-piste to the woodland path. Mark 2Rs took us on a shortcut alongside the chateau to enable not only seeing property in an unknown part of Divonne but also ensuring that siestas were not delayed further.

Consensus was that we covered ca. 12kms and climbed 365m.

Snowshoe Outing – December 7th, 2023

A “Tonic” outing on an “unofficial” GIN snowshoe day

To the minds of many, there is nothing like a gin and tonic with a good amount of ice. However, when the person who chooses the best gin is absent we have to at least enjoy a good tonic with ice. On this occasion, our usual leader Mark2Rs was not available and PeterT, who had suggested the outing, had fallen on the ice earlier in the week and damaged his knee. Happily, Rob stepped into the vacant leadership role to save the day and ensure this “tonic” snowshoe outing.

Eleven participants had signed up for the day…..a remarkable number given the weather earlier in the week. But Metéo Suisse promised better for this Thursday and, knowing that there would be new snow on the Jura, we were keen to dust off the snow shoes and start the season. In the event, we were a round 10 in number as our newest recruit, Stephen Langton, a friend of Mervyn’s, wasn’t able to come. He had kindly offered to host drinks in St. Cergue after the outing. Maybe, he hadn’t realised the numbers or maybe had heard of the insatiable thirst of the GIN members, but at the last moment had to pull out. Unfortunately, for him it was another GINjury: he as well had slipped on the ice, damaged his knee and was not up to the outing. So in the end Rob, Mervyn, Andrew, PeterS, MikeM, David, Nathan, Drew, Richard and Stephen met up at the now toll-free parking at Tancouex, St. Cergue. Drew was particularly visible in bright orange trousers….a practical advantage for anyone not wishing to be left behind.

Can anyone find Drew?

We all donned our snow shoes and headed off in the direction remembered from an earlier hike. It was a little overcast and certainly chilly. As we climbed, more blue appeared in the sky and more red in our cheeks. Despite some early uncertainty, Rob soon got into his stride and led us unerringly toward the Fruitières de Nyon, our first high point. Here we stopped to admire the splendid view of Mont Blanc and the Alps, across snow fields sparkling in the sunshine, and allowed a moment to catch our breath and for some of us to refresh ourselves with a little nip from Richard’s bottomless (and unfathomable), multi-labelled flask. There was some discussion as to the name of this vantage point but the signpost had the deciding vote: “Chalet Devant”.

The fantastic view from Chalet Devant, Fruitières de Nyon

From here, we walked down and then up, through untrodden snow past the refuge and towards Genolière. Stephen was encouraged to take the lead as the short steps of our vertically-challenged leader didn’t satisfy the needs of all the snowshoers in terms of providing broken snow at the correct frequency. (The same was said of Stephen, but in the other sense of frequency). As we emerged from the trees we had a beautiful scene of virgin snow and white, laden trees in glorious sunshine. Such was the euphoria, that at one stage Rob was seen running through the deep snow in his snow shoes…..he didn’t maintain that for long! Once on the main track, a short walk allowed us to reach our luncheon destination but not without a final surge by Richard through unbroken snow, seemingly a short cut but in reality a lot harder work for the front runners.

The hard climb up through new snow was well worth the effort.

All downhill from here

The Genolière was ready and waiting for our custom. A short discussion resulted in us deciding to eat inside, our years of experience suggesting that the deceptive outside warmth of the sun would soon dissipate once we were sat and stationary. Mervyn gave proof of the cooling down as he steamed in the draught of the open door.

Mervyn cooling off and in need of a beer

Beers were ordered and consumed. Stephen hoarded the empty re-closable ceramic topped bottled as a useful addition to his home brew beer storage. Charcuterie was ordered by Rob whilst 90% of us waited for fondue to be made (Nathan, the other 10%, opting for a rösti dish). The charcuterie took a time in arriving at which stage we could confirm that Rob hadn’t ordered the charcuterie when the waitress asked if we wanted some. A classic example of how a Scotsman can say “no” when he thinks he says “yes”……no wonder the confusion over Scottish independence.

Simple food in good company

As wine replaced beer (being the preferred accompaniment to cheese fondue) and was eventually replaced by spiritual offerings from Rob and Drew, we sank into a happy contentment and the usual diverse banter. Absent friends were duly remembered. We eventually realised that we would have to leave, as all other clients had vacated the premises, and a proposal was accepted by the majority to take the direct route back to the car park, across unchartered territory, as opposed to the easier walk to La Givrine and the train back to St.Cergue. A couple of wise renegades (Drew and Mike) preferred the Givrine option and headed off at speed in order to catch the hourly train. The peloton searched in vain for a path back down to Tancouex and so ended up following the leaders, at an even greater speed, in order not to miss the train. Happily, we all made it with minutes to spare, and agreed that this was the best option and that we must have been unduly influenced by the good food, wine and company into thinking of any other route.

Happy in the false believe that they could find a short cut down

A short walk, with snow shoes no longer needed, from the train station back to the car park, allowed time to reflect on the good fortune we have in being able to enjoy such a day with excellent companions. On this occasion, the “tonic” was epic, the snowy ice was plentiful and the official “GIN” nomenclature was not missed! The participants enjoyed a memorable first snowshoe of the season and could only feel sorry for those who were unable to join us.

GIN Bikers – November 16th, 2023

Rain, rain go away, come back another day

The BLeader, in conjunction with Metéo Suisse, decided that the November rain was over and that this Thursday would allow a return to the saddle for the GIN Bikers. Three other members subscribed to this viewpoint or didn’t have suitable excuses to avoid the outing and Rudi made it clear that his participation depended upon dry conditions. So, Stephen, PeterD, Mervyn, Ivan and e-Rudi met at the Everness Hotel under grey, but dry skies. Rudi had taken the precaution of changing his bike battery and the rest of us relied upon the natural body reserves primed over the many years of our maturity.

The route followed the classical 3 hills, in reverse of the original circuit, starting with the gruelling Mourex climb, followed by the less demanding Vesancy ascent before finishing with the traditional Bonmont hill. The reward for all this was lunch at Ze Pinte, Signy, before the gentle meander home. All was well until the first unexpected spots of rain started on the Vesancy climb. However, Rudi still looked relaxed and magisterial on his “as much effort as you want” e-bike. 2-gear Ivan, adopted his, now usual, speedy bursts followed by a stop, allowing others to catch up and overtake before setting off again. Nepalese Mervyn was overcoming the effects of altitude, beer and insufficient biking but kept up a steady pace. Stephen and Peter initially vied for the front position until the effects of too much home grown vegetable curry for the latter, coupled by unforgiving uphill slope, negated the need for a contest.

The final climb to the Bonmont 777m was accompanied by heavier rain. So much so that some passing thoughts of attempting the 888m platform were shelved. It was then a downhill ride to lunch. Unfortunately, the rain persisted with greater enthusiasm and a cold wind joined the challenging conditions. It probably was the worst weather conditions that the GIN Bikers have undertaken and the back markers decided to ensure a place in the record books for hardiness by taking a longer route from the front runners of Peter and Stephen. Driving rain tested all the clothing….well, at least those who had brought waterproofs. The BLeader was living his promises and didn’t carry any wet weather protection, but then legs protruding from shorts are a natural barrier to water (if somewhat cold).

Still happy at the Bonmont 777m….the worst is yet to come.

The restaurant staff and the other clients eyed us with amazement as we arrived dripping and as we stripped off the wet clothing. Wet shorts and leggings remained in place to the relief of the onlookers. Habitual beers were ordered by some, whilst the more thoughtful opted for hot drinks. Mervyn, realising the damage of his Nepalese beer intake, chose an alcohol-free wheat beer as part of his November abstinence. The menu du jour of salad/soup, schnitzel cordon bleu with chips and vegetables was agreed by all with everyone opting for hot soup. By the time the main course had arrived, blood was circulating again, bodies were warming and the conversation turned from weather to more topical subjects, such as British politics, and best local restaurants for GIN Bikers. By this time the sun was shining outside but most still felt that a little longer inside would be beneficial. Desserts and coffees were consumed. Rudi tried a last ditch attempt to dry his gloves by wearing them to hold the warm coffee cup.

We re-donned mostly dry clothes and headed back from Signy via Borex. Stephen peeled off at Borex to take the direct route home to Arnex whilst the others enjoyed the sunny, dry and drying wind on the last stretch to their respective siesta spots.

Participants were generous in their thanks to the BLeader for this leadership into the rain and cold. It’s not certain that they will trust his rain-free promises in the future. A memorable outing, if not all agreeable, but once back rested and warm the negative aspects retreat into the background and the memory of good company, good food and exercise comes to the fore.

Statistics: 46kms, average speed 15.2 km/hr, elevation climb 666m, saddle time 3 hours.

GIN Bikers – September 7th, 2023

GCSE Maths question :

A Group of GIN Bikers normally stop for lunch and drink beer in glasses of 5dl costing 7 CHF each. On one occasion the restaurant had run out of large beer glasses and offered beer in 2dl glasses costing 4 CHF each. Assuming that the cost of the beer is the same per litre and that the washing up of the small and large glasses is the same, what are those costs? Assuming they drink 6dl each on average, how much should they deduct from the bill to compensate for having to use the small 2cl instead of the large 5dl glasses?

September normally marks the start of autumn but this year it is definitely the continuation of summer. The previous GIN Bikers outing had been cancelled due to heat….except for Richard who failed to see the notification in his email junk folder, and manfully did the tour alone. This Thursday, was again offering temperatures in the late 20Cs, so mild compared to two weeks previously but still hot for the uphill grind. Six riders responded to the call and joined Stephen in his suggested route from the Everness Hotel. The heat from his previous lonesome outing had impacted Richard’s reading ability and he needed some help in understanding the meeting point. In the end, this was clarified and we all arrived on time plus/minus at the designated meeting point. Travellers Mervyn and e-Paul, reunited from their east and west excursions, Mark2Ws, PeterT, Ivan (still with only 2 gears), e-Richard and Stephen.

The route involved an initial loop from the Everness through the cool woods and then back to the Divonne border before an early coffee stop at the Apania buvette near the Divonne lake. On the way, indications of a potential leadership coup were thwarted as Peter tried to initiate an unsuccessful breakaway group to take an alternative route. Refreshed and lulled into a false sense of well-being, the group then started on the more demanding part of the ride. Following the cycle track from Divonne towards Crassier we diverted just before the border to take the back route through the fields to La Rippe and from there a half-Bonmont hill, sufficient to test those legs before the more meaty climb to come. Ivan’s two gears did him proud, coupled with leg muscles which seem to strengthen with each outing. Or maybe it’s just that the rest of us are not at the same stage in life. Even the e-bikers, who enjoy exercising their batteries on the uphill were left at a standstill on the occasions that the red streak passed.

Half a Bonmont behind us still along way to go

It was tempting to have a second coffee stop at our favourite Givrins boulangerie but the Bleader had plans to use the time otherwise. The Genolier clinic hill beckoned and beyond that the potential for an additional loop from Le Muids to Bassins. However, by the time we had regrouped at the top of the Genolier hill, the e-bikers looked definitely in better shape than the traditionalists and those who had over-imbibed in US culinary excesses were probably suffering the worst. The careful planning had allowed for the Bassins loop, but a democratic vote indicated that this could have been pushing frendships (as well as bikes) too far, so the group opted for a rapid descent to the Auberge de la Reunion in Coinsins.

As it so happened, the one time that a lunchtime restaurant had been booked allowing for potential delays along the route, was the one time we arrived 30 minutes early. Normally, this wouldn’t have been a problem but as it was the Jeune Genevois, all those non-working individuals had packed out the restaurant and our table was not available until the reserved time. No real problem, as this gave additional beer time. We were ushered inside and beer orders were taken, to be delivered in the smallest glasses ever seen by a GIN Group (at the highest price per centilitre). Apparently, the other customers had used all the larger receptacles. Suggestions to provide a jug fell on deaf ears. Ivan was so upset that he left after his first glass, offering an excuse that he had to get home for predetermined reasons. The rest of us made the best of the two swig (2cl) glasses and waited impatiently for refills once additional glasses were available. Paul helped fill the waiting time with graphic stories of his recent exploits in Indonesia, including a seance to meet the Queen of the Southern Seas. Mervyn recounted the devastation he indirectly caused in North Carolina…shootings, fires, riots, etc…apparently all connected with his presence. The rest of us could only talk about more domestic things, like the cost of replacement cooking hobs in Switzerland, Spanish kisses, etc.

Not a normal size GIN Biker’s beer…or Ukrainian’s

He who has met the Queen of the Southern Seas and on-looker.

Our outside table was clear at the booked time and we orderedan excellent selection of plats de la semaine at reasonable prices: filets de perches and frites, pork in sauce with noodles, salade campagnarde. Only Richard still had room for a dessert……another advantage of e-biking.

Out into the heat and the bright sunlight, with stomachs full and legs heavy, we searched for the quickest/easiest way back home. The Bleader knew which way he was heading but only managed to attract one other, Mervyn. The rest of the group decided to do their own thing but unfortunately forgot to inform the advance group. No sign of the rearguard at Duillier, so Stephen and Mervyn backtracked and eventually made contact by phone. The decision was made not to regroup. Paul had already decided that a train back home from Nyon to Grand Saconnex was the best use of his reserves. The rest of us were looking forward to getting home and a cool shower and a siesta.

Statistics: ca 50km (dependant on starting point and route home), 625m climb, average speed 19km/hr

GIN Bikers – August 10th 2023

The Uphill Struggle to Fitness

Hard to believe that another Thursday promised good weather. Despite the holiday season, 8 keen GIN Bikers signed up for a tour that was described initially as simply “lunch in France”. The BLeader once again asked for the meeting place to be at his apartment since his physio would be preparing his still repairing Achilles tendon and shrunken muscles for the ride ahead. Almost at the designated hour, PeterD, Mark2Ts, Mervyn, Ivan, e-Rudi, e-Drew and e-Richard appeared in Arnex. Admittedly, a couple of participants had to have last minute instructions to find the rest of group. Drew showed off his new car bike carrier whilst Rudi persisted with his more makeshift open hatchback and elastic tie. Ivan’s bike was intact (compared to the last viewing) although with a 33% loss in gearing. No changes in the rest of the group: from museum pieces to relatively recent acquisitions.

With everyone captive, the true extent of the BLeader’s plans were unveiled: direct to Bonmont hill, a short reprieve before the Vesancy hill and then another short reprieve until the Gex-Echenevex hill…..an unpleasant final climb before the rewards of lunch at The Auberge des Chasseurs in Echenevex. The choice of the restaurant was made by default, due to the French habit of closing down all hostelleries during August. However, this particular restaurant had been on his wish list for a time and it was with relief and gratitude that the BLeader discovered it to be operational. Not so for our usual coffee stops. The O’Château stop in Vesancy, which has been a favourite for coffee and lunch, now seems to be only open on demand, according to the website. Other potential beverage stops in Gex were also shuttered.

Anyway, I digress and am getting ahead of the true purpose of the day: the cycling. The e-bikers revelled in the hills, although 2-gear Ivan tried to give them an early run for their money, until his propelling muscles realised the enormity of maintaining the task. On the flat, the e-bikers were more reserved and conserved their batteries at the back of the group, whilst the muscle-powered bikes did the same at the front. Sufficient stops were made to regroup and check that there were no losses in personnel……which has been known in the past. Several participants did try to select individual routes but were brought back into the fold. Peter decided that continuity without stopping has merits and forged ahead alone up the Vesancy hill, getting to the summit first and ensuring the dotted jersey.

Bonmont Hill success – one down two hills to go

Trying the PeterT selfie touch

With the deficit of suitable coffee stops, we arrived at the lunch restaurant ahead of schedule, for once . Our table under the trees was ready and waiting, with a pleasant view overlooking the Alps and the Maison Blanche Golf Club below. Local brasserie beer was rapidly ordered and consumed before we settled into the 3-course menu du jour. The standard was high: fresh mushroom ravioli, crevettes in a coconut milk pasta curry, mirabelles and ice-cream. Somehow the economy of the set lunch was lost in the final bill once the drinks had been added. The benefit was our usual lively conversation covering an eclectic range of topics. The food and ambiance led the discussion towards obesity and possible remedies. Some thought that food intake could not be offset by exercise, others suggested metabolic rate variations resulted in different weights. Peter had the solution: stomach bacteria. If you get the correct balance then all is resolved. Those with the correct balance can benefit from their good fortune, bloating their bank balance whilst aiding physical thinning in others. Was this a load of crap? Apparently, yes. The use of body waste from a finely tuned individual can work wonders. Further details were lacking (happily) and the conversation moved on towards the return route home.

Happily installed and beers to hand

Thoughtful contemplation of the waistline impact

Now on a roll, Peter volunteered to find a route back to the disused train track. An previous outing attempt had not been 100% successful and he was keen to make amends. He got it mostly correct using his Swiss route finder (in France!), the rest of the group contributing their input where appropriate to ensure crucial decision points were successful. Once on the straight and narrow it was easy cycling to Divonne. A suggestion of a further beer stop at the Grilly brasserie was overturned as siestas (and grandchildren) beckoned. The group separated at Divonne, some on a mission to Carrefour, others realising that this was the quickest way home. The Arnex parked e-bikers followed Stephen through Divonne and onto the old train track to Crassier and back to Arnex.

Statistics: ca. 47km, ca. 600m of climb, average moving speed 17.2 km/hr

GIN Hikers – August 3rd 2023

Morgins, Portes du Soleil

There was a lot of rain in July and August but the forecast for August 3rd was promised as dry and sunny. Stephen was in Morgins for the week and suggested a hike in his favourite territory, which Rob had volunteered to co-ordinate. 7 willing hikers appeared on the day, coming from various starting points. The early-risers of Rob, Nathan, Mervyn car-pooled from somewhere near Divonne, Mike gave his Renault Alpine an outing, David hopped across the valley from Villars and Nicolas, the closest, traversed the mountain from Champery. Detailed instructions had been given so that no-one would get lost on the way to the parking nearest Stephen’s chalet. Not surprisingly, the sporty vehicle arrived first, so far ahead of schedule that Mike was able to enjoy a coffee in Morgins before heading to the meeting place. David was next, 10 minutes ahead of schedule (yes, David!!). The car-poolers arrived also just ahead of 10h. No sign of Nicolas at 10h05, 10h10, 10h20….a search party of Mervyn and Mike went in search and waited by the main road. 10h30 came and went…..telephone contact had been made with Nicolas but still no sign. At 10h40 up rolled Nicolas from the direction the search party had headed, having done a full tour of Route de la Cergnat, passing Mervyn and Mike and generously allowing them to walk back up the hill as a warm up.

The walk itself started with a pleasant detour from the initially conceived route, to avoid the construction works for the new ski cabine in Morgins, up the path in the woods by the side of the Vièze stream in the direction of the restaurant at They. Normally, this would have been a suitable refreshment point but due to the late start (and, maybe more importantly, the fact the restaurant was closed for extensive renovation) the leader encourage pressing on up the hill. Quite some encouragement was needed as this ascent was indeed steep and longer than most of the participants had expected. “Not much further” lost impact on multiple use. However, we all emerged intact, if somewhat fatigued onto the grassy slopes of what is the famous Defago piste during ski season. Stephen was pleased that his repairing tendon had passed the test.

Emerging after the steep climb. Mervyn seems happy to see a ski piste, even without snow. More a sign of relief on the faces of Rob and David.

The gentler ascent from here was much appreciated with views down the valley until we reached the col at Bonavau when the whole vista opened before us, including the first sighting of the lunchtime restaurant. Such was the keenness of some of the group to be first with a beer that they speed down the slope . Unfortunately, they headed for the wrong restaurant. More haste and less speed comes to mind…….

A rest at the Col de Bonavau, 1759m

….and now to lunch, we know the way!

Stephen had realised that lunch might be delayed so rang ahead to warn the restaurant that we would be arriving late and our table was duly waiting for us. Beers were ordered and consumed and kindly paid for by Nicolas in penance for the late start. Food orders were considered and memories of the previous year’s feast at the La Chaux Alpage resulted in agreement to share platters of spare ribs and rösti as well as other selections. In the event, the food quantity did not live up to expectations even though the quality remained good. Obviously, austerity is present in Switzerland.

With the lift back down to Morgins out of action due to its replacement, we had to walk down back to the village. I say walk down, but the first part involved walking up again, over the col above Mazde. No so easy after lunch. Once there, the group were given the choice of a direct steep descent, through the woods or a longer, gentler and indeed more scenic route around the mountain. The latter was unanimously selected. More great views of the Dents du Midi and down to Lac Leman.

Eventually back at the cars, David had to leave but the rest of the group enjoyed a rest and some home brew beer on the Long’s terrace before heading back home. Another great day in the Portes du Soleil.

Overall, ca. 15km, 625m climb and a walking time of 4h30.

Note: Due to the happy addition to the Pashley family (and certainly someone who will no doubt in the years ahead be showing a lot of Scottish independence…at least with her family) Rob has been distracted and the writing of this blog put on hold. I have stepped in with my memories of the day. I leave it to the webmaster to sort out the order of the blog to be chronologically correct. SL

GIN Bikers – Thursday, July 27th 2023

Re-cycling of the BLeader

The BLeader contacted the group asking for support in his re-cycling efforts after almost 3 months in recovery from a torn Achilles tendon. PeterT, Mervyn, Mark 2Ts and Ivan responded to the call and the one e-biker, Paul, had to withdraw initial enthusiasm when he realised that he was not fully prepared for a long Asian tour starting the following day.

BLeader looking fit and ready to defend his jersey

So, unusually, a fully muscle driven group met at Stephen’s apartment at 10 o’clock, without an e-bike in sight. Ivan proudly displayed his own bike, renovated and repaired for the occasion….. the hazards of borrowed bikes now firmly behind him and the 3 gears offering sufficient variation for all tracks. Stephen had taken the precaution of a physio session prior to the ride to ensure the best for his damaged tendon and withered muscles. A gentle ride was promised and, for once, adhered to.

We made our meandering way from Arnex across the fields on farm tracks to Signy and up the well-worn track to Grens and Gingins. Ivan impressed with his ability to accelerate up any slope. Mark and Mervyn allowed the youngster to have his fun whilst protecting the back of the peloton. Stephen and Peter pretended to have reserve power should they choose to use it. Promised coffee at our usual Givrins stop spurred us on but not only was this closed for the annual holidays but the back up restaurant in Givrins also was closed. Peter seized the initiative and phoned Rob in Genolier suggesting that he might like guests to join him in his mid-morning coffee. Not only was he at home but he graciously accepted hosting the lycra crew. Mark secured the last ham croissants from the butcher in Genolier. A satisfied relaxation pervaded after the food and drink. A barbeque grill was eyed in the corner of the terrace and for a moment it was tempting to curtail the ride and stay through to siesta-time. However, the BLeader was on a quest to prove that he was on the road to fitness and rallied the group, encouraging them to head on the loop round through Begnin, Coinsins, Duillier to Nyon, with the promise of the famous Landi crossing.

Relaxing with coffee and croissant at Café Rob

As we progressed through Eysins, we were exactly on time for the designated lunch destination of the Nyon Tennis Club. However, there was slowing at the rear of the group which wound down to a stop. Ivan’s customised machine had sprung a leak and the back tyre was flat. Backpacks were emptied and puncture repair kits, spare inner tubes, levers, etc. were unearthed and dusted off. Unfortunately, no-one had the required spanner to release the wheel. The GIN network sprung into action as Dave Gwilliams was contacted by Mark. Once again, fortune shone on the group: Dave was at home with suitable spanners and only 5 minutes away. Off rode Mark. Peter and Stephen realised that too many hands does not make light work of puncture repair and, more importantly, beer was waiting if we got to our reserved table. Several beers later, or about 40 minutes, just as we were wondering whether to order food, Mark, Mervyn and Ivan appeared at the Tennis Club. Apparently, the first round trip to obtain the required spanner resulted in all but the correct size. A return trip to Dave was needed to get an adjustable spanner before repair could be executed.

Ukranian technology being repaired by Ukranian (and helper)

More beers later, food an coffee consumed, we were ready to head for home. An offer of more, home brew, beer at Stephen`s was graciously declined and we headed home in two directions: Peter, Mervyn and Ivan along the lake road with subsequent steep climb and Mark and Stephen up the gentler, but longer climb towards Crans away from the lake road. Subsequent reports from the larger group indicated that all was still not smooth: “..…more bits kept falling off Ivan’s velocipede, in particular a vital bit of the gear mechanism. Search party has so far failed to find it, lost somewhere in Founex Grand Rue….”

Oblivious to this latest twist, the BLeader was gently snoozing on his terrace, pleased that his re-introduction to the GIN Biking Group had, from a personal perspective, gone well. The siesta lasted longer than expected as his wife had inadvertently locked him out on the terrace when she went off to play tennis………

Statistics: 32-47 km depending upon starting point. Ca. 450m climb.

GIN Biking – March 23rd 2023

The GIN Biking season hasn’t yet started but the promise of another Spring day and shortage of snow on the slopes encouraged the B.Leader to suggest a gentle ride to blow out the cobwebs and get the gears back in action. An enthusiastic 7 responded to the invitation, although Thatcher had to pull out on the morning, leaving Stephen, MikeM, PeterT, Mervyn, Mark and Ivan to meet at the Everness Hotel. There were on display an equal number of uncovered muscular legs in shorts to legs in longer biking leggings and a 5:1 ratio of pure muscle power to e-bikes. Peter suggested an initial coffee on the hotel’s terrace or, at least, indicating that in the future we could meet a little earlier for a coffee on in order to ensure that we were in prime condition for the start. The danger would be that there wouldn’t be a start……

Participants took the description of a gentle ride to heart and set off at a modest pace through the woods in the direction of Grilly. From there the pleasant, slightly uphill, track along the converted railway line led us to Gex followed by the first, more meaningful, ascent of the day up to Vesancy. The leading biker arrived in Vesancy just as the clock was striking 11h….the hour when our regular coffee spot opens its doors to clients. Our friendly waitress recognised us from previous GIN visits and happily unpadlocked the outside tables to allow us to relax and enjoy the unstrenuous part of the season’s first outing. Coffees came and went but there was no sign of the backmarkers. Phone contact with Mervyn and Mark was attempted but suffered through poor signal.

Didn’t we have a few other riders at the start?

Eventually, Stephen set off back down the road and met the two, not too far away, upset that a puncture had delayed them but glowing with pride that, due to the benefit of prior more negative experiences, they had the necessary equipment to fix it. Mark was particularly pleased that Mervyn was able to share in the chain grease….an unavoidable consequence of fixing a rear wheel puncture.

The late comers were allowed a short recovery break before we set off again, enjoying the initial downhill ride before bracing ourselves for the inevitable Bonmont climb. On this occasion we took the classical (i.e. legal) route without having to encounter on-coming traffic, which previously had been known to be somewhat indignant that one-way guidelines were not being strictly followed. Unfortunately, Meteo Suisse failed us at this point and the rain-free day proved to be over optimistic. Happily , this was short lived and we also had the protection of the trees as well as the help of the uphill climb to distract us. Regrouped at the usual 777m point, we realised that our timing would be perfect for the 12.30h lunch reserved at the Auberge de Crassier. All that lay before us was the downhill cruise.

Bonmont conquered (again) and open road to lunch awaits.

They say that lightening never strikes twice in the same place. The same cannot be said of punctures. Once again, the front runners were left wondering where the peloton was. Happily, phone signal allowed notice that there was an interruption to the descent. Sadly, the supply of replacement inner tubes had been used up and Mark had to wait for Linda to rescue him. Did we detect a little Schadenfreude from Ivan? The irony that he had a few problems with the bike Mark lent him last year did not go unnoticed…..

Peter, sipping his beer at the Auberge, was unaware of the reason for the latest delay but had used the spare time to reconfigure the restaurant to allow for the 6 of us to be seated (for some reason a table for 5 had been prepared). When we arrived, minus Mark, this had to be reconfigured back to 5 again. We ordered drinks and the plat du jour (fish with rice and asparagus) and waited to see if Mark and Linda appeared. They did, just as we finished the salad starter, but they decided not to stay and headed home to relax over their own plat du jour: sushi.

Mark, you didn’t have to go to such lengths to have lunch at home…..

Not sure that salad is agreeing with you Mike.

Conversation was wide ranging and lengthy. We covered topics such as: preferences of baths vs. showers, unchanging character traits from adolescence, political polarisation, the luck of living in Switzerland, Russian speaking in Ukraine and much more. The time drifted by, coffee came and went, and we reluctantly left the now empty Auberge to recover our bikes and the relatively short ride home (shorter for some than others).

A great start to the new season, although punctuated by unexpected stops, and a well worthwhile warm up for the year ahead.

Statistics: ca. 42kms, 19.1km/h average travelling speed, 580m elevation gain.

GIN Bikers -January 8th 2023

As the GIN Ski Group was confronted with insufficient snow and bad weather, the GIN Biking Group stepped into an empty Thursday and offered to replace downhill skiing on two skis with uphill biking on two wheels. Admittedly, the weather was not perfect for biking but it wasn’t raining and it was an opportunity to satisfy at least one of the New Year’s resolutions (where alcoholic abstinence has failed?).

Stephen, Ivan, Mark2Ts and Mervyn made up the group for a gentle warm up to the 2023 season. No-one was brave enough to wear shorts and e-Paul, the most likely to come so attired, had absented himself due to prior plans. In fact the clothing count was up to 5 layers. Mark 2Ts resplendent in his new high-vis top….a precursor maybe to the long expected new bike? Ivan had come prepared with spare pedal and correct tooling should he suffer the same fate as on the last ride before Christmas

We followed a mostly flat route from the Everness Hotel via Grilly to the old train track through Divonne and onto Crassier. At some stage there was a murmuring about a lack of coffee stop but the leader had a plan in mind and wasn’t going to be deterred. On via the farm roads, in sight of the slopes of the Jura to Gingins and, to the surprise of some, a Bonmont climb was avoided. This was replaced by a downhill ride from Trélex to Prangins and along the lake road to the Tennis Club at Nyon for lunch. The motivation for this venue was revealed as Stephen still had some unused club restaurant vouchers whose expiry date was fast approaching.

The set menu lunch choices at a very reasonable 21CHF were more than acceptable, accompanied by a couple of beers, proving no-one was keeping to January temperance. Service by the chatty staff was more rapid than the cycling. Discussion topics followed the usual diverse course from meat curing to Ukraine to the similarity of the pizza oil and Richard’s hiking schnapps.

A modest climb from the tennis club went on well-known routes via Crans, Céligny and then back to out respective warm homes. The ride lived up to expectations, gentle, enjoyable and for once no bike problems for Ivan. Long may they continue….but after a skiing break.

Statistics: ca. 50kms, 400m total ascent, 16.5 km/hr

GIN Bikers – December 1st 2022

The first day of December and the GIN Bikers were still keen to prove themselves. Even at 5C one die-hard arrived in shorts having e-biked it all the way from Geneva.

What do you mean cold? Real men wear shorts.

Eight hardy members signed up for this last official outing of the season. In the event, Mervyn had to call off due to teething problems….a 9/10 excuse. So it was Stephen. PeterD, a reluctant PeterT, Mark2Ts, e-Paul, Ivan (on his new, old bike) and newcomer e-Mike (immaculately turned out in brand new gear) who met at the Everness Hotel at 10h. PeterT’s lack of enthusiasm was due to a definitely non-Alfred previous evening. E-Paul was also not at his performance peak…..maybe due to recovery from the GIN Wine Group or maybe having to nurse a cold battery already diminished from the warm-up ride from Grand Saconnex.

We raced(?)off in the direction of Céligny, our leader making an ill-judged call to use a farm track which was water- (and mud-) logged in places. However, having now initiated any new and/or clean gear there was no need for subsequent caution. We followed the familiar road and track from Céligny to Crans, through Eysins, up to Signy and from there to Gingins. The peloton seemed a little sluggish and there was frequent need of “herding”. Regrouped at Gingins we embarked on the infamous Bonmont ascent. Our leader forged ahead trying to prove manhood and the ability to take on the e-bikes. 50% success with the latter, the former to be judged by others.

Bonmont heights……knocked that bastard off again.

After the customary photo shoot, we enjoyed the downhill ride to La Rippe.…although the wind chill factor was noticeable. As we prepared for the ascent to Vesancy, where a coffee had been promised at our favourite Ô Château restaurant, there was leadership concern about timings. Lunch had been booked in Divonne and we had been told to arrive before 13h. Backmarker, Mark, magnanimously offered the rest of the group to speed ahead and secure coffees. This seemed a solution and was gratefully accepted by the front runners. However, the Vesancy hill proved almost too much for the depleted battery of e-Paul and he manfully preserved the fading glimmers of charge by raw muscle power. The hill did prove too much for Ivan’s new, old bike. What was once the pride of the PeterT’s stable suffered from a detached pedal and a non-fitting alum key only provided temporary fixture. Hence, by the time the rear group arrived at Ô Château, coffees had been long drunk by the advance group and it was evident that the 13h deadline in Divonne was unattainable. Happily, the GIN Lunch the week before had generated much goodwill (and income) for the friendly waitress, who recognised the organiser of that event. His enquiry as to whether she could fit in an addition 7 for lunch was met with enthusiasm. It was just a question of cancelling Chez Mademoiselle’s, whilst maintaining the potential for a future visit there. Task accomplished. We happily settled down in the Vesancy restaurant, without time pressures and without any other diners to disturb our banter.

The menu du jour lunch was truly excellent, washed down not only with the usual beers (and some non-alcoholic drinks) but also with a PeterT sponsored Vacqueyras red wine, and a locally formulated “44” pousse-café.

Difficult to recall all the intellectual conversation around the table but it included subjects such as why e-bikes don’t have the ability to recharge the battery on downhill runs, the amortisation time of solar panels and whether this should include potential additional house value if you have no direct inheritors, karma and re-incarnation, the advantages of completing a PhD on Bhutan temples and erect phallus iconography, wildlife and vegetation under snow coverings, etc. As the meal progressed the conversation flowed, the subject matter diversified further and the ability to recall any of it diminished.

Iconography guru and student of one pedal biking

Replete, siesta imminent…….just a question of getting home first

Eventually, it was time to leave the warm, convivial bubble of hospitality and venture back out into the grey, cold afternoon. E-Paul was advised on shortest routes back to Grand Saconnex, with the hope of nursing the failing battery home. We unanimously agreed to avoid the Mourex hill and take the long, but downhill, road towards Gex. Paul parted ways as we reached the main road into Gex and for him onto Ferney. We assumed he found a successful route home (and have since learnt he did with 1% charge left). The rest of the group headed in the opposite direction, along the old train track towards Grilly. The Peters peeled off here to take the back route home. The remaining four cycled together as far as the Divonne Casino (supermarket, not betting tables) and they headed home across the border to Bogis-Bossey. This left Mike to escort Stephen back to Arnex before he made his solo way into Nyon.

A memorable ride although this blogger’s Garmin memory failed to record the all the data. It seems that we were too long at lunch and watch batteries, like e-bike batteries, sometimes go into shutdown.