Blog – GIN Club

16 April 26 The Annual Daffodil Hunt

Here is the Flyer I sent :-

Mark2ts usually leads this botanical adventure but he is still in Blighty, and will be so then, so I will lead.

Let’s hope the daffs are still there. We’ve missed them before….

The map below shows the route over La Dôle, 14km and 690m so quite a tough one for us. Say grade 5.

Picnic needed.

Last year the team of 10 was as follows :-

Each Five of us: David C, Mervyn, Nathan and 2 Marks met at the parking in Divonne and drove up together to meet Peter, Steven, Ross, 2 Mikes: Hempstead and Mathews, and 2 dogs: Kobie and Rocco, at La Givrine.

This year a novel approach was taken. I had advertised this as a hard hike (Grade 5 needs calibrating) in order to ensure that folk were well informed before accepting a harder outing than they wanted. After a kernel of tough-nut hikers seemed to be forming, Mark2rs suggested that an alternative easier approach might attract daffodil delinquents who might not appreciate mixing harder ardour with beautiful botany.

We had 8 hikers start at La Givrine for the traditional Dôle troll, and 5 botannical boffins who would come in from La Vattay and meet us in the fields of gold. Mark2rs’s Botannical Blog is given below (thanks Mark).

Meeting up on time at La Givrine (1205m) were Stephen (bravely sporting shorts), Ross, PeterSt, Mervyn, Chris, Nicolas and Onyx, and me and Kobie. Accountants and nitpicking quiz experts among you may have counted that there are only 7 Gintlemen in that list, along with 2 dogs.

We duly set off in bright weather with a light breeze. After a few hundred metres my accountant brain (such as is left of it) kicked in as I counted only 7 of us when we should have been 8. We had forgotten Michael Mathews who had planned to arrive by train but because of railworks came up on the bus, which had been delayed (as always he says). We duly turned round and on reaching a knoll we saw Michael speeding across the grass towards us. We were now all together.

The initial crew assembled as we began to realise that Michael was missing

The next challenge was going to be evident fairly quickly. How much snow would there be? None of us had grippers, snow shoes or ice axes and we were going to attacking the north face of La Dôle (1677m).

Mervyn and Michael who has now been gathered in

It was not long before we began to transit rather large snow patches.

A further slight problem arose in that Onyx seemed set on humping Kobie at every opportunity, albeit unsuccessfully each time. Nicolas was sadly having to keep Onyx on a leash in accordance too with Swiss legal requirements.. It may be that Onyx may have to be attended to in the tackle department if such behaviour is to be cured.

After 2 km of pleasant going in a SW direction we headed up past the closed Couvaloup de Crans Restaurant towards La Dôle in a general SE direction.

At Couvaloup de Crans starting the ascent of the ski slope

At this point Stephen strode ahead and took a more southerly route up the mountain.

It was clear (to me anyway) that our ascent would be aided by staying off the slushy snow and keeping to the grassy slopes to the left, meeting the ridge and then strolling up the grass on the ridge to the summit; and so it transpired, albeit Stephen preferred the snowy more direct route. We arrived at the top at noon.

Ross, Chris, Michael, Stephen and PeterSt with Kobie, in the sun

Mt Blanc had been visible but the clouds came in a bit

There was no time for coffee or apèro, as we had a rendezvous arrival time of 1 pm and there were a few km of descent to come. We passed by some chamois which our hounds kindly gave up chasing pretty quickly and then struggled down the rubbly and rocky ridge towards the border where we hope to meet the Vattay venturers.

We spot the Vattay Botanists on the hill to the left, seen much earlier after whistling and waving.

It was at this point that we began to spot daffodils, in small clumps.

We struggled up the hill on time at 1pm to meet our French chums (we were now in France) and a hearting greeting ensued, dogs joined in too.

A lunch spot a little off the top of the hill in the lee of the wind and next to a small triangle of daffodils served as an ideal lunch spot, facing the intermittent sun.

Bottles were opened and our picnic commenced. Red wines, Gigondas and others helped to avoid any choking incidents (as I had bought some wraps).

Kobie settles in to some opportunistic begging

General view – Nathan seems to be taking a siesta. Onyx is restrained for aforementioned reasons

A good place to solve the problems of the world – there are a few at present…

Kobie likes people, and mostly vice versa…

There was a bit of sun. Note shorts in the Vattay team too. Richards Bottle made an appearance.

Nathan now well rested. Note the yellow fields in the distance…

It was time (2.25pm) for us to part and say our goodbyes to the French Frolickers, and we eight hikers and 2 dogs set off down towards the expected golden fields.

Normally the fields on the right would be full of daffodils but the snow pack had only recently melted.

Finally though, on the steeper sunny slopes to our left the daffodils were there laid out in all their glory.

Ross Peter and Mervyn, enjoying the grail of our hike. Mark2ts would be pleased that we made it.

There followed quite a tough after-lunch section up 150m or so through the forest, therefore on quite deep snow into which our boots were sinking. Stephen laid much of the trail, in whose boot-marks we struggled to follow.

Looking back up the mountain from the forest.

Eventually we topped out on the ski run which we followed back to Couvaloup, and which I found much easier descending than on the usual grass. Was it the wine or the ibuprofen?

We had seen at least one skier (with his dog) on the day. Indeed there was quite a covering for those who fancy ski touring. This hike had been tougher than any previous hike led by Mark2ts, on account of the snow cover.

It was left to descend easily the road and then the soft grassy mounds to La Givrine.

I made it 16km and 740m, slightly above Mark2ts earlier assessment. Our gadgets all seem to differ.

A very pleasant hike, good chats, great to see the Botanists in France too. Sorry we missed some regulars including our daffodil guru Mark2ts. The ladies (IWCN) intend to visit the fields towards the end of April. I believe that they too will see daffs, but in the fields that were yet to sprout because of late snows. We were lucky too. May we continue to be so.

Botanical Adventure Thursday 16 April 2026 (Mark2rs)

The announcement by the hiking supremo that the route over the Dôle for this traditional botanical adventure of 14km and 690m was quite a tough one for us stimulated some stalwarts but spread alarm to others. However, instead of throwing their knapsacks down and declining outright, they proposed a less challenging route starting from la Vattay. This was reminiscent of an earlier hike when the border was closed towards the end of the Covid lockdown.

Consequently, five Gintlemen, Richard Saynor, Philip Jenkins, Rob Pashley, Nathan Finkelstein and Mark Warren, set off from la Vattay for a hike of about 5.5 km each way with a height gain of 300m on a straight forward trail.

On discovering that the organiser was a reluctant leader, Richard led us up the direct trail, which though never difficult was covered in compacted snow remaining from the skiing season. In fact, one or two skiers were seen in the course of the day. Botanist Philip informed us of the names of several flowers, including the spring squill, but one, which we baptised the triffid, eluded him. Diligent that he is, he later informed us that the real name of the plant, ignominiously called a triffid, that we saw on the way from La Vattay yesterday, is Butterbur. The unusual flowers are only seen in early Spring. The rest of the year you only see heart-shaped leaves, which get bigger and bigger as the year proceeds and eventually are enormous (rhubarb-sized).

As expected, we arrived at our meeting place 30 minutes before the other group, which gave time to relax and watch approaching hikers for the other party who arrived on time at 1pm. Carpets of crocuses were everywhere as well as several of the promised daffodils, with many more to come.

A leisurely and most enjoyable lunch was had by all.

All too soon it was time to separate and return our respective ways. Philip to the lead this time, taking us perfectly through the cross-country skiing domaine to our cars.

A most enjoyable outing. Thanks Peter and everyone.

10 kilometres and 300m height difference.

GIN Bikers – April 9th, 2026

The first outing of 2026, after an early Easter, took place in glorious sunshine and a springtime warmth. There was still snow on the Jura as the snow shoeing group had discovered, without their snow shoes, the week before. Four GIN members responded to the invitation to test out their legs and/or batteries in this early season: PeterT, Philip, Paul and Stephen. We had an identical number of e-bikes and pure muscle power. The apologies came from a wide global distribution covering the USA, South Africa, UK, Mallorca and due to competing activities for those more local.

We met at our usual starting point of the Everness Hotel in Chavannes at 10h. Both Paul and Philip had already covered some distance having utilised their e-bikes to cycle from their respective homes. Philip was helped in his final direction finding with Peter picking him up whilst he was heading in the opposite direction to the hotel. As promised by the leader, we set off at a leisurely pace in the direction of Geneva, backtracking the way Paul had just ridden, along the cycle route 50. This took us to the Versoix woods where we headed for France via Sauverny, stopping at an intriguing brocante where drinks were only served from 15h.

Old Masters hopeful of finding an Old Master

Sauverny centre allowed Paul to add to his reading as he took advantage of the book loan cabinet at the village fountain.

Reading matter loaded and ready again for the trail.

From Sauverny, we took the back route to Grilly and then onto the old railway track to Divonne and beyond. There had been a plan to stop for coffee at our favourite boulangerie in Givrins but as Crassier loomed into sight it seemed appropriate to stop here and not wait a further 30 minutes and the first uphill slopes. Peter was starting to suffer from sore wrists (as well as unused cycling legs) and sought help at the Crassier cycle shop. Alas, they did not have the handlebar extenders he was looking for but they did have very top of the range e-bikes for those technically minded and with a large bank balance. He resisted a potential trial ride, still hopeful that he would not be the first of a new wave of e-bikers in the group. Philip kindly picked up the tab for the coffees….certainly a lot less financially damaging than a new bike from the adjacent shop.

Invigorated with the caffeine, the leader set off at a slightly increased pace up towards Gingins, mostly avoiding being caught by the chasing peleton although, occasionally, e-Paul demonstrated his power reserve. By the time we reached Genolier, the leader was pumped and ready to tackle the highlight of the ride: the Genolier hill past the clinic. The rest of the group did not share his enthusiasm and opted instead for the descent to Coinsins and our booked lunch table. Undaunted, Stephen persevered on his upward planned route and managed to join the others, seated at the table, just as their drinks arrived.

The Auberge de la Réunion has a simple, plentiful and economic set menu and consequently is well frequented. The terrace on the warm afternoon was full but service was efficient and friendly. Unfortunately, our waitress was a little too hasty in trying to deliver the food and Peter’s steak and frites did an unexpected pirouette from her hand onto the paving, shattering the plate and liberally distributing its contents. Peter’s longer wait a little longer for his meal was rewarded with an unexpected steak supper for Kobie. Two steaks, one jarret de porc and one veal kidney meal ( and maybe a beer or two) fuelled a lively discussion around the table. This meandered from the collection and disposal of caterpillar larvae, to the communication methods of caterpillars, to the love life of Wallace (guess who knew about this?), to the use of AI for story telling and even some topical comments about recent activities of a certain US President.

Replete and thinking about the shortest way home.

Lunch over, we climbed back onto our bikes and sought the direct routes to our respective homes. This resulted in Paul leaving us in Duillier to head for Nyon station, Peter and Stephen in Borex going in separate directions and Philip was last seen heading for Crassier hoping to find his way to the old train track and eventually home.

A thoroughly enjoyable first outing of the season although feedback from the other non e-biker suggests that more training might be necessary to prevent post ride aches and pains. In total the Genolier hill climber counted 50k and 500m climb with an average speed of 20kph. The others would have done less climb and the majority more distance.

The outing-lite route

The last fondu – La Genolière 2 April 26

Sitting here on a very warm Easter Monday it is hard to think back to the cold winds and deep snow that we encountered and endured only last Thursday up in the Jura.

This was to be a last visit and fondu of the winter season to say farewell to Maria and her fellow crew at the Buvette de La Genolière before they close for the summer season when the place becomes a cow byre. Initially ten signed up, but we had one cancellation and one addition – that of Robert O’Riordan who was to join us for the lunch only.

So – nine of us with two dogs Kobie and Plato, met up at Tancouez (1057m) at W3W///udder.able.tilts – which as Rudolf Staehelin found is a location in Canada as well as near St Cergue. Happily he arrived safely at the parking with Joe Kutzin who accompanied his dog Plato (aged 12). I cannot recall Joe out on hikes before, albeit he is a ski regular and has attended the main club lunches – welcome Joe. Also attending the regular crew – RichardSay, Philip, Stephen, DavidC, Nathan, PeterSt and me PeterT.

The day was bright and clear but with a cold bise wind still somewhat evident. My plan was to track past Les Mouilles through the wood to fields then W and NW then SW to the Fruitières de Nyon Chalet, thence up to Cabane Rochefort 1388m for apèros. After that we would travel WSW through the wonderful “secret” forest before a drop down into Grande Combe then steeply up to La Genloière itself at 1348m.

Philip, David, Joe, Richard, Stephen, Rudolf, Nathan and Peter with Plato and Kobie

We were all dressed well for the cold but sunny conditions, even Stephen could not be tempted to air his shorts. The initial part of the hike was on dry ground – there had been some doubt as to whether or not we should have packed snow shoes, but as this was the first hike of the hiking season, and as I had managed the same hike without such kit only 11 days earlier, I determined that we should just about be able to manage without. In the event this was just about the case.

Encountering some snow in the forest at 1150m.

We formed a sensible line with Stephen me and Kobie at the front, generally Joe and Plato to the rear. The two dogs seemed the get on tolerably well, but mostly happily ignored each other.

(I looked up the sayings of Plato. The one I liked was – “Wise men talk because they have something to say; fools, because they have to say something”)

Very soon we were up in the sun at the Fruitières de Nyon, Chalet Devant.

At the Chalet Devant, Fruitières de Nyon, La Dôle behind.

Lining up in the sun but no time to rest.

There was no long stop planned here as we needed to bash on up the Cabane Rochefort for apèro refreshment, and where some Luins was joined by brandy from the famous bottle.

Apèro time in the sun. These are the good times. Nathan, Joe and me – trying to log our cars into the parking at Tancouez.

Calling ahead to warn Maria that we would be likely arriving closer to 1 pm than 12.30pm, I hoped that Robert would be OK on his walk up from La Givrine. Philip decided not to branch out on his own, but stayed with us, as the snow was becoming deeper with not a lot of sign of activity on the trail ahead.

Broaching the top at 1400m we turned slightly left to follow the path down along the ridge to the gap in the wall to the secret forest. Only here the snow depth completely covered the wall.

Looking back from the slope up to La Genolière into the Grande Combe

We found that the lack of snow shoes was just about justifiable.

Suddenly we arrived and entered the Buvette, meeting Robert who had safely made it too. There was a nice log fire to keep us all toasty.

Beers helped to revive us after the last tough uphill battle in the snow

Two teams tackled the fondu offering, and it seemed that the cheese was performing well. My croute was exceptional too.

We had some very pleasant Chasselas to help it all go down. Tarts were enjoyed for dessert, then coffees.

Kobie reasonably behaved. At the other end Plato was a model of composure and training.

The was much to discuss and debate about the problems of the world, many stemming from Trump and the Iran war, fuel crisis looming, the Ukraine war ongoing, climate change tipping points etc. Scottish independence gained little traction. Outside Kobie played occasionally with Moos and Zwichon giving me some rest while eating.

PeterSt had to be home by 4pm so he and Robert, Richard and Philip all left with 35 minutes to spare to meet the 14.57 train at La Givrine. The remainding 6 of us chose my plan to track directly back down into the Grande Combe again, then back up and over steeply down into Combe Grasse to pick up the mountain road that leads ESE down to Tancouez.

Looking back to La Genolière and the Grande Combe, Joe and Plato coming back to join us.

At one point we wondered where Joe had got too. It seems that Plato was loth to leave the Buvette, he has a herding instinct and wanted to herd all the folk still there to join us. We finally spotted them coming down and across to rejoin the party.

I knew that the path into Combe Grasse was steep, and being covered in snow made it not much easier, but we all made it safely down onto the mountain road, still also with snow.

From there it was a pleasant stroll back down in the warming sun. I made it 12 km and 546m (but my I-watch seems inaccurate and Nathan’s 490m seems more true).

Our drive back (Stephen, Kobie and me) was only slightly marred by getting stuck in yet another jam on the autoroute. We listened to some good Coldplay Everyday Life to help us through.

Thanks for the company everyone. The hiking season 2026 has started. Maybe less snow next time.

POSTSCRIPT

Sunday 12 April 26

Maria had indicated that the Buvette closes on 13 April 2026 for the season. As I felt that I had left 10 days ago without saying a proper goodbye, I decided to re-hike the last route to La Genolière and give them a bottle of bubbly. It was a wet Sunday and Kobie and I waited until midday when the worst of the rain had past and it was merely moist. From Tancouez to the Buvette we encountered only one other party, the hills were damp and quiet. There was still plenty of snow in the forest and on shaded slopes – it’s going to take weeks for that to melt.

We knocked and entered at 1.40 pm with Moos and Zwikon there but no guests at all and signs that the team were packing up. There was some tart evident and Maria came down hearing Kobie’s bark. I gave her the bottle and was provided with a coffee and tart on the house. Then Maria fetched from a shelf a pair of gloves – my nice pair with wrist loops that I had left there 10 days ago and had still not noticed that they were missing! We thanked each other. Maria said that she and her team (family or friends?) move to a Mt Tendre chalet for the summer to look after the cows up there, sadly there is no buvette at that chalet. The Genolière Buvette will reopen on 6 Novembre. Put that in your agendas:

Kobie and I left and returned to Tancouez the same way as on the Gin hike. The steep snowy slope which caused consternation before, was devoid of snow and was slippy in the rain. Kobie found an impressive leg bone with a furry “tail” which he proudly carried for 45 minutes all the way to the car. As it was wet, there were many worms out on the tarmac and tracks, looking for their fortunes.

Entering the secret forest through the gap in the wall – covered in snow 10 days earlier

Approaching La Genolière in the Grande Combe, still a lot of snow in places, but none on the sunny slopes. There were many new crocuses.

The return descent into the Grande Combe

Bassins Bash 19 March 2026

Ten of us started out at the parking (881m) above Bassins on a sunny and warm Thursday in mid-March on this, the last of the “snow-shoe” season, outings. One member was even sporting shorts!

Attending :- Mark2ts, Mark2rs, Mervyn, Nathan, Philip, Rudi, PeterSt, Stephen, MikeH (and Rocco), PeterT (and Kobie). Apologies were received from several including RichardS in London, Rob still crock, Ralph now crock too, David shovelling manure and Ross in Morrocco.

Here is the flyer:-

“While Mervyn and his plankers may still be sliding about, there is much pleasure to be had in the spring woodland trails.

I am sending this to the Hiking Group, not the Snow-shoe Group. We have a number of members not in the SS Group, and I am thus proposing a hike.

Starting at the parking just before the Route des Montagnes road barrier above Bassins just after 10 am, at W3W ///supposes.toggle.sending , at 881m, I propose a hike in the forest but starting NE down along the open track (3 villages trail) to just above le Vaud (862m) , then generally NW up the Combe de Raffort to 1178m and then SW along and down to a picnic lunch at the picnic table at la Dunanche toblerones with fabulous views out to the alps.

From there we shall track W then SE back down the upper Moinsel Gorge, mostly all down hill. About 450m and 12 km max.

The weather looks good. There will be no snow. Big picnic, apèro etc. I will bring Kobie.

Meet at 9.30 Divonne or at the start.

Let me know by Thursday 9am if you are coming and where you will join.

Best foot forward”

Start team – fresh for the challenge. Mervyn, Philip, PeterSt, Mark2ts, Nathan, Mike, Rudi, Stephen and Mark2rs with Kobie, Rocco somewhere about…

Somewhat sadly, Mervyn had found no takers for his ski outong – but we were more than pleased that he joined us instead (he had had a brilliant ski outing on the Tuesday beforehand).

We set off in good spirits, downhill. There was little wind and much good cheer. Views from the 3 villages trail to the Alps are normally amazing but there was a lot of early morning haze out over the Lac so we had no glimpse of the alps. Reaching Le Vaud (862m) we turned up the trail to commence the “up” bit of the hike, almost 350m of it from this point. Various members were seeming to be either jet-lagged, tired, or just getting old, so we took our time, stopped now and again to take on water, and generally chatted most of the way up.

Reaching the road at the most northerly and highest part (1178m) of the hike my assurance that there would be no snow was found to be faulty.

Not a lot of it but quite noticeable in the patch encountered.

A level trail then followed, somewhat churned up by the loggers. After about 2 hours we reached the open fields at 1140m overlooking La Dunanche chalet into the sun and a view out and over to La Dôle, to turn left and down to the picnic table at the other La Dunanche by the toblerones. Sadly we had been beaten to it by a party of four who had completely taken over the only picnic table, with a full table-cloth and a fondu cooking. The view was OK but still a bit hazy and not the best so we left them to it escaped back down with our dogs and found a sunny spot in the field somehat away and behind for our own picnic. No view to the alps but a warm and sheltered bedding for a lunch and a siesta.

Settling down with some apèros being offered. Is that a cloud I see ?

There was much banter and we toasted our sadly-absent snow-shoe leader Rob, but could find no enthusiasm for Scottish independence. There was much talk of the recent 6 Nations Rugby tournament. Our recently returned members regaled us with sights and experiences of Costa Rica and Australia.

Dogs get attracted to Mike and vice versa

Post prandial snoozing, the heat was life affirming

A full ten minute silence siesta ensued. I have never experience this zen before on a Gin Hike

This was indeed a tough snow-shoe hike. 75 minutes lolling about in the sun, although I don’t think that I actually fell asleep. We were blessed with some Rosé, Côtes de Rhône, and Nebbiolo which helped sluice down our lunch – without choking – followed by some of Mark’s strong black coffee plus Mervyn’s milk. We sorely missed the Saynor Bottle; we concluded that it deserves a permanent place in our archives.

Well refreshed we saddled the horses for the stroll out and across the warm open field westward into the sun, toward the start of the Gorge de Moinsel. It was here that we spotted two small deer in the field below us. Kobie and Rocco duly went out on the hunt with Kobie returning (as expected) after a few minutes. Sadly though, no Rocco! We whistled and Mike thundered out his normal “Rocco” call. All to no avail. We had all walked on a bit. Eventually Mike went on further ahead while I tracked back, finally seeing Rocco’s fleeting figure running at ninety degrees across the field from where he had left us originally. After loud whistles he gradually veered in my direction and we were gladly reunited safely again.

Stephen just approaching the gorge entrance

We found the entrance to the gorge path OK, but somehow back markers Nathan and Mark2rs missed the next right turn down the gorge itself, my fault as leader. Sorry for that. However I knew the path that they were on would bring them back to the cars even before us, and we also knew that Nathan and his GPS would get them back safely whatever. We enjoyed the leisurely stroll down the gorge and then the gentle rise back up out and over and then down to the cars.

Nathan and Mark2rs were happily waiting back by the cars where the dogs reconnected with them

A very pleasant day out in very warm and sunny weather with great company and fine scenery. I made it 10.7km and 454m denivellation. Thanks for the company everyone.

Thus ends the Snow-Show season. Thanks Rob, for your organisation, but sorry that you were crock and out of it for the most part. I will now take over for the hiking season until the snows of next winter (also covering any further snow later this spring!).

5 March 2026 (Hike and) Gin Lunch at the Basse Ruche

Robert O Riordan kindly stepped up to the plate and organised a fondu lunch for the whole GinClub at the Basse Ruche. As this was a snow-shoe/hiking Thursday, Mark2ts organised a hike beforehand. This blog is thus in 2 parts, the pre-lunch hike, and then the lunch.

The Hike

Here is Mark’s note :- “I sent my original note while I was still in Tignes surrounded by snow so it had not occurred to me that most of the snow had disappeared from the Jura in the warm weather. I walked some of the planned route today and there is no need to bring snowshoes. The snow that is still there is mainly hard so no sinking in. It is slippery in places so crampons may be a good idea.

The plan is to mainly follow Peter Strebel’s plan B from 2 weeks ago, but we’ll need to set off early to be at Basse Ruche by midday. We’ll start at the Tancouex parking in St Cergue and follow the road and path up past La Borsatte to Mont Roux, then continue into the Fruitieres valley and return down the valley to Chalet Devant, possible apero stop, and then directly to Basse Ruche. It’s about 7.5 km with 360m ascent and should take about 2:45 hours according to Switzerland Mobility but I think we’ll be a little faster.

After lunch it’s just 1.5km back to the cars.

We’ll meet at Divonne at 8:30 or at the Tancouex parking in St Cergue ready to set off at 9:15.

Mark”

In the event 8 of us started out at Tancouez. Mark, Nathan, Ralph, RichardS, David, Philip, Mervyn and me, PeterT. I thought it best that, as this was primarily a lunch, Kobie should not come along too and he spent the day with Jill.

The weather was perfect for hiking and at times would have been not bad for snow shoeing, in patches, albeit we left our raquettes at home. We set off on time and Mark agreed to let me lead the pretty way towards Mt Roux.

The team pass Les Mouilles close to Tancouez, with La Dôle in the distance

We passed close to Les Agosats farm and headed NW towards Mt Roux.

Snow shoes might have been useful in places

We tracked up through the less-snowy forest until we reached the turn to Mt Roux at 1236m. Here a unanimous decision was taken to shorten the hike and head straight up to the Fruitières de Nyon for leisurely apèros before descending to the Basse Ruche. Mark’s planned longer outing might well have been tricky with some deep snow still about, and it would have left little time for a chat and an apèro drink. We arrived at the FdN before 11am and variousy disported ourselves on the dry grass near a single seat. We were the only folk about. A yellowish haze had come up from the Sahara and we could not see the normal alpine summits.

Some Rasteau appeared as did some honey liquor in Richard’s Bottle of many fluids, together with nibbles and Mark’s strong black coffee, and we enjoyed some calm downtime in the hazy warmth of the sun.

View of the alps…. with the desert dust spoiling the view a little, but giving us a nice sun screen.

It was soon time to pack up and descend the steep slope (not in snow) down to the BR for lunch, where we arrived in Swiss timing for the midday GinClub Fondu session. We said good by to Nathan. With the walk back down to our cars later I clocked 7.5km and 325m.

The Lunch

We said hello to RobP (snowshoe leader, but sadly still crook), Ruedi, Gary, Jeff (Shane), Paul and RobertOR, 13 for lunch overall. There were a number of other AVS parties in the dining room and it was a (our) shame that we at our end did not all get to meet those at the other end of our table. It was a lively affair, certainly no room for a big Cobberdog.

The far end. Gary talks with Rudi, Paul, Jeff and Robert in attendance.

The beers arrived followed by plentiful platters of meat. Then the fondu, with both bread and spuds, and chasselas, followed by fruit salad and coffee. Conversations flowed but not along the table, we were too spread out and the restaurant was busy. Altogether a very pleasant way to spend lunch.

All too soon we were finished and up and out down the short distance back to St Cergue and our cars. I think I put on a kilo – but one has to have a fondu at least once a year. It was a very tasty one and we all ate religiously. Thanks to Robert O and Mark.

(Note – I need to add RichardS’s photos too, but could not locate them at this late hour of Monday night)

GIN Ski Outing to Ported du Soleil – 26 February 2026

There was in the end a quorum for a ski outing on 26 February despite a number of apologies for absence, for the usual orthopaedic or travel reasons. A last minute proposal for a very early season bike ride that day further depleted the selection pool.

It was decided that Ralph, Richard F, both ski-starved, and myself would rendezvous with Stephen in Morgins at 09:15 to avoid the ski class queues. This required a rather early departure from Bogis Bossey, the car-pooling venue, and which elicited some pushback from one member only very recently arrived from South Africa. Objection overruled.

Before we had departed for the autoroute, Stephen sent a message saying that he had gone down with the flu overnight and was not up to a day of hard piste bashing. Suitably facetious messages of sympathy were sent in reply and we headed off regardless.

Instead of Morgins as a destination we decided Champéry was a more convenient start point for a foray into the French side of the Portes du Soleil, given the unseasonably high temperatures and the effect this was having on the south-facing Swiss slopes.

We made the 09:30 cable car, just, after some successful negotiation with the lift attendant. One of our party, who shall remain nameless, mistook a one hour intercontinental time difference for a one day difference, as recorded on his on-line purchased ski pass. Ski pass? Who buys ‘em? Sorry, private joke.

Richard soon showed his skiing pedigree and Ralph’s knee was not yet objecting, so we tore up some pistes before stopping for a sunny coffee in Les Brochaux.

That was followed by an extended morning’s skiing at pace through Lindarets, Plaine Dranse, Lingua before returning to La Pomme du Pin in Lindarets for a well deserved late lunch of beers, soupe à l-oignon, salads and coffees.

The afternoon skiing session was short, sunny and slushy in the spring snow (in February?). We stopped en route to watch some crazies take the “Fantasticable” way down the mountain from Rochasson, a spectacular zip wire measuring over 1.2km in length where speeds of over 100Km/h can be reached. Definitely a brown run! Meanwhile, back on the piste, tired legs, some objecting more than others, saw us back down to the car by 4pm and an early getaway to avoid the Lausanne rush hour which habitually builds up from 5pm onwards.

All in all a great day out and my thanks to my two ski companions. Get well soon, Stephen, Costa Rica awaits.

Mervyn Powell

06/03/2026

Biking to Gilly 26 Feb 26

The forecast was for sun and 15C at least. More in hope than anything I invited the team to partake of the first GIN bike ride of 2026. This was my first outing in over 4 months but Paul S had been out many times. He and Philip even turned out in shorts! (both on their E-bikes). Rounding it out to make a fab 4 was PeterSo (like me non-E), and we all appeared at Everness at 10 am in bright sun, not a cloud, it had been like this for 3 days after a February of rain and gloom with heavy snow high up.

That good snow high-up had kept other regulars including our BLeader and Mervyn out on their planks. A few other apologies came, including from Mark2ts and PeterD. Bill in the USA was amazed that we were biking so early. In fact in 2023 we had a GIN bike ride on 23 Feb, but more it is usual that our rides start in March.

Indeed the weather was stunning and those in shorts almost had an advantage. My plan was to head for Gilly lunch by 1pm, with a coffee stop perhaps on the way. As this was the first ride of the season we could sensibly skip Bonmont and other climbs and head across in comfort. We tracked across to God’s crossing then up to Crassier turning up right afterwards alongside the ruisseau, Le Boiron de Nyon. A left turn and up past Tranchepied to a water break just below the forest. From the Cheserex golf course we passed above Gingins and arrived at our favourite coffee stop at Givrins where Paul treated us to tarts and caffeine in the sun.

Coffee stop colleagues, Philip and Peter Solomon

A great place to drink a latte, Paul and PeterT

We met a man Edouard with his young son who worked in the golf business. At least he ran an app with software for folk to access a professional lesson anywhere in Europe, and also pay for green fees. There continued much golf talk, including about France and Italy.

Although we had plenty of time, I decided to stick with the horizontal approach to Gilly and we were soon through Genolier, Vich, Luins, Vinzel and Bursins arriving just after midday to a table in the sun, with beers coming quickly. The menu was Chf 25 for those on AVS, very good value, soup or salad, main course, dessert and a deci of chasselas. Sadly PeterSo was too young to qualify and he put on a brave face especially after Paul gave him his wine.

While we were waiting, Paul tried out his memory game on us. Every 5 seconds he showed us one of ten cards on which a french word was written. Could we remember these (in any order) ? Well, er, yes some of us could. Gateaux, divan, ceinture, crayon, nuages, sapin, moulin, voiture, billet, pelouse. I think… I built up a mental image of swimming in a cake by a dirty sofa in a “billet” with a garden.

The cabilloud was good, as was the bread, wine, salads and dessert and coffee.

What a tough ride !

The mood was spirited as was the conversation. It was all too soon time to leave (we had been there over 100 minutes), and for our return my plan was – keep it flat and simple. At Luins we turned left and passing Movenpick Wines we headed right onto the lake road at Dully for some faster rolling into the sun. Paul peeled off at Nyon for the train and Philip and I tracked up at Founex where I helped him get back into the fields below the Everness for his car there. I was home in an hour. I believe PeterSo may have made it home in time for his 3pm call.

A good first ride, leaving me with lots of energy for more gardening and the dechetterie run, followed by a walk with Kobie. I clocked 55km and 466m door to door.

No Country for Old Wimps 19.2.26 La Genolière

Peter Strebel called us for a snow-shoe outing in a snow-storm. This was no country for (old) wimps, a reference to a previous week’s outing where one member turned up because he did not want to be seen as one.

I am writing this Blog for Peter while he prepares for his Australian trip, but to him goes the credit for sounding us out and choosing a route which minimised driving and gave us sufficient exercise prior to eating hot cheese. One of his earlier options involved a picnic in a gale causing a strongly negative response. One member in particular did not want to “live his life like a sandwich in the wind”.

The forecast was indeed for continuous falling snow and many realised that this is indeed when the Jura comes alive in winter, the trees are bedecked like a Schilliger’s Christmas display, the wind howls and the fondus feel so much tastier. Our route started at La Givrine tracking up across a field to the woods in a NW direction before turning to head NE towards the Pré du Four Chalet. From there we were to steer towards La Genolière a favourite eatery in a storm, followed by the easy track down back to the parking afterwards.

Turning out at Divonne parking were 7 deranged folk, but non-wimps: Peters Strebel, Solomon and Taylor, Nathan, Mervyn, RichardS and Chris Newton, not to forget Kobie. The road was clear of snow up to La Givrine, but fine snow was in the air and the parking was slushily covered.

Kobie rolling in the slush at the parking lot (at 1205m), lots of kiddies out with their sleds too

The EasyPark was not working for me (lack of internet) but the machine worked and we were soon off guided by staff along the sides of the crosscountry ski trail. No cross country skiers were out that day. Tracking in single file (especially for Kobie who could not move in the deep powder) up the initial slope, the snow was soft and deep and the going hard and hot. My knees (PT) were not going to thank me for today. PeterSt took over the lead as we approached the forest.

Line management on the ski trail as we entered the forest

Now that we were on the ski trail we ignored orders to keep to one side, nobody was skiing, the going became much easier as we chatted until we came in sight of Les Coppettes Chalet at 1300m.

Winter wonderland and easy going on the ski trail (raod in summer)

We turned off the track and headed up again into the deep powder this time with PeterSo in the lead and it was not long before we heaved into the covered shelter of Pré du Four (1395m). Time for apèros.

Just room behind the huge mound of snow for shelter and apèros

A starling mound of snow had slipped off the roof, we were wary about what was still up there..

Choice of liquor from the Bottle, and some Austrian white, to accompany nibbles

Brilliant conditions for being up and about

I don’t think that any of us had seen this much snow in the Jura before. While the Alps were showing code red avalanche warnings, the Jura had a code orange moderate. It looked like the most serious danger might come from chalet roofs..

PeterSt telephoned ahead to La Genolière to advise them that we would be slightly late for our 12.30 reservation, we had been moving slowly in the deep white landscape. We packed up and exited from the far end (to avoid the roof danger) and headed off in single file up the remaining 35m or so of ascent before starting down past the Grutli Chalet, PeterSt and PeterSo breaking trail heroically. The wind was blowing strongly from our right and it had not stopped snowing and the scenery was of the Jura’s very best.

Out there in the storm, passing Grutli. Look at the snow depth!

We passed down through the very beautiful forest that contains the lower trail up to Cabane Carroz.

Sublime winter forest, PeterSo looking happy

We made it down all too soon onto the main trail and turned left and up to be met by Moos at La Genolière. We had reserved a table, and I was little surprised that there were 3 other parties there, but all were couples. After hanging up our wet kit we sat down near the log fire to some initial beers with Kobie his chews on a carpet that I had carried for him. Cheese and other dishes were ordered, some fondu, some rösti, some croutes and soup, was down with some excellent white wine. We had earned it!

Classic cheese eating Gintlemen

There was much discussion at the table about many subjects, including winter avalanche deaths (too many), absent friends (too many to name), dogs, politics, rugby, golf (sic), future events, the arrest of Andrew and even Scottish independence. I may have missed many other topics – it was just nice to feel warm and well fed and watered and back in the company of our chums, while all along the snow fell outside.

Proving that Kobie does indeed rest on his carpet as ordered (after a while admittedly)

All too soon it was time to pay (cash only) and tog up for the exit outside into the snow again. It was still snowing but only very lightly. We all donned our snow shoes, although it was perfectly feasible to walk back in boots as others were doing.

Heading back down the main trail to La Givrine.

We were soon back at the cars where the tarmac was mostly cleared of snow. The temperature there was perhaps just above freezing, it was not cold enough for ice. We could even see sun at the very end, dimly admittedly.

Saying our goodbyes – notice the lack of snow, cleared by the authorities and the warmer temperature

Another great day out that will linger in the memory on forthcoming hot summer days. I made it 9.7km and 405m (although that does seem a tad over the top – it was on my watch so it goes into the spreadsheet). Thanks again to PeterSt for organising and breaking trail, PeterSo too. May there be many more.

Snow shoe hike to the Grand Mont Rond 5 February 2026

Looking through the GIN blogs, it seems that the Grand Mont Rond (GMR) ascent on snowshoes has become a biennial (as opposed to a bi-annual) event, so as appointed SLeader, I thought we should continue the tradition. Nine of us signed up, Peter (+Kobie), Mervyn, Stephen, Nathan, David, Ralph, Philip, Marks 2rrs and myself. Unfortunately, Mark had to pull out at the last moment suffering from a heavy cold. Regrets and kind wishes were sent by several others with an eclectic range of excuses.

The main group of Vaudois set off from Divonne, whilst the Gessiens (Ralph, Philip and me) made our own ways directly up to the Col. At the car park, Kobie was as usual complaining about the length of time it took these (not so young) Gintlemen to don their snow shoes, but eventually we set off at around 10.15 taking the back road behind the ski lifts and past the zip line that some of us are planning to attempt in the summer. We passed a guy who had obviously been waiting all night and then turned left to take the path up through the forest.

It’s a steady climb up and we were pleased to be wearing snow shoes, but it was a bit disconcerting to see a couple of younger guys speeding past us just wearing boots.

We reached the first ski run and at this point Philip, who had also been suffering from a cold, decided sadly, that enough was enough, so he elected to part company with us and return to his car.

The remaining seven of us continued under sunny skies but cold temps towards the GMR before becoming disconcerted again by the sight of a group of about 15 youngsters coming towards us, mostly girls and just wearing shorts.

We made steady progress up to the summit where there were surprisingly many people. This was a Thursday and one wonders how many were “working from home”! There was swirling cloud but in between we had some fine views across the Alps and the Jura. A strong wind forced us to find some lee and inevitably, bottles and snacks appeared. Stephen produced an alcohol-free wine that was not universally appreciated by those who tried it, but Peter had his trusty bottle of Luins which was! The GIN bottle containing Red Bull vodka also made an appearance and was partaken by some brave souls.

The descent from the GMR was not always clear and at one point, some of us had to backtrack when we reached something of a precipice. We all arrived safely at the central valley where there was masses of virgin snow.

As Louis A would have said “what a wonderful world”

The climb up the other side was led by Peter and Kobie who chose the right hand route close to the falaise facing the Alps. There is an alternative way to the left which is easier, but our route was more challenging, resulting at one point with at least three of us choosing to slide down one particularly steep slope on our bottoms. We continued on the undulating trail towards the PMR, but shortly beforehand there was a minor mutiny when it was suggested that we go down to the main station for lunch instead of the self service at the top. Captain Bligh, aka SLeader, reasoned that the views were much better from above so we pressed on with no punitive action necessary!

At the restaurant, we found an empty corner table with a great panorama and enjoyed well-earned beers courtesy of Ralph, for which many thanks. Although we had only hiked about six kilometres and climbed 440 metres, it was felt by some of us at least, that we had had a decent workout. Staple fare was consumed, steaks, sausages, lasagne, pasta, etc, and it was time to head down. Mervyn, Peter and Kobie decided that telecabines are for wimps so they opted to walk back to the car park whilst the rest of us gratefully sailed down past them in relative comfort.

The weather and snow conditions turned out to be above expectations, the company was, as usual, superb and everyone arrived home safely.

Blog, Snowshoe 22nd January 2026 – Franck’s

La Loge via various routes

B Team – 6 km 300m or so

The snowshoe section broke ground in 2 innovations for this event. First, by appointing a leader who had never been to the area before and had no idea where he was supposed to go. Dear reader, I blush to admit it was I, your current blogger.

The second innovation was a two pronged assault on the objective, La Loge, the mountain redoubt of Franck, Kathy and the Genepi source, of which more later. A section, consisting Paul S, Richard Saynor, David Colledge and Mark Warren took the longer drive and shorter walk option by going to Lelex. B section and the K9 section consisting of Mark Watts, Nathan F, Mervyn, Steve Long, Peter Strebel, Peter Taylor and your blogger took the shorter drive to Crozet with a slightly longer, stiffer walk. K9 section consisted of the Gin K9 regulars, Kobie and Rocco.

Gathering with Blue Leader at Divonne in the mud. The two teams take shape

A very prompt meet up at Divonne parking took place under frankly unpromising skies, with the sky unable to make up its mind whether to snow or rain. Weather improved on the way to our respective jumping off points, although we still had 10/10ths cloud. Eschewing the preferred Taylor option of walking up from the very bottom, we took the bubbles up the mountain. Snow shoes on, we set off for Franck’s under gradually clearing weather with Peter Strebel predicting 11 out of the 2 periods of clear patches. Not a particulary long or difficult route but with very variable snow conditions underfoot.

Blue Leader making progress – with yellow hat

Apèros enjoyed despite the cold and not pleasant conditions

B Section arrived at Franck’s to find A section happily ensconced, getting themselves out side of plates of charcuterie and refreshing themselves after their long trek (ok 15 minutes) from the top of the lift up from Lelex. What followed was what many seemed to believe was one of the best GIN lunches ever.

We had La Loge virtually to ourselves and were rapidly provided with more charcuterie and delicious fresh bread. The saucisse and lentil main course proved both popular and an extremely wise choice.

Kobie expecting charcuterie with Fanck behind

Tarte au myrtilles was a welcome follow up with coffee followed by Franck getting out his box of industrial strength genepi. At one point it looked like Franck was fixing to have us stay the whole afternoon. He was an extremely warm and generous host and even given his announcement that the genepi and the coffees were on the house, it was hard to believe the per head cost of only just over 30 euros. Conversations were as usual wide rangeing. Peter T mentioned his anti-choking device, although there was some puzzlement as to why he didn’t have it with him. It appears to look like some kind of sink un-blocker. Given the various suggestions as to what other bodily malfunctions/orifices the device could be applied to, it was perhaps a blessing that by this time we had La Loge entirely to ourselves.

The B Team heads back up to the Col alongside the ski piste

The return commenced just in time to meet the 16.00 last lift deadline and we did finally get one of Peter S’s clear patches with wonderful if fleeting views.

Fleeting Views on the downhill to Crozet (before the sting in the tail)

The descent had a little bit of a sting in the tail with me ending up on my backside. Peter S helped me up and although it was not a remotely dangerous situation, it was a little reminder of the advantages of walking in a group. ‘Vale’ GIN.

An easy drive back to Divonne was accomplished before 17.00. The walk was not particularly long (5km, 300m deniv.) even for Section B but your author’s legs reminded him that evening of the greater physical demands of snow shoeing across variable snow compared to walking. At least among Sections B and K9, the consensus was that this was an excellent outing and many thanks were due to the organiser given his thorough knowledge of the logistics, the terrain, the route etc. Actually, thanks to Mark Warren for setting up the table and Peter T and many others for explaining the routes and logistics to me.

Mike Hempstead

Crans 23/1/26