Well into November and still the conditions are good for biking, enough to encourage 4 regulars and one newcomer to venture out, even though the forecast was a little uncertain. Rudi emerged from biking semi-retirement to join Stephen, Mervyn, Mark2Ts and PeterD on a ride marketed as flattish with the potential for our favourite Bonmont climb after lunch. This latter suggestion was shot down before it had taken wing by a couple of participants, who shall remain nameless, but whose names start with the same letter as “mutineer”. It seems that after-lunch cycling has to be short and easy.
e-Rudi had packed his e-bike neatly into his car to avoid draining both bike and leg batteries on a ride from his home in Morges to the Everness Hotel meeting point.
A few spots of rain welcomed the other riders but happily did not transform into anything more significant (the rain that is, for the riders it’s too late). We set off to join the cycle route 50 by the Chavannes Shopping Centre and followed this all the way into Chambesy. Pristine bikes were spattered by spray from the wet, muddy Versoix paths as were bikers who didn’t have the benefit of mudguards. Without the presence of the the leader from the last outing and his off-piste tendencies, we were able to make almost unwavering progress along the designated route. So much so, that there was a potential for either a coffee stop or a slightly longer loop before lunch. We stopped for coffee. Rudi, ecstatic that both his batteries were still fully charged, kindly sponsored the refreshments, including the now customary first beer of the day for one participant.
Fortified and grateful that a longer loop had been averted and that a 50 km/hr speed limit put heed to a time trial along the flat straight lake road cycle track, we were able to proceed without stress, admiring the views and details often unseen when passing this road in the car. We turned off the lake road up past the Nyon Tennis Club, onto the smaller tracks, through Eysins and via the back route to Signy, where lunch had been booked at the Pinte, recently having changed management to Sabo, who also runs the Nyon Tennis Club restaurant.
We all enjoyed the first beer of the afternoon (and for some a subsequent second) and happily ordered the menu du jour of oriental couscous starter followed by braised beef in tasty sauce and truffled potato. This was excellent and complimented by the usual varied and lively conversation.
After lunch, Mark shot off ahead at strategic points, sufficient to ensure that the ever-hopeful leader would not be tempted to divert the group up the Jura. More refreshments were offered in Arnex, but ultimately declined, as the attraction of an afternoon siesta won out.
Statistics: ca. 48.5 kms, 416 m ascent, max. elevation 501m, saddle time 2h30, average speed 19.5 km/hr.
NB. Regret lack of usual photographic record, our chief photographer was absent.
Apart from the marathon (well, 24 km) hike around the Lac de Joux 2 weeks ago, this was my first GIN hike for 8 months, mainly due to open-heart surgery during the summer. So it was with some apprehension that I offered to organise a mountain hike in the French Alps to the east of Annecy. I felt sure that the ascents were going to slow me down, so I made sure that I went in front on the narrow tracks so that none of the greyhounds on my heels could streak ahead.
However, problems arose before we even reached the hike start. After passing through Thorens-Glière, Usillon and the hamlet of Nant-Sec, we came across a “road-blocked” sign. Since there was no deviation possibility, we optimistically drove straight on. A kilometer further was a second road-blocked sign, which looked a bit more serious. Since this was only some 700 m short of our intended stopping point, we found a verge-side parking spot for the three cars and set off on foot up the road. The reason for the signs quickly became apparent – trees were being felled just above the road and one of the lumberjacks advised us that if we continued we would face hefty fines.
Richard reconnoitering the Pas du RocMervyn in the rock arch
Undeterred, the eight of us – Mark 2tts, Mark 2rrs, Richard, Andrew, Nathan, Mervyn, David and me, Philip – set off up the narrow path crossing the slope above us while keeping a close look-out for falling trees. The path zigzagged up the slope at a pleasant gradient and after 1 hour we reached a steeper, more rocky section – the Pas du Roc. Here the path had been cut out of the cliff, which reared hundreds of meters above our heads. On the outer side of the 2m-wide path the cliff plunged vertically to the forest below. The recent rain made some sections of the path quite slippery, and one slip here could have proved fatal. Fortunately, hand holds had been provided, in the form of cables and chains, to avoid touching the void.
Cautious progress up the Pas du Roc
The explanation for the human engineering of this bold path is that in 1830 it was decided to build a glass factory on the plateau above. The high-quality glass was to be made from Salève sand, but also needed substantial quantities of wood to fuel the fires. The cliff-carved path was the only way of bringing in the timber, presumably on horses or mules. In fact the glass factory only operated until 1860.
Crossing the cascadeGIN Hikers Shadow Cabinet in action
Above the delicate passage was a cascade, swollen by the recent rains and crossed by two bridges. Richard nobly climbed up to the higher bridge to photograph us on the lower one. From here the path wandered across the Champ Laitier, a huge plateau of boggy ground.
La Montagne de Sous-Dine – a moveable feast
It was around this point that an interesting discussion arose concerning the whereabouts of a mountain called the Sous-Dine. I told the group that the mountain over to the left must, from its profile, be the Sous-Dine, a mountain that Richard and I had climbed a few years earlier. Richard replied that it was impossible, as a sign that he had just spotted announced the Sous-Dine by pointing to the right. To the right there was indeed a mountain but it was forested to the summit, which the Sous-Dune is not. I pondered for a moment then brought out my trump card: “my IGN 1:25000 map indicates that the Sous-Dine is to the west of our present position. Unless my compass has inverted, west is over to the left, whereas that sign is pointing eastwards.” Faced with this irrefutable logic, Richard graciously admitted defeat. We could only explain this strange situation by assuming that either the sign had been erected the wrong way round or, more likely, that it wanted hikers to take a “scenic deviation” across the boggy ground.
Warm sunshine and lively picnic discussion
Up ahead was a large building, the Chalet de Plan, which looked as though it would be a good picnic spot since it was now well past midday. It proved to be the perfect place, with steps and a bench to sit on in the warm sunshine. The blog writer notes that GIN outing accounts traditionally mention conversation items covered during lunchtime. Given the erudite nature of the group members, it is no surprise that the conversation between bites covered such learned topics as 1) the relative merits of cooking techniques for eggs – hard boiled, soft boiled, sunny side up or easy over; 2) the resignation of a bullying UK cabinet minister; 3) the quality of the alcoholic beverage that Richard brought, which allowed us to toast absent friends. Scottish independence was deemed not to be a worthy topic as there was nobody present to defend it. We probably need an eloquent Scot to revitalise this once-popular topic.
Another of Richard’s tipples
Having eaten well, we decided not to continue further over the Champ Laitier but to head downwards via a deviation across boggy ground sloping down to the river that fed the cascade. Since we were well equipped with torches and head lamps, we fixed as objective a goufre (pothole) marked on the 1:25000 map. With Nathan keeping a constant eye on his GPS, we soon came across what might have been a pothole. There was certainly a depression in the ground, surrounded by a feeble fence that would have posed no problem to a determined warthog. However, the height of the nettles around the hole was enough for even the most enthusiastic cavers among us to be put off any further investigation.
Atmospheric descent through the rock arch
As we descended, the pleasant sunshine gave way to thick mist, which provided a suitable atmosphere to the 200m-long delicate cliff-cut path. No one spoke. It definitely needed 100% concentration to avoid a dangerous slip. Once past this hazard, we could relax and enjoy the contrasting autumnal colours of the beeches, oaks and conifers. Back at the cars we discovered David’s pair of clean shoes lying undisturbed on the ground outside the car where they had been all day!
David’s shoes enjoying a day out
In the Thorens-Glière bistro where we stopped for a well-earned drink, it was generally agreed that the Pas du Roc hike provided an interesting variation to the more usual Jura walks. Now, while we await the first snows that will allow us to get moving on raquettes, there might just be time for one more autumnal hike.
The weather forecast for several days had showed rain on the Thursday afternoon, and it was not wrong. The forecast was for sub 10C temperatures in cloud but little wind. Somewhat alarmingly 3 of the 6 starters turned out in shorts for this ride. Quel insouciance.. Anyway we set off at 10 am from the Evenness. Stephen, Mervyn, E-Reinier, Ivan, Mark and me.
My plan was to lunch at the Founex Tennis Club so that I could roll back down afterwards to my home in 3 minutes rain or no rain. Thus a route up heart-attack hill (Mourex) and across the wonderful woods including Mt Musey and round and back to Mourex then down was mooted and accepted by the party.
The weak sun was soon to disappear but there was a sense of optimism, there was little wind, and the run through the forest then up over the Versoix River to Grilly is always pleasant. Not quite so the hill after the short transit on the bike path. That hill to Mourex is Peter Drew’s favourite, but I cannot see why, as it is steep and not short. My heart went up to stratospheric levels just plodding up. Reinier surged past us with ease.
At the top we regrouped. My plan now diverged from our normal route (down and across to Vesancy) and turned up right to the parking before the open area of Mt Mourex. Trending right along the VTT trail which with a dog and good boots is a nice stroll, is a bit more of a challenge for bikes. Indeed the next 5 K was a little out of our ordinary fare.
There was layer of fallen leaves, albeit dry, hiding roots and stones and slippy stuff generally.
Reinier tackles a tricky descent in the forest of Mt Musey/Mourex
We survived and turned sharp left above the parking (above Divonne) to head up the main trail to Mt Musey and back to Mt Mourex. Some way up this trail Stephen and I waited for the others, then he went back to find them all. Ivan, Mervyn and Mark arrived, but not Reinier nor Stephen. Mervyn told us that Reinier had received a call to attend his doctor and had descended. (We have heard since that he survived). Eventually S returned having not found R, and we regrouped.
Stephen was pleased – after 4 years he had found that his bike had front suspension. Ivan was pleased – his new bike was 21st century and had low gears. Mervyn and Mark seemed pleased too; they had stayed upright on their less than VTTs and had cruised the bumps. I was pleased – nobody fell.
Fabulous views, across to a brooding Mt Blanc resplendent in new snow but under a menacing blue hue, welcomed us at Mt Mourex. This view stretches across the lower Rhone basin below Geneva, with the Jura chain on the right and Lac Leman and the Alps on the left, and is recommended for a fine day.
In view of the time and the weather forecast we opted to return the same way down to the valley, before a slightly different route back through Commugny led to the Founex Tennis Club. The restaurant was quiet, service friendly, the beers excellent as was the food.
Conversation at lunch was wide and varied (a new PM in the UK since our last ride was noted) and I recall we discussed cooking and coffee preparation as well as getting an update on Ivan’s Ukraine experience with the ongoing war. Much suffering. We are so lucky.
The rain came heavy and cold shortly after I got home, bang on the forecast time. I lit our fire and took a hot shower.
Only 27 km but 460 m – and some wonderful forest trails.
In the forest – wonderful fall coloursNotice – shorts At Founex Tennis Club after a nice lunchDisconcerting that the Heart Attack Hill up to the Loop above Grilly shows the descent heart rate Green, going up it must have been Purple. Founex Tennis Club marked.
Five of us (Peter, Philip, Mark 2rrs, Nicolas and the writer) met early at the usual parking spot by Divonne lake and set off in high spirits for the Lac de Joux despite temperatures of 6 degrees and misty conditions. Our progress was somewhat thwarted by ominous but ambiguous signs in Longirod suggesting deviations – but were they just for lorries? We pressed on regardless and entering St George it became obvious that the signs were to be taken seriously, but Peter knew a small byway which took us around the town which brought us into a car park surrounded by road works. We had unknowingly caught up with Nathan and the three cars managed to circumvent the holes in the roads and after taking a slightly illegal route, managed to get back on the route to the Col du Marchairuz. Up there, the weather was bright and sunny, but on the descent to Le Brassus we could see a thick layer of fog above the Lac de Joux.
We had intended to leave the parking lot at Altitude 1004 in Les Bioux at 09.30, but Drew called and told us that his GPS gave him an ETA of 09.50 due to the deviation. Knowing that we didn’t have that much leeway in order to reach our lunch stop some 14kms away at 13.00, the Famous Five plus Kobie set off around the lake in a clockwise direction. Rob called and cancelled due to a medical issue. I waited for Drew to turn up as scheduled and we drove to L’Orient at the southern end of the lake to wait for the guys to appear through the fog. They had already walked 2.5kms along the excellent boardwalk which traverses marshy ground.
Emerging from the fog
Reunited, we continued around the bottom of the lake and carried on past Le Sentier and its many watch factories, and Le Rocheray where four hardy souls had just finished swimming in the lake. For a time we were on minor roads, but were rewarded by the sight of many pretty lakeside properties. Reaching Les Esserts-de-Rive, the sun finally broke through the fog and confirmed that there was indeed a large lake on our right-hand side! We then entered a wooded area and enjoyed the peace and tranquillity of a rocky path right by the water. The level of the lake has been very low – more than 1 metre below its normal height of 1,004 metres, but the recent rains had restored the level to its “working” height.
The low level path soon ended and we had to climb a series of switchbacks to reach Le Lieu where we thought that we deserved some light refreshment. Some limoncello shots and an excellent Riesling revived us in true GIN fashion and we set off on the last leg of our pre-lunch journey. Outer layers of clothing were discarded in the warm sunshine and absent friends were of, course, honoured in the usual way. Entering a new wooded area, we hadn’t gone many metres before we encountered a small herd of chamois which spooked Kobie somewhat and required some frantic whistle-blowing by Peter. Order was restored when the chamois headed down a steep bank and our canine companion returned to his master. Shortly afterwards, those of us leading had to restrain him again as we came across another herd. Our chief wildlife photographer, Nathan, managed to take some fine shots of the animals who did not appear to be particularly perturbed by our presence.
In the sunshine at lastThat bottle is past its sell by dateWho are you looking at?Come in, the water’s lovely
Following the prescribed path to Le Pont, Nicolas and I were startled by a huge chamois crossing our path at speed pursued by Kobie who had taken a higher route with Peter. Fortunately, our furry friend gave up the chase and was once again reunited with his master. Our timing wasn’t too bad as we reached the Relais de la Truite only 5 minutes after the time that we had been instructed by the management to arrive by.
Our lunch spot
Plats du jour had been ordered in advance without any knowledge of their composition but moules frites were gratefully accepted by 6/7, with the seventh opting for croute forestière. Beers and a modest bottle of chasselas were enjoyed and we repaired to have our coffee outside in the glorious sunshine. Serious conversation subjects during the meal and whilst hiking covered many topics, including the state of UK politics, global warming and energy storage, as well as more lighthearted bantering. The “douloureuse” when it arrived was noted to cost each participant half of that paid by some of us earlier at a well-known resto below the Dôle, although in fairness, there was slightly less alcohol consumed!
Where are those mussels?
Reluctantly, we had to face the fact that we still had 8kms to return to our starting point, so we set off at varying speeds passing “toblerones” and the Breguet building at L’Abbaye. Curiously, most of the towns around the lake have rather simple names, the Bridge, the Path, the Place, the Abbey, the East, showing perhaps a surprising lack of imagination when such beautiful time pieces are created in its many watch factories.
Nine pairs of tired legs (including two of Kobie’s) reached our vehicles safely and Peter, Nicolas and Nathan decided to head off to try to avoid the rush- hour traffic, but Mark, Philip and Drew accepted my invitation for beer and crisps at our pad. Drew was then returned to his car and the three of us remaining took an circuitous route past Les Pralets which avoided the blockage at St George.
Distances were estimated at between 22 and 26kms depending on which Apple Watch, iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, GPS, website or map measuring tool was used, but we seemed to agree on a mean of about 24kms and a modest 200 metres ascent. In any case, it was more than a half-marathon! We wish Rob well and hope that he can rejoin our group asap. This, of course, applies to other GINvalids as well!
Fifteen Ginners and guests plus an adorable black Labrador, Onyx, met in the centre of Russin with even the latecomers arriving two minutes early. We consequently set off punctually at 10am with three “leaders” who had recently done the walk as well as emeritus leaders who knew it well. The steep walk down to the station and over the railway line went well but then an emeritus leader asked which way to go in view of a choice of at least three options. The group agreed to split and to meet at the first hide which was achieved without incident. Indeed, it would have been extremely difficult to get lost as all roads led to the Rhone.
The Rhone was flowing fast with little bird life but there were several ponds off the right bank – the étang des Bouvières for fishing – and three (Paul Géroudet, Jacques Burnier and Maurice Blanchet) collectively known as the Teppes du Verbois for their birds and nature, each with its own hide. Many pairs of binoculars were brought out and many minutes taken looking at the various birds, including swans, red-crested pochards, great crested grebes, coots as well as a grey heron and a great white egret. The light and the reflections against the water were glorious.
We continued towards the confluence of the Allondon with the Rhone where kingfishers were spotted and then up the surprisingly challenging slope to the Vignoble Doré for an excellent lunch. Conversation ranged from how long it would be before Liz Truss resigned (end of the week), leaders who some would like to see out of power or prospects of such before the year’s end (leading contenders were Putin, Bolsinaro, Trump and Khamenei), the benefits of the House of Lords for the man in the street…
More seriously, would volunteers for leading future walks please contact Alan Baker.
A good walk as underscored by a participant who said he would come back with his wife. Another said so would he, before correcting himself to say he meant his own wife.
Participants:
Brian Allardyce, Alan Baker, Mike Clayton, Bryan Clark, Norman Eatough, Tim Goodyear (not lunch), Philip Jenkins, Hubert Pettingell, Mike Price, Richard Saynor, Paul Sochaczewski, Nicolas Ulmer and Mark Warren
The leader promoted this ride as “Definitely shorts and T shirt weather”. Sometimes you have to eat your words. The warm, sunny, autumnal days had, contrary to the forecast, been replaced by weather more suitable for the season: overcast and drizzling. However, of the magnificent seven who turned up for this outing, only one hadn’t followed the dress code, at least on the “shorts” wear.
Six fine pairs of legs in shorts. Only the photo taker didn’t follow the dress code.
Stephen, PeterD, PeterT, Mervyn, Mark, Ivan and e-Reinier met in the light rain at the Everness Hotel ready for the challenge of the three peaks of Mourex, Vesancy and Bonmont before descending to Gingins for a well-earned beer and lunch. Reinier, a welcome newcomer to the group, arrived with his much admired, sleek, lightweight, e-bike and a history of frequent biking as well as usual GIN credentials of various ailments over the years. We knew that he would fit in well and perhaps spur a larger contingent of e-bikers, if not a full sub-section. The chosen route indeed would encourage assisted cycling. Ivan appeared with his re-re-re-repaired bike loaned from Mark. Up to this point new tyres and inner tubes, handle grips, brakes, chain have all been upgraded and an attempt at pedal replacement (unfruitful as of yet due to excessive rust on the old pedals). What else could possibly fail?
A fine new chain. A pity about the rusted pedals
We set off with much banter as many participants had only recently returned from recent trips and had much to catch up on. This included a saga of 24 hours in a sweaty Italian hotel bed…..probably too much information, sorry. We warmed up on the easy ride through the woods in the direction of Grilly, although the uneven nature of the track was more uncomfortable for those with thinner tyres and wetter for those without mudguards. By the time we left the old train track and onto the real ascent up to Mourex we were hill ready and our legs “well-tuned”. Half way up the hill the legs felt insufficiently tuned and the group had spread out significantly. E-Reinier cruised easily past the peloton whilst Ivan struggled with the early 20th century gearing on his machine. However, all were relieved to reach the top and regroup whilst admiring the fine muscular contours of the last arrival, our backMarker.
Downhill to the main road between Divonne and Gex and then a shorter and gentler slope up to the heights of Vesancy. Some took the PeterD shortcut, which would challenge even the e-bikers, but not the man himself. As the clock struck 11.00h, our leader realised that the Ô Château restaurant opened at this time and would be an excellent place for a coffee. We received a friendly welcome from the waitress, who recognised that we were a subset of the larger group expected on November 23rd, when the GIN lunching group will appear en masse. Warm and soft drinks were served to all, except the shortcut leader who felt the necessity to replace alcohol depleted by his heroic efforts. Indeed, he followed the precautionary principle and downed a couple of beers aided by the fact the waitress had invertedly poured two. During the chat, Ivan admitted that, despite his persistence, he was ready for a more functional bike. Offers were forthcoming from both Peters (but surely Mark must have another reserve bike?).
Have you heard the one about the bike which kept on breaking down….?Looking good after the first beer….….not so perky after the second
The last of the 3 peaks beckoned and we reluctantly left the comfort of the restaurant seating with the knowledge that the first part would be downhill and eager to get the final uphill out of the way, so that we could progress onto a fulsome lunch. Downhill, and some potholes, were a more than a challenge for Ivan’s bike. The new chain leapt from its worn sockets and needed a rapid repair. Confirmation, if needed, that retirement of this bike is imminent.
Aware that other traffic has not always been favourably disposed to counterflow on the one way roads up to our Bonmont summit, the leader opted for the safer and proper direction of travel. Maybe slightly longer and slightly steeper in parts, he was confident that the GIN Bikers’ muscle power was up to the task. Obviously, no qualms for the happily meandering e-Reinier. The leader was not proved wrong and, on this occasion, we could benefit from careful study of Mervyn’s majestic pedal work as he completed the group for the photo at the high point.
A colourful bunch amongst the autumn colours
A rapid descent into Gingins and we arrived exactly at the anticipated time at our lunchtime destination of the Auberge de la Poste, specialist in Belgian beers and food. With a full restaurant, it was lucky that the leader had reserved the table in advance. However, the restaurant claimed no knowledge and we were seated outside. Happily the air temperature was sufficiently warm and we were under cover. Indignant and determined for amends, the leader showed the internet confirmation of the booking. “Mais ce n’est pas le 27 aujourd’hui, c’est le 20!” La tarte humble. The waiter was gracious in his victory, happily accepting our orders of Belgian beer and, without gloating, let it be known that the plat du jour was no more. Alternatives of moules et frites and hamburgers were ordered. Conversation inevitably focused on UK politics and events in Ukraine but also encompassed many other diverse topics, such as the global population of flies and ants and the ability to convert global excess of carbon dioxide to useful fuel. More beer ordered and a toast raised for absent colleagues.
Belgian humour. Tintin in GinginsRenewing the muscles with mussels
Homeward bound, well replete after our short stay in the heart of the EU. PeterD and Reinier peeled off first to ensure a long siesta, PeterT and Ivan followed next and the die-hards of Mervyn and Mark joined Stephen for a well-deserved home brew in Arnex.
Statistics: ca. 37km, 570m elevation gain, 17.6km/h average speed, 2h10m cycling time.
The Ardèche, The Pyrenees, London, Poole, The Cotsolds, Cinque Terre all featured as possible destinations for this week’s hike from our dispersed members, away on October breaks. Promotion even including free beer by some. However, the reality was that 4 stay-at-homes decided against excessive travel and joined a gentle, local hike on a pleasant autumnal day, with only a short shower on our exit from lunch and as we arrived back at the cars at the end of the walk.
Stephen, Andrew, David and newcomer Nathan, a Tannay neighbour to David, met at the Divonne car park near the old station. On this occasion, Andrew was not left waiting at the incorrect three words location used on a previous occasion. Nathan avoided any potential confusion by hitching a ride with David. The plan was to walk up through Divonne to Mt. Mussy and onto Mt. Mourex, then passing through Mourex and to Vesancy for lunch at the Ô Château restaurant. After lunch, time permitting, walking up to the Riamond chapel and maybe up to the Riamond (881m) before returning to Divonne via the golf course.
Not all the paths were known so there was a certain sense of adventure as we checked maps and signs along the way. However, it transpired that Nathan was taking his first outing with us seriously, not only having prepared with a walk up the Dôle the previous day but also fully equipped with a satnav. He was able to identify our exact location and the most likely direction to arrive at the planned lunch spot. Credibility was somewhat tarnished when he informed us that there would be a building 200m further up the path, only to find no trace of one.
On the right path but where is that building?
Undeterred, he then questioned the leader’s proposed route suggesting that there was a more direct way to reach Vesancy from Mt. Mourex, by-passing Mourex. Without the usual multitude of differing route suggestions from various brands of hiking software, the group had no choice but to follow this lone advice. Certainly, it was a very pleasant wooded path, and it did avoid Mourex, but as we gazed at Vesancy receding behind us across the valley, with a scarp rock face between us and it, several thoughts crossed the leader’s mind:
• Our usual GIN Hiking leader would have led us down the scarp face and across the valley to lunch • He should have done his homework better and/or he should have used executive privilege to dictate the route • Newcomers to the group should have a probationary period (but not possible due to the GIN “only one rule” rule, the one rule already being used up) • Where else was there a restaurant nearby for lunch?
Happily, a path not previously identified eventually took us down to the valley with a corresponding path up the other side, backtracking towards our luncheon destination, vindicating the choice of route. I should also add that the leader had taken the late precaution of checking that the restaurant was indeed open and happy to accept us. David had seemed particularly concerned that he might not get lunch.
All’s well that ends well. We arrived only marginally behind the original timing plan and were greeted warmly by the restaurant, pleased to have their clientele boosted by 300%. Lunch was well up to standard, all of us taking the menu du jour of salmon, shrimp and jellied guacamole starter with leg of duck and vegetables as the main. The house red, Vacqueras, was also more than acceptable, as were the introductory beers. Discussion did not cover Scottish independence, which is now seen as inevitable.
Well fed, shower passed, and ready for the direct route back
The after-lunch planned route was amended to ensure a timely arrival back at the car park in Divonne. Unfortunately, this meant that the visit to the Riamont chapel had to be postponed to a later date. So, we followed in reverse direction the original, scarp free, plan from Mt. Mourex to Vesancy and then a known wooded path from Mourex, along the base of the Mt. Mussy hill, directly back to our parked cars.
Another memorable day out, great to have Nathan with us and, no, we’re not envious of those absentees in far-flung places.
Statistics: 18.8 km, 430m elevation climb, max elevation 760m, total time (including lunch) 6h5m, walking speed: gentle.
We started at 10:30 from the Parking of the Refuge de Gland. After 15 minutes walk through the woods, we reached the route de Lausanne. We stopped at the Fortification Villa Rose, which was a big surprise to some the walkers in our small group. We also admired several times the “Toblerone Line”. Leaving the Route de Lausanne, we proceeded through fields, woods and followed the river until we reached the Domaine Imperial Golf Course.
We watched 3 ladies, each hitting on the green of a par 3 as we duly applauded. The remaining part of our walk went safely through the golf course. We saw many warning signs and walked cautiously paying attention to flying golf balls. We arrived at the parking lot at 11:50 continued to the restaurant Les Aberiaux at the Port Les Aberiaux, where we enjoyed a beer and an excellent Cheeseburger outside in the sun with a great view of Lake Geneva. In summary a great walk, beautiful weather, good drinks/food and small, excellent group of GIN walkers.
John Burley, Wouter van Ginneke and Brian Allardyce and Gerry Swart
This had been billed as a 12km and 600m hike. However the forecast was for rain and the temperature had dropped, so after 6 of us plus dog met up at pte 971m in the Rte 7 above Bassins, we elected to change the hike to include the Refuge Les Pralets, which on the internet indicated to me that it would be open. That meant a changed start driving up to pte 1128m (by the i) on the same road. This would allow us to access Les Pralets for lunch.
So at 10.15am the team reassembled. Here was Stephen fresh from his ascent of the Barillette by bike in a snowstorm two days earlier (for which he is sure to win the GIN 2022 MOTY award), Andrew looking fit and fresh from Geneva, Mark2ts who had driven up alone as Lorna (Doone) had tested positive (he looked fresh), Mark2rs fresh from his Singapore sling adventure, RichardS not fresh from his London conference planning and me somewhat fresh back from Latvia with my faithful Cobberdog Kobie (from Coppet) looking forward to fresh air.
It was indeed fresh. With zero degrees at La Dôle and 7C at St Cergue, rain forecast and lowish cloud, no shorts were on display. Instead gloves, hats and warm clothing with rain gear was evident. We set off westerly and then NW along the green trail (shown) towards Les Pralets hoping it would be open as advertised. The rain had not yet started and spirits were reasonable.
Heading towards Les Pralets – still dry but a little chilly at 1250m
In order to revivify the party Mark2ts established a coffee stop under a tree, light rain was starting and as always he generously emptied his flask into cups provided. Seizing the moment, RichardS extracted his dreaded re-usable plastic Johnny Walker whisky bottle with who-knows-really-whats-inside.
Pedlar seen on the trail
The label read Slivovitch, but in reality he admitted that there was a mixture of sorts inside. It certainly went down well with the black coffee (there being no Mervyn with us to provide us with milk).
Kobie was on his best behaviour
Suitably fortified and with a sure belief that we would find a warm welcome at Les Pralets we continued on up the fairly easy trail through woods and across a field with some big hairy beasts that Kobie avoided.
Non standard beasties (photo RS)
Arriving at our targeted lunch spot before noon, we were sadly disappointed to find that Les Pralets was closed, locked with no-one in sight. With light rain falling but nobody around, there was nothing to stop us disobeying the “NO PICNIC” sign and using the tables under the eaves for our repas.
NO PICNICPICNICRed from Italy and France was on offerAndrew nearly loses it
It was another very convivial affair with some seriously good looking sandwiches on display that swiftly disappeared, some almost into Kobie. The Oath (GOC) prohibits the recording here of any details of our lunch discussion but there were reports back of recent travels, a joke about a zebra going to heaven, and some banter about the “new” UK government’s stellar start, Liz and Kamikwaze and much other amusing chat such that there was no need for recourse to RS’s Johnny Walker bottle. We toasted with our wine, to absent friends and to Deborah’s memory.
Kobie scored reasonably on behaviour. Some initial jumping up to greet people (to be worked on). No sandwiches stolen, and no getting lost in the forest.
Light rain had come and gone as had a large herd of cattle (the normal Jura variety), and it was time to go. The rain came back so Kobie was kitted out in his winter waterproof jacket (heck it is still September!).
Kobie displaying winter fashionLeaving Les Pralets
The route back followed the small tarmac road until a left turn could be made uphill to Le Planet (green trail on the map above). From this high point a pleasant trail leads down to an expansive viewpoint above a small escarpment.
The viewpoint with Lac Leman hidden under cloudsSix happy hikers
Happily heavy rain held off and we were able to saunter back down and across to the cars after 10km and 310m. A fairly easy day in cold conditions made warmer by the company.
Apologies were received from several including Thatcher, Rob, Mervyn, Keith, Philip and David. We missed them; they missed a convivial Jura stroll in cool, dampish and fresh conditions.
What did I miss ?
Peter
PS. I shall be away for the next hike – so leave to to any and all to to plan a hike on 13 October.
On 27 October RichardS will be planning one of his infamous Tours of Lac de Joux.
Another Thursday, another bike challenge. This time the autumnal chill of the morning required some additional clothing compared to previous rides but by the time the legs were pumping and the sun had risen higher in the sky, it was as if we had full summer still.
The proposed outing: a tour to the vineyards of Geneva, passing through the Versoix woods, crossing in and out of France at Ferney, and onto Meyrin and beyond to the vine clad slopes. Five hardy GIN bikers signed up what was called “a flatter but longer than usual ride”: Stephen, PeterD, PeterT, e-Paul and our Ukranian guest, Ivan. Ivan arrived at the Everness meeting point, proudly showing the repairs carried out on the ageing and ailing machine that Mark2Ts had lend him for his first ride with us. The front brake was working again and new tyres and inner tubes had replaced the 40 year old originals. The saddle had also been raised to a more suitable height. All looked perfect for a speedy departure, when Ivan said that he had to return home for a conference call. He felt that, all being well, this would finish rapidly enough for him to catch up with us at the agreed luncheon spot. This sounded ambitious but, with new confidence in his machine, he was optimistic. E-Paul, recently returned from a long vacation in Asia, agreed to meet us nearer to Geneva and nearer to his home close to the Ferney border crossing, thus saving his unexercised battery and legs undue effort.
So, Stephen, PeterT and PeterD sped the familiar cycle route 50 from the Everness Hotel through the shaded and wooded paths avoiding, at times with difficulty, deposits from well-fed horses. Shortly before the border into France, PeterT, in a haze of nostalgia, led the group down a remembered, attractive track but bypassing the rendez-vous with Paul. Happily, this was recognised before we re-emerged into Switzerland at Meyrin and we were able to back track across the border and surprise Paul by coming from an unexpected direction. We were only marginally behind schedule.
With 80% of our group now together, we recrossed the border and straight-lined through France and emerged successfully at Meyrin. From here, the delights of the Geneva wine villages are but a short ride away, although there are several potential routes. PeterD decided to get a head start, aware of the increase in gradient, and take the first road up to vineyard slopes. PeterT and e-Paul were oblivious to this decision. Stephen failed in relaying the route and saw the duo happily maintaining a flatter route, off into the distance. Mobile communication agreed a new meeting point at Chouilly, a delightful wine village in the shadow of the Jura. Surprisingly, this saw the majority of the group arrive simultaneously. The other 20% (25% of current riders, 100% PeterD) had been intoxicated by the fermentation fumes of the vendage and cycled onto Peissy, the next village en route. Once eventually regrouped, the leader tried to assert discipline and suggest, ever so nicely, that we stuck together from now on.
Not so easy. As the terrain becomes more undulating, the different rhythms of e-bikers and pure muscle power bikers becomes evident. Downhill to the nature reserve at Malval, the conventional bikers took the lead. Uphill to Dardagny (and what a hill it was…..remembered as a beast from an earlier tour), the e-biker whirred effortlessly past onto the summit. Similarly, down via Russin to La Plaine, across the Rhone and up to Cartigny; although for some reason Paul was resting his legs and battery on the last uphill before lunch…..something about taking time to enjoy the scenery. We arrived at the Café de Cartigny at the anticipated time.
Drinks were ordered. We were just speculating on whether we would see Ivan again when he appeared looking relaxed and effortless on his renovated bike. What had taken us 2h30m took him 40 minutes!
Not a bead of sweat on his forehead…..
He did admit that he had some help in the shape of motorised transport for some of the journey.
The excellent plat du jour of chicken, sauce and rice preceded by a salad at 18CHF was taken by all. The economy allowed us additional beers, where required, and the last of the lemon tarte du jour, 3 pieces being shared (the leader exercising executive privilege by consuming a full piece and thoughtfully making the division of the remaining 2 pieces easier).
That went down quickly…..now those pizzas look worth trying.
Lunchtime conversation was diverse, ranging from an interrogation of Ivan about the Ukrainian situation but moving onto firewood shortages, environment, plastics legislation, research work for Paul’s 3 new books, unclear descriptions of rock cycle as well as geothermal energy pipe design.
Fortified and caffeinated, we resumed the now mostly downhill route back home. The plan was to head via Penney and Satigny before retracing our ride through Meyrin, Ferney, Versoix and back to the Everness Hotel, from where we could disperse to our respective homes. Inevitably, PeterT knew a better route, cutting across the outskirts of Ferney and, like disciplined sheep, we followed. Paul had already left the group at Versoix and took a direct route home to Grand Saconnex, unaware of the drama to come.
On the outskirts of Ferney, as PeterT was accelerating into the distance, a similar effort was too much for the original chain on Ivan’s, otherwise perfectly restored, bike. Our new leader was summoned back and the situation reviewed and options assessed. A search for a bike shop or a call for transport seemed the two options as, unsurprisingly, the GIN Bikers are not equipped with chain repair means. Ivan called reinforcements. He was happy to remain alone, stranded in France, whilst waiting for his pickup but Stephen took his captaincy responsibilities seriously and waited for either the ship to sink or rescue to appear. Happily the latter was the case. Jen, the guardian angel, arrived having hot-footed it (more accurately, driven) directly from a COVID jab. The bike and Ivan were loaded into the car. Jen summarised the predicament “you should get rid of that crap bike”…………… tbc
Happy to have found the last (?) fault
The group had dispersed and the lonely leader was left to retrace his steps home without the aid of the person who knew the way from that point.
Statistics: 63.3km (+x km, where x is >0 but <13.7, depending on distance of home from Everness hotel, excluding the variable of e-Paul). Elevation difference 655m or 4623m according to Stephen’s Garmin (seems to have been some kind of chain reaction!), which also claimed a high point of 20000m. Who said it was a flat ride? Average speed 20.5km/h.
