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This time I simply translated an article from a German travel magazine GEO (the original article is here: www.geo.de/reisen/16531-rtkl-tuechersfeld-dieses-felsendo...)
Where is Tüchersfeld located?
The small village is situated in the lower Püttlach Valley in the heart of Franconian Switzerland. Tüchersfeld is approximately a one-hour drive from Bamberg and Nuremberg.
What makes the rock village special?
Like petrified giants, the rocks tower over the Franconian village of Tüchersfeld, while half-timbered houses and farmsteads nestle against these silent giants that originate from the primeval sea of the Jurassic period. The rock reef was once surrounded by the Püttlach River and only emerged when the river loop was severed. Since then, the remnants stand freely in the landscape, blending artistically with the village scenery. The bizarre rock formations, along with the caves, sinkholes, and valleys of the region, create an adventure playground for climbers and hikers. Worth seeing are also the natural monument Teufelshöhe, the viewpoint Fahnenstein, as well as Franconian castles and churches. The Franconian Switzerland Museum provides interesting information about the geotopic phenomenon.
Nadat de Eurostar 4014/13 onderhoud had gehad bij onze zuiderburen kwam deze 11 juli wederom naar Nederland voor testen. Deze bleken echter van korte duur, want vandaag werd er als trein 16531 weer vertrokken naar naar Brussel Zuid.
DORDRECHT - De laatste beproevingen zijn gedaan, en daarmee is het hoofdstuk Eurostar in Nederland voorlopig afgesloten. Treinstellen 4013 en 4014 gingen vandaag terug naar hun thuisbasis in België.
Hier zien we de lange trein bij Willemsdorp Dordrecht uit rijden, richting Roosendaal en verder België in.
Seen here is 90 mins late running weekly 16531 Ajmer (AII) - Bangalore City (KSR) Garib Nawaz Express accelerating very hard to gain its lost time due to UBL-WDP 4 failing and probably PUNE-WDG 3A #14989 rescuing the train.
Date : 17/04/17
Location : Amul Railway Depo.
Eurostar E320 4013/4014 als trein 16531 naar Brussel Zuid om terug te keren na een paar dagen van testritten te hebben gereden in Nederland.
Photo André Knoerr, Genève. Reproduction autorisée avec mention de la source.
Utilisation commerciale soumise à autorisation spéciale préalable.
Les TPC ont procédé à des essais en UM entre la GTW Beh 2/6 542 et la Beh 4/8 591 sortant de révision, adaptée à la nouvelle tension et la crémaillère Abt, et équipée de nouveaux attelages.
Une telle rame ne pourrait pas être utilisée pour des courses régulières en raison de nombreux quais trop courts mais est envisageable pour des transports de groupes par des spéciaux directs.
Redescendue d'Ollon, la composition test Beh 2/6 542 + Beh 4/8 591 traverse la plaine en direction du Rhône et du Valais.
16531
20251121_2571_R62-600 Quick departure
Two German Air Force Airbus A400M aircraft (54+09 and 54+12) have been in New Zealand for a week or two now, doing low level flights and other exercises around the country.
They were only on the ground for about 12 minutes, taxiing from the north end of the runway to the south end, and taking off with about the same difference in time to what they landed with.
#16531
Unidentified SŽ class 363 "Brižita" (English: "Brigitte"), with a container train headed to the Port of Koper on the Adriatic sea.
Op vrijdag 3 februari werd het Eurostar-stel 4013/4014, na een verblijf van zo'n anderhalve maand, weer teruggebracht vanuit Nederland naar Brussel. Hiermee is het testen van de Eurostar in Nederland afgerond, en kan ingezet worden in de dienst naar Londen.
Terwijl de heenrit (zie flic.kr/p/PBHP8Q) redelijk onopgemerkt bleef, werd de terugrit al een dag van tevoren aangekondigd via de NSI twitter. Aangezien we een dagje vrij hadden, werd besloten deze rit voor de verandering niet in Nederland te platen, maar in België, waar de opkomst een stuk minder hoog was.
Zodoende komt de EST 4013/4014 in fraai licht als trein 16531 door het typisch Belgische stationnetje van Hove gereden. Opvallend was dat de trein over spoor 1 werd geleidt, wat betekent dat deze dus via de boog van Mortsel heeft gereden, in plaats van de rechtstreekse route, die gebruikelijk is voor onder andere de IC's en de Thalys. Leuk detail is dat de uitbater in het stationsgebouw zijn café 'Bahnhove' heeft genoemd, wat ook op de gevel staat.
Hove, vrijdag 3 februari 2017.
Author: Lever, Charles James, 1806-1872
Title: The O'Donoghue: A Tale of Ireland Fifty Years Ago
Publisher: Chapman and Hall
Publication Date: 1862
URL: archive.org/details/24166946.2494.emory.edu
Description and Synopsis:
The novel’s cover depicts one man throwing another out of a window.
Further Notes:
Anglo-Irish novelist Charles Lever grew up in Dublin. He was formally trained as a medical doctor, but found more financial success in writing and editing. His novels often depict the complicated relationship between the English and the Irish (Tilley).
Works Cited:
Tilley, E. S. “Lever, Charles James (1806–1872).” Oxford Dictionary of National Biography. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2004. Web. 26 Feb. 2015. www.oxforddnb.com/view/article/16531
This is one of the most beautiful Leica outfits I have tripped over for some time.
It came with four lenses.
50mm f/2 Summicron-R,
21mm f/4 Super Angulon-R ,
90mm f/2.8 Elmarit-R ,
180mm f/2.8 Elmarit-R
PLUS 24 accessories
1.Macrotar Elpro VIa #16531 E in original box
2.Macrotar Elpro VIb #16532 F in original box
3.Macrotar Elpro VIIa #16533 G in original box
4.Extension Ring ONE #14135 in Original box
5.Extension Ring x TWO#14135
6.Tube Adapter #14134-1
7.Tube Adapter #14134-2
8.Filter Drop-in VII UVa #13009 in Plastic keeper and Original Box
9.Filter Holder VI #14160 with UVa
10.Filter Holder VIII #14165 with insert ring & VIII UVa filter
11.Filter Holder VII #14161 in plastic keeper
12.Polariser P #13359 in plastic keeper
13.Polariser P #13358 in plastic keeper
14.HOOD for 21mm f/4 R VIII/IX #12506
15.HOOD for 50 f/2 & 35/2.8 R #12564 with #14163 cap
16.Rear cap #14103
17.Double lens holder #?
18.Leitz Cable Release 250mm (10”in)
19.Leicaflex Camera case #14558
20.Holdall Combination Case #14819 with extra tube #14819 for 90mm
21.Hexagonal Key in Leitz Wetzler plastic bag
22.Leicaflex SL Instruction book
23.The Leicaflex Book by Theo Kisselbach 1st Edition
24.General Catalogue of photographic Equipment 50th LEICA Anniversary Jan 1974
Lions Gate Bridge in Vancouver, BC on a snowy day in 1990. Seen from the Stanley Park Drive. Grouse Mountain in North Vancouver is in the distance.
1998/09/08.R8546. Before setting off for Paris, I took a quick shot of Bo-Bo electric 16531 dozing at Calais Ville in the morning sun.
8th August, 1998. Copyright © Ron Fisher.
Author: Lever, Charles James, 1806-1872
Title: Sir Jasper Carew, His Life and Experiences
Publisher: Chapman and Hall
Publication Date: 1865
URL: archive.org/details/15051009.2539.emory.edu
Description and Synopsis:
The novel’s cover depicts a young woman looking out over a crowd of men.
Further Notes:
Anglo-Irish novelist Charles Lever grew up in Dublin. He was formally trained as a medical doctor, but found more financial success in writing and editing. His novels often depict the complicated relationship between the English and the Irish (Tilley).
Works Cited:
Tilley, E. S. “Lever, Charles James (1806–1872).” Oxford Dictionary of National Biography. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2004. Web. 26 Feb. 2015. www.oxforddnb.com/view/article/16531
Mit einem Sonderzug aus Hersbruck zum Jubiläum "100 Jahre Bosrucktunnel" nach Spital am Pyhrn konnte die 253.006 kurz vor der Durchfahrt in Haiding fotografiert werden.
Zu meinem YouTube-Kanal
ID0118
Bang on time running weekly 16531 Ajmer (AII) - Banglore City (KSR) Express sprints past the freight yard with a mammoth UBL WDP - 4B #40007 to enter Vadodara.
Location : Near Vadodara Freight Yard.
Date : 22/05/17
Net buiten de kap van het station van Lille staat het SNCF-treinstel X 4587 naast SNCF-loc BB 16531. Laatstgenoemde staat voor een regionale trein van de regio Nord - Pas de Calais, 9 juli 1980.
"Like winds or waters were her ways:
The flowing tides, the airy streams,
Are troubled not by any dreams;
They know the circle of their days."
~ George William Russell, 1867-1935 ~
From: Destiny
Just back in The Hague, I took my daughter to see the baby Egyptian Geese. We were delighted to see they were there ... but then, after a few seconds, we realised that an attack was ongoing. Egyptian Goose Mum was doing her best to kill the tiny newborn ducklings who had become separated from their distressed mother. Every time a tiny duckling appeared, it was viciously pecked. Amazingly instinct (or Mum) told them to dive beneath the surface. People watched but did nothing. It is Nature, yet I couldn't stand by - I swung my bag at the goose - futile, as it was out of reach - but still, it distracted the goose enough for the little duckling to make progress towards Mum.
Large On Black This is while the ducklings paddled furiously in circles whilst their mother looked frantically for their last brother or sister,
Author: Lever, Charles James, 1806-1872
Title: Paul Gosslett's Confessions
Publisher: Chapman and Hall
Publication Date: 1875
URL: archive.org/details/15056810.2431.emory.edu
Description and Synopsis:
The novel’s cover depicts three separate scenes in overlapping circles.
Further Notes:
Anglo-Irish novelist Charles Lever grew up in Dublin. He was formally trained as a medical doctor, but found more financial success in writing and editing. His novels often depict the complicated relationship between the English and the Irish (Tilley).
Works Cited:
Tilley, E. S. “Lever, Charles James (1806–1872).” Oxford Dictionary of National Biography. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2004. Web. 26 Feb. 2015. www.oxforddnb.com/view/article/16531
Ehrenfreund im Gespräch mit Siegerinnen und Siegern von Jugend forscht.
Zum Artikel vom 27. Januar 2016: www.dlr.de/dlr/desktopdefault.aspx/tabid-10857/1527_read-16531#/
Credit: DLR (CC-BY 3.0)
Mit einem Sonderzug aus Hersbruck zum Jubiläum "100 Jahre Bosrucktunnel" nach Spital am Pyhrn konnte die 50.1171 unweit von Schlierbach an der Pyhrnbahn fotografiert werden.
Zu meinem YouTube-Kanal
ID0121
Friday 20 July 2012: Rest day featuring the Funivie Monte Bianco up to Pointe Helbronner (3,466 m) (actually Rifugio Torino Nuovo at 3,375 m) and Courmayeur (1,224 m) and finishing up with a fine meal in Planpincieux (1,593 m)
Day 7 of our Tour du Mont Blanc, on Exodus' Mont Blanc Circuit trip - a clockwise circumambulation of the Mont Blanc massif
Vicki, Hazel and I opted to get up early and head up to Pointe Helbronner (3,466 m). We successfully caught the Savda bus from right outside the Camping Grandes Jorasses down to La Palud, and whilst we were ahead of the crowds on the Funivie Monte Bianco cable car, our plan to cross the Vallée Blanche to the Aiguille du Midi was thwarted by major repairs being carried out on the Télécabine Panoramic Mont-Blanc, so we opted for the shorter hop up to Rifugio Torino.
At 34€ the tickets were Not Cheap, but the stunning views from the various viewpoints made it worth every €, and all 200+ steps up from the Rifugio Torino Vecchio (3,335 m) to Rifugio Torino Nuovo (3,375 m): to the east (and a tad north) Aiguille Noire de Peuterey and Les Dames Anglaises, Mont Maudit and Monte Bianco; to the south, Gran Paradiso and Grivola and more ahead, to the west the Dente Del Gigante (Dent du Géant), Aiguille de Rochefort, Grandes Jorasses, Grand Combin, Cervino (aka the Matterhorn), Mont Vélan and Monte Rosa, and to the north and closer by our feet the blankets of snow and glaciers.
Mont Blanc itself remained elusive however, keeping a shroud of cloud despite our best efforts to wish it away (and making no appearance on the information panoramas either!). The only (other) fly in the ointment were the construction works taking place to build a new cable car station above Pointe Helbronner. The building site looked terribly precarious teetering above us, and sent down small avalanches of scree.
After a good few hours (and lots and lots of photos), we took the cable car down to the Pavillon du Mont Fréty (2,173 m) where the air was warmer and we pottered around the Giardino Alpino Saussurea which provided photos and names of many of the flowers we'd seen so far.
There our luck ended as we just missed the once-an-hour bus from La Palud to Courmayeur and the walk along the main road proved longer and hotter than hoped. Still, once in Courmayeur we armed ourselves with an icecream from the gelateria yogurteria on Piazza Brocherel and having (quickly) explored the town, we settled at a pavement cafe for a light lunch.
Courmayeur clearly caters for the well heeled, and we were there at lunchtime shutdown, so with no shopping opportunities to keep us in town we caught the bus back to base to potter the rest of the afternoon away. For dinner, we headed down en masse to Planpincieux to eat at the Chalet Proment. An excellent suggestion from Simon and Ben (who ate there too, and booked us a table) - tasty local dishes, a good choice of wine and lovely waiters.
DSC05300
Saturday 21 July 2012: Camping Grandes Jorasses, Planpincieux (1,593 m) - Lavachey (1,642 m) - Rifugio Walter Bonatti (2,025 m) - Armina (2,009 m) - Tsa de Secheron (2,200 m) - Col Sapin (2,436 m) - Testa della Tronche / Tête de la Tronche (2,584 m) - Monte Della Saxe / Mont de la Saxe - Rifugio Bertone (2,000 m) - Courmayeur - Campeggio Aiguille-Noire, Val Veni / Val Vény
Day 8 of our Tour du Mont Blanc, on Exodus' Mont Blanc Circuit trip - a clockwise circumambulation of the Mont Blanc massif
A wonderful day's walking. Despite an ominous weather forecast, the rain held off and although clouds stayed resolutely settled over the Mont Blanc Massif, we got occasional glimpses of glacier, smashing views of the valleys and the skies stayed blue(ish) above us.
Saying au revoir to Camping Grandes Jorasses we took the bus back up the Val Ferret to Lavachey (1,642 m) and, skirting the hotel, followed the signs for Rifugio Walter Bonatti (2,025 m). After a steep ascent through woodland we emerged onto the side of the ridge and wound our way along largely the level taking in the glorious views across the Val Ferret to Les Grandes Jorasses, and meeting plenty of people coming in the other direction.
After a breather at the Bonatti (where we watched a couple of Italian chaps photographing the glaciers and admired the 3D relief maps inside the Rifugio itself) and coffee and hot chocolate for some, we continued on along the path passing through alpine meadows to the shepherds' huts at Armina (2,009 m), and then turning left into the Vallon d'Armina, following the stream up to the ruins at Tsa de Secheron (2,200 m) - a beautiful green valley carpeted with wild flowers, and with those elusive marmots making an appearance.
We lunched at Tsa de Secheron, admiring the views back down towards Les Grandes Jorasses and the Glacier de Tronchey and Glacier de Praz-Sec (I think!), then put our best feet forward for the stiff zig zag climb up to Col Sapin (2,436 m), at the head of the Val Sapin. In between Val Sapin and Val Ferret rises the ridge of the Monte Della Saxe (Mont de la Saxe), which was to be our route back to Courmayeur.
But first we had a further 150 m to climb up a steep and slippery sandy path to reach the Testa della Tronche (Tête de la Tronche) at 2,584 m.... the stunning panoramic views from the cairn were worth it: to the east the exposed rockface / scree ridge we've lunched under turned out to be Tête Entre Deux Sauts, and continuing clockwise from there, a hanging valley that could take you back to Rifugio Bonatti, followed by grey views of the Grande Rochère (3,326m) and the Aiguille de Chambave (3,067) with the Arminaz / Armina stream tumbling down into the valley between them. Crossing the forested slopes of the Val Sapin brought Courmayeur into view, with Mont Chétif and Val Veni (Val Vény) bringing the panorama round to the Ghiacciaio della Brenva (Glacier de la Brenva) and the cloud shrouded peaks of the Mont Blanc Massif that loom over Val Ferret.
After photos and sweets we set off at our own paces downhill, relatively steeply at first until we'd passed the Testa Bernarda (Tête Bernada, 2,534 m) before the path levelled for a lengthy undulating stroll along the ridge of the Monte Della Saxe which runs pretty much East-West. Ahead of us we had the stunning pyramid of Mont Chétif while to the north we had elevated views of the glaciers that flow down and around Les Grandes Jorasses and the Aiguilles Rouges de Rochefort. Behind us, to the east, we might have been able to see our route down from the Grand Col Ferret had the weather been clearer but even so we had a great view back up Val Ferret, and further along the Monte Della Saxe a bird's eye view down onto Planpincieux. And everywhere, throughout the day, beautiful flowers.
As we drew closer to the end of the ridge, Pointe Helbronner, Rifugio Torino and the cranes at the construction site of the new cable car station came into clear view - but Mont Blanc and associated ridges, peaks and passes remained hidden.
A steep descent brought us to picturesque Rifugio Bertone (2,000 m) and more reclining deckchairs to take the weight off our feet. Another steep descent took us down into the tree line and - eventually (the walk down felt neverending, especially for the knees) - to pretty Villair Superiore and thence into Courmayeur... just in time for another double scoop icecream from the gelateria yogurteria on Piazza Brocherel, and the 4.30pm bus.
The bus took us up the steep, narrow and winding road into Val Veni.... with more than a few close encounters with other vehicles, before we reached the day's end at the Campeggio Aiguille-Noire. Glorious hot showers, stunning scenery (including, naturally the Aiguille Noire de Peuterey, this time from a different angle) - plus a beer and chippies or two...
Once the sun went behind the mountains it got a tad chilly, but dinner at La Zerotta warmed us up - particularly the meat and cheese platters for starters! The tomato pasta main course was a bit ropey, but the kitchen won us back round again with the dark chocolate torte for dessert.
A smashing day.
Note: I must credit the map (fig 1) in Interactions between rock avalanches and glaciers in the Mont Blanc massif during the late Holocene by Philip Deline, for helping me to identify the glaciers, and Walking Europe & Beyond for the description of the route (albeit in the reverse) in Walk 6103 - Courmayeur - Mont De La Saxe - Val Ferret.... when Wikipedia and Google Maps don't quite give the detail I need!
DSC05506
Please note that records may contain historic terminology which is now considered offensive and may cause distress.
Road Safety Squad Visits Schools
During 1952-52 five people were killed daily in road incidents in Australia and 110 injured; in Queensland one person was killed daily and 22 injured. This was stated yesterday by Sgt. H. Patterson.
Sgt Patterson is visiting Rockhampton on a campaign to stress the necessity for the observance of traffic rules with a view to reducing road accidents. He is accompanied by Constables G. Wade and E. Newman.
Lectures and demonstrations in road safety have been given to a number of schools. In this way it is hoped to educate the children so that as they grow older they will have a good knowledge of the ways to avoid accidents.
...
At each school bicycles were inspected and the pupils shown the standard required to have a bicycle equipped according to the traffic regulations.
At some schools films were shown. Puppet theatre demonstrations were also given and Constable Wade demonstrated road safety features by blackboard lectures.
To continue reading visit:
Morning Bulletin, 29 September 1954
View the original image at Queensland State Archives:
Saturday 21 July 2012: Camping Grandes Jorasses, Planpincieux (1,593 m) - Lavachey (1,642 m) - Rifugio Walter Bonatti (2,025 m) - Armina (2,009 m) - Tsa de Secheron (2,200 m) - Col Sapin (2,436 m) - Testa della Tronche / Tête de la Tronche (2,584 m) - Monte Della Saxe / Mont de la Saxe - Rifugio Bertone (2,000 m) - Courmayeur - Campeggio Aiguille-Noire, Val Veni / Val Vény
Day 8 of our Tour du Mont Blanc, on Exodus' Mont Blanc Circuit trip - a clockwise circumambulation of the Mont Blanc massif
A wonderful day's walking. Despite an ominous weather forecast, the rain held off and although clouds stayed resolutely settled over the Mont Blanc Massif, we got occasional glimpses of glacier, smashing views of the valleys and the skies stayed blue(ish) above us.
Saying au revoir to Camping Grandes Jorasses we took the bus back up the Val Ferret to Lavachey (1,642 m) and, skirting the hotel, followed the signs for Rifugio Walter Bonatti (2,025 m). After a steep ascent through woodland we emerged onto the side of the ridge and wound our way along largely the level taking in the glorious views across the Val Ferret to Les Grandes Jorasses, and meeting plenty of people coming in the other direction.
After a breather at the Bonatti (where we watched a couple of Italian chaps photographing the glaciers and admired the 3D relief maps inside the Rifugio itself) and coffee and hot chocolate for some, we continued on along the path passing through alpine meadows to the shepherds' huts at Armina (2,009 m), and then turning left into the Vallon d'Armina, following the stream up to the ruins at Tsa de Secheron (2,200 m) - a beautiful green valley carpeted with wild flowers, and with those elusive marmots making an appearance.
We lunched at Tsa de Secheron, admiring the views back down towards Les Grandes Jorasses and the Glacier de Tronchey and Glacier de Praz-Sec (I think!), then put our best feet forward for the stiff zig zag climb up to Col Sapin (2,436 m), at the head of the Val Sapin. In between Val Sapin and Val Ferret rises the ridge of the Monte Della Saxe (Mont de la Saxe), which was to be our route back to Courmayeur.
But first we had a further 150 m to climb up a steep and slippery sandy path to reach the Testa della Tronche (Tête de la Tronche) at 2,584 m.... the stunning panoramic views from the cairn were worth it: to the east the exposed rockface / scree ridge we've lunched under turned out to be Tête Entre Deux Sauts, and continuing clockwise from there, a hanging valley that could take you back to Rifugio Bonatti, followed by grey views of the Grande Rochère (3,326m) and the Aiguille de Chambave (3,067) with the Arminaz / Armina stream tumbling down into the valley between them. Crossing the forested slopes of the Val Sapin brought Courmayeur into view, with Mont Chétif and Val Veni (Val Vény) bringing the panorama round to the Ghiacciaio della Brenva (Glacier de la Brenva) and the cloud shrouded peaks of the Mont Blanc Massif that loom over Val Ferret.
After photos and sweets we set off at our own paces downhill, relatively steeply at first until we'd passed the Testa Bernarda (Tête Bernada, 2,534 m) before the path levelled for a lengthy undulating stroll along the ridge of the Monte Della Saxe which runs pretty much East-West. Ahead of us we had the stunning pyramid of Mont Chétif while to the north we had elevated views of the glaciers that flow down and around Les Grandes Jorasses and the Aiguilles Rouges de Rochefort. Behind us, to the east, we might have been able to see our route down from the Grand Col Ferret had the weather been clearer but even so we had a great view back up Val Ferret, and further along the Monte Della Saxe a bird's eye view down onto Planpincieux. And everywhere, throughout the day, beautiful flowers.
As we drew closer to the end of the ridge, Pointe Helbronner, Rifugio Torino and the cranes at the construction site of the new cable car station came into clear view - but Mont Blanc and associated ridges, peaks and passes remained hidden.
A steep descent brought us to picturesque Rifugio Bertone (2,000 m) and more reclining deckchairs to take the weight off our feet. Another steep descent took us down into the tree line and - eventually (the walk down felt neverending, especially for the knees) - to pretty Villair Superiore and thence into Courmayeur... just in time for another double scoop icecream from the gelateria yogurteria on Piazza Brocherel, and the 4.30pm bus.
The bus took us up the steep, narrow and winding road into Val Veni.... with more than a few close encounters with other vehicles, before we reached the day's end at the Campeggio Aiguille-Noire. Glorious hot showers, stunning scenery (including, naturally the Aiguille Noire de Peuterey, this time from a different angle) - plus a beer and chippies or two...
Once the sun went behind the mountains it got a tad chilly, but dinner at La Zerotta warmed us up - particularly the meat and cheese platters for starters! The tomato pasta main course was a bit ropey, but the kitchen won us back round again with the dark chocolate torte for dessert.
A smashing day.
Note: I must credit the map (fig 1) in Interactions between rock avalanches and glaciers in the Mont Blanc massif during the late Holocene by
Philip Deline, for helping me to identify the glaciers, and Walking Europe & Beyond for the description of the route (albeit in the reverse) in Walk 6103 - Courmayeur - Mont De La Saxe - Val Ferret.... when Wikipedia and Google Maps don't quite give the detail I need!
DSC05603
Graves of 54 fire fighters lost in 1910 fire-St. Maries. Idaho, St. Joe National Forest, Idaho. (Forest Service photo by K.D.Swan)
Monday 16 July 2012: Les Frasserands - Aiguillette des Posettes (1,997m) - Col de Balme (2,191m), cross from France into Switzerland - descend to Le Peuty (1,326m)
Day 3 of our Tour du Mont Blanc, on Exodus' Mont Blanc Circuit trip - a clockwise circumambulation of the Mont Blanc massif
We woke to blue skies, the overnight rain having cleared the clouds. It left the lush green grass of Camping Les Frasserands soaking wet, so wrangling the tent into its bag provided a second morning ablution. The mountains were magnificent - white snow caps against bright blue skies, jagged grey peaks gradienting into the greens of the fir trees and alpine grass cover. We could just make out the cable car lines stretching up towards the peak at Les Grands Montets (3,295m).
After breakfast in the open barn we'd camped by, and baguette sandwich making from the vast array of fillings, we were off. Having retraced our steps past the picturesque village and Heidi farms, Simon paused at the signpost that marked the start of the day's climb up to the Aiguillette des Posettes and thence to the Col de Balme.
Waiora and I took it easy up the footpath through the forested slopes that cover the ridge, spotting flowers and butterflies en route, eventually emerging alongside the high grasses and flowers in the alpine meadows which led up to our first rendezvous with Simon, at a rocky outcrop which provided a great vantage point for beautiful views back down the Chamonix valley, and up at the various Aiguilles that tower above Argentière.
Up above the treeline, the path climbed wooden steps pinned onto rocks, with stunning views of the mountains, including a clearer view of yesterday's Aiguilles Rouges, the Vallorcine valley and the barrage d'Émosson (Émosson dam and resevoir) to the left; and to the right, Les Grands Montets and the Aiguille du Chardonnet (3,824 m) and the Aiguille du Tour (3,540 m) embracing the glacier du Tour.
We do-si-doed with the hotel group along the final stretch along the ridge that took us to the Col des Posettes where we took panorama after panorama of beautiful vistas before dropping down amongst the Alpine Roses and wildflower meadows with a dispersed herd of classic Milka cows. A short stiff climb back up took us over the Col de Balme and out of France and into Switzerland. We picnicked late and illicitly at the Refuge de Balme, supplemented by an overpriced 3€, lukewarm cup of tea from our less than gracious hostess. Switzerland stretched out in front of us and in the patch of snow below a party of Koreans who had made the ascent on the Charamillon-Balme cablecar took photos, and a hardy few tried their hand at sledge-free sledging.
An easy path led us slowly but surely down back to the tree line and eventually into the meadows of Le Peuty (1,326m) near the head of the Trient valley.
The campsite at Le Peuty was classified as one of the two 'wilderness' ones on the itinerary. I'd call it 'basic' - it's set up and run as a campsite, located next to the public loos and with a covered seating/kitchen area. Boots off, I joined the rest of the group relaxing with beers and a fabulous view of the Trient Glacier which turned from blue to pink as the evening fell, providing a scenic backdrop for our half's first go at washing up, before turning in for a somewhat cold night's sleep under canvas.
Phyteuma michelii (Rampion): en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phyteuma
Phyteuma spicatum (Spiked Rampion): en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phyteuma_spicatum
Phyteuma halleri: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phyteuma_halleri
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Saturday 21 July 2012: Camping Grandes Jorasses, Planpincieux (1,593 m) - Lavachey (1,642 m) - Rifugio Walter Bonatti (2,025 m) - Armina (2,009 m) - Tsa de Secheron (2,200 m) - Col Sapin (2,436 m) - Testa della Tronche / Tête de la Tronche (2,584 m) - Monte Della Saxe / Mont de la Saxe - Rifugio Bertone (2,000 m) - Courmayeur - Campeggio Aiguille-Noire, Val Veni / Val Vény
Day 8 of our Tour du Mont Blanc, on Exodus' Mont Blanc Circuit trip - a clockwise circumambulation of the Mont Blanc massif
A wonderful day's walking. Despite an ominous weather forecast, the rain held off and although clouds stayed resolutely settled over the Mont Blanc Massif, we got occasional glimpses of glacier, smashing views of the valleys and the skies stayed blue(ish) above us.
Saying au revoir to Camping Grandes Jorasses we took the bus back up the Val Ferret to Lavachey (1,642 m) and, skirting the hotel, followed the signs for Rifugio Walter Bonatti (2,025 m). After a steep ascent through woodland we emerged onto the side of the ridge and wound our way along largely the level taking in the glorious views across the Val Ferret to Les Grandes Jorasses, and meeting plenty of people coming in the other direction.
After a breather at the Bonatti (where we watched a couple of Italian chaps photographing the glaciers and admired the 3D relief maps inside the Rifugio itself) and coffee and hot chocolate for some, we continued on along the path passing through alpine meadows to the shepherds' huts at Armina (2,009 m), and then turning left into the Vallon d'Armina, following the stream up to the ruins at Tsa de Secheron (2,200 m) - a beautiful green valley carpeted with wild flowers, and with those elusive marmots making an appearance.
We lunched at Tsa de Secheron, admiring the views back down towards Les Grandes Jorasses and the Glacier de Tronchey and Glacier de Praz-Sec (I think!), then put our best feet forward for the stiff zig zag climb up to Col Sapin (2,436 m), at the head of the Val Sapin. In between Val Sapin and Val Ferret rises the ridge of the Monte Della Saxe (Mont de la Saxe), which was to be our route back to Courmayeur.
But first we had a further 150 m to climb up a steep and slippery sandy path to reach the Testa della Tronche (Tête de la Tronche) at 2,584 m.... the stunning panoramic views from the cairn were worth it: to the east the exposed rockface / scree ridge we've lunched under turned out to be Tête Entre Deux Sauts, and continuing clockwise from there, a hanging valley that could take you back to Rifugio Bonatti, followed by grey views of the Grande Rochère (3,326m) and the Aiguille de Chambave (3,067) with the Arminaz / Armina stream tumbling down into the valley between them. Crossing the forested slopes of the Val Sapin brought Courmayeur into view, with Mont Chétif and Val Veni (Val Vény) bringing the panorama round to the Ghiacciaio della Brenva (Glacier de la Brenva) and the cloud shrouded peaks of the Mont Blanc Massif that loom over Val Ferret.
After photos and sweets we set off at our own paces downhill, relatively steeply at first until we'd passed the Testa Bernarda (Tête Bernada, 2,534 m) before the path levelled for a lengthy undulating stroll along the ridge of the Monte Della Saxe which runs pretty much East-West. Ahead of us we had the stunning pyramid of Mont Chétif while to the north we had elevated views of the glaciers that flow down and around Les Grandes Jorasses and the Aiguilles Rouges de Rochefort. Behind us, to the east, we might have been able to see our route down from the Grand Col Ferret had the weather been clearer but even so we had a great view back up Val Ferret, and further along the Monte Della Saxe a bird's eye view down onto Planpincieux. And everywhere, throughout the day, beautiful flowers.
As we drew closer to the end of the ridge, Pointe Helbronner, Rifugio Torino and the cranes at the construction site of the new cable car station came into clear view - but Mont Blanc and associated ridges, peaks and passes remained hidden.
A steep descent brought us to picturesque Rifugio Bertone (2,000 m) and more reclining deckchairs to take the weight off our feet. Another steep descent took us down into the tree line and - eventually (the walk down felt neverending, especially for the knees) - to pretty Villair Superiore and thence into Courmayeur... just in time for another double scoop icecream from the gelateria yogurteria on Piazza Brocherel, and the 4.30pm bus.
The bus took us up the steep, narrow and winding road into Val Veni.... with more than a few close encounters with other vehicles, before we reached the day's end at the Campeggio Aiguille-Noire. Glorious hot showers, stunning scenery (including, naturally the Aiguille Noire de Peuterey, this time from a different angle) - plus a beer and chippies or two...
Once the sun went behind the mountains it got a tad chilly, but dinner at La Zerotta warmed us up - particularly the meat and cheese platters for starters! The tomato pasta main course was a bit ropey, but the kitchen won us back round again with the dark chocolate torte for dessert.
A smashing day.
Note: I must credit the map (fig 1) in Interactions between rock avalanches and glaciers in the Mont Blanc massif during the late Holocene by
Philip Deline, for helping me to identify the glaciers, and Walking Europe & Beyond for the description of the route (albeit in the reverse) in Walk 6103 - Courmayeur - Mont De La Saxe - Val Ferret.... when Wikipedia and Google Maps don't quite give the detail I need!
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UBL WDP -4 B #40010 curves in with 10 mins late 16531 Ajmer (AII) - Yeshvantpur (YPR) Garib Nawaz Express.
Date : 16/10/17
Saturday 21 July 2012: Camping Grandes Jorasses, Planpincieux (1,593 m) - Lavachey (1,642 m) - Rifugio Walter Bonatti (2,025 m) - Armina (2,009 m) - Tsa de Secheron (2,200 m) - Col Sapin (2,436 m) - Testa della Tronche / Tête de la Tronche (2,584 m) - Monte Della Saxe / Mont de la Saxe - Rifugio Bertone (2,000 m) - Courmayeur - Campeggio Aiguille-Noire, Val Veni / Val Vény
Day 8 of our Tour du Mont Blanc, on Exodus' Mont Blanc Circuit trip - a clockwise circumambulation of the Mont Blanc massif
A wonderful day's walking. Despite an ominous weather forecast, the rain held off and although clouds stayed resolutely settled over the Mont Blanc Massif, we got occasional glimpses of glacier, smashing views of the valleys and the skies stayed blue(ish) above us.
Saying au revoir to Camping Grandes Jorasses we took the bus back up the Val Ferret to Lavachey (1,642 m) and, skirting the hotel, followed the signs for Rifugio Walter Bonatti (2,025 m). After a steep ascent through woodland we emerged onto the side of the ridge and wound our way along largely the level taking in the glorious views across the Val Ferret to Les Grandes Jorasses, and meeting plenty of people coming in the other direction.
After a breather at the Bonatti (where we watched a couple of Italian chaps photographing the glaciers and admired the 3D relief maps inside the Rifugio itself) and coffee and hot chocolate for some, we continued on along the path passing through alpine meadows to the shepherds' huts at Armina (2,009 m), and then turning left into the Vallon d'Armina, following the stream up to the ruins at Tsa de Secheron (2,200 m) - a beautiful green valley carpeted with wild flowers, and with those elusive marmots making an appearance.
We lunched at Tsa de Secheron, admiring the views back down towards Les Grandes Jorasses and the Glacier de Tronchey and Glacier de Praz-Sec (I think!), then put our best feet forward for the stiff zig zag climb up to Col Sapin (2,436 m), at the head of the Val Sapin. In between Val Sapin and Val Ferret rises the ridge of the Monte Della Saxe (Mont de la Saxe), which was to be our route back to Courmayeur.
But first we had a further 150 m to climb up a steep and slippery sandy path to reach the Testa della Tronche (Tête de la Tronche) at 2,584 m.... the stunning panoramic views from the cairn were worth it: to the east the exposed rockface / scree ridge we've lunched under turned out to be Tête Entre Deux Sauts, and continuing clockwise from there, a hanging valley that could take you back to Rifugio Bonatti, followed by grey views of the Grande Rochère (3,326m) and the Aiguille de Chambave (3,067) with the Arminaz / Armina stream tumbling down into the valley between them. Crossing the forested slopes of the Val Sapin brought Courmayeur into view, with Mont Chétif and Val Veni (Val Vény) bringing the panorama round to the Ghiacciaio della Brenva (Glacier de la Brenva) and the cloud shrouded peaks of the Mont Blanc Massif that loom over Val Ferret.
After photos and sweets we set off at our own paces downhill, relatively steeply at first until we'd passed the Testa Bernarda (Tête Bernada, 2,534 m) before the path levelled for a lengthy undulating stroll along the ridge of the Monte Della Saxe which runs pretty much East-West. Ahead of us we had the stunning pyramid of Mont Chétif while to the north we had elevated views of the glaciers that flow down and around Les Grandes Jorasses and the Aiguilles Rouges de Rochefort. Behind us, to the east, we might have been able to see our route down from the Grand Col Ferret had the weather been clearer but even so we had a great view back up Val Ferret, and further along the Monte Della Saxe a bird's eye view down onto Planpincieux. And everywhere, throughout the day, beautiful flowers.
As we drew closer to the end of the ridge, Pointe Helbronner, Rifugio Torino and the cranes at the construction site of the new cable car station came into clear view - but Mont Blanc and associated ridges, peaks and passes remained hidden.
A steep descent brought us to picturesque Rifugio Bertone (2,000 m) and more reclining deckchairs to take the weight off our feet. Another steep descent took us down into the tree line and - eventually (the walk down felt neverending, especially for the knees) - to pretty Villair Superiore and thence into Courmayeur... just in time for another double scoop icecream from the gelateria yogurteria on Piazza Brocherel, and the 4.30pm bus.
The bus took us up the steep, narrow and winding road into Val Veni.... with more than a few close encounters with other vehicles, before we reached the day's end at the Campeggio Aiguille-Noire. Glorious hot showers, stunning scenery (including, naturally the Aiguille Noire de Peuterey, this time from a different angle) - plus a beer and chippies or two...
Once the sun went behind the mountains it got a tad chilly, but dinner at La Zerotta warmed us up - particularly the meat and cheese platters for starters! The tomato pasta main course was a bit ropey, but the kitchen won us back round again with the dark chocolate torte for dessert.
A smashing day.
Note: I must credit the map (fig 1) in Interactions between rock avalanches and glaciers in the Mont Blanc massif during the late Holocene by
Philip Deline, for helping me to identify the glaciers, and Walking Europe & Beyond for the description of the route (albeit in the reverse) in Walk 6103 - Courmayeur - Mont De La Saxe - Val Ferret.... when Wikipedia and Google Maps don't quite give the detail I need!
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U.S. energy-related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in 2013 were 10% below the benchmark year of 2005. Emissions in 2013 were roughly 2% above their 2012 level and 1.5% below their 2011 level, when emissions were 8.6% below the 2005 level. Recently released state-level data through 2011, calculated from the State Energy Data System (SEDS) and aggregated here by Census regions, show different parts of the country generally experiencing this downward trend, but at variable rates by region. www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.cfm?id=16531
Publication date: June 3, 2014
Saturday 21 July 2012: Camping Grandes Jorasses, Planpincieux (1,593 m) - Lavachey (1,642 m) - Rifugio Walter Bonatti (2,025 m) - Armina (2,009 m) - Tsa de Secheron (2,200 m) - Col Sapin (2,436 m) - Testa della Tronche / Tête de la Tronche (2,584 m) - Monte Della Saxe / Mont de la Saxe - Rifugio Bertone (2,000 m) - Courmayeur - Campeggio Aiguille-Noire, Val Veni / Val Vény
Day 8 of our Tour du Mont Blanc, on Exodus' Mont Blanc Circuit trip - a clockwise circumambulation of the Mont Blanc massif
A wonderful day's walking. Despite an ominous weather forecast, the rain held off and although clouds stayed resolutely settled over the Mont Blanc Massif, we got occasional glimpses of glacier, smashing views of the valleys and the skies stayed blue(ish) above us.
Saying au revoir to Camping Grandes Jorasses we took the bus back up the Val Ferret to Lavachey (1,642 m) and, skirting the hotel, followed the signs for Rifugio Walter Bonatti (2,025 m). After a steep ascent through woodland we emerged onto the side of the ridge and wound our way along largely the level taking in the glorious views across the Val Ferret to Les Grandes Jorasses, and meeting plenty of people coming in the other direction.
After a breather at the Bonatti (where we watched a couple of Italian chaps photographing the glaciers and admired the 3D relief maps inside the Rifugio itself) and coffee and hot chocolate for some, we continued on along the path passing through alpine meadows to the shepherds' huts at Armina (2,009 m), and then turning left into the Vallon d'Armina, following the stream up to the ruins at Tsa de Secheron (2,200 m) - a beautiful green valley carpeted with wild flowers, and with those elusive marmots making an appearance.
We lunched at Tsa de Secheron, admiring the views back down towards Les Grandes Jorasses and the Glacier de Tronchey and Glacier de Praz-Sec (I think!), then put our best feet forward for the stiff zig zag climb up to Col Sapin (2,436 m), at the head of the Val Sapin. In between Val Sapin and Val Ferret rises the ridge of the Monte Della Saxe (Mont de la Saxe), which was to be our route back to Courmayeur.
But first we had a further 150 m to climb up a steep and slippery sandy path to reach the Testa della Tronche (Tête de la Tronche) at 2,584 m.... the stunning panoramic views from the cairn were worth it: to the east the exposed rockface / scree ridge we've lunched under turned out to be Tête Entre Deux Sauts, and continuing clockwise from there, a hanging valley that could take you back to Rifugio Bonatti, followed by grey views of the Grande Rochère (3,326m) and the Aiguille de Chambave (3,067) with the Arminaz / Armina stream tumbling down into the valley between them. Crossing the forested slopes of the Val Sapin brought Courmayeur into view, with Mont Chétif and Val Veni (Val Vény) bringing the panorama round to the Ghiacciaio della Brenva (Glacier de la Brenva) and the cloud shrouded peaks of the Mont Blanc Massif that loom over Val Ferret.
After photos and sweets we set off at our own paces downhill, relatively steeply at first until we'd passed the Testa Bernarda (Tête Bernada, 2,534 m) before the path levelled for a lengthy undulating stroll along the ridge of the Monte Della Saxe which runs pretty much East-West. Ahead of us we had the stunning pyramid of Mont Chétif while to the north we had elevated views of the glaciers that flow down and around Les Grandes Jorasses and the Aiguilles Rouges de Rochefort. Behind us, to the east, we might have been able to see our route down from the Grand Col Ferret had the weather been clearer but even so we had a great view back up Val Ferret, and further along the Monte Della Saxe a bird's eye view down onto Planpincieux. And everywhere, throughout the day, beautiful flowers.
As we drew closer to the end of the ridge, Pointe Helbronner, Rifugio Torino and the cranes at the construction site of the new cable car station came into clear view - but Mont Blanc and associated ridges, peaks and passes remained hidden.
A steep descent brought us to picturesque Rifugio Bertone (2,000 m) and more reclining deckchairs to take the weight off our feet. Another steep descent took us down into the tree line and - eventually (the walk down felt neverending, especially for the knees) - to pretty Villair Superiore and thence into Courmayeur... just in time for another double scoop icecream from the gelateria yogurteria on Piazza Brocherel, and the 4.30pm bus.
The bus took us up the steep, narrow and winding road into Val Veni.... with more than a few close encounters with other vehicles, before we reached the day's end at the Campeggio Aiguille-Noire. Glorious hot showers, stunning scenery (including, naturally the Aiguille Noire de Peuterey, this time from a different angle) - plus a beer and chippies or two...
Once the sun went behind the mountains it got a tad chilly, but dinner at La Zerotta warmed us up - particularly the meat and cheese platters for starters! The tomato pasta main course was a bit ropey, but the kitchen won us back round again with the dark chocolate torte for dessert.
A smashing day.
Note: I must credit the map (fig 1) in Interactions between rock avalanches and glaciers in the Mont Blanc massif during the late Holocene by Philip Deline, for helping me to identify the glaciers, and Walking Europe & Beyond for the description of the route (albeit in the reverse) in Walk 6103 - Courmayeur - Mont De La Saxe - Val Ferret.... when Wikipedia and Google Maps don't quite give the detail I need!
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Saturday 21 July 2012: Camping Grandes Jorasses, Planpincieux (1,593 m) - Lavachey (1,642 m) - Rifugio Walter Bonatti (2,025 m) - Armina (2,009 m) - Tsa de Secheron (2,200 m) - Col Sapin (2,436 m) - Testa della Tronche / Tête de la Tronche (2,584 m) - Monte Della Saxe / Mont de la Saxe - Rifugio Bertone (2,000 m) - Courmayeur - Campeggio Aiguille-Noire, Val Veni / Val Vény
Day 8 of our Tour du Mont Blanc, on Exodus' Mont Blanc Circuit trip - a clockwise circumambulation of the Mont Blanc massif
A wonderful day's walking. Despite an ominous weather forecast, the rain held off and although clouds stayed resolutely settled over the Mont Blanc Massif, we got occasional glimpses of glacier, smashing views of the valleys and the skies stayed blue(ish) above us.
Saying au revoir to Camping Grandes Jorasses we took the bus back up the Val Ferret to Lavachey (1,642 m) and, skirting the hotel, followed the signs for Rifugio Walter Bonatti (2,025 m). After a steep ascent through woodland we emerged onto the side of the ridge and wound our way along largely the level taking in the glorious views across the Val Ferret to Les Grandes Jorasses, and meeting plenty of people coming in the other direction.
After a breather at the Bonatti (where we watched a couple of Italian chaps photographing the glaciers and admired the 3D relief maps inside the Rifugio itself) and coffee and hot chocolate for some, we continued on along the path passing through alpine meadows to the shepherds' huts at Armina (2,009 m), and then turning left into the Vallon d'Armina, following the stream up to the ruins at Tsa de Secheron (2,200 m) - a beautiful green valley carpeted with wild flowers, and with those elusive marmots making an appearance.
We lunched at Tsa de Secheron, admiring the views back down towards Les Grandes Jorasses and the Glacier de Tronchey and Glacier de Praz-Sec (I think!), then put our best feet forward for the stiff zig zag climb up to Col Sapin (2,436 m), at the head of the Val Sapin. In between Val Sapin and Val Ferret rises the ridge of the Monte Della Saxe (Mont de la Saxe), which was to be our route back to Courmayeur.
But first we had a further 150 m to climb up a steep and slippery sandy path to reach the Testa della Tronche (Tête de la Tronche) at 2,584 m.... the stunning panoramic views from the cairn were worth it: to the east the exposed rockface / scree ridge we've lunched under turned out to be Tête Entre Deux Sauts, and continuing clockwise from there, a hanging valley that could take you back to Rifugio Bonatti, followed by grey views of the Grande Rochère (3,326m) and the Aiguille de Chambave (3,067) with the Arminaz / Armina stream tumbling down into the valley between them. Crossing the forested slopes of the Val Sapin brought Courmayeur into view, with Mont Chétif and Val Veni (Val Vény) bringing the panorama round to the Ghiacciaio della Brenva (Glacier de la Brenva) and the cloud shrouded peaks of the Mont Blanc Massif that loom over Val Ferret.
After photos and sweets we set off at our own paces downhill, relatively steeply at first until we'd passed the Testa Bernarda (Tête Bernada, 2,534 m) before the path levelled for a lengthy undulating stroll along the ridge of the Monte Della Saxe which runs pretty much East-West. Ahead of us we had the stunning pyramid of Mont Chétif while to the north we had elevated views of the glaciers that flow down and around Les Grandes Jorasses and the Aiguilles Rouges de Rochefort. Behind us, to the east, we might have been able to see our route down from the Grand Col Ferret had the weather been clearer but even so we had a great view back up Val Ferret, and further along the Monte Della Saxe a bird's eye view down onto Planpincieux. And everywhere, throughout the day, beautiful flowers.
As we drew closer to the end of the ridge, Pointe Helbronner, Rifugio Torino and the cranes at the construction site of the new cable car station came into clear view - but Mont Blanc and associated ridges, peaks and passes remained hidden.
A steep descent brought us to picturesque Rifugio Bertone (2,000 m) and more reclining deckchairs to take the weight off our feet. Another steep descent took us down into the tree line and - eventually (the walk down felt neverending, especially for the knees) - to pretty Villair Superiore and thence into Courmayeur... just in time for another double scoop icecream from the gelateria yogurteria on Piazza Brocherel, and the 4.30pm bus.
The bus took us up the steep, narrow and winding road into Val Veni.... with more than a few close encounters with other vehicles, before we reached the day's end at the Campeggio Aiguille-Noire. Glorious hot showers, stunning scenery (including, naturally the Aiguille Noire de Peuterey, this time from a different angle) - plus a beer and chippies or two...
Once the sun went behind the mountains it got a tad chilly, but dinner at La Zerotta warmed us up - particularly the meat and cheese platters for starters! The tomato pasta main course was a bit ropey, but the kitchen won us back round again with the dark chocolate torte for dessert.
A smashing day.
Note: I must credit the map (fig 1) in Interactions between rock avalanches and glaciers in the Mont Blanc massif during the late Holocene by
Philip Deline, for helping me to identify the glaciers, and Walking Europe & Beyond for the description of the route (albeit in the reverse) in Walk 6103 - Courmayeur - Mont De La Saxe - Val Ferret.... when Wikipedia and Google Maps don't quite give the detail I need!
DSC05577
Saturday 21 July 2012: Camping Grandes Jorasses, Planpincieux (1,593 m) - Lavachey (1,642 m) - Rifugio Walter Bonatti (2,025 m) - Armina (2,009 m) - Tsa de Secheron (2,200 m) - Col Sapin (2,436 m) - Testa della Tronche / Tête de la Tronche (2,584 m) - Monte Della Saxe / Mont de la Saxe - Rifugio Bertone (2,000 m) - Courmayeur - Campeggio Aiguille-Noire, Val Veni / Val Vény
Day 8 of our Tour du Mont Blanc, on Exodus' Mont Blanc Circuit trip - a clockwise circumambulation of the Mont Blanc massif
A wonderful day's walking. Despite an ominous weather forecast, the rain held off and although clouds stayed resolutely settled over the Mont Blanc Massif, we got occasional glimpses of glacier, smashing views of the valleys and the skies stayed blue(ish) above us.
Saying au revoir to Camping Grandes Jorasses we took the bus back up the Val Ferret to Lavachey (1,642 m) and, skirting the hotel, followed the signs for Rifugio Walter Bonatti (2,025 m). After a steep ascent through woodland we emerged onto the side of the ridge and wound our way along largely the level taking in the glorious views across the Val Ferret to Les Grandes Jorasses, and meeting plenty of people coming in the other direction.
After a breather at the Bonatti (where we watched a couple of Italian chaps photographing the glaciers and admired the 3D relief maps inside the Rifugio itself) and coffee and hot chocolate for some, we continued on along the path passing through alpine meadows to the shepherds' huts at Armina (2,009 m), and then turning left into the Vallon d'Armina, following the stream up to the ruins at Tsa de Secheron (2,200 m) - a beautiful green valley carpeted with wild flowers, and with those elusive marmots making an appearance.
We lunched at Tsa de Secheron, admiring the views back down towards Les Grandes Jorasses and the Glacier de Tronchey and Glacier de Praz-Sec (I think!), then put our best feet forward for the stiff zig zag climb up to Col Sapin (2,436 m), at the head of the Val Sapin. In between Val Sapin and Val Ferret rises the ridge of the Monte Della Saxe (Mont de la Saxe), which was to be our route back to Courmayeur.
But first we had a further 150 m to climb up a steep and slippery sandy path to reach the Testa della Tronche (Tête de la Tronche) at 2,584 m.... the stunning panoramic views from the cairn were worth it: to the east the exposed rockface / scree ridge we've lunched under turned out to be Tête Entre Deux Sauts, and continuing clockwise from there, a hanging valley that could take you back to Rifugio Bonatti, followed by grey views of the Grande Rochère (3,326m) and the Aiguille de Chambave (3,067) with the Arminaz / Armina stream tumbling down into the valley between them. Crossing the forested slopes of the Val Sapin brought Courmayeur into view, with Mont Chétif and Val Veni (Val Vény) bringing the panorama round to the Ghiacciaio della Brenva (Glacier de la Brenva) and the cloud shrouded peaks of the Mont Blanc Massif that loom over Val Ferret.
After photos and sweets we set off at our own paces downhill, relatively steeply at first until we'd passed the Testa Bernarda (Tête Bernada, 2,534 m) before the path levelled for a lengthy undulating stroll along the ridge of the Monte Della Saxe which runs pretty much East-West. Ahead of us we had the stunning pyramid of Mont Chétif while to the north we had elevated views of the glaciers that flow down and around Les Grandes Jorasses and the Aiguilles Rouges de Rochefort. Behind us, to the east, we might have been able to see our route down from the Grand Col Ferret had the weather been clearer but even so we had a great view back up Val Ferret, and further along the Monte Della Saxe a bird's eye view down onto Planpincieux. And everywhere, throughout the day, beautiful flowers.
As we drew closer to the end of the ridge, Pointe Helbronner, Rifugio Torino and the cranes at the construction site of the new cable car station came into clear view - but Mont Blanc and associated ridges, peaks and passes remained hidden.
A steep descent brought us to picturesque Rifugio Bertone (2,000 m) and more reclining deckchairs to take the weight off our feet. Another steep descent took us down into the tree line and - eventually (the walk down felt neverending, especially for the knees) - to pretty Villair Superiore and thence into Courmayeur... just in time for another double scoop icecream from the gelateria yogurteria on Piazza Brocherel, and the 4.30pm bus.
The bus took us up the steep, narrow and winding road into Val Veni.... with more than a few close encounters with other vehicles, before we reached the day's end at the Campeggio Aiguille-Noire. Glorious hot showers, stunning scenery (including, naturally the Aiguille Noire de Peuterey, this time from a different angle) - plus a beer and chippies or two...
Once the sun went behind the mountains it got a tad chilly, but dinner at La Zerotta warmed us up - particularly the meat and cheese platters for starters! The tomato pasta main course was a bit ropey, but the kitchen won us back round again with the dark chocolate torte for dessert.
A smashing day.
Note: I must credit the map (fig 1) in Interactions between rock avalanches and glaciers in the Mont Blanc massif during the late Holocene by
Philip Deline, for helping me to identify the glaciers, and Walking Europe & Beyond for the description of the route (albeit in the reverse) in Walk 6103 - Courmayeur - Mont De La Saxe - Val Ferret.... when Wikipedia and Google Maps don't quite give the detail I need!
DSC05761
Friday 20 July 2012: Rest day featuring the Funivie Monte Bianco up to Pointe Helbronner (3,466 m) (actually Rifugio Torino Nuovo at 3,375 m) and Courmayeur (1,224 m) and finishing up with a fine meal in Planpincieux (1,593 m)
Day 7 of our Tour du Mont Blanc, on Exodus' Mont Blanc Circuit trip - a clockwise circumambulation of the Mont Blanc massif
Vicki, Hazel and I opted to get up early and head up to Pointe Helbronner (3,466 m). We successfully caught the Savda bus from right outside the Camping Grandes Jorasses down to La Palud, and whilst we were ahead of the crowds on the Funivie Monte Bianco cable car, our plan to cross the Vallée Blanche to the Aiguille du Midi was thwarted by major repairs being carried out on the Télécabine Panoramic Mont-Blanc, so we opted for the shorter hop up to Rifugio Torino.
At 34€ the tickets were Not Cheap, but the stunning views from the various viewpoints made it worth every €, and all 200+ steps up from the Rifugio Torino Vecchio (3,335 m) to Rifugio Torino Nuovo (3,375 m): to the east (and a tad north) Aiguille Noire de Peuterey and Les Dames Anglaises, Mont Maudit and Monte Bianco; to the south, Gran Paradiso and Grivola and more ahead, to the west the Dente Del Gigante (Dent du Géant), Aiguille de Rochefort, Grandes Jorasses, Grand Combin, Cervino (aka the Matterhorn), Mont Vélan and Monte Rosa, and to the north and closer by our feet the blankets of snow and glaciers.
Mont Blanc itself remained elusive however, keeping a shroud of cloud despite our best efforts to wish it away (and making no appearance on the information panoramas either!). The only (other) fly in the ointment were the construction works taking place to build a new cable car station above Pointe Helbronner. The building site looked terribly precarious teetering above us, and sent down small avalanches of scree.
After a good few hours (and lots and lots of photos), we took the cable car down to the Pavillon du Mont Fréty (2,173 m) where the air was warmer and we pottered around the Giardino Alpino Saussurea which provided photos and names of many of the flowers we'd seen so far.
There our luck ended as we just missed the once-an-hour bus from La Palud to Courmayeur and the walk along the main road proved longer and hotter than hoped. Still, once in Courmayeur we armed ourselves with an icecream from the gelateria yogurteria on Piazza Brocherel and having (quickly) explored the town, we settled at a pavement cafe for a light lunch.
Courmayeur clearly caters for the well heeled, and we were there at lunchtime shutdown, so with no shopping opportunities to keep us in town we caught the bus back to base to potter the rest of the afternoon away. For dinner, we headed down en masse to Planpincieux to eat at the Chalet Proment. An excellent suggestion from Simon and Ben (who ate there too, and booked us a table) - tasty local dishes, a good choice of wine and lovely waiters.
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