Wednesday, July 04, 2007

For a better view - Take a walk up the nearest big hill! (French Alps No.2)

While on holiday near to Briancon in the French Alps I became inspired by the mountain that overlooks the campsite at Les Vigneaux. Montbrison has a collection of sub 3000m peaks that are easily walked in one day. The views over the ski resort of Puy St Vincent, The Onde Valley and the Durance Valley are superb. The might of the southern Ecrins Massif led by Mont Pelvoux, looms like an invading mountainous regiment, almost within reach northeast across the valley.

My late (11am) start did me no favours so I walked quickly along the steep paths through the woods. The steep ascent soon rewarded me with excellent glances through the trees to views up the Onde valley.

I was pleased to find a varied selection of plant life in the woods including Hostas and Orchids.

Once out above the treeline the Alpine meadows are strewn with collages of flowers and grasses patrolled and scrutinized by Buzzards and Alpine Choughs.

As I neared Tete d'Aval,which is the lowest of the peaks at 2698m the prevailing weather to the north began to look a little suspect so I quickly descended back the way I came.....

...but not before taking a couple of photos to the south down the Durance Valley towards L'Argentierre La Besse...

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