The day broke and the weather was 50/50. Down the valley was sunshine (mainly because we were higher than the clouds) and up the valley the clouds were covering the mountain to the valley floor. The scene down the valley was lovely with all the mountains having a light dusting of snow and as the sun got higher and hotter the clouds were moving all around.
We ate breakfast, which on these colder days has started to include a rather large mug of hot chocolate, and headed into town to check out the markets. It's been over a week since my last market so was chomping at the bit. I must say though leaving our extremely well insulated chalet was a bit of a shock as it was freezing outside. It's hard to believe that 2 days ago we were wearing shorts and t-shirts and now have several layers on. With an incentive for the kids of playground after the markets we made it to town in good time and warmed up a little. The market wasn't huge but big enough to have a bit of everything and allow me to soak in the atmosphere till my next fix. Next stop playground for the kids fix, then home with our goodies for our baguette and Brie lunch.
After lunch we headed up the valley to Les Contamines which is the end of the road. If you are a walker it is full of excellent trails that have been recommended by us by many.
We drove to the start of a gorge and parked the car, with the kids not being the keenest of hikers we did the shortest. It took us to the most delightful church snuggled into the side of the hill above a river. It was tiny and built of stone with a slate roof.
The roof was covered with thick moss with the odd pine tree growing from it. There were a few pews that looked like gnomes used them as they were so small. The church looked like it was visited by regular followers as their were flowers, plaques and offerings left. After our little explorer we headed back home. It was still early afternoon and I'd found a self walking tour of St Gervais Les Bains in our chalet that looked appealing to me. So I got a leave pass and went straight out again. Behind all the quaint buildings and tourist shops the town has quite a history.
The tour took you past an old castle that's nestled down a side street. It has been added onto to be a private residence, but they've done it in a manner that looks like a chalet has been built on top.
Their we're a couple of bridges, a fountain and a tower. It was quite fascinating what lies beneath a town and some of the structures were dating back to the 13th century. It was a lovely walk that I was very pleased I managed to do. With the sun still shining but a cold wind blowing a retreated back to our cosy chalet to make dinner. Tomorrow is Neil's last ride of the holiday. It is a long one to go off with a bang, so another early start.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad