Storming the Col

Our early start proved a great plan. We were climbing from Argentiere soon after 8, reached our first col just after 10 and made it to the Swiss border at Col de Balme by 11. Boy we were hot. We called in at the Chalet for a celebratory coffee – 4 euros each! We didn’t stay for long as the storm clouds were gathering.

The descent was long and tough on the knees so we stopped at a picnic table curiously located near the edge of the path. When we finally reached the valley floor we realised that the final treat of the day was a climb of about 800 feet. Just as we got near the top it started raining gently. By the time we checked in it was pouring and the lighting started soon after.

So, which forecast was right? BBC weather, you rock. Everything spot on.