Sunday 19 June 2011

Mercantourism

Today was definitely a step in the right direction. In saying that, it was more productive than yesterday, but not monumental by anybody's standard.
A drive up the Col Du Turini, and over into the Vallee de Vesubie finished with an uphill slog in the car to Madone De Fenestre, took us to some beautiful springtime mountain scenery. I had walked here in April or May when the snow line was a lot higher and not another soul was present on the tracks. Today was a big change. I hadn't really encountered the French "Randonneurs" before today, but they were out in force. Mass bonjour exchanges, and receiving countless disapproving looks for our choice of hiking gear... (we don't subscribe to the french uniform of head to toe Quechua kit) kinda spoilt the tranquility of the mountains, but it was fairly easy to avoid after the initial climb.
I am going to head back here in the next couple of weeks to photograph the Lacs Du Pral, but today we just hiked up to the initial plateau which gives great views over Madone De Fenestre. Plus, the last time I went looking for the Lacs Du Pral, I made massive navigational errors and ended up freestyle climbing up 45degree plus rockslides in completely the wrong direction. Now the snow has shifted pretty much, the true path is more evident, and will be a breeze to do one morning for some early morning light.
In any case, an epic day out in the Mercantour National Park. Blazing hot temperatures in the valleys, and near perfect conditions for walking in the mountains.
Without any further delay, here are the initial shots from today.



More to follow, but it's late and i don't have the inclination to go through any more.
Ciao

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