I last saw Mont Blanc 19 years ago when I spent a fortnight trekking all the way around it with my old friend Steve. So it was quite an emotional sight when it suddenly came into view across the valleys from the mountain ridge of La Tournette, and made the hike in the heat all the more worthwhile.

This was a very interesting mountain in its own right though, and we followed a colourful route, with marmots scurrying through fields of flowers and wild raspberries, and ibex showing off with their mountaineering skills on the rocky outcrops. We nearly trod on a smooth snake, which was basking in the sun on the stony path.

The rest of the week was mostly spent around picturesque but rather touristy Annecy and the shores of its lake, which happens to be a good size to circumnavigate by bike. This we did, stopping off for the odd picnic and to cool off in the waters when the heat got too much. Our chalet also came complete with a porch and barbecue, which was very handy for cooking the local produce.

Speaking of which, today was market day, but this time we were stocking up the car to head for home, so the ever-growing wine collection is now accompanied by cheese and other goodies. Will the car get us all back home? I suppose we have the bikes with us, just in case!

Posted on 22nd October 2015.