Dawn at Refuge Miage – it’s Sept 1st and each day starts with a chill. It’s going to become more noticeable as we progress higher.
We have a team briefing – today says Sebastian looks like this :-
Walk to Bonhomme (6-8hrs, 1300m/4265ft ascent)
Today we will pass by the chalets of Truc and then the pretty village of Contamines- Montjoie. Our route continues along the ancient Roman road that leads us into the beautiful Nature Reserve of Contamines. We make our way through the “Bonhomme” mountain passage and have some fun making our way around Beaufortin and Tyrol, two mountains which form part of the French Alps. Overnight Refuge with shower – if we’re lucky.
18km, 1300m/4265ft ascent, 500m/1640ft descent.
We descend slightly ……
And arrive into picturesque Les Contamines
With its comfortable riverside section – flat route a rarity here. We arrive at the Eglise de Notre Dame de la Gorge
And up from the gorge through thick forest where shade for us is welcome break at mid da.
And out past the Refuge de la Balme into the higher glacier eroded bowl of the valley.
Where much higher up , above the clouds and several layers of clothing added we meet up with Sebastian and one of the highlights of this expedition- Una – our Mule ! – Yes really .
…. and a hour later reaching the infamous Col de Bonhomme – impassable in Winter – at over 2600 Metres . Blimmin cold today
Down Filled 75 Tog Happiness
Then out of the bitter wind on the Lee side of the Col we descend but only a little to the Refuge Bonhomme …… that’s it – the Shed on the side of a vertical drop .
But it provided everything that we needed including a 3 min coin operated shower – luxury 
.
With a view and a Sunset that had us all out in the last of the daylight .
Spectacular enough for Thom to run up to the ridge line to see the last of it . 
That’s him – look carefully ….
A great way to end the day .
Xxxxxxx
I’m enjoying this sojourn with you and your boys, thanks Ian ❤️
Sue CameronSent from my iPhone
stunning photos – what an adventure for you all xxxx