Doran

While the last couple of weeks have been dominated by mundane tasks (getting organized with work, setting up bank accounts, Social Security and Health Insurance), they have of course been punctuated by culinary adventures and outdoor pursuits!

This past week’s hike took place almost literally in the backyard of the school at which I teach in Sallanches. After a quick drive up the mountain to some local trails, myself and my friend Fiona (hailing from Scotland), were soon treading carefully on a bed of crisp fall leaves on our way to a refuge in an area called Doran. With only a few minor glitches, the weather here has been impeccable; the heat of summer is lingering, slowly being replaced by morning frosts and cool nights worthy of a cup of steaming cocoa. On our ascent, we were almost completely covered by the forest’s canopy, but would sometimes come across a turn in the switchback trail allowing for a gorgeous view of Mont Blanc and the Valley d’Arve below.

After a few hours of vigorous trekking, we reached our destination: a beautiful alpine meadow spotted with summer cottages, a refuge serving homemade food, and a small chapel built by the local Boy Scouts.  Setting up camp in front of a cottage that was boarded up in preparation of the coming winter, we were treated to a feast of wine, handmade sausages, and various French delicacies. It must be said that the French know how to hike, and they also know how to relax once the hiking is done. I, for one, would hesitate at the thought of packing a heavy bottle of wine into my daypack and lugging it up a mountain!

Here are some shots from our trek up the mountain:

Members of CAF Cluses

Seasonal cottages in the "alpage"

Another beautiful sunny day

Myself and Fiona with a view of Mont Blanc

Because my memory often fails me...

Local watering hole

Christian and Fiona