Clare has been busy working for Goldcrest today, so I set out on a stroll down to the bakers intent on buying a croissant, then doing some laptop stuff over a cup of coffee on the Hotel balcony opposite the chalet. It was a beautiful morning to be out.

However, before reaching the bakers, I noticed that the local chair lift seemed to be running, so detoured over to the ticket cabin to get a timetable and price list. As it turned out, today is the first day of the summer opening and I was told that I could get a free ride today if I fancied it! I decided did rather! So, next thing I know, I’m slowly drifting above the bakers, then tree tops all the way up to 2300m! I didn’t have my camera with me, but realised at the top that I did have my laptop, so here are a few very low quality snaps from high above Pelvoux village…

It only occurred to me half way up the lift, that I was dressed for a village stroll, in only a pair of shorts and sandals – not exactly high altitude gear! I did at least have a fleece to put on, and survived long enough for a short walk around to look at the views. Having ‘popped out’ from the chalet at 09:30, I returned just after midday, with baguette in hand and a big grin on my face!

In the afternoon, once Clare had finished worked we went up the valley to Ailefroide for a quick climb. We chose to be in the shade, but actually, with the overnight drop in temperatures and a strong wind blowing, it was actually a little nippy out of the sun.

We climbed a few slabby routes, which required a bit of balance as some strong, cold gusts of wind blew down the valley from the snowy peaks above.

After a couple of routes, we decided that that would do for the evening and walked back down to Ailefroide, where temperatures were only just reaching double figures – such a contrast from last weeks heatwave! Instead of apres climbing cold drinks in the hotel garden, this time we opted for a cup of hot tea, back on the sofa at the apartment!

Ailefroide, Les Etoiles Climbs:

• Saturne, 4c*
• Bellatrix, 6a**