Bad weather was coming in, so today was likely to be a good day to get to the top of the Grand St Bernard pass... tomorrow it wouldn't be, and may even dump too much snow on top to tackle it for a while (prophetic thoughts!)
Anyway we'd decided to 'go for it' so me, Thomas and Jenny were up at 0530, packed and were out of the hostel for 6 am!
Stocked up at the supermarket, and away we set ready to tackle a long day, and high climb...
Sandy and Peter were to get a bus half way, and maybe try with us later?
The three of us made great time, up amongst the forest trails, quickly climbing the steep paths:
However after almost 4 hours of lung-bursting climbing we arrived in Bourg st Pierre - excellent timing, and giving us a good chance of success
As we got there we saw Sandy and Peter who had come up on the bus, and resumed walking with us... A little quicker than they expected!!
Thomas continued alone whilst the four of us carried on a little slower... as we got higher we came across more snow, almost covering the trail at times, but still allowing good safe progress:
As we continued we passed the huge reservoir dam, and up above where the road tunnel takes traffic through the mountain, and into Italy...
So time to leave the tracks, and hit the road as it was closed to traffic, allowing us a relatively straightforward journey - albeit a bit longer!!
The road, at least lower down, was clear of snow:
and allowed a group of tired pilgrims a safe route up... harder and harder as time wore on, still steady progress with occasional stops for food and rest! (not corvette sign making!!)
As we neared the top (although we didn't realise it then), the snow walls were getting bigger either side of the road, with the last stretch being worked on by teams with snow blowers and diggers clearing the way for us (and almost covering us in snow!)
we had to scramble over the last few snow banks to be greeted by the sight of the Grand St Bernard Hospice!! A welcoming sight to many a weary pilgrim over the years... Especially in the snow!!
We had all made it - Thank God!! and just after 4 pm...
A warm welcome from the monk inside and a huge pot of hot sweet tea!!
I had another look around outside, before leaving the winter wonderland and heading indoors for a nice hot shower.
The surprising day hadn't ended... I was about half way to Rome, I was at the highest loin on the top of the Alps... And now? - Mass celebrated in the chapel here - what a fitting end to celebrate a great day!!
I often wondered whether I would be able to get over the pass (although I've still got to go down the other side!?), all along everyone's prayers have kept me going... Please keep them up to help me get to Rome!!
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: only a member of this blog may post a comment.