Vom Lac de Roue über Château Queras und Saint-Véran über den Col de Blanchet zum Lago Blu

Day 15 (September 15, 2020)

After a beautiful start to the day in the sunny Cathedral Forest at Lac de Roue, we descended through an extremely dry pine forest. Once again, our drinking water was scarce, so we were very happy to find a fountain in Château Queras. Unfortunately, the fruit store mentioned in the travel guide no longer existed. We walked for about fifteen minutes past noon and then found a very nice spot by the Guil River. We originally planned to go shopping in Molines-en-Queras, but suddenly discovered a supermarket on the other side of the river. It even opened at 15:15 instead of the scheduled 16:30 like the one in Molines. So we spent some time by the river until Rapha, Simi, and Jana left to cross the river at the next bridge. Alex took some risk and crossed the river on the spot in his underwear.

After buying supplies for the next two days, we tried hitchhiking again. We headed to Saint-Véran, the highest inhabited municipality in Europe all year round.

A very, very charming and picturesque place that reminded us of Graubünden. Unfortunately, there was no ice cream left in the shop. So we hiked another half an hour into the valley where our driver had recommended a place to stay overnight.

It was a great spot at the edge of the forest with a fountain and even a table. We cooked Älplermagronen together and a good portion of found Schopftintlinge (a true gourmet mushroom) and enjoyed ourselves very much.

Until bedtime, Native American fairy tales were read in front of a large, warm fire.

Day 16 (September 16, 2020)

After a cool night, we set off early today to Col Blanchet at almost 3,000 meters above sea level. A beautiful hike through Vallon Blanchet, which is slowly turning into autumn colors. We made good progress and arrived at the pass at noon, where we had a windy lunch.

After eating, clouds started to gather and we expected a thunderstorm. So we soon set off and continued our journey in Italy. Because Col Blanchet is one of the border mountains between France and Italy. We initially descended and then followed a small path that required some surefootedness, until we reached Bivacco Enrico Olivero. It was simply breathtaking. The mountain scenery, the many lakes, and the fairytale-like landscape were stunning. Nevertheless, we decided to go a little further.

Now we have set up our tents at Lago Blu at 2,600 meters above sea level. Alex and Simi climbed up a peak and Rapha and Jana treated themselves to a swim in the lake. Dinner will be served soon and hopefully, the night will not be too frosty.