This was again one of those hikes that go up, up, up and then down, down, down, and one can’t take the eyes off of the trail — otherwise one risks tripping or twisting an ankle. Supposedly easy (according to several sources) this hike was nice but somewhat tedious (11.6K in 4h 54mins, D+/D- 1000m). We made two mistakes before leaving: we should have had a heavier breakfast and we should have left earlier instead of going grocery shopping first.

On our way to the Cabin of Combe Madame we had several minor streams to cross — it is still early in the season and the snow is melting — but turned back at the last(?) one, since there was more water in it and it would have required more than just two or three leaps from rock to rock to cross.

We were also expecting more sun; while it was sunny when we drove up from our valley, it was all cloudy on the mountains — our hike  started at 1070 meters, and the highest point we reached was at 1736 meters. We still have not learnt how different it can be up there. Luckily we were not rained or snowed on.

Despite the clouds the hike was quite scenic. On our way back we visited Cascade de Pissou, which was quite impressive, as was the strong stream and its tributaries that we followed on our hike. The only downside was the tremendous noise the water made.

When we drove back down to our valley, it was sunny — I guess it had been the whole day. It was also very hot.