Fénis

On our own again!
Although we had a great time with Sandy Brown and his group, and were very glad we had joined them for the ascent and descent of the Great Saint Bernard Pass, we really prefer walking on our own. Facing the various challenges by ourselves is rewarding, as is being able to set our own schedule. Walking, we often get into being totally “here and mow.” Sometimes we talk about all sorts of things, sometimes we just zone out and walk and walk and walk. It’s what we like to do.

Sunday we walked down the Aosta Valley to Nus, about 21k (13 miles). Just before we got there, we lunched in a little town at a restaurant serving Aosta specialties. We had gnocchi alla bava, gnocchi in sauce made with Aosta Valley blue cheese. We’d had gnocchi in a gorgonzola sauce before; this was subtler. It was so good we had it again for dinner the next night!

Much of the way we followed a dedicated bike path which made for easy walking - very welcome after the Great Saint Bernard Pass. However, the path was closed off in part due to damage from river flooding. We had to use all the resources we have to work around this and get back on the Via.

Monday, we continued about 13k (8 miles) down the valley to Châtillon. Some amazing views from high above the towns along the river Where we stayed, there was a balcony with bright sun; our laundry dried amazingly quickly!Read more