Friday 28 December 2018

JULY 2008 : SWITZERLAND : Memories of the Via Francigena : Martigny - La Douay (20 kms)

Memories of the Via Francigena in July-August 2008
Day 4 - Martigny - La Douay, near Osières







“A quick email as I am having trouble with the internet..just had a long letter frozen..and what can I say — it was rivetting stuff. Great day today as we begin to climb the Alps. I have ditched my boots for a lighter pair of walking shoes, purchased in Martigny. Walking on shaded tracks with spectacular views of the mountains. Bob introduced us to wild raspberries and tiny wild strawberries today. We had a picnic in a lush field of brie, french bread etc. The red wine in hindsight might not have been the best idea for lunch but it was very enjoyable at the time!

Here are are some of today’s highlights








 We have made it to La Douay — a lovely small hotel, La Catogne, tonight on the highway by a fast flowing river.



We have met a few others walking the path. .well signposted on this leg.  Tomorrow we aim for the top - The Grand St Bernard Pass— a considerable climb in about 7 hours- fortunately there are a few alternative means of transport..if we need it. We are grappling for vocabulary and making lots of faux pas with our mixed French, Spanish and Italian knowledge...but having fun trying. Our German is non existent. We thought Ausgang (exit) was some kind of welcome for Aussies in Frankfurt. Here’s to you as I walk pain—free (at last).”

M&M

No comments: