Up, Down, and Over the Col de Tricot: A Grueling First Day in the Alps
We woke from a less-than-stellar night of sleep, ready to take on the day after a breakfast of cereal with warm milk, scrambled eggs, bread with Nutella, and coffee (which somehow still didn't feel like enough).
The hike began with a brutal three miles of steep uphill. We were panting with every step until a brief rest where a kind Frenchman checked on us: "Se va? You ok?". After that initial ascent, the trail flattened a bit through the woods, leading down to a picturesque suspension bridge before climbing up again. The scenery was lovely, definitely channeling the spirit of "Climb every mountain".
Then came the main event: the Col de Tricot. Hours of relentless uphill with zero shade had us working overtime all over again. The wind at the top was a relief though, perfect for a much-needed lunch. The packed sandwich from the gite was brie, tomato, and lettuce on a baguette. It was lifesaving, even if the accompanying orange was a messy affair.
The descent was another challenge: 1 hour and 10 minutes of switchbacks that tormented our toes. We hit Miage at the bottom and we wished we were staying there. A short rest and water break, then another 35 minutes up to our night's lodging, Auberge le Truc.
Auberge le Truc is rustic. Limited water, no showers, and a very interesting (broken) conveyor belt pit toilet. The simple pleasure of the constant, rhythmic sound of cowbells made up for the lack of amenities.
Dinner with three Brits was an experience. The meal started strong with a great vegetable soup, followed by a funky but good combination of pasta with red sauce, a cheese omelette, cheese slices, and crème brûlée.
Tonight's accomodation is a 28-person bunk bed room. We've snagged the top bunks by the door and are all packed and ready for an early departure tomorrow morning. Another day, another adventure down!