Page 23 - 1995 AMA Autumn

13 - 20 July 1995
Vanoise National Park. We stopped for a short break in Val Claret before joining the GR55 and climbing to the Col de Fresse (2531m, 8304 ft). It was at this point that we came across a number of snowfields that were lying late in the season. They became more prevalent as we approached the Col de la Leisse (2487m, 8159 ft). This point of the walk provided stunning view of the Grande Motte Glacier. From the Col we followed the right hand edge of the lake Plan des Nettes before arriving at the Refuge de la Leisse. The days walking totalled approximately 7_hrs.
The 18 Jul began somewhat slower than the previous two days as the walking had taken its toll on the feet of some members of the group. All set off in good spirits envisaging a walk of approximately 4 hours following a comprehensive briefing from the expedition leader. Morale was temporarily dealt a massive blow when he realised he had missed a page in the guide book and that the day would be well over 8 hrs! From the Refuge we followed the Leisse torrent along the Leisse valley. After lhrs walking we crossed the Pont de
Croe-Vie (2099m, 6886 ft) before climbing again to 2439m (8002 ft) and a small block­ house positioned at the head of the valley. Much of the path on the upper reaches of the climb was under snow and one section required a snow traverse before reaching the main path.
The last part, down to Pralognan - La - Vanoise, was estimated at around 2hrs walking. The steepness of the descent proved to be too much on some of the blis­ ters people were suffering with, extending the walk by a further hour. The GR55 skirts Pralognan and continues through the Isertan forest, however we stopped overnight at the Refuge de la Valette camp site and enjoyed a refreshing dip in a melt stream. Hot showers for the girls and a
wonderful pizza supper ensured that morale was restored. Pte Turner had established the camp site prior to our arrival.
On the last day one or two Members of the party were now suffering quite badly from blisters although none wanted to miss walking on the last day. The decision was taken to walk without packs, with only small day sacks carried for first aid kits and emergency rations. This was voted to
be an outstanding deci­ sion. We rejoined the walk at the Pont de Gerlon and slowly wound our way up the valley passing the Pont de la Pêche (1764m, 5787 ft). Judging by the number of people on this section of the walk it is obviously a very
popular area. We entered the Doron de V alpremont valley final­ ly reaching the Refuge de Péclet - Polset (2474m, 8117 ft) after 4 hours walking. Lunch was taken before cross­ ing a number of large snowfields to reach the Col de Chavière at 2796m (9173 ft) the highest point on the GR trail. On leaving the Col we were able to tobog­
gan down to the Lac de
la Partie using a number
of improvised methods.
Morale was at a high! Maj Gartside, Capt Moverlyand CpI Keary We remained on the GR55 following it
ARMY MOUNTAINEER
until we reached the Refuge de l’Orgère and the road D106. Here we met the trans­ port and the walk ended.
That night was spent at the Camp site “Le Bois Joli” in Saint Martin Sur la Chambre. The opportunity was taken to sort out the equipment.
The expedition proved to be an overall success, introducing a number of novice participants to high altitude European trekking. The expedition was of benefit to all members; both as a result of the experi­ ence gained and the challenges presented.
CpI Keary and Capt Metcalf.
by Maj M Gartside
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