Parked at Col de l`Ane after much delay caused by the herding of cattle up the road.
Headed off around the eastern edge of the Chaine, getting views down to Reposoir.
I moved for much of the day at the back with Al and latterly, Richard.
On the southern scarps there was some steep ground: chains and cables - though some unafixed and more hazard that help.
Everyone did v well, esp Richard, for whom the exposure was on a new level and something that holds a lot of fear for him.
Beyond that we were on a tiny path through what was practically jungle.
We released the hounds to go ahead to the refuge, along with Bruno. Shaun hung back and did a brilliant job supporting me with Richard. Richard too was great. Clearly v tired and not so steady on his feet but remaining calm. Evo had also waiting for us in a junction in the forest - which was again, good for morale.
Finally emerging from the forest we crossed some landslide terrain, saw a chamoix and then arrived at the Refuge Doran, lying among a cluster of building at the foot of the combe dominated by Pointe Percée.
A great experience. Great to share the first alpine refuge experience for most of these guys. It was a good one.
