Planaval - Eaux Rousses.
Peaks/Cols:
⛰️ Col Fenêtre (2843m).
⛰️ Col Entrelor (3004m).
After refuelling and hydrating at Planaval, I pushed on to Valgrisenche during the second leg of the Tor des Géants (TDG) route. Despite feeling fatigued and unwell, I was determined to continue. Upon reaching Valgrisenche, I took a short sleep, had more food, and devised a plan to take advantage of the cooler night air, aiming to move faster without sweating as much.This strategy proved effective. After an hour of easy walking, I found a rhythm and was able to significantly increase my pace for the remainder of the leg. Navigating through the night was more challenging, as fatigue set in and I needed to be extra cautious to avoid taking wrong turns. The route also became more demanding, especially after Col Fenêtre, where I encountered via ferrate sections that required careful handling.As I progressed, I began to feel much better and more energized, which boosted my morale. The cooler temperatures at night allowed for faster movement, and by the end of this leg, I was not only physically recovered but also mentally reinvigorated, excited to continue the journey.
Challenges:
Physical: Managing fatigue and dehydration while maintaining a steady pace.
Mental: Staying focused during nighttime navigation, especially when tired.
Terrain: Tackling via ferrata sections and more technical terrain after Col Fenêtre.
Navigation: More complex at night, requiring careful attention to avoid wrong turns.
This leg was a turning point in my journey, where strategic rest and a revised plan allowed me to overcome the earlier difficulties. The cooler night air and a measured approach to pacing helped me regain my strength and enthusiasm. The technical terrain and night-time challenges further tested my skills, but by the end, I felt strong and ready for the next stage.
