Conge - Donnas.
Peaks/Passes Crossed:
⛰️ Finestra di Champorcher (9,272 ft)
The leg from Conge to Donnas was a tough and demanding section of the Tor des Géants (TDG) route, covering 45.61 km with a significant descent of over 3000 meters. The route included the high pass of Finestra di Champorcher (9,272 ft), and although the weather remained clear and sunny, the conditions posed several challenges. The most difficult aspects of this leg were the increasing tiredness in my legs, the debilitating heat of the sun, and the onset of a sore throat, signalling the start of illness. To cope, I adjusted my pace, taking care to consume fluids regularly and replenish my supply at every opportunity. My trekking poles were invaluable, providing much-needed support to keep me moving forward. As the day progressed, I found myself eagerly anticipating the arrival of night, hoping for a similar relief and boost in energy as I experienced the night before. While navigation in the open mountains was relatively easy, it became considerably more challenging when passing through towns and villages, requiring extra focus to stay on course.
Challenges:
Physical: Dealing with increasing fatigue, heat exhaustion, and the onset of illness.
Mental: Managing the discomfort and staying motivated despite the challenging conditions.
Terrain: Steep descents and varied terrain, with more difficult navigation through populated areas.
Navigation: Straightforward in the mountains but tricky through towns and villages.
This leg was a significant test of endurance, both physically and mentally. The heat and fatigue made it one of the more gruelling sections of the TDG route, but careful pacing, hydration, and the use of trekking poles were crucial in helping me push through. The anticipation of nightfall provided motivation to keep going, and successfully navigating the varied terrain reinforced the importance of staying focused, especially in more challenging environments.
