Rifugio Jean Barmasse to Oyace.
Peaks/Cols Crossed:
⛰️ Fenetre D'ersaz (2289m)
⛰️ Fenetre Du Tsan (2738m)
⛰️ Col de Chaleby (2684m)
⛰️ Col de Vessonaz (2787m)
I began this leg of the Tor des Géants (TDG) route alone, but was soon joined by a fellow trekker named Etienne. We quickly struck up a conversation and ended up tackling almost the entire section to Col de Vessonaz (2787m) together. Having company on this part of the journey made a significant difference, as we were able to push each other to maintain a steady pace and distract ourselves from the overwhelming tiredness and the long distance still ahead. The terrain in this section was strikingly similar to the UK, reminding me particularly of the Glencoe area with its light rain, damp ground, and low-lying mist. The familiar feeling provided some comfort amidst the challenge, making the journey feel somewhat like a homecoming in foreign mountains. After parting ways with Etienne, the solo descent to Oyace felt endless, and by the time I arrived, it seemed as though it was the middle of the night. Completely exhausted, I made the decision to take a 2.5-hour power nap to rejuvenate before continuing. This rest was crucial, allowing me to regain some energy and mental clarity for the next leg of the journey, through the night.
Challenges:
Physical: The long, solo descent to Oyace was particularly draining, and fatigue was a constant challenge.
Mental: Staying motivated and focused during the long descent and managing the exhaustion that set in.
Terrain: The damp, misty conditions and the familiarity of the terrain added both comfort and challenge.
Navigation: Fairly straightforward, but required attention in the mist and over varied terrain.
This leg highlighted the importance of camaraderie and how the presence of another person can make a tough journey more bearable. The familiar terrain, reminiscent of the UK, offered a psychological boost, but the solo descent tested my endurance and mental resilience. The decision to rest at Oyace was vital, as it allowed me to continue with renewed energy. This section reinforced the importance of pacing, rest, and the power of human connection in long-distance mountain endeavours.
