Friday 28th May 2010
although it was cloudy and drizzly, I set off around lunchtime for my first big test on the Via Ferrata's of France...
I headed for the nearest one to me, through Eaux Bannes
up in the hills, http://www.pyrenees-pireneus.com/via_ferrata_de_gourette.htm
which was graded higher than I would wish to do my first one on, but what the heck, I could always shout for help !!
As I got to the route,thanks to Wally and TomTom...I went initially to have a look...it was rainy/drizzly, and the wood which I had to walk through was pretty depressing...I got down to the start of the route, already soaking wet,and as I looked thought 'Wow' wonder whether I can do it ??
so went back to Wally for a chat , and settle my nerves...
Eventually thought, well it's gotta be done, and for safety, put my phone in my pack ! Put all the gear on, and went down to the start...
The route started by 2 wire cables traversing over a raging torrent below..which I eventually convinced myself would be OK to do (and 
return if failed!),..that was just the gentle start, I then had to traverse along a rock cliff, over the raging stream/river below, and then over several Himalayan (3 strand) and 2 strand wire/rope bridges, until the route climbed the cliff directly above me...phew this was real climbing territory, although I convinced myself I was perfectly safe, and could do it !!
return if failed!),..that was just the gentle start, I then had to traverse along a rock cliff, over the raging stream/river below, and then over several Himalayan (3 strand) and 2 strand wire/rope bridges, until the route climbed the cliff directly above me...phew this was real climbing territory, although I convinced myself I was perfectly safe, and could do it !!
Up and up I went, past the first 'escape' section, undeterred I continued climbing, with an occasional breather,and photograph...but conditions remained wet and slippy, so 
I couldn't take many pics...
I couldn't take many pics...Eventually I came to a choice...the difficult route, or really dificult route (up and over a bluff)
I decided on the difficult route,
and continued upwards to the finish on the cliffs at the top, looking down over the valley...fantastic, although wet and tired,it had only taken 1 1/2 hours, but felt like a lot longer,and harder !!
and continued upwards to the finish on the cliffs at the top, looking down over the valley...fantastic, although wet and tired,it had only taken 1 1/2 hours, but felt like a lot longer,and harder !!
I walked back to Wally, thanking my lucky stars,I had broken my Ferrata duck...with a bookful to try before I head home !!
Then to Pau to write of my exploits before back to the campsite...and hope the 'shaking'stops soon !!
Happy Days...
Glad you are still enjoying yourself keep safe! We are all thinking of you. I am not going to sign this comment sure you all know who I am. Stay safe and enjoy
ReplyDeleteWow, I was nervous for you reading that!! Well done, I would've had disco leg the whole way, am not a fan of heights!x
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