Chamonix - the French Alps

Under the Shadow of Mont Blanc.
We migrate from vineyards to mountain peaks and valleys.


No, that's not us. I'm just watching them from a safe distance.


It's been SO HOT in Europe this summer. 

UP! We thought. 
Where it's cooler! 
Higher altitudes!

Hopped on a train and headed for the French Alps. 

I found a TINY cabin for rent on a ski slope in Chamonix.

We may have overdone it. 

We had to borrow warm clothes from our hosts to explore the mountains.




A world of rock and wonder.
For strong and active visitors. 

Aiguille du Midi. 
Sea of Ice Glacier.

These are Serious Mountains. 
Even in summer.


Our hosts had ALL the gear. Except shoes that fit Stan. So he went up the Alps in his sandals.


Deep blue sky, filled with paragliders. 
The town is FULL of summer Alpine tourists. 

Trains, bobsled runs, mountain bikes, hikers, helicopters, trams, cable cars, cog railways. 

This place is very popular. 
And very beautiful. 

We hike a lot. 

Down to ice caves, up to Alpine peaks. 
-With the help of a few mountain railways.




The hike up to our tiny cabin. 

It was built by our host's father. 
The family of 6 lived here!




Only 2 rooms.
Perfect for us.

Just far enough out of town to feel secluded.

With a porch. 
And a kitchen.
And perfect summer temperatures.

We might stay a while...

- Mission successful!