Probably my last Grand Col this year. Well I'd not been that active either. The Glandon in freezing conditions at the end of May and then an abortive attempt at the Madeleine in August.

A last 10k as les Saisies was closing today followed by alpine skiing with Da Boy. Would have prefered to have done another loop as the snow wasn't bad at 10am.

I kind of hoped against evidence to find better ski conditions.

Back for the Etoile des Saisies 2023, my last and only race of a season truncated by lack of snow in the Nordic areas.

General DescriptionArêches-Beaufort is a typical Beaufortain village resort, located in the heart of Savoie, 20 km from Albertville.

DescriptionClose to St Etienne, a domain for locals to cross-country ski (alternative and skating) or snowshoeing on marked and secured trails. There are loipe of different lengths and difficulties.

The Plateau de Retord ski resort is located in the village of les Plans d'Hotonnes. The 13 slopes, from green to red are adapted from beginner to more experienced skiers.

I'd never done the climb to the Granier via la Petite Montagne before and neither had Mike who lives near the foot of the climb.

Final compet. of the season. Basically a tour of the black piste (Justine Braisaz) at les Saisies.

General DescriptionLes Sybelles in the French Maurienne links six villages: St Colomban des Villards, Les Bottières, La Toussuire, Saint-Jean-d’Arves, Saint-Sorlin-d’Arves and Le Corbier.