Description:The Crêtes du Forez ski area is located on a high plateau in the eastern end of the Massif Central mountains about 40 minutes drive from St Etienne.

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.

DescriptionThe Plateau d'Hauteville, located in the southern part of the Jura Mountains, between 850 and 1234 meters.

First time at the Col de Porte this season. Just cruised around the pistes a couple of times. The climbs were quite hard, lack of fitness and steep hills.

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.

Situated between 1000 and 1300 meters and with more than 150 km of marked routes for all nordic activies, the Retord Plateau is a paradise for Nordic skiing.

A slight change in the programme with a long ride along the river to Albigny sur Saone then a climb on the main road to Poleymieux au Mont d'Or although the short cut via Curis au Mont d'Or was a bad

It might seem logical climbing Mt Thou via the eponymous road but it is around to the east side of the mountain so not totally convenient.

Decided to inline today as it was easier to get the skates out. Legs a bit tired an achy at the start but ok on the return - must be the boots and position.

Return to the 7 Laux. Today it was much warmer with a southerly, strong foehn wind that even stopped the chairlifts at times.