Nevache, France Oct 2011

Made a flying visit via Milan to Anthony and Jan's in Nevache, Val Claree, above Briancon.

Enjoyed three days climbing with Anthony in perfect weather.

First day was on a crag on way up to Lauteret Pass.

Climbed a 5 pitch route on limestone, up to French 5c.

Anthony leading off on 5b first pitch.

Anthony arriving at a stance.......and leading up the steep wall (5c)

Anthony and Jan's home in Nevache.

The 9 pitch Suoux de Bouc at Ailfroide, with two stiff 5c pitches to start.

Supercrack 5c at Prelles, a quartzite series of single pitch crags.

Chris leading a 5b line at Prelles.

Val Claree at Nevache.

5 Star Training Oct 6-7 2011

Graham and David came on a 5 Star Training and first day we had a high water run on the Pattack, quite pushy water, followed by a Roy Gorge run on day two in sunshine.

Here David is running the "gutter" line on Wish You Were Here, below Graham on same rapid.


Graham runs the final drop of Achavady Falls below the portage.

The guys heading into the Box Canyon drop, a fierce slot.

New jammed tree at the Pillars of Hercules exit to the gorge.

Looks like it will be there for a while.

France Sept/Oct 2011

Went with Sally by car to Ariege in France to stay with Stefan and Carol.

Immaculate weather made swimming and alfresco lunches the order of the day.

Once Sally had flown back to Scotland from Carcassonne I drove north through the Cevennes and based myself for a few days in the Tarn valley, exploring the surrounding area in hot hot weather.

Brousse le chateau above.

Broquies.
The astonishing viaduct at Millau across the Tarn.

Saint-Rome du Tarn

Saint Veran in Dourbie.

The ancient town of Najac in the Aveyron Valley.

La Rochelle on route to Brittany to see Steve Pitcher for a couple of days.

Saint Valery en Caux on the English Channel, a final swim before heading back into the UK via the Dunkirk ferry.