Day 10: Scrambling over Rocks to Estaing

This was our first morning to start off in rain gear. Our guide book did not serve us well either. Instead of 12.5 miles it claimed we would walk, James' fitbit said we walked 18 and we all agreed it was much more than 12.5, including two major scrambles over rocky, mountain passes. We are tired.

On the positive side, we saw a wonderful chapel undergoing restoration, some gorgeous scenery, a couple of charming cafes, and a good crepe restaurant for dinner.

We are now on Estaing, which is spectacular despite our aching feet and legs.

Crossing Le Lot out of St Come

A beautiful town

We missed the low road and scrambled over steep rocky paths to go the high road around the mountain

The bridge at least wasn't on a hill.

the trail was too intense for taking photos, but this stone statue at the top indicated we were about to have an equally harrowing and steep downhill climb. Thank goodness we all came through with no injuries.

It was quite a view down to the valley, where we were heading next.

Arriving in Espalion, a lovely river town, we managed to miss a place to eat and walked on.

That pretty roman bridge in the photo was placed there to confuse us. we crossed it and had to return to the side where we started to find the trail again. Maybe that is why we missed the cafe :)

A chapel appeared and made us feel that we had happened into another age. It was hard to believe they allowed visitors in this ongoing restoration. How lucky for us.

Luckily, there was a wonderful cafe after another 5 miles or so and we had a good sandwich and Orangena. They gave us energy for the even steeper and rockier hill ahead. Part of the time, some of us had to crawl over the rocks on this part. Still, no injuries other than skinned shins.

Finally . . . .Estaing!