Holiday on ice

February was a great month for getting out climbing with pals on ice. Judi was over from Ireland and our friend Richard from Reading. Richard led his first ice route in great style and really took to ice climbing. To start we went to the cascade artificielle in Aiguilles, a perfect location to practice on steep ice in a lovely location, just one minute from the car! We then went to try Canyon de Prareboul but the ice routes we’re in great condition so we did the first pitch of a 4+ route and lowered off a huge pillar. The lead felt scary as the ice formations made placing ice screws difficult but it was good to get on something, as the day was fast becoming a washout. Thanks to Richard & Judi for a great climbing holiday out here.

Sunny rock

Only in the French Alps could you be skiing one day and rock climbing in glorious sunshine the next. We visited our local crag with pals to enjoy the winter sun and escape the crowds of French and English tourists on half term break.

Bailey goes ski touring

It was all worthwhile for the dog when we took him out on his first ski tour. He loved charging through the snow, trying to keep up with us as he literally swam through deep powder. I think the dog faired better than me, trying to get to grips with off-piste skiing after just 6 days skiing ever!! It was super hard work and the day ended with one very tired girl and an even more tired dog.

The incredible journey

So after a quick visit to London for work it was off to Sheffield to collect the dog and take him back to France. Bailey isn’t into car journeys and spent 14 hours panting and shaking his way down to the Ecrins.