Alpine Walks in Valais

[Ragged Robin]

...and where the sunlight reaches icicles drip and wet mosses burst into green as if to prove that winter cannot freeze them totally.

[Ragged Robin]

Not for want of trying, as the fallen snow traces every branch and twig, clothing every rock and needle and cone in white....

[Ragged Robin]

...a winter coat wrapped round trees weighing them down as they succumb on bended knees to touch the ground and snowy forest floor.

[Ragged Robin]

And where the sunlight does not reach the snow stays longer, a chilly blue white in the shade and the chill turns to ice on the still flowing waterfall until it too will freeze under the bridge as winter deepens its grip in the Swiss Alps.

[Paddy Tobin]

Robin,

Absolutely wonderful images. Amazing scenes, some of the picture-postcard standard. As always, it's great to join you on your rambles.

What is that in image 44?

Paddy

[ranunculus]

Some GLORIOUS images, Robin ... you live in a magnificent area.

Looks like a viewing platform/bridge over the falls, Paddy.

[Ragged Robin]

What is that in image 44?

Paddy, so good you joined the rambling walk which also was quite brisk at times due to the cold!!

The bridge in photo 44 was built by locals who over the years have constructed a walkway up the rock face to the top of the gorges.  It's no mean feat to climb it especially in snowy, icy weather but all those who stayed here this Christmas/New Year were up to the challenge(and the fondue and beer at the small alpine restaurant at the top!)
 

[Ragged Robin]

Cliff, the views are stunning in the winter from the top of the ski slopes and for those I have to thank Richard, an avid skier/photographer, and his 2 snowbound friends on the T bar 

[Paddy Tobin]

Well, fondue and beer at the top is a reasonable incentive to climb upwards, though they are an odd combination.

It is an amazing construction, as you say.

Paddy

[Ragged Robin]

  well maybe it was Valaisanne wine, Paddy, anyway they made it home down the mountain road, through the icicle tunnels, after dark  

[Paddy Tobin]

OK, I'd climb for that. Anything else besides fondue?

Paddy

[Paddy Tobin]

Now, Robin, the accepted answer here in Ireland for the question above is, "Ah, feck off"

Paddy

[Ragged Robin]

Everything has to be carried up by backpack or a motorised snow sled, Paddy so simple but good fare including a delicious rich mountain stew, macaroni, and various dried meats from the region plus salads - it's an old chalet with great atmosphere and B&B but you have to walk to get to it in the winter 

[Paddy Tobin]

OK, You've convinced me. I'm on the way - oh, wait, I have to collect John from school. Some other time, perhaps.

Paddy

[Ragged Robin]

I'll book a table when you're ready for some alpine air  

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