Although there are a few more low clouds around than I’d like, the sunny weather in the Val d’Hérens continues. So yesterday I set off to walk up to the top of the 2,998m (9,836ft) Pic d’Artsinol. However, I have to admit that I cheated, by driving the 2k (1.5 miles) to Lannaz and then taking the chairlift up to Chemeuille, which saved me around 700m (2,300ft) of climbing. Though, to be fair, I did go via the Col de la Meina and over the ridge from there before walking all the way down. 🙂
During the ascent, I was contemplating how few butterflies there were, compared to the opposite, and perhaps more sunny, side of the valley. So I thought this post would be more about the magnificent views from the top. But during my descent, a butterfly caught my eye, which turned out to be a Brimstone, which I’ve certainly never seen before. (See pic 28). I also captured another, very colourful, one (see pic 30), which I could not find in my little book. So if anyone has any ideas, please let me know.
I’ve also added a map or two at the end to give you a feel for the route taken and the terrain.
Alittlebitoutoffocus 
Incredible views. We like the way you incorporated the maps so we could look at the terrain and learn the geography. Thank you for making the time to share your adventure with us. P.S. we don’t blame you for cheating a bit and saving on the climbing time and energy. It allowed you the energy to take the photos, lol.
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Yes, I think I’ll try to include a map from now on, as someone else said how useful it was. I have done the full walk from our chalet (at 1400m) to the top and back, but it’s a long hard day. After my equally long day to the Becs de Bosson (you can almost see that route in one of the pictures), I figured I should make it easier yesterday. I have a few new routes which I plan to do later in the summer, so I’m trying to get myself fit for those. 🙂
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We hear you about getting fit for those hikes. We are always working on remembering there is always the walk back that gets ya. Someone awhile back recommended a map to us and numbering the days of our journey to keep track. We thought it a good idea. Always learning and growing from those that have blazed the trail before us. Glad to have you along to share with.
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Stunning scenery! You must literally feel on top of the world !😁
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It certainly helps when all the other higher mountains are in the clouds! 🙂
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Lovely!
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Thanks again Paula! You may be interested to know that you can see the route that I took for the Becs de Bosson Walk in pictures 6 and 17… In Pic 6 you can see the Evolène village in the valley (our chalet is just to left of the road going around the main village). From there, go left and up the slope, across the green area and then up through the woods. In pic 17, head to the right hand corner of the zig-zag track and to the Buvette (). Then from there head right to the Col (Pas de Lona) and then left to the top (almost) of the Becs de Bosson on the left. (If you look closely, you can just about make out the mountain hut just below the right hand side of the rocky lump at the top). And then descend the same way. Time on your legs… 🙂
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Your map was greatly appreciated! I loved how you drew your route… that really helps to get a true visual. Again, wow! 😀
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I’m glad you enjoyed the map (& the photos of course). I’m going to try and include one from now on. 🙂
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great gallery and hiking adventure Mikey…loved the views as always, cheers!
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Glad you liked it Jamesie. I hope your recovery is coming along nicely. I felt really good going up the last part of the Pic d’Artsinol, so I must be getting fitter (if not slimmer!) Cheers buddy. 🙂
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Gorgeous scenery 🙂
https://projectmusings9.com
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Yes, it’s a fantastic part of the world to live in – especially if you like hiking! 🙂
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