Distance:	18km
Time:	8-81/2hrs
Start Altitude:	1007m
High point:	Col de Tricot 2120m
Height gain:	1478m
Height loss:	1318m

Today looked like it was going to be tough. It was our first day and we could have chosen a less strenuous route, but wanting to experience the TMB (Tour de Mount Blanc) to the fullest, we went for the harder route.

Setting out from Les Houches, faced a very steep initial climb. Briefly met Kostas and Nicol

Stunning scenery, glorious sunshine

Resting at the top

Martin got a blister on the first day! Lasted throughout the walk, and needed daily attention with plasters

The cows had amazing bells round their necks, the sounds of the them all chiming was magical

Crossing a suspension bridge, slightly nervous at first!

Again, fanatastic scenery, classic alpine views

On Col de Tricot, we met an ex-RAF man from the UK who took the photo

Amazing that even at over 2000m you can still get a chilled bottle of CocaCola

Arrived at Les Contamines

Stage 2 | Les Contamines - Les Chapieux