No pasarán

The refuge warden was clear yesterday: don’t go via the ridges, a storm is forecast all day. Too bad for us because we wanted to enjoy the scenery. Being reasonable, we set off toward Bonifatu, via a variant that allows us to reach the Carozzu refuge without going over the heights. We set off again by artificial light at 5:10am. There are many of us on the small trail descending along the river. An hour in the dark isn’t that fun. We’re delighted when the sun rises.

Long ascent

After Bonifatu, an endless climb begins, again through the forest, taking us to the Carozzu refuge. Reaching the chalet is an opportunity to refill water and have a proper breakfast. We’re advised against heading for Asco, as the storm threatens again. But many hikers are taking the road, so we decide to try our luck.

The path to the pass separating the two valleys is undoubtedly one of the toughest I’ve ever taken. Between slippery stone slabs and scree to scramble over, we’re quickly drenched in sweat. Especially since we’re hurrying because we fear the storm, which we’ve been told could break out at any moment.

Crossing the pass is done with poles stowed away, climbing over wet rock.

Toward Asco

The descent to Asco is done at top speed, through enormous stone blocks. Our knees take a beating, but we spot the little ski station. Still no storm on the horizon — we’ll stay dry today!

Tomorrow promises to be a technical day and the storm risk is still present; we’ll set off very early again. Fortunately this time, we won’t double the stage.

Comments

Dad

Between Corsica and you, I’d venture to call it a real coup de foudre. Along the way, I’d wager it turns into a passionate love story…. I still hope you’ll be careful enough to protect yourselves during the stormy peaks…. The landscapes seem sublime. I wish you a good day with milder weather. Kisses.