Cold Approach to the Grand St. Bernard Pass

..... The Lake is frozen of course at this time of year as it is at 2469m. This famous hospice and Abbey, in extra photos, has been welcoming travellers since 1050 and has saved countless lives of people crossing between Switzerland and Italy, especially in the winter. The famous St. Bernard dogs were bred to rescue people lost in the snow. Fortunately we did not need rescuing today although it was bitterly cold and we were very glad of lots of hot soup when we arrived there. Initially we were the only people there then one of my yoga pupils walked in with his girlfriend. Small world! The ski down was 5 times quicker than the skin up and now we are warmly ensconsed in SwissPiper appartment in Etroubles. Thank you so much,

D. took a photo of me today and insisted I link it in to show you how deep the snow is up there, not bad for a dry winter this year. There are a few others too. https://www.flickr.com/photos/hilarysview/24971560762/in/dateposted-public/

Thanks also for the lovely comments, stars and hearts on yesterday's Cross country ski view, you are a generous bunch.