A very simple walk today, as we eschewed the GR653D in favour of the much shorter D994D. We were keen to get to the sports shop in Embrun before it closed.
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| Leaving the fortified village |
We left Mont-Dauphin through some of the impressive fortifications, bought lunch (bread and cheese) at a supermarket on the way out, and headed for the nearby thermal springs at Le Plan de Phazy.
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| Across the drawbridge |
The springs were discovered by the Romans about 2000 years ago. This morning there were a few tourists wandering around.
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| Tourists inspecting the thermal waters of Le Plan de Phazy |
Although the water temperature was only lukewarm, the springs are reputed to contain medicinal properties.
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| Long-distance walkers can soak their feet in the medicinal waters |
From the springs we joined the N94, one of the main pathways into the Alps, for a couple of kilometres. Although the road was busy, there was a wide verge for us to walk on, and we got through this necessary ordeal with minimal inconvenience.
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| We spent most of the day walking on the D994D. It was a quiet road, with more bikes than cars. |
We left the main road to take the much quieter D994D. There were many cyclists on the road, enjoying the fine weather and impressive views.
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| Like most roads in the Alps, this one was very scenic. Here Kath is looking out over the Durance river as we approach Embrun. |
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| Scenic rest stop along the D994D |
We detoured up to St-André-d'Embrun to eat our lunch at a picnic table in the village square.
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| Isn't walking fun! Almost up to Embrun, our stop for the night |
We then continued on into Embrun, arriving in plenty of time to get to the sports shop. There we looked for replacement shoes and socks to see us through to the end of our walk.
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| Across the bridge, turn left, follow the river for a couple of kilometres, and we're almost there. |
Once we had made the necessary purchases and enjoyed a hearty dinner, we had time for a stroll down to the lake to round off the day.
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| Last rays of sunlight on Lake Serre-Ponçon at Embrun |
Distance: 26.62 km
Walking time: 5hrs 24mins
Elevation gain: 361 metres
Cumulative distance: 1293.77 km
Not warm enough for a dip? Fab photos.
ReplyDeleteNo, but our b and b had a solar heated pool and it was just the right temperature.
ReplyDelete