For some a second bite at the cherry for others a new experience, the Reservoir Chicks hit the French Alps just prior to season opening. The break had a double edge as newly located friends Mr Photo, Steffi and not forgetting baby Monty had left the drain of Blighty to open a business, Alpine-Highs, in Morzine and Avoriaz so this was the first time the Chicks and Goats had got to pop out to see them and offer some moral support and give Dave an excuse to get out on the bike.
For me it was my second experience so I knew what to expect; the vastness, the silence, the chair lifts, the descents – a snap shot of life less ordinary. For Miss Shifty on the other hand this was going to be all new on a very BIG scale. The plus side was none of the lifts where open; “you say plus?” This opened the door to seeing the Alps in a whole new eau natural way with Mr Photo securing a van to do some lift assists up to places you would not go on the bike without local knowledge. The one day we got when the Le Gets lift was open we made our day of bedding in and getting the eye in. It was as expected but with a few bonus sections that only locals knew adding to the days downhill, alas one of the Goats had a big off and really damaged his arm and shoulder. The off piste trails tested me let alone Miss Shifty who must have thought what the hell did I let myself in for, if mountains were a lettuce it was a big slap in the face with one. It’s something you have to experience as being told about this place just doesn’t do it justice or allow you to appreciate the vast scale of things. But we endeavoured and as much as some sections scared the hell out of us we dug deep and gave them a go as best we could. Tested, most defiantly, exhilarated oh yes, the week was just an unbelievable experience, great trails, awesome scenery, great friends, so much so some of us are going back to tackle the 2013 Pass Portes du Soleil … go Shifty !!!
Miss Smiles