Sunday, January 16, 2011

Switzerland and France, Part 2: The French Alps!

When I last left off, we were just about to embark on our dangerous journey (remember: sheer drops, no shoulder, exorbitant speeds?) to the French town of Entremont, nestled in the alps. This, little did I know (though I should have assumed), would be the highlight of my trip!

It was hard to capture the enormity of the mountains as we made our way up the elevations! I can only imagine how crazy the roads are now that it is winter, and high ski season!
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Crazy beautiful! It only gets better!
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And we arrived in Entremont. Anyone read french?

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And here is where we stayed! Magical, right?

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Looking up the drive way!
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The home was a converted cow shed. From the front you can tell that it is not a typical chalet, but inside it is spacious and has plenty of charm! This property has been in Ellie's family for years. Her mom popped in to visit over the weekend on her way back to England after a trip in the south of France. Isn't that so fun to say? :)
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Front of the house
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Laura capturing the beauty!
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Views from the house
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Breathtaking
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It was World Cup fever all over Europe while we were there! We spent some time keeping up with the games!

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We also were treated to gourmet feasts while we stayed with Luke and Ellie. We had bread from the local baker, fruits and veggies bought at the green grocer, local cheeses that will never be exported to the US (they keep the good cheese and wine for themselves!) , and one of my favorite specialties: Luke's potatoes fried in duck fat! :) There was also a large supply of chocolate to be had and tea was served, thanks to Ellie's British heritage, frequently throughout the day! They were the most generous of hosts and we loved every minute!
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Here we are at the green grocer.
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Luke proved to be an eager and knowledgeable tour guide! Poor Ellie was stuck inside most of the weekend preparing to defend her thesis the following week!

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The area in and around Entremont is a bustling ski area in the winter and is actually being considered as a host to the winter Olympics.

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We went into one pastry shop and saw meringues as big as our heads. :) You slice them like bread.
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The weekend in Entremont was lovely because Laura and I got time to relax, process the things we had seen so far, and truly soak in our surroundings.

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It was only a weekend, but it was rich with experiences....more to come from the french alps! :)

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