After enjoying our days exploring Provence, it was time to start heading north towards the Alps. Our initial itinerary had us spending two weeks in Switzerland, but decided we’d stay in France a bit longer to explore their mountains before heading further east. Mont Blanc stood out as great spot to settle for a week, since high season was just wrapping up and it had the highest peak in the Alps.
Our last couple nights in Provence were spent in Salernes before turning north, then booked an apartment in Valonne and a farm house near La Mure. These towns were both along the way to our final destination of Chambery where we needed to drop the rental car and return to the trains. Quite a change in the weather heading north and higher elevation. The day we drove the thru Gorge du Verdon, it barely got about 60 and was cloudy/rainy most of the day. The nicer weather returned the second day in Valonne as we adjusted to the cooler temps.
Gorge du Verdon, which I believe is the deepest canyon in Europe
Hold on tight, it’s a long way down!
Yep, drinking beer at McDonalds in France. Indoor playground comes in handy for a toddler after a day of driving in the car.
Local park and chilly lake/pool on our way out of town after lunch at McD’s
Continuing the healthy eating regimen
Like father, like son
A number of gliders cruising around on a sunny day near Volonne
Found a great community pool near Volonne, but we all struggled with the chill water temp. Learned that France doesn’t allow “shorts” at the pool, so speedos for everyone.
Lunchtime pit stop at altitude in a brisk 60 degrees
Awesome bath tub at the La Mure farmhouse!
Feeding the fish outside the next morning
Went to the Sunday market in Pierre-Châtel, but the park was a hit with Charlie
Afternoon hike from Pierre-Châtel
Almost to the top and finally warming up!
Cool arch at the top of the hill
Enjoying the view, before our hike back down to the car (quite a workout carrying a toddler for a good share of the 2.5km)
Second hike of the day down to see a suspension bridge name Passerelle Du Drac
No fear from Charlie, but dad was a bit nervous with the moving bridge
Another great view
Let’s hike back to the top!
Really enjoyed our spacious farm house
Back on the train after dropping off the rental car, but learned that French trains don’t run on time.
Missed our connection in Annecy, but found this great park to spend an hour till the next one.
Now these are mountains!
Third train of the day on the way up to Chamonix
Hooray, we made it to the train station in Chamonix!
Ready for a cold one and a comfy Airbnb apartment after a long day of travel. Quite the scenery at sunset walking out of the train station.
Chris, Cindy, Charlie and Cecily’s Adventure Blog 
looks just beautiful. and how come no pic of the speedo? LOL JK!!