Bellachat

9 August 2015:  The weather system that brought last night's storm lingered over the area today.  It rained all morning, as we hiked from Moëde-Anterne (2000 m.) down to the pont d'Arlevé (1865 m.), and then up and up to the Col du Brévent (2368 m.).  Happily, the rain stopped shortly after we reached the Col du Brévent, so we were able to enjoy our picnic lunch nearby before continuing the climb to the summit of the Brévent (2525 m.).  That was a long climb, made difficult by the weather conditions.  We were tired as we hiked down to the Refuge Bellachat (2152 m.).  We arrived in time to relax and appreciate the warmth of the refuge as the rain resumed in the evening. 

In clear weather, the Refuge Bellachat offers a spectacular view of the Mont Blanc massif and its glaciers.  However, clouds hung over the valley and the rain resumed in the late afternoon.  As today's photos show, it was still beautiful.

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Descent from Moëde-Anterne:

The Aiguille du Goûter is visible in the distance. 

Hiking up to the Col du Brévent:  These are the Aiguilles Rouges. 

Mary found some shelter from the wind at the Col du Brévent. 

We were pleased that the rain stopped around the time we were looking for a place for our picnic lunch.

The trail leading to the summit of the Brévent led us through rough, rocky terrain.  There were ladders to facilitate the climb.

No rain, but some fog on the trail down the Brévent to Bellachat:

The Refuge de Bellachat:

Evening at the refuge:  Note the rainbow shining over Chamonix and the Glacier des Bossons.