Day 3 – Saint-Maurice

The day started with two steep challenging hills. They were hard, but the views were worth it.

Like yesterday, the second half of the hike wasn’t quite as pretty, but it was still very pleasant.

FYE… Quotes from Scott, the new pilgrim:

“Even though they’re difficult, I think I prefer the uphills to the downhills.”

“Why the Hell would I go up that hill after walking 12 miles, when there’s a flat shortcut? Do they think I’m an idiot?”

“I’m not a big fan of European breakfasts.”

“If you tell me: ‘Don’t worry, it’s only 1 mile to the hotel,’ and then it ends up being 2 miles, I’m going to kick your ass.”

“That’s a damn fine tasting beer.”

Château d’Aigle as we left this morning.
We walked through several vineyards. The grapes look ready for picking.
Lots of wonderful views on the trail today
A swing with a view
We both enjoyed our peaceful walk along this canal
After a rest at our hotel, we climbed stairs up to the Chapel of Nôtre Dame du Scex which is built into a cave about Saint-Maurice. (I probably should have told Scott that it was 484 steps to the top before we started. Oops.)
Looking down at Saint-Maurice from the Chapel of Nôtre Dame du Scex.

Here are some video sights from today:

After our hike, I visited the Abbey of Saint-Maurice d’Agauman. Monks have offered prayers here uninterrupted since the year 515! At first I thought I just heard some organ and singing practice, but I believe it was part of the prayer. Listen below.

Today’s Data:

Starting temp: 58

Finishing temp: 68

You can see where the hills were. The high rate at the end was because we increased pace to get to the finish.

12 thoughts on “Day 3 – Saint-Maurice”

  1. Looking good Bill. Switzerland is really a super organized country, and think more than Germany or Sweeden. For only 11.67 mile, the elevation gain was quie significant.

    “Even though they’re difficult, I think I prefer the uphills to the downhills.” I’m with Scott on this one.

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  2. I agree with Scott on the uphill/downhill thing. And also the importance of accurate estimates. And 484 steps to the chapel? That definitely deserves a warning. But looks amazing and had to be done. Keep on keeping on.

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    1. Yes, that’s part of it. Also it’s harder on the knees, and the chance of tripping is higher, so you have to concentrate. Subtle downhills on pavement our fine, but steeper downhills on rocks and roots are definitely difficult.

      Glad to hear from you! Hope all is well.

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    1. I assume you’ll be fully retired after the current event season. I guess that means you’ll need to walk the Camino, and I’ll be following your journey! Right? 🙂

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    1. It’s mainly the proteins, I think. Most hotels provide cold cuts and cheese. To us Americans that feels more like lunch. The rest is fine/good including croissants, yogurt and plenty of coffee options.

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