We have finally reached the summit! This was our second attempt. David and I and our mini German Schnauzer Georgina left the Col de Madelaine at 2000 m at 10:40am. The first section of the climb is a gentle walk up hill on a stoney track. Is then followed by a narrow path to the base of a rocky climb. Here you need to use both hands and feet to negotiate the boulders. The climb gets steeper and the you can feel the oxygen levels reducing. We saw several marmots. The alpine flowers were spectacular and only got better as we climbed higher. We were delighted to reach the top and surprised to find newly installed statue of a prancing horse. Shame the weather did not allowed us to enjoy the views. Apparently the Matterhorn and the Mont Blank can be seen.