We could have avoided a 300 meter (1000 foot) climb this morning, had we taken the correct turn to the left on the outskirts of Bionnassay. Bonus kilometers, yeah! A farmer at le Toilles pointed down his driveway and across his field,and telling us 'oui, oui, le chemin a le Champel'. The path was going right through his property and over a little bridge. Soon we saw the familiar red over white markings for the TMB again. We hiked along the 'le bon Nant' river to Contamines, not missing any more turns.

After a stop at the ATM machine, we visited the tourist office. The lady was so nice and helpful. She offered to call Nant Borrant for us and make our reservations for tonight. Wow, and we had been so worried about trying to communicate on the phone, possibly misunderstanding the replies. Our map showed no more large towns until Courmayeur, 3 days away, so we stocked up on the groceries. We continued along the river, occasionally switching sides until we reached the chapel 'Notre Dame de la Gorge'. The day had been overcast so far, a light drizzle greeted us on emerging from the chapel. Out came our ponchos and we started on the last climb of the day.

Nant Borrant was a nice surprise, rather then being in a large dormitory, we were assigned to a smaller room with 4 beds and a sink. A wood-burning stove in the main room kept us cozy during dinner.

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