8/9 Refuge de Moëde-Anterne to Brevant / Chamonix

Firstly, Tammy didn't sleep at all while I maybe had 5-6 hours. I crawled out to watch the sunrise in the refreshing cool air - a relief from the oppressive air of the dorm. The sunrise itself wasn't till about 6:15 but was less dramatic then it would have been up at the col - indeed people had gone up early to view this. Breakfast - very basic but adequate - was 06:00 to 07:30. The place became very busy as people awoke and headed out. We were a bit dazed and didn't really get started till late 8:30. We walked a little - realized I'd forgotten some sandwiches is ordered - so I dropped pack and hustled back for them. A beautiful morning to walk the sun was warm. Initially the route descends into a canyon loosing 1300 ft to the bridge crossing the river cold air in the shade but that's good. Immediately the climb begins to Brevant gaining 3000 ft to an altitude of 8200 ft. We did this in 5 long hours with many short breaks and consuming most of our water in the warm sun. Tammy without sleep was tough and gritted it out to the top. While the ascent is gradual for 2/3s - the last bit switchbacks up and here we encountered dayhikers coming down having ridden the tram to the top from the other side. They stand out by their soapy fresh clothes and fragrances which we certainly lacked.. The col Brevant and Brevant offered stunning cloudless views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding peaks. But also views back to the refuge and the peaks of the Aiguilles Rouge as well as down to the activity of Chamonix was captivating. So we went to lunch at the restaurant at the Brevant lift. We both had lasagna with salad and 2 liters of water. Having walked the 5000 foot descent on the Tour de Mont Blanc in 2006 I had no regrets in taking the lift to Chamonix - 22 € apiece! The city was aswarm with tourists and the town is all about this. We found our hotel,Tammy crawled into bed while I ran errands. Tired, the energy of the place is infectious. We booked in 4 four days to rest and play.