An Adventure In Vercors / 1st Tour Report November 2019

Meeting with our participants early morning, we start the weekend with a light hike, looking for the Eurasian Pygmy-owl. The rain does not make it easy for us, but we explore an old, very suitable forest. Luck is not with us this time, but we still have the chance to hear a Black woodpecker. We return to the car for a pique-nique with good local products typical of the Drôme Valley.

Then we begin our hike to the refuge. It takes about 3 hours, exploring the breathtaking Vercors plateau.

When we have almost arrived at the refuge, a first group of Alpine Ibex is on a slope. We decide to go to meet them. The passage of a superb Golden Eagle through the layers of mist motivates us. In the group there are several beautiful males, including one that is very impressive with his huge horns.

Placid, it inspires by its tranquility. He will approach us only a few meters away.

Our participants are able to make fantastic images of this majestic animal. When light gets to dark, we head to the refuge. I set up our sleeping bags, blankets, and prepare our diner. As nights get longer we fall asleep early to recharge batteries.

When we wake up, it's raining. We take time to enjoy coffee and tea and pack our bags. Rain calmed down, perfect timing. I go out then to look for the Alpine Ibex with binoculars and I spot a great group only 15 minutes walk from our refuge!

We go to meet them. Once with them we forget the bad weather. It takes more than wind and fog to discourage us.

We have a great time with the Alpine Ibex and start our walk down a bit earlier than we anticipated. As we reach the cars, we are soaked. We enjoy a good picnic to end the weekend. Strong moments in total immersion in a wild nature that will have delighted our participants.

Luca

Guide Salva Fauna