Chocolate box

Day 4.
Very heavy rain in the night with a thunderstorm right overhead (Mr Rat slept through it) but stopped by morning and nice views of the surrounding mountains appearing through mist (see extra).
Set off out of the valley and along to Col de Forclaz and then took the Bovine Route to Champex - the route for taking the cows to summer pastures. It was through woods and open areas (with chalets and cows) until we were above the tree line but unfortunately the rain came on again and was pretty heavy for a while.
The people in the hut we stopped at didn't want to let us in as they were busy but we'd already taken off packs and waterproofs and persuaded them to allow us in and spend money on coffee and cake. The rain eased off, and eventually stopped, after we restarted and it was a pleasant walk contouring round the hill and back into the forest. The descent was less steep and involved some stream crossings, which added to the fun.
Once in camp at Champex and warmed and dried out the sun emerged for a while so we had to go for a wander round the lake before meal in camp (including birthday cake for one of the group)