Change of plans

The weather outlook for today was very grim. At dinner last night, it was decided that we would not be doing the planned hike. ( I was secretly happy) We would be taking a van directly to Zermatt. That sounded great until we were told that we all had to have our bags packed, eat breakfast and be ready to leave by 6:20 AM!!!!! The reason was that the road leading down thru the valley was going to be closed at 7:00 am for road construction and we needed to get past that closure site or be stuck where we were until later this evening. So we had a very early start. It was about an hour and a half ride. Zermatt is the town at the base of the Matterhorn. It was cloudy when  we arrived and we could not see the entire peak. Our rooms were ready, so everyone got settled and the daily hike was planned.
We were to hike the 5 lakes trail. I had read about this one and it was on our list, so we were excited.
The hike began with a long, underground ride in a funicular. It was windy higher up, so rain gear was put on. The sun came out in spurts, along with sun showers, a rainbow and wind gusts over 50 mph. We made it to three lakes and more rain and wind. We hiked to an inn at the top. Thru the rain and wind for about 40 minutes. This was no longer fun for us. Some said they felt invigorated. We had a very nice lunch and were able to warm up and dry off a bit. A 40 minute hike down to cable car. But when we reached the cable car it was closed due to high winds. So off we went on the Marmot Trail- a good hour or more hike down. At one point, an updraft occurred and we were engulfed in a cloud. We made it back to the funicular and saw the Matterhorn sheep. When we reached town, it was pouring. Best part was the hot tub, steam room and warm pools we got to relax in before dinner. Roasted duck was our treat tonight. Tomorrow is our last full day as a group. Weather is to improve so I hope we can view the Matterhorn.



















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