On Tuesday, July 5, 2016, we left Courmayeur, Italy for stage 5 on the TMB (Tour du Mont Blanc). We had an delicious breakfast and departed from Hotel Crampon.
We stopped by a bread store and purchased a fresh loaf of fig and nut bread from the friendly store owner.
We found the starting sign next to the city church and started the uphill climb through the outlying neighborhoods. Our gentle road turned into a dirt one, leading us through pastures and trees. A multi-tiered waterfall marked the beginning of the real uphill ascent!
We hiked up steep switchbacks passing and being passed by other TMB hikers. The climb was constant and cruel, as the sun rose and the shade of the trees diminished. But at the top, an incredible view of the east side of Mont Blanc rewards it's climbers with its clouded massive summit.
We stopped briefly at Rifugio Bartone and tried to decipher the direction the trail was suppose to lead us. After asking multiple people for directions, we found our way and I let my folks move forward while I stayed back for photos and video. 
The trail lead us along the mountainside with tremendous views of the mountains and valleys below. I was almost too distracted to notice something in my path. As I got closer, I realized it was a snake! I took some photos and videos of the first snake I'd seen in Europe.
The trail continued with seemly unending scenic views of nature.
After many hours, we finally ascended to Rifugio Bonatti, where was had a quick lunch before the first drops of rain urged us forwards. But after getting on our rain gear, we found that there was no need and had a cool hike continuing along the mountainside.
As we headed towards the corner of the valley, a trail started it's steep descent, until it exited onto Hotel La Ferret on the valley floor. While my parents caught up, I checked into the hotel, and got a drink while I waited. Dinner was good as well as our private room.
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