Photography: Frits Meyst
Text: Jillian Macdonald

Snow crunches under our snowshoes as we leave the tree line. The deep snow has frozen over during the night leaving a soft crust on top. We will soon be warmed by the rays of the sun. Behind us the Mont Blanc and Aguille du Midi are duelling for our attention with their jagged peaks and blue glaciers bathing in the early winter light. Below, the valley of Vallorcine will remain under a cloud in the grip of cold until the sun reaches its height above the peaks. Outside, villagers rush about their daily business in attempts to stay warm, while high above we are already enjoying a clear blue sky.

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