Chamonix 6/29

 

Chamonix has a fascinating history. The ski scenes from the James Bond film "The World Is Not Enough" were filmed in Chamonix. In 1966, an Air India flight crashed into Mont Blanc, killing all the passengers, pilots, and crew. The diplomatic bag originally on its way to the Geneva embassy turned at the bottom of the Bossons glacier in August 2012, 46 years later!

So many interesting and unique buildings.

Since 1979, the Saint Michel Church has held distinguished status as a classified historical monument, reflecting its rich heritage and architectural significance. The church's origins trace back to its initial construction in 1119 by the Benedictine order. Sadly, only the bell tower from this era remains, the church being rebuilt in the 1700s.

The Empire-style altarpiece was just beautiful.

Many of the stained glass windows were in these beautiful colors, which is unusual because so many church windows are in primary colors.

This is the first hiking stained glass window I have ever encountered.

A three-day marathon has been taking place. I have seen lots of runners. There is nowhere to run but steep up and down.

It was very hazy and overcast today, so I could not photograph the magnificent mountains surrounding Chamonix.

Chamonix hosted the first-ever Winter Olympic Games in 1924.

The Arve River which begins in Switzerland.

Rose du Pont Restaurant.

I had dinner at this incredible restaurant.

The whole restaurant was decorated with the history of the restaurant and Chamonix.

My little amuse bouche was 3 little puff pastries.

My starter course was two crepes stuffed with Greek cheese and deep fried, accompanied by a frisee salad and topped with balsamic.  Oh, my!  There are no fitting words.

Normally, only two or more people can order fondue, but since I ordered the three-course prix-fixe meal, the chef allowed me to have the three-cheese fondue as my main course. It was divine. Slow service had a distinct advantage. When the cheese boiled down, it became this crusty, crunchy, heavenly bit of cheese.   

My dessert was an almond tarte with blueberries and ice cream.  What part of this combination wouldn't delight the pickiest of eaters.  I was already stuffed, and I practically licked the plate.  

It is looking very stormy here, and I don't know what tomorrow will bring. I would like to be able to go for a short hike, but I have lots of other things to do before Monday. Time will tell.

Hugs and kisses and prayers for you all!