Views over Derwentwater become increasingly spectacular as height is gained, so much so, it would be easy and justified to while away an afternoon or evening sitting at the top of this crag whilst gazing over the valley and to the lake.
As we were about to leave, another treat came along, a chance meeting with good friend Tony McKenzie (been too long Mr, let's go climbing on Scafell)! As we were both pretty busy a brief chat and off we both went, Tony upwards on the crag, me & Jane downhill to the road and our onward travel to crag 2, Shepherds crag.
Little Chamonix is possibly the most climbed route in Borrowdale and presents plenty justification for its popularity. 3 pitches of top quality, well protected climbing on fine Borrowdale volcanic rock, what's not to like.
Topping out on the Belvedere with yet more magnificent views over Derwentwater make this a climb & place to savour, I think this is my favourite view in Borrowdale.
But it isn't just the climbing that make this route so popular, a 5 minute approach walk and the delicious food of Lodore Farm Cafe below the crag certainly bring additional appeal.
So, not only have we climbed two 'classic rock' routes today, but we enjoyed every pitch in almost complete solitude, being the first climbers on Troutdale Pinnacle that day, and the only climbers on Little Chamonix at the time, very unusual, but welcome.
Thanks to Jane for the good company and climbing.
Mark
