Lot 2 - the return

[chrisch]

Our second trip to the Dordogne/lot area started much like the last one. We missed the little D road from Tulle and ended up going to Gramat the long way round shouting at each other. We got to the hotel nearly an hour late, but happily the lads had got lost in the van too and were not there. Now I could relax
Saturday’s dive was St George. Last time I had found this an oppressive site but the new canister lamps made all the difference and we had a couple of pleasant dives in the cave. The deepest part is about 30m and contained a lone pike. Why he was there beats me, must have been looking for somewhere dark and quiet after a particularly bad night out.
Sunday morning was St Saveur one I had enjoyed last time. The vis was superb and conditions ideal. However, after a screw up with my isolator I didn’t get to dive. Hmpph. The afternoon was Truffe and this time I was not worried about the entry. However, I still found it hard to get in and was keen to get out. After the blacked-out mask drill time for a quick exit. Total BT for the day 20 mins…..
Monday and we went to Landenhouse. However the consensus was it was going to be a PITA and so off to Trou Madame. This was the last drill for me and so despite the graft we dragged the gear there for the dive. The water was up from last time and the swim started at the entrance – much easier. At the end of the drill I ask Kelly if she wanted to carry on and she canned it – headache. Total BT for the day 25 min….
Tuesday was to be the only dive I actually enjoyed last time; Ressel. We got up to a snow blizzard and dreadful conditions. After breakfast we set off, the lads collecting trimix and deco mixes for a good long dive. At the site it was clear freezing cold and drizzling rain. Miserable. The river was torrential. No I thought – the car is the best place to be. Even Kelly was not bothered. Oli talked her into it and everyone except me kitted up. The first team set off pulling themselves along the trees at the river bank then Instructor Pat got near the entrance and decided it was too much. Dive canned. 6 wet divers and one smug one
After lunch everyone else started the long drive back to Belgium and we made the short drive down to the flat in Montpellier. The Med was rough and the onshore wind unbelievable. No chance of a dive Saturday. We decided that it might be a better idea to go home via Ressel or Doubs. On Thursday my Dad’s friend rang to tell us my Dad had died the night before. So it was back home Friday in a sort of low mood. Not the best trip ever, but at least I have finished the course now. Next trip May – I’m starting to get the hang of this now.
Chris

[Dizzydiver]

Originally Posted by chrisch

Sunday morning was St Saveur one I had enjoyed last time. The vis was superb and conditions ideal. However, after a screw up with my isolator I didn’t get to dive. Hmpph. Chris

What can I say???? Glout.....maybe. Fab dive, visibility was fantastic. I know it's just rock to you but what fantastic rock - so white, so clear! It's awesome to think of the volumes of water that have created such a beautiful enviroment. A really cracking 40 meters for me (but next time definitely want Nitrox not cacky air!).

[Dizzydiver]

By feck was it cold though on the last day! The wind went right through you, not to mention it was a bugger kitting up in the snow. But hey, the Lot was beautiful with the extra white stuff. Amazing how the water literally boiled where the entrance to Emergence du Ressel hit the river. Cracking. Just wished we'd done some trespassing to view the access before I clung onto a tree whilst we reviewed the situation in the cold.......


But the coffee at Cahors was great!

[johnmaneely]

Shame things didn't go as well as you hoped, sounded ok though, bummer about the news to. Should think the Lot is beatiful in the snow.
When are you there in May, or did you tell me that already?
J

[chrisch]

Originally Posted by johnmaneely

When are you there in May, or did you tell me that already?

Debating things as we speak. The trip with our Belgian friends and instructor is about the 5th IIRC. However, I would very much like to join you guys - it would be great to catch up and to check out the facilities at Lynne's place. I have some personal stuff at the minute for work (and with my Dad and his house/estate and so on). Try to get back to you soon.

Chris

[johnmaneely]

Ok Chris, your more than welcome, just pm. I am sorry to here about your loss.
J

[Dizzydiver]

Originally Posted by johnmaneely

Ok Chris, your more than welcome, just pm. I am sorry to here about your loss.
J

I second meeting up with you guys! Just so long as you don't mind a wee girlie in the group .

Kelly

[johnmaneely]

There is another Girlie along too already, so you'll not be alone if you come along. Hope you can find the time. Can sort accomadation with Lynne for you no problem if you need it.
j