In reply to UKC Articles:
Just back 4.30am from the Ecrins we have been out since the New Year. Weather was quite good better then La Grave(4days of rain). Unfortunately the Ice Festival weekend was very warm most teams went to Ceillac which was ok we went rock climbing t-shirts(we agree with Andy the conglonerate is very difficult to read).
Since then the weather became much colder -11c(daytime) at Fournel car park.
There is still load of ice at Fournel (Double Scotch reformed in 3 days) but you do need to reach the far carpark winter tyres (& snow chains if you are two wheel drive).
A great venue with a credible plan B (skiing & rock climbing)
Alpbase accomodation was excellent (our apartment also had terrific view down the valley. Thanks Jerry & Jackie for a brilliant time
We shall return.