This short film shows our expedition to Wales. We went exploring in the wind and rain (and the little sun we had) along the coastline to see what flora and fauna we could find in April. In fact, we found that all the fauna had decided to take shelter as the weather was so bad that one day we woke to find out tent covered in snow!
There were beautiful days had along the hidden bays and hills that we found and did have an enjoyable time, especially watching the sun set over the horizon in the car are Newgale! (The film ending doesn’t actually show where the sun really sets! I think Teale was correct though!!)
Here is a video that was created to show the adventures I went on in The Gambia, West Africa. It was an amazing trip that conservation and photography students went on together to research and experience a country with a different culture and wildlife, testing out our newly formed photographical skills and to enhance our social skills too. Please watch in HD. This is very much a social film instead of educational.
I also film a Baobab Documentary whilst there that is available here.. https://hollybrega.wordpress.com/2012/06/17/the-baobab-tree/
I travelled with photography and conservation students to The Gambia, West Africa to learn about what the local perspective and history is about the Baobab Tree. This 2 week trip took me to many areas around the Country and I met many people and as this film shows, we get to see the story of the tree from Mamadou.
A short promotional video I filmed and edited for the Lakeland Trails, an independent trail running company who cater for all runners up in the Lake District. Enjoy!
Around Chalet Martin, there are many walks that the surrounding area offers. The Swiss transport system is very efficient and will take you to the start of your hike or pick you up at the very end of the valley.
Solalex
The half hour drive brings us to the beginning of our walk at the neighbouring valley. Here we start our ascent up the zigzagging path, over the fallen rocks and up to the peak where we ate our curried chicken sandwich and sugared treats.
Walking Together
Via Ferrata’s are popular all around the Swiss Alps. Graded differently throughout the world, this route was my first and it was pretty hard work, at an Exposure grade of 2, out of 5 and Strength graded at 4, also out of 5.
Via Ferrata
The route included wooden planks and bridges, metal bars and ladders, as well as rock face to traverse your way along.
Enjoying a Via Ferrata
The hostel offers many choices of biking routes, be it road or trail. If exhaustion takes it’s toll then the trams operate from all main villages and are perfectly on time to get you home to the hostel for refreshments.
Biking Opportunities
When it comes to climbing, the Sport climbs around the Bex/ Gryon area and numerous with a variety of grades available from 4c to 7a and more..
Merlin Leading
There are many opportunities for photographs to be taken to record your journey around the alps, from low ranging valleys to the very top of mountains..
Photography Inspiration
Overall, the Swiss Alps have lots to offer, whatever your expedition entails. The end of an awesome climbing day found us walking along the wooded path back to our homely retreat, Chalet Martin.
I’ve taken myself and my camera out to the Swiss Alps this summer and have caught a variety of shots which tell the story quite well of my trip. On your way to Chalet Martin, this sign will greet you at the bottom of the hill, once at your future home you will be happy you took the effort to get the Train, then Cog-grail then the short walk up the steep hill. Promise.
Chalet Martin
The view from the attic bedrooms is spectacular as you get numerous skylight windows to peep through and being so high in the clouds, when it thunders, you most definitely will hear it loud and clear!
The Bedroom View
There is a variety of wildlife out in the Swiss Alps, from Bees to Wolves that have been re-released. Marmots and Mountain Goats join the list too. Every time you take a trip out, even if it’s to the BBQ you will always be greeted with something different, mainly the Lizards who love to bask in the sun.
Bee collecting Nectar
The walks around the area can take you pretty much where ever you need to go, you can walk for a few hours to full on hikes in the mountains for days. Popular places to walk to from Gryon are to Solalex, down the far end of the Valley or up to Le Croix which requires you to walk past the bakery and grab a corn bread sandwich. That is a must!
Long Day Walking
The traditional Swiss food is a Fondue, be it chocolate or cheese. We had many fondue dinners where Raclette and Greyere were melted for our consumption. Mixed with a local white wine and freshly baked bread that day, accompanied with a salad picked from the garden and a homemade dressing.
Cheese Fondue
The summer’s sun has helped the garden flourish, the flowers are picked as decor all around the hostel. The bright colour compliments the different shaded wood in the Chalet. The ummer spent here I feel will be different compared to the Winter, atmosphere and aesthetically, let’s hope I get the chance to photograph it then too.
Holly Brega 