While one sees and feels parts of the world burning, by switching one's focus, it's easier to seek the wonders both in people and nature. Andorra, and many other places, provide those who allow their minds to change emphasis, to absorb such wonders—things we would think were envisaged originally for the world and its inhabitants. Whereas there are many unfortunate souls on the planet who have been dealt tough and irrecoverable blows, there seems little excuse for the rest not to take advantage of the gifts that abound.
The editor reaches the second of a four-tier climb. The struggle is the reward.
Reaching close to top of tier three. Further reward follows at a gorgeous lake a 'little' ahead.
A reward: Vall del Riu at altitude, 8,500 feet high.
We mentioned in a previous blog that we reached a stage in which we felt flat—not a good thing in a mountainous region. Fortunately, the feeling passed and we were reenergized. This hike was the time when we were overcome with that feeling but in retrospect perhaps it was just a 'blue' day. It was also on this trail that we met and walked partly with a Danish family and their Spanish friends. On the following day we hiked elsewhere and met the two families again. Another of those coincidences which provide a special feeling, particularly if you like the people. We tend to feel inadequate because of our lack of skill with languages. It's most humbling to mix with the various nationals who are able to speak our language competently while we are unable to reciprocate. It's time for us to learn to speak Spanish.
A view of El Tarter, the village in which we have an apartment. Viewed from tier-one of the ascent as
we get closer to ground-level.
We obviously loved this lake and its position. Difficult to find a place to swim at ground-level in the principality.
Much action on the hike to Jaclar, hours before the thunderstorm arrived.
The pictures probably provide a good indication of the amount of rain that falls on these few plains and many mountains. It has rained every day both here and in Spain during this trip. Fortunately, either through luck, solid planning by the editor or walking between raindrops, we have yet to get a soaking. The worrying aspect, (getting wet is normal), is the frequent thunderstorms. The editor is not at her best when the flashes move about the sky. We had such a situation on the way down from Jaclar Lake, a quick 2,000 feet descent. The sky turned black, a fresh wind arose, lightning appeared followed by rumblings. We moved down the mountain fast, dashed past a waterfall to avoid being in proximity to water (although that's difficult in Andorra), stopped to cover our valuables and prepared for a soaking. And then...the sun re-appeared. What a relief for the editor and other/s.
Jenni contemplating the next stage of the climb; the flowers provide color and comfort.
A hike through lush forests, waterfalls, stream crossings and a steep climb to reach Jaclar Lake, the largest in the country.
On the way to Jaclar Lake, an unusual waterfall crossing and more ascending.
A grimace after a tough climb...they're not getting easier.
"Good morning sunshine", during a recent hike elsewhere but a first in Andorra.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
A sight that 'reached deep inside'. A unique position, moments before the resumption of a storm,
on Pic de Casamanya. An unforgettable experience, a picture that is for us, memorable.
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