There are many worlds a person may choose to inhabit. Know yourself and choose accordingly.
A number of lakes, not all, seen from the latter part of the hike. It got even better from the top.
This was our third hike in Andorra—we did not waste much time getting down or should that be up to business. Our first day gave us pause for concern as we seemed to struggle more than usual. "It could be a low-grade infection," I mentioned to our editor. With eyes rolling, for a change, she mentioned I'd left off being tired, a long journey the previous day, a poor night's sleep, insufficient protein and so she went off ad nauseum. Then of course, she hit me with the big one.
"Perhaps the aging process is doing it's job efficiently," she concluded. It was difficult to argue the point although I wasn't going to take that lying down; nevertheless, it would have been a far more comfortable and relaxing position. However, the following day, we hit the trail a little apprehensively and never looked back. We flew up-and-down that mountain. The next hike, the one under review, took place after the Sabbath rest and we were as fit as ever. In fact, we consider the hike a top-tier experience, one that we would be hard-pressed not to rate in the top echelon. So maybe we have bought a little more time before we are 'written off' as being over the hill—perhaps a nice idea.
A little perspective of where we were headed. Picture taken from about halfway mark (peak on right).
The reflections weren't a bad incentive either.
From the peak, switchbacks 'cut' into the face, are visible. This is where one needs naughty children
to drive one 'up the wall'.
After the last lake, some serious climbing began...a last look at a happy face for a while.
Closing in on the peak after a great experience. The backgrounds, with mountain peaks on our level,
were stunning.
What made the hike so fantastic was that for a start, it was in Andorra—a hiker's dream locale. We will say it's not a place for 'sissies'. The Europeans, and the Andorrans in particular, don't fool around. Well, they probably do but not on the slopes. The Principality of Andorra is a narrow strip of land surrounded by overpowering mountains. Each mountain, well many of them, are used for skiing and torturing the French and Spanish neighbors and anyone else who fancies themselves as up to the challenge.
The hike commenced with a quick 650 feet climb from the carpark to the first of about 16 lakes. Thereafter, each step had to be planned with regard to direction and foot placement. The trail was over scree, large rocks and boulders. There were about four large inclines amongst the smaller ones with the toughest being a 1,000 feet climb towards the end as we appeared to move up the cliff wall vertically. Upon reaching the pass, we had the usual brunch and then headed to El Pessons Peak which allowed for spectacular views of the glacial basin, the surrounding mountains and the many lakes, after acquiring 2,600 feet. The flora, including colors in yellow, pink, red and purple further enhanced the scenes. Sometimes one has to wonder whether one was conscious or in a dream. What a beautiful country; what a beautiful world.
"Sticks and stones can...but scree, that's different." The editor just short of reaching the saddle.
After the saddle, we made our way towards the peak, approaching from the rear, with the lake dazzling below.
On the personal front, we are staying in a wonderful apartment in a place called El Tarter in the parish of Canillo. It is, in our opinion, luxurious, but then we may not be considered the best arbiters of accommodation, not being owners of anything other than renters of a storeroom and post office box. However, when we look out the window, and we have many, we see and hear a waterfall barreling down the mountain on which our foundations rest. We do hope they don't rest too much though—they have an important job to perform. Another great thing about the apartment is that unlike many we have come across in Spain and other parts of Europe, the tub is full size (Jeffrey can fit comfortably even when carrying a little extra) and it's also possible to park the car in a space in the garage without sweating, guessing or praying. In fact, it would not be uncomfortable living in this type of unit more often.
We found a good Spanish photographer at the peak waiting to take our picture. We had some amusing times with
the locals including interesting communication.
A peep at the peek from the saddle. The marking is for the GR7, one of the many trails through Europe.
Had we made a sharp right turn on trail, we would have crossed into France again. We walked through the cirque, the largest granite glacial one in Andorra. The hike was over 8 miles, which was long considering the underfoot slowed us considerably but choosing each step carefully made it far more interesting than usual. We reached an altitude of 9,450 feet, quite high for this region.
Shame! The editor continues the struggle over the scree and is again, successful.
Enjoying some rest on El Pessons Peak.
Perhaps the biggest news from a health standpoint is that Jeffrey has taken the pledge. He finally admitted what all alcoholics have to: "I need a Diet Coke a day, only a small size though." One month ago, he did 'kick the habit'. It's early days but it is 30 days without the liquid. In fact, at the same time, we sold stock in Coca Cola short. Is it any wonder we struggle to make a living? One has to have alternatives. What healthy habit could I involve myself in as a distraction from the drinking problem. Watching the Europeans it became clear very early on in the trip—in fact, it began in Israel. Do what they do so successfully. I took up smoking.
The destination in the background with the granite- and flora-studded basin fore. The sights, to put it bluntly,
were grand.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
One more lake, another shape, another treat for the senses as Jenni finds one of very few dirt paths.
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