31.15 Kanin ski region, not always willing and 'Abel' to feel safe along those ridges.

'Southern Africa' lies between Slovenia and Italy, a window into Italy from Slovenia.




Early going, early days as we head up.




'Hole in the Wall', heading toward the 'Okno', the window with a view into Italy, one of those frightening occasions (see narrative below).




One of the views into Italy.




We took a cableway ride to reach high on the Kanin Mountains, some 5,500 feet elevation gain. Once we arrived, we set off on a hike. However, after a while, we changed course as there was still too much snow for our liking. Instead we headed to the 'Window', (Okno) a massive hole in the rock walls through which staggering views of Italy provide pictures that are instantly burned into the mind. (Jenni returned from injury to try out her various body parts and succeeded admirably. She completed all the sections but for the one below as she had limited use of her arms.)

The only problem with the view is the journey. The underfoot is scree with snow in places, at this time of the year. The final part of the climb, over rocks, has a section that is quite simply stated, dangerous. One has to cross a gulley which was covered in snow and slopes drastically toward the commencement position. The fall is so long and steep that it's best not to go into further detail. Suffice to say, the crossing is treacherous and required extreme caution in first finding a toehold and then placing a small part of the foot thereon. Unfortunately, the further along one scrambles the worse it gets—once committed, there's no turning back. Thereafter, the thought of the return journey builds in the mind and a level of fear resides deep in the mind. All's well that ends well and although it was an incredible experience rewarded with outstanding views, it's not something to undertake on a regular basis.



One of the sections that made me think deeply of the near-future and my foot and hand placements.




After a climb to the peak above, Jenni takes it easy...lucky girl.




Struck us as an opening to the world...




Jenni reaches a high with the town of Bovec thousands of feet below.




Finding the route, partly covered in snow.



Another view toward the neighbor.




The view from the gulley crossing, mentioned in the narrative.




Over the top, a stark and very attractive place.




Down at ground level, the Soca River provides much pleasure as it meanders through the region.




On the Soca River, the stunning Kozjak Falls (slap) and gorge.




Cheers,

Jenni and Jeffrey