On the way up, the editor claws through the bush. (Better than what occurred on the way down.)
A view from the top, quite gorgeous, Adriatic sea and mountain islands.
The views were stunning...probably still are.
(Scroll down to skip over the text and continue with photographs.)
When we arrived at Velebit National Park, the country’s newest addition, Jenni pointed out a few dark clouds that appeared somewhat low in the sky. I thought we were safe from a storm, although hadn’t given it much consideration because we would be hiking early. We notice the rain seems to attack, and it’s not an exaggeration, usually later in the day. Over a two-week period, we found ourselves in 3 serious thunderstorms, the latest being a rather vicious one. Being on the peak of a mountain as it struck did not augur for a comfortable feeling although we looked like pretty good targets to the elements.
It took us an hour by car to reach the parking area from our apartment in Senj. In all our travels, this apartment is clearly the best and most cared for we have come across. The landlady, Maria, is a delight and she keeps her suites in immaculate condition. There are 4 or 5 units and each is furnished, including linen, in a unique manner. It will not be easy to leave this place although we’ll give it a fair shot. The views alone from our balcony and bedroom, of the islands, mountains and the Adriatic sea are at times, stunning. It’s a real blessing to live in a world that, just when you believe you’ve seen something remarkable, another scene confronts a person and one realizes the beauty is almost infinite.
Although Velebit is a national park, and quite gorgeous, we were the only hikers on the trail. Two other cars were in the park but we saw no one else other than the keeper of the hut who sold us tea after returning from the peak. We set off for Zavizan Peak, a short hike by usual standards and reached the summit at over 5,500 feet. It was a steep trail making its way through thick shrubs and trees. The whole region, not surprisingly, is lush green. The views from the top are magnificent, providing inland views of other mountains as well as the sea and islands off the coast of the country. One feels like a cartographer as one observes the outline of the mountain-covered islands surrounded by various shades of blue water, some 5,500 feet below.
Within a minute of us reaching the peak, large raindrops began to fall. We put on our raincoats and waited. When lightning struck, quite frightening at the time as we were completely exposed being on the highest point in the vicinity, Jen made her way down a few yards to search for shelter. The rain turned hard and cold and this was followed by 4 different bouts of ever-increasing hail stones. So much so that it hurt each place struck. Unfortunately, the storm did not let up for at least twenty to thirty minutes and then resumed after taking short pauses. By that time we were wet, cold, a little sore from the hail blows and wondering how to make our way down a path covered in ice, obviously a slippery surface. We had huddled together next to some thick bushes which gave dubious cover at best. Unfortunately, with cameras tucked in bags and raincoats covering same, not to mention the adverse conditions, we only managed to take a couple of shots toward the end of the storm. I doubt whether Jen cared an iota for pictures. At that stage, she closed her eyes for each lightning flash and enjoyed a modicum of relief when thunder followed which meant, of course, the bolt missed us.
Prior to the storm ceasing, we decided to make our way down rather than be stranded on high ground without knowing whether conditions would improve. Who knew how long the storm might persist. It seemed correct to take our chances then rather than hope things would improve. Fortunately, we made our way down and back safely but wet and cold. A cup of tea warmed our insides at the main hut and the sun returned to help our covering. Our original intention was to return home for a hot bath and some respite. Instead, we hiked up to another peak, Velika Kosa, short but with great views, too. Notwithstanding the violent storm, it was an exciting morning which we complemented by tackling the other peak, giving us a warm but wet feeling. Two days later we returned but this time at least a couple of hours earlier, prior to park official opening. We outsmarted the weather. Big deal!
The contrast of the blue water and whitish mountains, dolomite and limestone, left an indelible impression.
After the 3rd storm, respite for a few minutes and lovely mist forming.
Another view.
Some hail, rain, lightning and the odd bit of sun every now and again to cheer us.
Between storms but after the two big ones, Jen makes her way down a treacherous slope covered in hail. Her husband prefers to wait for the rescue helicopter.
Although down from the top, still some distance to go. It rained a few more times but we still took the opportunity
to visit the peak of Kosa
Captured our imagination as cartographers as the light hits the big island and a corner of the other.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
A view of Senj, the old city in early evening, from the 16th century castle.
Goodnight!
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