55.21 Andorra: Pic Casamanya, one hike we never wish to miss, come rain or storm.
After climbing for a while, Jen stands before 5 false peaks, the first three being tough. (See below) Recently popped out of the forest. The protrusions at right give one a reliable indication of what lies ahead, just one of a few to go. In each place we revisit, there are always hikes that we have to repeat, sometimes multiple times. It's always because they provide a unique challenge rather than an opportunity for an easy day. Easy hikes are almost a waste of time unless they afford a person something special like incredible views or someone's giving out ice-cream cones at the peak. It goes without saying we're about to mention Pic Casamanya, a hike we completed for the fourth occasion last Friday (1st of this trip). What makes this particularly one special is that it is a tough challenge on the strenuous side rather than difficult. It climbs quickly at over 1,000 feet per mile. There are 5 false peaks following the climb through the forest and the somewhat ste...