Thursday, July 17, 2025

68.06 Andorra: Scenes from an extraordinary hike: Another interesting day, reaching a 'mountain golf course' above the ski-slopes of Soldeu.

You don't want to try this without an adult present. Well, that's a bit of a problem.
It only gets worse. Unfortunately, the pictures don't capture the true nature of the slope and underfoot. However, they do depict the level of intelligence of the couple.
Following rain, the views and air quality are usually delightful.
The Parish of Soldeu below is prominent to the human eye.
A first for us: A "Cow-jacking". Unfortunately, we've come to believe the worst of humanity in the recent decade or two. However, when cattle adopt human traits, we realize how far down we are on the slippery slope. Fortunately, we were able to rescue the driver and passenger but subsequently, we have had to deal with a lot of bull.
After the rather harrowing experience, we met a cast member from last century's successful production of 'Hair'. While the character has obviously seen better days, we are informed it has found comfort on the slopes. We can relate to that. When looking to earn additional compensation, we understand it works as a model in a beauty salon promoting eyelashes. Meantime, we continue to comb the region in search of a decent brush for it.
In the early stages, we were still on a road before entering the forests and ski slopes. We came across some horses of a different color (Merens breed of High Pyrenees). On our return, we met a woman who operates the stables. She is of English origin who emigrated many years ago. Smart lady!
Finally, Jen spots our destination, the first peak. Sitting on the top is...wait for it...a 9-hole golf course, the highest in Europe. The slope below the building is where we climbed in that crevice. Jen had no idea what was in store. On previous occasions, we used the ski slope to summit.
The much easier route and very attractive sight, on the way home. The backdrop and scenery, too, are attractive.
"Mad cow disease or syndrome". Throughout our lives, we have never seen cattle sprint down a slope as did this bunch of hooligans. In fact, we doubt we've seen them even trot. Jen nearly panicked as they appeared to be after her at one stage. The strange part is: 'The Running of the Bulls' occurs every July 7th-14th in Pamplona, Spain. While there's a strong Spanish flavor in this part of the world, we're a long way from Pamplona...we think. Coincidentally, we did the hike on the 13th. Perhaps this lot remembered the dates.
Fortunately, they passed her by. I hid in the trees out of the way, bravely I might add. I was all on my own, of course, so I could record this 'happening'.
Part of the golf course in the clouds at 7,380 feet. Unfortunately, Jen forgot our clubs. What a pity because at that height we could strike the ball much further distances. Golfers have to take a cable car to reach the course.
The occurrences above, always stirring, always beautiful.
The final spurt to the finish. A display of courage once again from Jen--without doubt. An intelligent decision to take that path...with doubt.
We have since discovered a safer and more comfortable means of transport, eventually.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey

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