Lazarow World-Hike-About

  In addition to the many natural sights and/or views enroute to Muratovo Lake (glacial at over 7,300 feet) and return, the lake and surrounds appeared, in our opinion, as a reflection or taste of/from 'Heaven'. While the analogy might be ridiculed, the views and feelings did not merely reflect off the water, but they seemed to emanate from within (something similar occurred in Andorra recently, on the hike to a lake along the French border. The few photographs displayed below are a fraction of the sights witnessed.    The main display will follow in the future. In the meantime, take a look at a handful, perhaps an eyeful is more appropriate, as we enjoy sharing such beauty with receptive minds.  Autumn suddenly seems to be making an impact. One of us could handle autumn arriving only once a year...but never departing. An early sighting of Muratovo Lake. Colors, reflections, light, backdrop and water mix to form a magical result. A sultry scene. A sect...

  The scenes were captured following a new route we found although we concluded sharing part of an earlier track...ski-slope, what else?  'Madam Vihren': We obviously view the mountain from many positions except when on the peak. We found this view somewhat haunting. Jenni finds it scary all the time...but she's thinking of climbing occasions. A golden accomplice. We suppose 'flat-top' might not be appreciated in certain atmospheres...perhaps, a trifle derogatory. I don't think I've seen such a beautiful smile...as Jen rests on the peak on a previous trip. Cheers,  Jenni and Jeffrey

The going is rough and tough, but the sights and coloring go a long way to making it worthwhile. Besides, to turn back is unforgivable. Jen keeps her head down and acts like a trooper...incredible effort.   When we set out in the morning, we had no intention of undertaking this hike. It was planned for a later date. While there is no trail, only long grass, bushes, rocks, plenty of rolling stones (not music), and stuff you don't want to know, it's the type of challenge that attracts us. While we are not skiers, we find some of our best times are had on the ski-slopes. Who knows? Perhaps it's an underlying 'jealousy' of skiers; then again, maybe there's a fundamental tension with this activity because skiers are so lazy. They ride up in chairlifts and then glide downhill, never raising a sweat. Heck, where's the challenge? (Truth be told, we do admire them, but they can cling to the cold and snow).    A distinct advantage for us is that ...

An earlier trip as snow fell overnight. No wonder this is our fourth visit. Taking a walk in the town (Bansko) with staggering views. (You can line up this picture with that above.) Love the snow for views; hate to hike upon it. Another of life's trade-offs or a spoiled boy. Next week's challenges should I be able to get out of bed. Reflections make our days. On a previous trip, we reached a Banderista ski station which is above the top ski-lift pylons continuing toward the right. Love it when clouds decide not to remain high in the sky but come down to visit. Earlier than expected, we repeated the hike in what we consider very rough terrain. See later. Jen spent some time explaining how stiff her legs were from the day before's opening hike. It was most informative...I think. The 'bandit' from another angle. We get exhausted just looking. Well, come Thursday, we'll have to come up with a heck of an excuse otherwise we'll be climbing....

One rough and tough climb with an unclear path. Early stages as we find our feet...still below us. Jen seems to have perfected the art of climbing at a right angle for balance. Having 'conquered' the very steep section, we look to part two. Jen continues to test her body 'angles'. The final scene to which we were headed. Indication of the steepness. We came up on the left side of this cliff. Jen arrives at Estany de l'Ila, finally. There were a number of false peaks and bowls along the route; the previous picture is a fine illustration of the climb. A different perspective. And another. A feeling of being in the meadows but with radical inclines. Our first indication we are on track. Some island hopping a little below our destination. That's the route...step along the shaky rocks. Jen returning. That's a route of return. Quite a backdrop. A nice finish although an inadequate reward for the effort...t...