Heavens, I really need to pick up the pace if I'm ever going to get caught up on this blog. But Day 10, it's not one to miss. It was possibly my favorite day of the entire trip. We hiked a portion of the la Ruta de Cares from Poncebos to Cain (14 miles round trip). It's reputation as the most spectacular hike in the Picos de Europa is well-deserved--it was arguably one of the most beautiful hikes I've ever been on.
We began by taking a shuttle into Poncebos since parking at the trailhead can be challenging. With water in the gorge running full in the morning light, it was a stunningly dramatic start.
The hike was quite steep at the beginning so Annika really wasn't feeling it. Brooklyn was likewise unamused when I kept adjusting our turn around time to keep going a little farther. Fair complaint, but in this case I'm glad we pushed on. In the end, I think everyone enjoyed our journey. Plus, there was ice cream and cold water at our turn around in Cain.
I'm just gonna let the photos do the talking.
After an initial steep descent, the path flattened and followed the gentle grade of a water canal. Refreshing!
So glad we had this extra time with our Talia Lily.
Anyone else feel like this looks like Hobbit habitat?
Who's that trip trapping cross my bridge? One of the Billy Goats Gruff was standing guard.
As the temperature climbs, Annika's shirt has a tendency to get shorter... Just as long as she keeps walking. :)
All my favoritest people.
Half of the fun was discovering how well-developed the trail infrastructure. Rugged and orderly all at the same time.
I Heart the Ruta del Cares
Lunchtime! Gotta say, our sandwiches were lecker. (Wrong language I know, but Asturias and Alps feel like sisters.)
The tunnels were dark enough to need a flashlight.
Just when we were about to head back, we discovered this adorable village of Cain, brimming with hikers and refreshment.
I tell ya, nothing tastes better than food after a hike.
I don't drink beer, but if I did, this would be the place.
Love this gal!
Another unexpected delight was meeting the "wild" mountain goats that were so friendly they walked right up to us and started licking the salt off our arms!
Brooklyn said the experience ticked off an item on her Bucket List for Life.
I know, I know
so many photos, but which ones do I cut? They all bring me joy.
Back in Poncebos we all enjoyed some Kas Limon and olives. Thanks to everyone for joining me on this hiking dream!
A tasty dinner back in Ortiguero. I think we tried to go out to eat, but found ourselves starving during the awkward break where it's too late for lunch but too early for dinner. Pasta to the rescue!
Strolling around the adorable village.
View out the front window.
Glorious ending to a glorious day.
No comments:
Post a Comment