tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27846069095149037802024-03-08T11:33:11.717+00:00justanothertrailOutdoor stuff usually involving a rucksack, a tent and sometimes a rope.Nick Mandevillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02253828298647316305noreply@blogger.comBlogger14125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2784606909514903780.post-35288966297427473062023-04-15T17:40:00.000+01:002023-04-15T17:40:54.204+01:00Skye Trail<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXG_OlfOqB2zTWW8aiDFR4USQFFahRmVkcmqspIilRDJAxlCXmMkbjiPJ6e2hN0m3IGV-_NiA__lFIkqM9IL9ELZgVPM_KeXebfb2LRNioHHd2sxJPnaTcu7AXV4d7lgb3QGoQ9EByf3va/s6000/DSC01286.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXG_OlfOqB2zTWW8aiDFR4USQFFahRmVkcmqspIilRDJAxlCXmMkbjiPJ6e2hN0m3IGV-_NiA__lFIkqM9IL9ELZgVPM_KeXebfb2LRNioHHd2sxJPnaTcu7AXV4d7lgb3QGoQ9EByf3va/s320/DSC01286.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Interest in Scottish trails was re-ignited whilst hiking the WHW over the 18/19 New Year. Living on Dartmoor it is often easier to jump on a ferry and drive to the Alps or Pyrenees than it is to get to Scottish mountains, but we were enthused enough for a second long drive north. I had only been on Skye twice before, once to traverse the Cuillin Ridge with an old mate and a wander from Elgol with my wife to climb Blaven and camp in Camasunary bay which we had to abandon after a couple of days in a blizzard. However from this limited knowledge and looking at the map we decided to hike South to North figuring if nothing else a camp at Rubha Hunish would be a more fitting end than CO-OP carpark in Broadford.</p><p>Day 1</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfDKE64rBX8XEBHlbMyGPTt09fhoiwumW0yh9F1MFGEbNanUYdMBD21DjDhAi74bubliC6SNmUmSaHFB_yrRzkEevRBQ0E-vyGifbKpmK73ItgTDllWyd6XtGJ5Ln8C8L88uUqbaSH-hbw1CtmHSyqBAVdTOcFWOnOjhe3gng9I3tVFCp6tQLGV7aFDw/s6000/DSC01199.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfDKE64rBX8XEBHlbMyGPTt09fhoiwumW0yh9F1MFGEbNanUYdMBD21DjDhAi74bubliC6SNmUmSaHFB_yrRzkEevRBQ0E-vyGifbKpmK73ItgTDllWyd6XtGJ5Ln8C8L88uUqbaSH-hbw1CtmHSyqBAVdTOcFWOnOjhe3gng9I3tVFCp6tQLGV7aFDw/s320/DSC01199.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking down to Boreraig</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVl_nLCSCgqSX6npHYamCP5aqyZIYDCmQOq_qh_ow_KUnKPUPytnfqj3fcAQXo8HiCh3lk7bcXhYHM0UWQbv9t3wYwDse6RQUQBAME-9EzIjdoY5DuWAVAq0T3zi-LuuiT4KKP-Y1taXP8R4APFLED6i7TEpLy31omHymcGmn3qy677yUAmgj2jFRknA/s6000/DSC01211.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVl_nLCSCgqSX6npHYamCP5aqyZIYDCmQOq_qh_ow_KUnKPUPytnfqj3fcAQXo8HiCh3lk7bcXhYHM0UWQbv9t3wYwDse6RQUQBAME-9EzIjdoY5DuWAVAq0T3zi-LuuiT4KKP-Y1taXP8R4APFLED6i7TEpLy31omHymcGmn3qy677yUAmgj2jFRknA/s320/DSC01211.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loch Slapin</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIx18QBLysfMi1MaagfgFcdIDWiTdmKLSVqLLSQcecR9JcvjOr_1k4I1PDiWsjT4V4wLJBRTHMc7eYFBUBqanssON9VKrm1xdApRVrmvTTrb3e68JpbmChlqBda2hzTiYUK5dwqfogm2R7k3xRHXdrRfTF7ErvOnka027ZpXwYKa7-1XRUJBsJniIk8A/s5639/DSC01220.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3759" data-original-width="5639" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIx18QBLysfMi1MaagfgFcdIDWiTdmKLSVqLLSQcecR9JcvjOr_1k4I1PDiWsjT4V4wLJBRTHMc7eYFBUBqanssON9VKrm1xdApRVrmvTTrb3e68JpbmChlqBda2hzTiYUK5dwqfogm2R7k3xRHXdrRfTF7ErvOnka027ZpXwYKa7-1XRUJBsJniIk8A/s320/DSC01220.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Camasunary Bay</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3qntjw5WkQfvQJr5WcKPTSPgyyVVtX5WhJsBnL0ICogF9H09j0ogeKhqM40taZfWtgvx26hCVngnHStNpuX81D4sQUMktDx0IxIJ4fqznkQgHX4jea3eeJyR_p3FGBMl68DTom7NZims0GwCeg1R1VgHzGEUQYrLw_fRZOyTmHszAprKiqtaQtfEM8Q/s6000/DSC01237.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3qntjw5WkQfvQJr5WcKPTSPgyyVVtX5WhJsBnL0ICogF9H09j0ogeKhqM40taZfWtgvx26hCVngnHStNpuX81D4sQUMktDx0IxIJ4fqznkQgHX4jea3eeJyR_p3FGBMl68DTom7NZims0GwCeg1R1VgHzGEUQYrLw_fRZOyTmHszAprKiqtaQtfEM8Q/s320/DSC01237.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Camasunary Bothy</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Day 2<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaHG9kJ-Saeo2cxP-yP4eP6dHyEdxtGqCMpDt6cZKFh0wMGkQY9kxxp0xg5gVG_wSMXtG3-jCMR7PAs0I48mPyzFykionLW-BQxlerzBO1y52bFTwNmNk4CGGMi2uRPi-ACutfe2ybYqrIXU_6Cx7IFWSJSAFZjjjxCooqh_qcn7kwO9Hf_zHQHt9Kag/s6000/DSC01252.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaHG9kJ-Saeo2cxP-yP4eP6dHyEdxtGqCMpDt6cZKFh0wMGkQY9kxxp0xg5gVG_wSMXtG3-jCMR7PAs0I48mPyzFykionLW-BQxlerzBO1y52bFTwNmNk4CGGMi2uRPi-ACutfe2ybYqrIXU_6Cx7IFWSJSAFZjjjxCooqh_qcn7kwO9Hf_zHQHt9Kag/s320/DSC01252.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Camasunary river crossing</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg61HhEETTKVtdZSzPweAJTxTXx6oLyVFr13TJoiS1RvRKLK7WN0sW69R5HVrOzwlb46pPoUGnjpbfaegq8n7MABEPb5YIGvUz5X3JICbUuQPjH2G7EVLE0HbO3qbZJCdIhZOzZgUyvath8nmli0YR-_K9Rgm36Qlhn0jEHNps23tEhpoPTOvtqgqk4Uw/s6000/DSC01253.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg61HhEETTKVtdZSzPweAJTxTXx6oLyVFr13TJoiS1RvRKLK7WN0sW69R5HVrOzwlb46pPoUGnjpbfaegq8n7MABEPb5YIGvUz5X3JICbUuQPjH2G7EVLE0HbO3qbZJCdIhZOzZgUyvath8nmli0YR-_K9Rgm36Qlhn0jEHNps23tEhpoPTOvtqgqk4Uw/s320/DSC01253.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Camasunary Bothy and Bla Bheinn</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUrGfmaDy30afyzaiR5ForikEXMGnm2BI5npYlp_iXwGvjdM3VcUIfkDgIPdi9kDCjbMbLQ5vRqmESLnxKUUSESKUbanA5N6xPmOKFtvukOdnkM4MntCXVwxc5oBOptlaBWk5exTh4z_Uo8vNyrsbIQPu1RznMfOGWf3AnsPsl5ArZX8ZpZa0B2POYmg/s6000/DSC01261.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUrGfmaDy30afyzaiR5ForikEXMGnm2BI5npYlp_iXwGvjdM3VcUIfkDgIPdi9kDCjbMbLQ5vRqmESLnxKUUSESKUbanA5N6xPmOKFtvukOdnkM4MntCXVwxc5oBOptlaBWk5exTh4z_Uo8vNyrsbIQPu1RznMfOGWf3AnsPsl5ArZX8ZpZa0B2POYmg/s320/DSC01261.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading to Coruisk</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL_kY4hOV2NMptaTXCqAufoopnALskyA-KAOLPu9wnbPHfXRXJq7dre5j52F9TE_56yejtWOxpypSSxyv9iINvv4j-8qObEHFCY-dvRiozp56eDszxtn_OofMLt6oZKjPzW2BjGx085TbR0bySfKCx-pTMVQrRgIMF15szazORsACkabuowx1iwKY2qQ/s5097/DSC01263.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5097" data-original-width="3397" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL_kY4hOV2NMptaTXCqAufoopnALskyA-KAOLPu9wnbPHfXRXJq7dre5j52F9TE_56yejtWOxpypSSxyv9iINvv4j-8qObEHFCY-dvRiozp56eDszxtn_OofMLt6oZKjPzW2BjGx085TbR0bySfKCx-pTMVQrRgIMF15szazORsACkabuowx1iwKY2qQ/s320/DSC01263.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bad step</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwnyYDyKE5Bf7KFoG3hI0gn7D4bv_3J8aW5_z-0vbZnL_k89iwFnEi_8tE2d5jpmG5NUrwGBNFrIdEt2cI8pqed_TUHVGGcrjX43F8fesS11SEyD4mDBEubQjwic7smp29bPAkrIb033VnegwS5RxCQcEMGmzl-ZpfTl8wPKP3ov5ZvffxqJTALTIjRA/s6000/DSC01273.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwnyYDyKE5Bf7KFoG3hI0gn7D4bv_3J8aW5_z-0vbZnL_k89iwFnEi_8tE2d5jpmG5NUrwGBNFrIdEt2cI8pqed_TUHVGGcrjX43F8fesS11SEyD4mDBEubQjwic7smp29bPAkrIb033VnegwS5RxCQcEMGmzl-ZpfTl8wPKP3ov5ZvffxqJTALTIjRA/s320/DSC01273.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sheltering on the side of Sgur na Stri</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl_OedPu67HLuWByZ5IKwps2uUymFlGGM5e6HjsUFzyXXV_OYQpuPcW6RIx2cMCTAJzDapT_sY-B-Fd-CDcyfWKtvBjxNWEDm2ouY9siXGEIU_U6Gzsf7JLiK7mDwYTP1ymmoOlSMvRwxLmWck162EqAvh9l81YdFoBRY8YpwJLB8u_rnfutewtu7mAA/s6000/DSC01277.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl_OedPu67HLuWByZ5IKwps2uUymFlGGM5e6HjsUFzyXXV_OYQpuPcW6RIx2cMCTAJzDapT_sY-B-Fd-CDcyfWKtvBjxNWEDm2ouY9siXGEIU_U6Gzsf7JLiK7mDwYTP1ymmoOlSMvRwxLmWck162EqAvh9l81YdFoBRY8YpwJLB8u_rnfutewtu7mAA/s320/DSC01277.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Glen Sligachan</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl0gaegPHTn1AD6bMy-FTkhQIucu_q-Zn3QM6nBa7PEZ6fFrKIUKclxDApYLxhH8k6FULaVW1P8olcTEi8n37FxzlF26_7QxaY_538OUpe6ra31gqFCEbd9zwUZfw5sPQz6qk4AozRRnUFndwy6ju76DF-3U8bGP1NA31UeMyjodLtRZRyNu7lG6omtQ/s6000/DSC01286.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl0gaegPHTn1AD6bMy-FTkhQIucu_q-Zn3QM6nBa7PEZ6fFrKIUKclxDApYLxhH8k6FULaVW1P8olcTEi8n37FxzlF26_7QxaY_538OUpe6ra31gqFCEbd9zwUZfw5sPQz6qk4AozRRnUFndwy6ju76DF-3U8bGP1NA31UeMyjodLtRZRyNu7lG6omtQ/s320/DSC01286.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Glen Sligachan</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Day 3<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjId3C4alVVvPUJJGPE2H2AX0JBvJ039o49pKMhGQIAAwAx-0E7ZQhwCvOXcEiq3WkddxD63eGPDBO_j0J8w1gbyR7NOSFmPt2qZ6C9V7PeU6O3AGeuCKMjjW2fgrNOz6Jue1g4kxdORwG2HjuCfRAwd_XygT3AqteIkWwqyKHbK8a32HzeDt0VucoQA/s6000/DSC01298.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjId3C4alVVvPUJJGPE2H2AX0JBvJ039o49pKMhGQIAAwAx-0E7ZQhwCvOXcEiq3WkddxD63eGPDBO_j0J8w1gbyR7NOSFmPt2qZ6C9V7PeU6O3AGeuCKMjjW2fgrNOz6Jue1g4kxdORwG2HjuCfRAwd_XygT3AqteIkWwqyKHbK8a32HzeDt0VucoQA/s320/DSC01298.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sgurr nan Gillean and Am Basteir</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg_dg99O01uhr1tkxNMNNIO4sAbVMp1cDamfJMSkB5Ky6K7O7o_mgPmZgR3zynxL1VQIu9M74Cvc2Ob0jhM_sGkak2Psuo2JRF0cOfdZspUVd23Y4Yq06LTf8tfKC7a4G6qxmG4uYiptKHlJJPCpojl1ttnNaSfLbYaIoInqKcRJjmURzki9HUwtE12Q/s6000/DSC01299.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg_dg99O01uhr1tkxNMNNIO4sAbVMp1cDamfJMSkB5Ky6K7O7o_mgPmZgR3zynxL1VQIu9M74Cvc2Ob0jhM_sGkak2Psuo2JRF0cOfdZspUVd23Y4Yq06LTf8tfKC7a4G6qxmG4uYiptKHlJJPCpojl1ttnNaSfLbYaIoInqKcRJjmURzki9HUwtE12Q/s320/DSC01299.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loch Sligachan</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRMZQu8l1w0QJxq4XZCOytxrnqtvR7UsBl24DxpJe4-WEXt_a6W6YzB-xLfd_r4DhPVuBM_rnv4jepEClS8Sh3aXWb652t3t8lKp6-Z4EWgvMkAIqvelGt6A9lcxpPYCnXPWEWCwX-QqjfXU84OGxXHVR1kD6ozc8o-5Cguvns-fSFdubXP88c0rDSFA/s6000/DSC01309.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRMZQu8l1w0QJxq4XZCOytxrnqtvR7UsBl24DxpJe4-WEXt_a6W6YzB-xLfd_r4DhPVuBM_rnv4jepEClS8Sh3aXWb652t3t8lKp6-Z4EWgvMkAIqvelGt6A9lcxpPYCnXPWEWCwX-QqjfXU84OGxXHVR1kD6ozc8o-5Cguvns-fSFdubXP88c0rDSFA/s320/DSC01309.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loch Sligachan</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9WE5OnYoigVcsNhZUENxOWu-WwccZTBl1RP6tP7Q7nqhedGF4rxCArA2Od30ZAm-VomjFxGAnLZVbOO8-c8OAjYAaevNK3ljFG-5kVh298aEBYbwbQGg-I_hE093qi-zqxrj0Xb9Eo3OSYKW2EdN2AjGnEEWD1Kw8Xdyd9kDh3Obbxkksfg_PqszJZg/s6000/DSC01311.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9WE5OnYoigVcsNhZUENxOWu-WwccZTBl1RP6tP7Q7nqhedGF4rxCArA2Od30ZAm-VomjFxGAnLZVbOO8-c8OAjYAaevNK3ljFG-5kVh298aEBYbwbQGg-I_hE093qi-zqxrj0Xb9Eo3OSYKW2EdN2AjGnEEWD1Kw8Xdyd9kDh3Obbxkksfg_PqszJZg/s320/DSC01311.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Balmeanach</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBQyj9PqFkPcp2xIgPnc8hCgSgfNecg56KZBbtPwvaSOMeGqatb8a9tlylzNfl_eUeyL8cyRaXt4ztPoJI66ITVCTBCbtimIsjW17HezMft-c2a1x7NsxTtP4EGySphnk3hjWy28JZQoabN0ch2fxcrkfY7Ab11SIR6L_ID6tEPBXWe4V-Y7rgwNtQ_A/s6000/DSC01317.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBQyj9PqFkPcp2xIgPnc8hCgSgfNecg56KZBbtPwvaSOMeGqatb8a9tlylzNfl_eUeyL8cyRaXt4ztPoJI66ITVCTBCbtimIsjW17HezMft-c2a1x7NsxTtP4EGySphnk3hjWy28JZQoabN0ch2fxcrkfY7Ab11SIR6L_ID6tEPBXWe4V-Y7rgwNtQ_A/s320/DSC01317.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loch Portree</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDaC__JXXptZL1r504jYl-_3psscJRwMA9wDcJE-PWH2kvwAOGcbdt3LeD7_YQ0VRCMm5v8PjF04pTw34_c2PV2CTTRvSTAv5OXCJkIaRkVufF1pewT-ZjPUHqynqxzxnZQ6x3OiALTjCIgtL_loV3Gx1BVSHEZevS7J26lAWiUp11oP_ZT7_ph3GPoA/s3172/DSC01320%20(2).JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2115" data-original-width="3172" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDaC__JXXptZL1r504jYl-_3psscJRwMA9wDcJE-PWH2kvwAOGcbdt3LeD7_YQ0VRCMm5v8PjF04pTw34_c2PV2CTTRvSTAv5OXCJkIaRkVufF1pewT-ZjPUHqynqxzxnZQ6x3OiALTjCIgtL_loV3Gx1BVSHEZevS7J26lAWiUp11oP_ZT7_ph3GPoA/s320/DSC01320%20(2).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Portree campsite</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>Day 4</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijNEheynvx11xGf4cua8bYdPf3P_mSL6nBLV_u8keO6OAYbX3WAscaxHuwTfeNkhhwhJFUqt9-RjXART4UyOdUyymRI3TEHuOEFP9NMKAs21OxJfJsytiNAbOOB6XPF46uR30nQvW1-PK7XRemIoQR4BFvy7CLvjOeG4vJ8JGhE0nxQpVMdykG58sF2w/s6000/DSC01328.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijNEheynvx11xGf4cua8bYdPf3P_mSL6nBLV_u8keO6OAYbX3WAscaxHuwTfeNkhhwhJFUqt9-RjXART4UyOdUyymRI3TEHuOEFP9NMKAs21OxJfJsytiNAbOOB6XPF46uR30nQvW1-PK7XRemIoQR4BFvy7CLvjOeG4vJ8JGhE0nxQpVMdykG58sF2w/s320/DSC01328.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking back to Portree from A'Chorra-Beinn</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimfn6Od2qlqvn5csiQZxH3SzsoNVEteHJoRuDUqtsQ1GUYWV2Y0n9Uv4Bjb7tUnfgpx-FMD5mR58FladldaZfJ8t1NmoKZ0Py8AROmHzV32FLalwc4NIxvJ_dzmlCl-baQgpIRF3ZmvL1kezCSxIptbMeyLn_GaJh9W3K3hk2IknXj-mmNVyJJuNb0Yg/s6000/DSC01339.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimfn6Od2qlqvn5csiQZxH3SzsoNVEteHJoRuDUqtsQ1GUYWV2Y0n9Uv4Bjb7tUnfgpx-FMD5mR58FladldaZfJ8t1NmoKZ0Py8AROmHzV32FLalwc4NIxvJ_dzmlCl-baQgpIRF3ZmvL1kezCSxIptbMeyLn_GaJh9W3K3hk2IknXj-mmNVyJJuNb0Yg/s320/DSC01339.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trotternish Ridge</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiINlHea4ek_3IlQX0FhZxyih_C7cwXnGIDlRjU8NT6u4kiUXw8JuwNTI17T0S1bMenc5lAhAm1B7jpNjYTgnDftzxNbj243C5WT3zclMVx5RodaQhcVzqQFMd_7xiJ01uBefJzzLoDyIyzmEOt9dtqMKCnk96MCC0YfQ1b8hKXnVqUaIOGJdOmRBvMRw/s6000/DSC01343.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6000" data-original-width="4000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiINlHea4ek_3IlQX0FhZxyih_C7cwXnGIDlRjU8NT6u4kiUXw8JuwNTI17T0S1bMenc5lAhAm1B7jpNjYTgnDftzxNbj243C5WT3zclMVx5RodaQhcVzqQFMd_7xiJ01uBefJzzLoDyIyzmEOt9dtqMKCnk96MCC0YfQ1b8hKXnVqUaIOGJdOmRBvMRw/s320/DSC01343.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trotternish Ridge</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpNFokHMv_sREy0vZ6_QyaP4NSddsBQXGwU5aKy37VdhonC-2na93aNI3eTc3a7nyhoxVN8MyIdX_KmoQNcea9Q3JEVPOksMvbSOOEmCwFjUx3YkQ944Vzjsnn1DP07lg-eGAg9O95vTieuBcLZJJ49HtI-KCn-OR6fwL1EOZcptsQCdXW4AYXB7mHAw/s6000/DSC01357.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpNFokHMv_sREy0vZ6_QyaP4NSddsBQXGwU5aKy37VdhonC-2na93aNI3eTc3a7nyhoxVN8MyIdX_KmoQNcea9Q3JEVPOksMvbSOOEmCwFjUx3YkQ944Vzjsnn1DP07lg-eGAg9O95vTieuBcLZJJ49HtI-KCn-OR6fwL1EOZcptsQCdXW4AYXB7mHAw/s320/DSC01357.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trotternish Ridge</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiesjqLnMt5pcQza-I19lFmR8lQOQT_rApU0u0h0gQsC6tv-YUO7iynbud9Qcq4oWZMUZvT2Nwrw9NnQheg628xXG-0uOpbJD5BwvS5pLESv_smcPLfzAc4XJUMYsdDEDLohjR66WMkIB2gJfSGM73jrkXmXviUHIZl-QmqT8GC1e57zlXsSVbi07P2g/s6000/DSC01376.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiesjqLnMt5pcQza-I19lFmR8lQOQT_rApU0u0h0gQsC6tv-YUO7iynbud9Qcq4oWZMUZvT2Nwrw9NnQheg628xXG-0uOpbJD5BwvS5pLESv_smcPLfzAc4XJUMYsdDEDLohjR66WMkIB2gJfSGM73jrkXmXviUHIZl-QmqT8GC1e57zlXsSVbi07P2g/s320/DSC01376.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trotternish Ridge</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_T6I4YSVnIv3krrLtttHbFEuTcVVao_5wV2VnlteMcEoKNVETM67F7aCTGDZvybgDnmSRPrPE5gKXSJEh4GAbw9KZs-YuvhnUfK4BDPFik9VcLSYGr7kL-3TyTwGrZBm09n_4qIl2wF4PapTQrcKRVkXkJZCL2R0sZSDV1nhcpXnLluoV8M3o4EATiw/s6000/DSC01383.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6000" data-original-width="4000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_T6I4YSVnIv3krrLtttHbFEuTcVVao_5wV2VnlteMcEoKNVETM67F7aCTGDZvybgDnmSRPrPE5gKXSJEh4GAbw9KZs-YuvhnUfK4BDPFik9VcLSYGr7kL-3TyTwGrZBm09n_4qIl2wF4PapTQrcKRVkXkJZCL2R0sZSDV1nhcpXnLluoV8M3o4EATiw/s320/DSC01383.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trotternish Ridge</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc4fewjYBRWOhTO2ajBEnzUvBLBbBhJ7XP8JgD-TDDUDGdrkkficz5uPQG9lsgaNZNM0IzyaWiqGP6uBjqyQzS0BLb02BjyKSNWzHqFLD3BlVbBlElqUThAqBYL2fqzXp9_EG1pzocYfsWjGfglNb-t2D7SfNCAO2lfxtmhJx-AeJTzLbbcN_f0-FLpA/s6000/DSC01393.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc4fewjYBRWOhTO2ajBEnzUvBLBbBhJ7XP8JgD-TDDUDGdrkkficz5uPQG9lsgaNZNM0IzyaWiqGP6uBjqyQzS0BLb02BjyKSNWzHqFLD3BlVbBlElqUThAqBYL2fqzXp9_EG1pzocYfsWjGfglNb-t2D7SfNCAO2lfxtmhJx-AeJTzLbbcN_f0-FLpA/s320/DSC01393.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beinn Edra Trotternish Ridge</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>Day 5</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDV2T7cuDek8LJA2SbL_OUT9Rumit_xIWEvTs_nNQZa_5CufX2tBCEL3NaLOH9eLtdFQrujE09yhm_MWWfc91SfXgGcPuYjP_4b3gdZI7W_N4GBu5ipufaBo6pZPEJO7Pbc-2JLRYqOg8fgbCDfIsZ8-2ays3TsxeydrJ_ytOllEJVRjI6s4ST8hiMgw/s6000/DSC01424.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6000" data-original-width="4000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDV2T7cuDek8LJA2SbL_OUT9Rumit_xIWEvTs_nNQZa_5CufX2tBCEL3NaLOH9eLtdFQrujE09yhm_MWWfc91SfXgGcPuYjP_4b3gdZI7W_N4GBu5ipufaBo6pZPEJO7Pbc-2JLRYqOg8fgbCDfIsZ8-2ays3TsxeydrJ_ytOllEJVRjI6s4ST8hiMgw/s320/DSC01424.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trotternish Ridge</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ6Ex8mJwVixTq1ByazuOFchk1zvWl_8CBOQIbWGWVyFcUJ59BKRlPMWsDGo3yWnOal5iV0LyQpzeJI-LkK4y70Tmhuqx1NgZjeaolgCf5RZDo8oCmDKQwHqSsPxNKQcTCrzMZKqoxdziVyY7wSiE6CpOe0UwcuWX_NvQTp9P9NH-fzZtnViA3mInRWg/s6000/DSC01438.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ6Ex8mJwVixTq1ByazuOFchk1zvWl_8CBOQIbWGWVyFcUJ59BKRlPMWsDGo3yWnOal5iV0LyQpzeJI-LkK4y70Tmhuqx1NgZjeaolgCf5RZDo8oCmDKQwHqSsPxNKQcTCrzMZKqoxdziVyY7wSiE6CpOe0UwcuWX_NvQTp9P9NH-fzZtnViA3mInRWg/s320/DSC01438.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quiraing</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxmdNOk2_iCYMe82aj-9NP1RVrUGeeO6VIenw1AeFsCELty6sUi2hX3IUjNFUyxb6kFjVQ_VWw6zxT65Vf6a21Jl1iJXgnb6NbMGTi385jxOyTjV07zYz7r_QXdUkLTCcJ_yiZyw0nNcaErSdDygF4Z3NHpeE7zSfHsaMLOJ-Z4wedaPqB0nOV_4Mnlg/s6000/DSC01444.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxmdNOk2_iCYMe82aj-9NP1RVrUGeeO6VIenw1AeFsCELty6sUi2hX3IUjNFUyxb6kFjVQ_VWw6zxT65Vf6a21Jl1iJXgnb6NbMGTi385jxOyTjV07zYz7r_QXdUkLTCcJ_yiZyw0nNcaErSdDygF4Z3NHpeE7zSfHsaMLOJ-Z4wedaPqB0nOV_4Mnlg/s320/DSC01444.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quiraing</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi12px5Dwcb_fZoG2V9ZWyYGqDuXLfsoLMx_ZlqWpPXNvzfMSsbNE4kq25jYBRfmTFl_HPpvLcc1XJ9FPEBFO0k8st2br0K7aHPAuRqCjSCmBiy6kuIzMwjrv3vMZIeXEDWB0UEDv2fVDg1s_UhfPw1t86dolonbRyRpX6W5KWADpHM6DumBKlso4a8jg/s6000/DSC01448.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi12px5Dwcb_fZoG2V9ZWyYGqDuXLfsoLMx_ZlqWpPXNvzfMSsbNE4kq25jYBRfmTFl_HPpvLcc1XJ9FPEBFO0k8st2br0K7aHPAuRqCjSCmBiy6kuIzMwjrv3vMZIeXEDWB0UEDv2fVDg1s_UhfPw1t86dolonbRyRpX6W5KWADpHM6DumBKlso4a8jg/s320/DSC01448.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flodigarry</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtLcejmPRt2a4EByETW6vQEhX5u4kjfL0bf1565LQDxzTSXbx4s3W33hAd9Ctf6wPp_mn7J17SBF8f-KtcejA9yXrC5r1LaKLZ19ZBwH8Lxco0O1r7CD9EVSI2g15tsSnEf0IxvaSozkj0tDXapLGtdM_mlKK7KN34v2CcCevzwzwicAL6ZTse50SNhw/s6000/DSC01460.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtLcejmPRt2a4EByETW6vQEhX5u4kjfL0bf1565LQDxzTSXbx4s3W33hAd9Ctf6wPp_mn7J17SBF8f-KtcejA9yXrC5r1LaKLZ19ZBwH8Lxco0O1r7CD9EVSI2g15tsSnEf0IxvaSozkj0tDXapLGtdM_mlKK7KN34v2CcCevzwzwicAL6ZTse50SNhw/s320/DSC01460.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rubha Hunish</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVQhDUOBsSy1MU_2krrE2fQg1KYr44hGfk1klM8Lci0M0E-uAiV-VEyJCqcSrf52YQQz_AIDTxiq7Lx8OZ52KhAXaBA-3tPXqHdNK7HqJwNRxiZS7sPlSW4UVlQq0pqqkTP-IZLlyFrBerAs7d_puTHMCDtT7pFahyjVcq4mIx-qHFIpuxp-kGoP0-0w/s6000/DSC01485.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVQhDUOBsSy1MU_2krrE2fQg1KYr44hGfk1klM8Lci0M0E-uAiV-VEyJCqcSrf52YQQz_AIDTxiq7Lx8OZ52KhAXaBA-3tPXqHdNK7HqJwNRxiZS7sPlSW4UVlQq0pqqkTP-IZLlyFrBerAs7d_puTHMCDtT7pFahyjVcq4mIx-qHFIpuxp-kGoP0-0w/s320/DSC01485.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rubha Hunish</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Nick Mandevillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02253828298647316305noreply@blogger.com0Skye, United Kingdom57.2736278 -6.215502228.963393963821154 -41.3717522 85.583861636178852 28.9407478tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2784606909514903780.post-82143150338348913232019-06-21T18:13:00.000+01:002019-06-21T18:15:05.141+01:00Hiking the Via Alpina "All by Feet"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdk-KdBm1H-YEo7KPvI3SCfG5RQWXZTkevonM5yCsDFYAStCACN8_lVXGz72AspuvVQi_lsnXujWa8F9SyW1T5IlPebieoTU5F7AJTCsy1JV6FL8ttNzLdoVkNcrK-bHQhuPeH38_QGjIj/s1600/ob_6b97cb_carte-via-alpina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="831" data-original-width="1200" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdk-KdBm1H-YEo7KPvI3SCfG5RQWXZTkevonM5yCsDFYAStCACN8_lVXGz72AspuvVQi_lsnXujWa8F9SyW1T5IlPebieoTU5F7AJTCsy1JV6FL8ttNzLdoVkNcrK-bHQhuPeH38_QGjIj/s400/ob_6b97cb_carte-via-alpina.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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It has taken nearly 2 years to try and put any words together about this hike. A day by day diary would be easy, we have that in our notebooks, but it didn't feel like that kind of walk. In fact it is a number of quite different walks stitched together to create a crossing. What follows is personal, far less about steep climbs or flowing contours and how far we traveled each day, but how it felt to us to wander the length of the Alps.<br />
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In Europe there is an equivalent to the British climbing retort to whatever anyone has achieved of "yes, but what have they done on grit" of "but where have you been in the Alps". We love the Pyrenees, whether it is scrambling up 3000m summits or trekking their entire length it is all fun and immersive but the question of the Alps kept coming back and wouldn't leave us alone.<br />
Cicerones guide to the Alps lists 20 "classic" routes alone before we even started really looking, it was only then that we came upon the Via Alpina website which clearly stated "Discover the Alps", just what we needed to do!<br />
We managed to negotiate a 100 day window away from our daily grind so figured the most direct way of the red route from Trieste to pick up the green route through Switzerland, before returning to the red route to finish somewhere on the French Mediterranean was doable. Our chosen route itself was made up of a who's who of Alpine trails; Slovenian Mountain Route 1 (apparently the oldest trail in Europe), Adria Alpe, Carnic Way, Via Alpe, Berliner/Peter Habler Hohenweg, Alpine Pass route, Tour du Mont Blanc, GR5, GR55 and the Grande Traversee du Mercantour. A bit greedy really!<br />
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Over the preceding winter we organised our kit, booked transport to and accommodation in Trieste, our starting point and bought the first few maps we would need to get us started. Then worked like mad to get the bills paid so we could go.<br />
We had hoped at this point to put in some training too as we were well aware of how much the start of a long walk can hurt, but work, my Achilles injury and Jo's marathon training put paid to that. At least starting in June it couldn't possibly be as hot as the start to previous long hikes, could it?<br />
We arrived in Trieste on 22 June 2017 in the midst of a European wide heat wave!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpzzSi2ZDhcbf5czmkRbZwDLYPR2VVLLRRKrrujt19jQa2FL2wxFK9yxwA1MAnn-7EatutNwcfyT49pVhgMSKQbpa1D9XRX84wG_0puD4ngubbwe2OzPjtMuA52zsDfpC2RLM46-PM8Mjv/s1600/20170623_200206.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpzzSi2ZDhcbf5czmkRbZwDLYPR2VVLLRRKrrujt19jQa2FL2wxFK9yxwA1MAnn-7EatutNwcfyT49pVhgMSKQbpa1D9XRX84wG_0puD4ngubbwe2OzPjtMuA52zsDfpC2RLM46-PM8Mjv/s400/20170623_200206.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trieste</td></tr>
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How was it? Well not only did we discover a little of the Alpine cultures and history of Slovenia, Italy, Austria, Germany, Liechtenstein, Switzerland and France, but we walked stunning ridges, high cols, hidden valleys and the occasional peak. We experienced temperatures from 40C down to -10C, storms that raged all night and day, rain that washed away trails and snow that covered the landscape in a brilliant silence. Bears, boars, wolves and great birds of prey, all manner of farm animals and grumpy dogs we survived it all. After hiking for 94 days we arrived in Menton having walked nearly 1800 km with more than 126 000 m of ascent and descent. ( Details <a href="http://my.viewranger.com/route/details/MTU2NjU2NA==" target="_blank">here</a> ) Something similar to climbing Ben Nevis every day for 94 days with a big sack! But it wasn't all good which will be explained if you read on.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wash day and map homework at Trenta campsite</td></tr>
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The sub title of this, "all by feet"?!, was uttered in amazement and or incredulity by a number of people we met along the way, not so much that long distance hiking is rare in the Alps, more that we were not taking advantage of buses and, more importantly, ski lifts when they coincided with our route. We hadn't even noticed that this was the case on the Via-Alpina website where on reflection it is obvious some sections make use of these mechanical means. Not us, it seemed like cheating on our through hike of discovery, although I can see the advantages when time is short, to hike what was described to us as "Via-Alpina lite".<br />
So in terms of planning the <a href="http://www.via-alpina.org/" target="_blank">Via-Alpina website</a> is a great place to start but be aware that buses and cable cars are used in the timings of some sections. Another consideration is the route itself, we found better trails higher up rather than the described route along the valley floor, with better planning and more time we could have made more of our route choices.<br />
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On the trail.</h3>
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Coming from the UK with fairly scant knowledge of European history and all of that from an island British perspective we were immediately struck by Trieste, an Italian city with obvious Austrian influences. By the second day we entered Slovenia, once part of Yugoslavia and only in its current form since 1991. And so it went on throughout our journey much of the time following borders that had ebbed and flowed over the centuries marked by ancient forts and not so old trenches, barbed wire and concrete bunkers, constant reminders of a violent and fluid past.<br />
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SLOVENIA is stunningly beautiful and the trail initially meanders through quiet pastoral countryside (and yes there are Bears in those woods!) on its way to the Julian Alps, a stark limestone contrast.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Skirting Vogel.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zasavska koca na Prehodavcih.</td></tr>
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In general the trails are clear and well marked. The Refuges we used were extremely friendly and served great food. The crux of this section is the fabulous ridge walk from Crna prst to Dom na Komni. We did not consider it difficult in any way as others have suggested however 3 dead cows struck by lightening attest to its exposure to storms. It can be done quite easily in a day from Crna prst but from Petrovo Brdo we had a somewhat uncomfortable bivy near Vogel and then wandered down to Dom na Komni for the most fabulous breakfast of chocolate pancakes. With continuing mixed weather we decided to leave Triglav for another time and continued through to Trenta with it's campsite and useful little shop.<br />
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Another day and we are in AUSTRIA.<br />
After the excitement of the Julian Alps we struggled with the first few days in Austria meandering around in thick forestry where trails had been destroyed by felling operations, but things improved following Egger Alm. It was also somewhere here that I picked up a gastric bug that very nearly finished our hike. Unwell by the Zollnersee Hutte, I was having weird out of body experiences descending to a bivouac below Wolayersee Hutte. What followed for the next 3 days was worse and we holed up at Hochweinsteinhaus, if you were there at the same time then I am truly sorry. The Carnic Way (Karnischer Hohenweg) provides a fun few days of easy ridge traversing wanderings with great views into the Italian Dolomites, unfortunately I remember relatively little other than the kindness of staff at Hochweinsteinhaus, Peach sponge cake at Neue Porze Hutte and great coffee on a wet morning at Fillmoor Hut.<br />
Austrian trails are consistently very well marked to the extent I think even we would struggle to get lost! The Refuges are run as mountain hotels where you are the guest and the staff are there to serve you, is that why we met so many French hikers here? 😂. On the flip side it can sometimes feel as though you are slowly and methodically being separated from your wallet.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ9HhJt-s9CBMBpmOIOXEyCfmkXsx7ar3_CzWYD8n8K9vPy-RCDcjQy1a4PR_yzsSasVPGLg42XvRnP5RRyxVe9p5Da62YQKMo5NRibdQ0VU25SzpcqLvWI3nkWO0gBIbfiNoBGKkMlNxe/s1600/DSCF1960.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ9HhJt-s9CBMBpmOIOXEyCfmkXsx7ar3_CzWYD8n8K9vPy-RCDcjQy1a4PR_yzsSasVPGLg42XvRnP5RRyxVe9p5Da62YQKMo5NRibdQ0VU25SzpcqLvWI3nkWO0gBIbfiNoBGKkMlNxe/s320/DSCF1960.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking back to Hochweinsteinhaus.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj9mLKt79hcbjh5u9sBcPjdEkrGXrA3e7IKRVnlI7iYv7qIpQHcHmkl4fob4q3T_QkWNBHL0IkYgHahqf0P0DpBIl_doSpAmwmVEadqgeC40OJNyPmWBPy01kEZGz5kZmF9q8iGlU-seUD/s1600/DSCF1968.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj9mLKt79hcbjh5u9sBcPjdEkrGXrA3e7IKRVnlI7iYv7qIpQHcHmkl4fob4q3T_QkWNBHL0IkYgHahqf0P0DpBIl_doSpAmwmVEadqgeC40OJNyPmWBPy01kEZGz5kZmF9q8iGlU-seUD/s320/DSCF1968.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwxOCMdgBmNfP06nWCi6nkR1UgZVZLdIlkywFr9ZApUo3uvwprIctriLJypYQf0YI8Xj9lZ-hlQuG9rgpmf0MHAyswfS418JPND2Oh40QEWH_M0Fs3e8ou2_D6Bn6sBf4I5RLV8eCIV3uY/s1600/DSCF1975.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwxOCMdgBmNfP06nWCi6nkR1UgZVZLdIlkywFr9ZApUo3uvwprIctriLJypYQf0YI8Xj9lZ-hlQuG9rgpmf0MHAyswfS418JPND2Oh40QEWH_M0Fs3e8ou2_D6Bn6sBf4I5RLV8eCIV3uY/s320/DSCF1975.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Views into Italy.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Atmospheric.</td></tr>
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Not being able to eat for several days and then continuing with long days on the trail with limited resources made life difficult until some equilibrium was restored, unfortunately this would take a while.<br />
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ITALY was as beautiful as the views from the Carnic Way had suggested and despite the tourists and having seen many photos previously Tre Cime did not disappoint. The trails are well marked and there are some amazing refuges, relaxed, fun and loud with great food and coffee. But more than this the Italian Alps seem more egalitarian with a more relaxed attitude to bivouac and an excellent network of bivouac huts. Oh to be a little bit Italian!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQTShoAgozlDpJOmQ1aQX9vDMN0uHhHDPRZti6bKjT8VZHPlwEXo6WMl_Ew-8Twx2_5Udn8wBokyfYVlVxnQ27G_fLtcAscWwschdJBEOq5-VzTuOKMQky1J1UhTlxuwFFtoNvrUx2yX7A/s1600/DSCF2052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQTShoAgozlDpJOmQ1aQX9vDMN0uHhHDPRZti6bKjT8VZHPlwEXo6WMl_Ew-8Twx2_5Udn8wBokyfYVlVxnQ27G_fLtcAscWwschdJBEOq5-VzTuOKMQky1J1UhTlxuwFFtoNvrUx2yX7A/s320/DSCF2052.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tre Cime.</td></tr>
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The following days were hard in my depleted state as we crossed ridge line after ridge line, long ups followed by long downs repeated day after day until we reached Taufers where we played several rounds of "supermarket dash" until we were so full we could hardly move let alone pick up our sacks!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrCxVZp76goFitQq6UycL8Nhu1RD5QSuLmJ_R2LJ_vcBiLTHq-rvp7lpgevwB8j4kEPyALUaActFq11Hu_zlf4cQybRqFM6Sf_fZ6FklglMcya_1eN8N2jukBiBl39FRuNf3-ime-tVEdV/s1600/DSCF2155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrCxVZp76goFitQq6UycL8Nhu1RD5QSuLmJ_R2LJ_vcBiLTHq-rvp7lpgevwB8j4kEPyALUaActFq11Hu_zlf4cQybRqFM6Sf_fZ6FklglMcya_1eN8N2jukBiBl39FRuNf3-ime-tVEdV/s320/DSCF2155.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A few hundred meters up out of Taufers.</td></tr>
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This is also one of the sections we had failed to spot the use of the cable car in the route description so we were now faced with far in excess of 1000m of ascent with very heavy packs!<br />
<br />
Where the weather previously had been mixed, it had become significantly colder and more frequent storms that would continue for much of the coming couple of months. Yet the trails that lead us onward to Finkenberg were great. High stormy bivouacs, the utterly awesome Chemnitzer Hutte (Our favorite refuge of the hike), Brenninger Bivouac hut and the combination of Hohenwegs that contoured amongst the peaks until the last possible moment when cold and soaked we arrived in Finkenberg and were taken in by the very kind owners of Gastehaus Eberl.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT-pX54vcQVSZcZ16WYubu3swgDOGOaZuUe2krKWbDK9MKjBxJaMvCKqU2eExvfjsPXwSjY-Fi47yok5zDuzE5K7fFc4AwD4QdwxwLPQK0iIE6o4FXxIztPjI-hBDDEKnOjaJBkY5F5e0B/s1600/DSCF2188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT-pX54vcQVSZcZ16WYubu3swgDOGOaZuUe2krKWbDK9MKjBxJaMvCKqU2eExvfjsPXwSjY-Fi47yok5zDuzE5K7fFc4AwD4QdwxwLPQK0iIE6o4FXxIztPjI-hBDDEKnOjaJBkY5F5e0B/s320/DSCF2188.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chemnitzer Hutte.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-anqqQzLQ_MvUK5QqXvd3ldgkMeJ7afLuORqB-BiZgYZ7wAQXvhtEYjscNhmg6yGHoT6yFfls5KgK4_220O_v3hTjMdu7HtI9PDhsKZzxA5RaTnsFeneB7DbV2npNXJ0N9ABfaKb2Reh-/s1600/DSCF2211.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-anqqQzLQ_MvUK5QqXvd3ldgkMeJ7afLuORqB-BiZgYZ7wAQXvhtEYjscNhmg6yGHoT6yFfls5KgK4_220O_v3hTjMdu7HtI9PDhsKZzxA5RaTnsFeneB7DbV2npNXJ0N9ABfaKb2Reh-/s320/DSCF2211.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Biwak W Brenninger, perfect port in a storm.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZeHsU-I3kO6DLcumCGZr9Sea5g6RbyRF0XKfEhqLNpIuT2xFeb28Xjd6FirWr6QyHQfXsHdcW0gXmoc7mecPOOkTedPFSeSJPfT12khdb3wAxMTEu36bXAWr5yv5OUbXABpgH4kiM65EU/s1600/DSCF2269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZeHsU-I3kO6DLcumCGZr9Sea5g6RbyRF0XKfEhqLNpIuT2xFeb28Xjd6FirWr6QyHQfXsHdcW0gXmoc7mecPOOkTedPFSeSJPfT12khdb3wAxMTEu36bXAWr5yv5OUbXABpgH4kiM65EU/s320/DSCF2269.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rest between storms, Berliner Hohenweg.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Disappointingly things became increasingly developed again with only short sections of rugged terrain. However Schwaz provided not only food, maps and gas, but our first snowfall on 26 July, this was an indication of how the weather would be for the remainder of the trek.<br />
The first crossing into Germany at the Meillerhutte was fun, steep scramble up to a bivy amongst the rocks before the refuge, and beautiful.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihw8-MX5vd60i_yyTrgaVHRX7Yy9Qqxzfv8Jo_UjJ02o02ybW85UPR9mMtU_2cPczSkUDUvMA0-c6CaSUsQgii00O8hMecJLfDbJZErzddQ4-xp3P29zeVnK4ZKzdiKCyl6AtulliMmLqZ/s1600/DSCF2341.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihw8-MX5vd60i_yyTrgaVHRX7Yy9Qqxzfv8Jo_UjJ02o02ybW85UPR9mMtU_2cPczSkUDUvMA0-c6CaSUsQgii00O8hMecJLfDbJZErzddQ4-xp3P29zeVnK4ZKzdiKCyl6AtulliMmLqZ/s320/DSCF2341.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rocky bivy below the Meillerhutte.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfYaQVY-myy9-IPYxQKHlyPT8HWvcERUHqm6w-2VtEblQmw9mTM6aSF9d_p_hLs8NIV-AW-ITcb0T1arkoTy6jJZo5gan6mlb8W1zqoTqERr8UsK71WpW0NypxGHAhIViQUZD-ytYG-1tE/s1600/DSCF2365.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfYaQVY-myy9-IPYxQKHlyPT8HWvcERUHqm6w-2VtEblQmw9mTM6aSF9d_p_hLs8NIV-AW-ITcb0T1arkoTy6jJZo5gan6mlb8W1zqoTqERr8UsK71WpW0NypxGHAhIViQUZD-ytYG-1tE/s320/DSCF2365.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breakfast with a view over the Wetterstein mountains.</td></tr>
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Almost immediately back to Austria on a mix of trails before dropping into Oberstdorf to re-supply and pick up a new solar panel we had sent out from the UK.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-iQ1maSR9vtmiOsWAyBw8ESXewGUQCJFwr-0HLU9OY3QmPaBrsod2NEaOVmvZxyxmGLcP4NUxj8h47KfNtAmC6fbZ8LrVl1q9gpchKIJCnj30M-G3KDrVT3V5KXo9O8lZa1_5qx1k7is2/s1600/DSCF2367.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-iQ1maSR9vtmiOsWAyBw8ESXewGUQCJFwr-0HLU9OY3QmPaBrsod2NEaOVmvZxyxmGLcP4NUxj8h47KfNtAmC6fbZ8LrVl1q9gpchKIJCnj30M-G3KDrVT3V5KXo9O8lZa1_5qx1k7is2/s320/DSCF2367.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Friendly natives.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinD5chJC9R0iJfUV5Ny-1Ov43LOduELKgXsruz6G7zPlKE2J5oqrF9bmuuiR7LXFTzglkY7TPFj8MJ4VzpKsk1IabdKKZUbi7kgzD76Pt9MqegVCXwYUXshpTdP5Xc2VzgFZJb4L5DZZ85/s1600/20170801_165052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinD5chJC9R0iJfUV5Ny-1Ov43LOduELKgXsruz6G7zPlKE2J5oqrF9bmuuiR7LXFTzglkY7TPFj8MJ4VzpKsk1IabdKKZUbi7kgzD76Pt9MqegVCXwYUXshpTdP5Xc2VzgFZJb4L5DZZ85/s320/20170801_165052.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking back to Austria as we cross into Germany again.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Having collected all we needed in Oberstdorf we headed back into Austria to make our connection with the Alpine Pass Route through Switzerland.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDDj_JrUkj04JywW8oT9UCedXW84rcN5I9NoEWeLihJKFVf9YA0ay3n0aWror0lAJG3VdkW1nTrZxwgTvmsFWpBAGGNJPwK3gQZPCWdKtC-yYpBmPNWl9nSCaZqf4k0QWrFgfjMXDN6DQZ/s1600/DSCF2466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDDj_JrUkj04JywW8oT9UCedXW84rcN5I9NoEWeLihJKFVf9YA0ay3n0aWror0lAJG3VdkW1nTrZxwgTvmsFWpBAGGNJPwK3gQZPCWdKtC-yYpBmPNWl9nSCaZqf4k0QWrFgfjMXDN6DQZ/s320/DSCF2466.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bivouac.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXP5DT-EBHwzuGF2yTAwKBaCghThIoKwj_hfEieq3fsz68z2k0ZQRHZt10QgU3-5v7Ke_-QApd0Y_n0-WzBL-6E_a0eyUTpbj150gyIyalvd_K1JYyolKvza_KnVidigMHf0-BF0ka_0mY/s1600/DSCF2479.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXP5DT-EBHwzuGF2yTAwKBaCghThIoKwj_hfEieq3fsz68z2k0ZQRHZt10QgU3-5v7Ke_-QApd0Y_n0-WzBL-6E_a0eyUTpbj150gyIyalvd_K1JYyolKvza_KnVidigMHf0-BF0ka_0mY/s320/DSCF2479.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Austrian Breakfast view.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSqy5CXvMRJc0RaxGS3Yd7JZHpfaJ_9hQqNr9y_RRmbD1KKyqGUWWI7CJ4wxhyphenhyphen4uxMIMk9JbmLL41EvVP0ZLTBursqNSBqTinmdF-dXHkyr8qD2PMW9ukjwrGX7oRoOdHgLeR7cdicXGTQ/s1600/DSCF2518.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSqy5CXvMRJc0RaxGS3Yd7JZHpfaJ_9hQqNr9y_RRmbD1KKyqGUWWI7CJ4wxhyphenhyphen4uxMIMk9JbmLL41EvVP0ZLTBursqNSBqTinmdF-dXHkyr8qD2PMW9ukjwrGX7oRoOdHgLeR7cdicXGTQ/s320/DSCF2518.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the way to Lichtenstein.</td></tr>
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<div>
Lichtenstein was an immediate shock to the pocket and a worry as to how we would manage financially through Switzerland. A rather forlorn girl at the refuge complained that hardly anyone ever stopped there, I didn't have the heart to explain the amount of electric fencing to be negotiated to get there coupled with the eye watering cost of half a radler was enough to put off most of the worlds population. Getting there we had already had a very long day trying to get through the urban areas from Buchboden to Feldkirch, which ended with us diverting to Nuziders for 2 nights at a campsite to get our kit clean and rest. Following this we had a Bivouac in Lichtenstein before another urban transition through Sargans and starting the "Green Route" proper, in the rain.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9PCdbVMEduy4107wavVE58Lc-b6htma90GVq4buBjyPaQMxrMcfvVmnJgvdrFVEHxx6uDhnTyQWuua0DkQvBaLUh-cvKMmwvprZ9_1NxafBgundz6tQCKbN609jyD9CzGab12G96hYiP7/s1600/DSCF2530.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9PCdbVMEduy4107wavVE58Lc-b6htma90GVq4buBjyPaQMxrMcfvVmnJgvdrFVEHxx6uDhnTyQWuua0DkQvBaLUh-cvKMmwvprZ9_1NxafBgundz6tQCKbN609jyD9CzGab12G96hYiP7/s320/DSCF2530.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading down to Sargans.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_z3Bpom0YbaDm0CqedXBwEc8QBrPttboARj57Y0VCS2R_YDiH94UGY0Tt684AtddCH9IMrvqtKLODDd3vi5IF-yOTaxvHOIgugLY7T5Kev9NRwFGZjPQh19TYkak8oN6h34jtbUlFzdqR/s1600/DSCF2533.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_z3Bpom0YbaDm0CqedXBwEc8QBrPttboARj57Y0VCS2R_YDiH94UGY0Tt684AtddCH9IMrvqtKLODDd3vi5IF-yOTaxvHOIgugLY7T5Kev9NRwFGZjPQh19TYkak8oN6h34jtbUlFzdqR/s320/DSCF2533.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cold and wet!</td></tr>
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Switzerland. Now we had both been looking forward to this section given all the glowing accounts of other peoples hikes along the Alpine Pass Route or as it appears to now be called Via-Alpina 1. (This apparent hijacking of the Via Alpina "name" seemed at odds with the values of a cross border hiking route). Undoubtedly some of the views are stunning, spectacular even, but for us the walking not so much. So many of the trails follow roads, tracks, next to railways, cable cars, bus routes and urban areas, yes the scenery is beautiful but for much of it there is a total disconnect between you and the mountains. We did not coin this phrase but "Alpine Bypass Route" accurately summed up how we felt by the time we rejoined the "Red Trail". Some pretty pictures though.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzRPzbv8VOHu9hwcrmL-EFcomp3joYmebvmrWankJi2SvaRKMCxy0dGlfqN9qmXl-0g1y3GliyhdWt1RY-RUe-XLHBsNlrq0_kTqlZbUizPq6wKjyDQ2PAoLwWLMz9zejDaL0-MRqBISEa/s1600/DSCF2615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzRPzbv8VOHu9hwcrmL-EFcomp3joYmebvmrWankJi2SvaRKMCxy0dGlfqN9qmXl-0g1y3GliyhdWt1RY-RUe-XLHBsNlrq0_kTqlZbUizPq6wKjyDQ2PAoLwWLMz9zejDaL0-MRqBISEa/s320/DSCF2615.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Surenen Pass.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdXLfxdgGzDXAC0wPUfaHBADjsbwt9z5Xr7QmDwzEkeAVnDhA_FJz-sN6qa7r4p4hPe6ot22LEqrNqTuy3GP0OxboOLyVd-MdGlzGt6bvwwCtcqREuS-Mp5_XXdI5z1XszsAfxc2zCvS5l/s1600/DSCF2650.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdXLfxdgGzDXAC0wPUfaHBADjsbwt9z5Xr7QmDwzEkeAVnDhA_FJz-sN6qa7r4p4hPe6ot22LEqrNqTuy3GP0OxboOLyVd-MdGlzGt6bvwwCtcqREuS-Mp5_XXdI5z1XszsAfxc2zCvS5l/s320/DSCF2650.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Planplatten.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyQKvouMJzhiSt6c1Yyn-0Y49-RmTbE-W8Bkf-VGbvcTI7XUN1HNjR4nGVSwuPmke7BA0UShelyt8qe1C8MsQ6PsDus41bkDO7lmvvjYaMw0CttE9FChnOcnFeN0MSQ9PDK3w1VvzP3Bbe/s1600/DSCF2657.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyQKvouMJzhiSt6c1Yyn-0Y49-RmTbE-W8Bkf-VGbvcTI7XUN1HNjR4nGVSwuPmke7BA0UShelyt8qe1C8MsQ6PsDus41bkDO7lmvvjYaMw0CttE9FChnOcnFeN0MSQ9PDK3w1VvzP3Bbe/s320/DSCF2657.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bivouac sunset on the Bernese Alps.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3hYAaYNwkvvtOXdPcxJC_IAf3ZwJSEw25IvYA53bDEGrffDC6Vu4XhRQlYvYYPSem8p_NNhUiGPQQ9P5zF_tt9IBeejNsVGPdLMEF30-AW97fHadfpPZH6X7XI5sDrsOR-nUvc3IJHB3Z/s1600/DSCF2684.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3hYAaYNwkvvtOXdPcxJC_IAf3ZwJSEw25IvYA53bDEGrffDC6Vu4XhRQlYvYYPSem8p_NNhUiGPQQ9P5zF_tt9IBeejNsVGPdLMEF30-AW97fHadfpPZH6X7XI5sDrsOR-nUvc3IJHB3Z/s320/DSCF2684.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eiger.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEwCdyxNEHt0HeGCMcDyPMtG6OLef9x_2UQh4kBqGGbBNaEHsSZinhCxApoE59cEhd_G_E15Tlz5TcfmdqzcncrYo5P4LHOW3pPrUSC8fkGE8C_0kOjo1SWTDuCIKzxYDacOGBU7JAoYhY/s1600/DSCF2713.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEwCdyxNEHt0HeGCMcDyPMtG6OLef9x_2UQh4kBqGGbBNaEHsSZinhCxApoE59cEhd_G_E15Tlz5TcfmdqzcncrYo5P4LHOW3pPrUSC8fkGE8C_0kOjo1SWTDuCIKzxYDacOGBU7JAoYhY/s320/DSCF2713.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lauterbrunnen.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwY3jZmi3hOg7IlftOZtpmeYJYw8VHTFuiN1coZZ29IuPGbUBZmZvY0JJ4BvLkaAXAS1fiwyGTPjUk7H4z26NrTCpcR_qHcNEWq4kBQCtI9HgJ3UqyAqYEfuxOIVYeEhREC01F8xQ89bhg/s1600/DSCF2757.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwY3jZmi3hOg7IlftOZtpmeYJYw8VHTFuiN1coZZ29IuPGbUBZmZvY0JJ4BvLkaAXAS1fiwyGTPjUk7H4z26NrTCpcR_qHcNEWq4kBQCtI9HgJ3UqyAqYEfuxOIVYeEhREC01F8xQ89bhg/s320/DSCF2757.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Searching for a bivy spot amongst the remains of the Gamchigletscher glacier.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2bt73AAKHKIVzgbOHMzlWfpU7DTsGRgxbYgpTdc4YCeclGEP9Dif3VH9-aAkF6CWObzmUJskw-InA4DUw3q8dUez0hCq49il_9s68gRaAqJi8G6vzCtRCYF3A3AtFWQBgcpkoMyYumJq7/s320/DSCF2781.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breakfast on the Hohturli Pass.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Approaching Bunderchrinde</td></tr>
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A re-connection seemed to occur as we passed through a hedge leaving the "Green Trail" behind rejoining the "Red Route" on it's way towards the French border. It is strange to be on such an adventure and yet to feel disappointed but that is how we both felt about the Alpine Pass Route, maybe others feel the same but the pressure of conforming to the general InstaBlog view thwarts honest comment. Anyway we stayed high bypassing Gsteig to a bivouac just before the Sanetsch lake, a great start to the final few days before crossing into France for the first time.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLN7b3Ku6o9cp1pEL8My_w_oLa72-MKBx40wYX-k0PE7IvkezaSrugBJUY2Zll7OOgN0l7k7gSz4D_pWwR-lHwALA6qY856m3uazZw5rYskU6A2Z9SPNBIfsxP1NdYJjDiPYI04Prt4CWs/s1600/DSCF2854.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLN7b3Ku6o9cp1pEL8My_w_oLa72-MKBx40wYX-k0PE7IvkezaSrugBJUY2Zll7OOgN0l7k7gSz4D_pWwR-lHwALA6qY856m3uazZw5rYskU6A2Z9SPNBIfsxP1NdYJjDiPYI04Prt4CWs/s320/DSCF2854.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaving our bivouac near Sanetsch lake.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj88NPHZWDzSyHaqhD_u-tB9o9EE1nsN70afdnKD3uJtOP7Pk6L9tr6MzQQsYgv0bne0TSp2re1pA205DX8Gh9PRmpq3_mmrIS9LzKdNEBLUonUScNxB2O96-WNHHC7c1bL3kLwWIKlyApR/s1600/DSCF2881.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj88NPHZWDzSyHaqhD_u-tB9o9EE1nsN70afdnKD3uJtOP7Pk6L9tr6MzQQsYgv0bne0TSp2re1pA205DX8Gh9PRmpq3_mmrIS9LzKdNEBLUonUScNxB2O96-WNHHC7c1bL3kLwWIKlyApR/s320/DSCF2881.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">High trail along Alp Rionda.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mont Blanc views.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt9O6nWPoLQKqFvB7YtEAdxgXUiFeCgGXz7I-CpRGxqMjdhBGI7F-o_73Ec9FaUfbxETeTkS-gYhVw-4oCN9cwzG51SnS9Z9i0hTxe_-ZcNSdJG7FXGQPL1rry_cbjfqP5jfGnpWAobphA/s1600/DSCF2942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt9O6nWPoLQKqFvB7YtEAdxgXUiFeCgGXz7I-CpRGxqMjdhBGI7F-o_73Ec9FaUfbxETeTkS-gYhVw-4oCN9cwzG51SnS9Z9i0hTxe_-ZcNSdJG7FXGQPL1rry_cbjfqP5jfGnpWAobphA/s320/DSCF2942.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spending the last few Swiss Francs.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEittFnx6eHE1T8FTnhPScg4rqImEs5gME5hLtaxQ_Ti-PMAMi6UcI4tG3HN1IIH3JroPx1Bbxs4EvScNZJlmoasPMLmqMXGK-h5f4wZpAPSR-DehhuDGFep3_CfZqistS6f4zc_GHKJbCvX/s1600/DSCF2957.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEittFnx6eHE1T8FTnhPScg4rqImEs5gME5hLtaxQ_Ti-PMAMi6UcI4tG3HN1IIH3JroPx1Bbxs4EvScNZJlmoasPMLmqMXGK-h5f4wZpAPSR-DehhuDGFep3_CfZqistS6f4zc_GHKJbCvX/s320/DSCF2957.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Col du Susanfe.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0yeW2dBPq17n_J_XFdUld0imQjjaHjrIvpGJfwk4OiDeKntMu4By5onVUUTQ2SHk_NbsGjscQ-p6ALx9bbp6EiqWVm6PKTfGRZxxywOv1mDYEH-o663wFeP1retmNBdLfzMaNqTjxQhJ-/s1600/DSCF2962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0yeW2dBPq17n_J_XFdUld0imQjjaHjrIvpGJfwk4OiDeKntMu4By5onVUUTQ2SHk_NbsGjscQ-p6ALx9bbp6EiqWVm6PKTfGRZxxywOv1mDYEH-o663wFeP1retmNBdLfzMaNqTjxQhJ-/s320/DSCF2962.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last look back before crossing into France.</td></tr>
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<div>
<br />
Heading into France we pick up the GR5 and head down to Samoens for a zero day, new boots for Jo, lots of food and to collect a replacement rain jacket we had sent to the campsite. All went well apart from the coat that had been refused by the site owners, never did find out why (although I am beginning to think it's a French thing).<br />
If you have read this far you may have noticed the odd dig at the French so I will put this straight now, we LOVE France and the French, if there is anywhere I would like to live it is there. As a country they are blessed with so many stunning landscapes all with tremendous well marked trails for everyone to enjoy, they really "get" hiking, backpacking and bivouac. However many French refuges are somewhat different to their European counterparts in that they appear to be run for the convenience of those that work there, in fact they are generally referred to as "Refuses"!<br />
Onward.....<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7HhgOMDuR06T1JO1SWuwfMd85S_oDsi5b8jVJq-AUEmOQsBzPYRj7M4yuofcAzV12SqRC7lWSfCGSNvqVQpBoMvPCajP6lpKaH8OmbLKzG__X5gfE2DWRmaXss4XOWRz5yBSwmnxGNu_9/s1600/20170826_174756.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7HhgOMDuR06T1JO1SWuwfMd85S_oDsi5b8jVJq-AUEmOQsBzPYRj7M4yuofcAzV12SqRC7lWSfCGSNvqVQpBoMvPCajP6lpKaH8OmbLKzG__X5gfE2DWRmaXss4XOWRz5yBSwmnxGNu_9/s320/20170826_174756.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Battered feet.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4HE7XWSJhVZ1Qzs24te3Mmxam8PqOwGuaWJ-p5LnQlO6sjp4FSjoGhgUR8FJB1hIhe2tHWHFLHeBIAkO1ww8YBslq-mKcosUjAwToOSiQShu4XA9pRtSYNZckYzaBJb64C2hZPT8LMZ_e/s1600/20170826_175044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4HE7XWSJhVZ1Qzs24te3Mmxam8PqOwGuaWJ-p5LnQlO6sjp4FSjoGhgUR8FJB1hIhe2tHWHFLHeBIAkO1ww8YBslq-mKcosUjAwToOSiQShu4XA9pRtSYNZckYzaBJb64C2hZPT8LMZ_e/s320/20170826_175044.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clean bodies, clothes and lots to eat.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We had been going pretty well so decided to join the Tour du Mont Blanc at the Col du Brevent and continue clockwise before heading South again.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP5MkqUJrZAd9__c2pa0px7m3FmlM-XFZYaXUsb2FHyPnfRiL3QERJs9e7Z33NciIOqg7Y1JPQtWPFQw9JgmkKJPNGhlMQPgprHOj1Ax4snD5TLD9RsKGBp6lXmImrkHvoh6_Q_dew9tt2/s1600/DSCF3007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP5MkqUJrZAd9__c2pa0px7m3FmlM-XFZYaXUsb2FHyPnfRiL3QERJs9e7Z33NciIOqg7Y1JPQtWPFQw9JgmkKJPNGhlMQPgprHOj1Ax4snD5TLD9RsKGBp6lXmImrkHvoh6_Q_dew9tt2/s320/DSCF3007.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Camping at Refuge Moede Anterne.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNWc6stLuMkDbCw5LnOtRQKEaMOfbMcC1d-u0yYgxEY0QXPOdB5T5_RygwmlahLYAMrOzeJloaxGc2nFVtB_E4OUb7nSEfZVqIjTPaWqCK6f0lE0TfFNyiHqGSnHXlIiXFCg6r4h-iRAOp/s1600/DSCF3024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNWc6stLuMkDbCw5LnOtRQKEaMOfbMcC1d-u0yYgxEY0QXPOdB5T5_RygwmlahLYAMrOzeJloaxGc2nFVtB_E4OUb7nSEfZVqIjTPaWqCK6f0lE0TfFNyiHqGSnHXlIiXFCg6r4h-iRAOp/s320/DSCF3024.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Col Du Brevent and Mont Blanc.</td></tr>
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<br />
Unfortunately our stove fell apart when we stopped for a brew on the way to the Col du Brevent so we dropped down to Argentiere in the hope of finding a replacement before continuing.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTcIIQL2Vdd0cYSYaHkeSo047zU_JiA2qERRFGPeg5kW-M6rtqkKx9imj01ti-zT5CzDYFpUqz3fArxrnEPvgC2oWxcaSpIc8pMaxqBkVRISg0mjtkHCKbZ3_me_3mUpvs5Xij8wJeRpzn/s1600/20170829_190820.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTcIIQL2Vdd0cYSYaHkeSo047zU_JiA2qERRFGPeg5kW-M6rtqkKx9imj01ti-zT5CzDYFpUqz3fArxrnEPvgC2oWxcaSpIc8pMaxqBkVRISg0mjtkHCKbZ3_me_3mUpvs5Xij8wJeRpzn/s320/20170829_190820.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Primus stove after 64 days........useless.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
A long day saw us reach Argentiere, buy what appeared to be the only canister top gas stove in town and a load of food before settling in at the great Camping du Glacier d'Argentiere.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitTgCnWsT_sYjIYC07F18OZfjnTtraGpMTLLD33tV_sBPsPl4ORYVa1IVSfIBl-d7BK07eQBsrTqItvhvbS_6jsKpHW37R175IIW3vNetDoUfmW4XFhSU_Nvdlh8_q7n2OY92pXWp624QV/s1600/DSCF3034+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitTgCnWsT_sYjIYC07F18OZfjnTtraGpMTLLD33tV_sBPsPl4ORYVa1IVSfIBl-d7BK07eQBsrTqItvhvbS_6jsKpHW37R175IIW3vNetDoUfmW4XFhSU_Nvdlh8_q7n2OY92pXWp624QV/s320/DSCF3034+%25282%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the crowded Lac Blanc.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgSrkITiNSRv7q54nVM2AKcQPtTSLrImx6CcHsH2cjYreDDxF0ILZ7fnQixBPvxiasRBHkeP5WlRsPj38Bua8K99pb07tvr41fsMytwayQ4e_ZKstfsWABn1gLE1weZ5vitwEp8_hcSaSW/s1600/DSCF3046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgSrkITiNSRv7q54nVM2AKcQPtTSLrImx6CcHsH2cjYreDDxF0ILZ7fnQixBPvxiasRBHkeP5WlRsPj38Bua8K99pb07tvr41fsMytwayQ4e_ZKstfsWABn1gLE1weZ5vitwEp8_hcSaSW/s320/DSCF3046.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loved the friendly vibe here.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We had a real struggle to leave this friendly campsite but the forecast was deteriorating and we wanted to get over the Fenetre d'Arpette before the rain, which hit us as we put up our tent at Relais d'Arpette next to a contingent of the British Army who bailed via Trient the following morning. Their breakfast leftovers were very welcome!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOpVgAQitmvgAqYVSxepwyltcbt4ucFKy9-pF3uVmkj45O7eA9kJRsZQnut1b3PTaKPM7OiW_SrSwDQxkrZRP36c6zoq9wE4DG0VXJdVaq59i97-g2r8LmIS2r5hNh7JwthGviNUEp6_4O/s1600/DSCF3069+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOpVgAQitmvgAqYVSxepwyltcbt4ucFKy9-pF3uVmkj45O7eA9kJRsZQnut1b3PTaKPM7OiW_SrSwDQxkrZRP36c6zoq9wE4DG0VXJdVaq59i97-g2r8LmIS2r5hNh7JwthGviNUEp6_4O/s320/DSCF3069+%25282%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Approaching Fenetre d'Arpette as storm clouds gather.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT3iB60-8B1ga23jXzRD-6zqOpeEdVq5ufJa7MFTQwI7041_5q5RKxUU4FKW9LfHHrcNKxDZRlusfC_LIoXKxsGNP6a9O7Ad6Q20oNiNQXwL3XHRt9WT3hPeEQNEBtmxPdMNkJz1IP_-MX/s1600/DSCF3074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT3iB60-8B1ga23jXzRD-6zqOpeEdVq5ufJa7MFTQwI7041_5q5RKxUU4FKW9LfHHrcNKxDZRlusfC_LIoXKxsGNP6a9O7Ad6Q20oNiNQXwL3XHRt9WT3hPeEQNEBtmxPdMNkJz1IP_-MX/s320/DSCF3074.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fenetre d'Arpette.</td></tr>
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UTMB races were on now so each day we adjusted our route to ensure we didn't clash with them on the trails. However it was amazing to watch some of them tackling the terrain at speed in conditions that ranged from glorious sunshine to rain to below freezing and snow.<br />
Despite the TMB being one of the best known trails in Europe, and hiked by thousands each year no doubt, we felt fully engaged with the surroundings and pleasantly surprised that none of the route we took felt spoilt by all those feet.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAeMSG-_cBQMdHCTZ5CuuPnCHzp2IlELAhbUyiRtK35MWrjhU6c4sldKoAsIbNRBAmzt1ZeN6I6b_Qf140sxxgeKaF5lP0R6rZUK6C9Q5cEkHLB5SrezAo_ZOUERQvRWe2ZoKXNwjveGhb/s1600/DSCF3101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAeMSG-_cBQMdHCTZ5CuuPnCHzp2IlELAhbUyiRtK35MWrjhU6c4sldKoAsIbNRBAmzt1ZeN6I6b_Qf140sxxgeKaF5lP0R6rZUK6C9Q5cEkHLB5SrezAo_ZOUERQvRWe2ZoKXNwjveGhb/s320/DSCF3101.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Italian side of Col Ferret.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0zruokp2P8_CKEgDgvWrGGM0AhVVmgr6xErLKa-s1kh6DM1ajhiZhuODTpCQ4HoZS5QAwlpKlL2QVKzcb7ZHvxkc1yUuwL2RQ0APtUIix5z2RyPb8noWE_XBXBZRrUhp307May5xBgYxL/s1600/20170901_175230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0zruokp2P8_CKEgDgvWrGGM0AhVVmgr6xErLKa-s1kh6DM1ajhiZhuODTpCQ4HoZS5QAwlpKlL2QVKzcb7ZHvxkc1yUuwL2RQ0APtUIix5z2RyPb8noWE_XBXBZRrUhp307May5xBgYxL/s320/20170901_175230.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bivouac above the Bonatti Refuge.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEwD46AiZrPmatGSATNKDf0LfJWrFMWAoJ7qLIeQAVGuUg5UaeCqoLhl85iTXdV6hV_w0BeWPmGqKPvaNFuNSa2VC-yQAuDVPmUw3kS1zCK13U6b_hrzgOsxKpNTSEmxpHrLLXfQkoMuSv/s1600/20170903_120545.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEwD46AiZrPmatGSATNKDf0LfJWrFMWAoJ7qLIeQAVGuUg5UaeCqoLhl85iTXdV6hV_w0BeWPmGqKPvaNFuNSa2VC-yQAuDVPmUw3kS1zCK13U6b_hrzgOsxKpNTSEmxpHrLLXfQkoMuSv/s320/20170903_120545.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saying goodbye to a very cold Italy.</td></tr>
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Back in France we walked down to the bivouac area at Les Chapieux for the evening and to plan our route to the Mediterranean. A short section of the Tour de Beaufortain would lead us back on to the GR5, the variante GR55 and the GR52 to finish in Menton seemed the best to us.<br />
As it was it could hardly have been better, now into September the trails were very quiet and the scenery beautiful. We continued our wandering between bivouac and campsite, thrilled at every Col by the views of what lay ahead. In a lesser environment it would have been easy to rush along any line of least resistance just to finish, but this was to be enjoyed and savored all the way to the sea.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIBK1YRRhR3lqPvkMllMMFqNjxR8fd-4VbZK7AcTAADWSFhD_ZqHrKhUlVsKC6KntBEPnIImHownhB5HTtnE9ssNWZ-GoFZqJKxYza7jXDhDjN6m72GC0tnsmVuc_X5q_2zCQlHqW1o-bM/s1600/DSCF3171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIBK1YRRhR3lqPvkMllMMFqNjxR8fd-4VbZK7AcTAADWSFhD_ZqHrKhUlVsKC6KntBEPnIImHownhB5HTtnE9ssNWZ-GoFZqJKxYza7jXDhDjN6m72GC0tnsmVuc_X5q_2zCQlHqW1o-bM/s320/DSCF3171.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Descending from Col de la Seigne.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Q-CSK_mfyhQKYVy-_uiR939RqD-ouQUsZu9WxRSG7zQXVhOe8lx4xhJAefJgYEkWtZQ0kzQ8MWyOqbm0gXnUBDfEmN-mJmW9CU_RJ4tpyp88VdSphXbtdTunE6eAsDtF-2zL3MXm-K-T/s1600/DSCF3232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Q-CSK_mfyhQKYVy-_uiR939RqD-ouQUsZu9WxRSG7zQXVhOe8lx4xhJAefJgYEkWtZQ0kzQ8MWyOqbm0gXnUBDfEmN-mJmW9CU_RJ4tpyp88VdSphXbtdTunE6eAsDtF-2zL3MXm-K-T/s320/DSCF3232.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Refuge du Palet.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjYtMADZ92RwWLQwc_NAAT4jddUFARDn3DbzAKfAO1mbw1TKEDeERG5PMzF9OaF_Ja1YSsw-6NhF0Sf9R-mvURxFdYUrBHcq92ZLAFwqj0tURZp2yUz1-44MztCx00vB79NB9c0nsq8n1/s1600/DSCF3270.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjYtMADZ92RwWLQwc_NAAT4jddUFARDn3DbzAKfAO1mbw1TKEDeERG5PMzF9OaF_Ja1YSsw-6NhF0Sf9R-mvURxFdYUrBHcq92ZLAFwqj0tURZp2yUz1-44MztCx00vB79NB9c0nsq8n1/s320/DSCF3270.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lac des Vaches.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOXbBXMv9JCowQuFn0A3Ia4S7_-BL1RIxuevT8U2OWhpWA41ddd2esh9LXjuggMZvA4POFsrqg-nd6EYjPlL36WYmGusoQxf1cPJtTdE7p3HVhs7EeM4b5fK_GgMVK32-CvzmJ6hzxc3bU/s1600/DSCF3290.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOXbBXMv9JCowQuFn0A3Ia4S7_-BL1RIxuevT8U2OWhpWA41ddd2esh9LXjuggMZvA4POFsrqg-nd6EYjPlL36WYmGusoQxf1cPJtTdE7p3HVhs7EeM4b5fK_GgMVK32-CvzmJ6hzxc3bU/s320/DSCF3290.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another day, another col on the GR5.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ8kAAOEvOKyazFZBwYhGhnTTcGjGDGanOguG-SuBwiFJ16QtNvzjmaK0d05BaC33Wgjfdcx-oZPnRFi7f3x4MLX1H-QhMKjsyghtRzaInSxX2kNi4qntcoyMjqaI7S2n7PYTQLl1wQIyn/s1600/20170910_075100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ8kAAOEvOKyazFZBwYhGhnTTcGjGDGanOguG-SuBwiFJ16QtNvzjmaK0d05BaC33Wgjfdcx-oZPnRFi7f3x4MLX1H-QhMKjsyghtRzaInSxX2kNi4qntcoyMjqaI7S2n7PYTQLl1wQIyn/s320/20170910_075100.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Near Lac du Peyron prior to climbing Thabor.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5KqnFISo_PUeYu5-ejJcY0awH0OS98kRaXgkUZPLGNQPBDa0uS-fVfjd5VuXm0y72gmlHFvDSDWm8E2J7TuCPBrnSf5hNpKzvtE4Ttsb1Q7UkmcGClz-ievurrRvPanWFXkoHjlpM1Tv9/s1600/DSCF3335.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5KqnFISo_PUeYu5-ejJcY0awH0OS98kRaXgkUZPLGNQPBDa0uS-fVfjd5VuXm0y72gmlHFvDSDWm8E2J7TuCPBrnSf5hNpKzvtE4Ttsb1Q7UkmcGClz-ievurrRvPanWFXkoHjlpM1Tv9/s320/DSCF3335.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Climbing Mont Thabor.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjUZPEqvBowx6fR2sZP_fUXlV3FfLFQJ2zQ3l3Tr1CChbktDJLPazXafzjDyqrFZBsZ8P0lzAo8lI2PPHrs8YH-0VtjzsBXTihyphenhyphenQRn1aA7NWkEEbvD-s0GrDecsqNb6m1y4jCXZ4dJ_zDK/s1600/DSCF3417.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjUZPEqvBowx6fR2sZP_fUXlV3FfLFQJ2zQ3l3Tr1CChbktDJLPazXafzjDyqrFZBsZ8P0lzAo8lI2PPHrs8YH-0VtjzsBXTihyphenhyphenQRn1aA7NWkEEbvD-s0GrDecsqNb6m1y4jCXZ4dJ_zDK/s320/DSCF3417.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Starting to feel a little more Mediterranean. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlYemD1JTr32GPRP_9qWogWx5_s46uxIVGcPYsGM-9MHHLiOBIjBRegprm16oLpspQuIzoH5Q7pTmSKcAZptFMN3KzsMBV5vLLSgeS8t_aDaoZu-Qt67EVpSSReZbbWs8mxjan4Jjkn1ie/s1600/DSCF3484.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlYemD1JTr32GPRP_9qWogWx5_s46uxIVGcPYsGM-9MHHLiOBIjBRegprm16oLpspQuIzoH5Q7pTmSKcAZptFMN3KzsMBV5vLLSgeS8t_aDaoZu-Qt67EVpSSReZbbWs8mxjan4Jjkn1ie/s320/DSCF3484.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ghost shop of Fouillouse.</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrN0mBil0wXJKOd_7Uo7Y5tPJhpYaL-tOFL_A2V9Xu0_TodB7QOtneEwBnFfS9AvfIUb-LNZuSYIlqhlLmHvZE4WD_9wqDf0acLcokxacM1GMRABOaW9GDoNPJQ512cYF3mMNOFLKXmwsf/s1600/20170915_181443.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrN0mBil0wXJKOd_7Uo7Y5tPJhpYaL-tOFL_A2V9Xu0_TodB7QOtneEwBnFfS9AvfIUb-LNZuSYIlqhlLmHvZE4WD_9wqDf0acLcokxacM1GMRABOaW9GDoNPJQ512cYF3mMNOFLKXmwsf/s320/20170915_181443.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fouillouse.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0hpFGEyZwv8uaKYcTkt9H9Hp8cEL6950Y9oBtT8XEfIevMQUFDpJktLgNXrc6CRHNomVWa4IptdGWFQxzGu1-YkAlhfV3U3jNoToknikY_BuygHcnbSr7bd-rFsUwiB6TYoZb0AkjSGHl/s1600/DSCF3529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0hpFGEyZwv8uaKYcTkt9H9Hp8cEL6950Y9oBtT8XEfIevMQUFDpJktLgNXrc6CRHNomVWa4IptdGWFQxzGu1-YkAlhfV3U3jNoToknikY_BuygHcnbSr7bd-rFsUwiB6TYoZb0AkjSGHl/s320/DSCF3529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Col de Mallemort.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha4dggBwX6xRxxLrmIOc0vVSmvTiwgE4WcXC0rlhJnCusqwzHxMBnIr9kD79WrPZWSoybBB03HWYryTN-Rod5_l8tsN3eOIFK06MfJ1HqpMMsM2Ab2RF3a0NVeTQc16nHHQAbtA-uEGRmW/s1600/DSCF3566.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha4dggBwX6xRxxLrmIOc0vVSmvTiwgE4WcXC0rlhJnCusqwzHxMBnIr9kD79WrPZWSoybBB03HWYryTN-Rod5_l8tsN3eOIFK06MfJ1HqpMMsM2Ab2RF3a0NVeTQc16nHHQAbtA-uEGRmW/s320/DSCF3566.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lac du Lauzanier.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh42TCKdMqQaSGAAV3L3kapKYOxl9SoqToQ2MYZk2uIiv_ZZHwekdcJhgIuktgUKvmg3to_MERqFuQ3b-A2AnW1uDmxbwYa9YVN6UUCM6bwFo_uNRi9w1bNaXPCJ_Qx2SHNO1u8Mt9dJfU/s1600/DSCF3586.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh42TCKdMqQaSGAAV3L3kapKYOxl9SoqToQ2MYZk2uIiv_ZZHwekdcJhgIuktgUKvmg3to_MERqFuQ3b-A2AnW1uDmxbwYa9YVN6UUCM6bwFo_uNRi9w1bNaXPCJ_Qx2SHNO1u8Mt9dJfU/s320/DSCF3586.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pas de la Cavale.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB4AORnke18XQdeMzy30447Fsz8jkVNhGz7gjQUIFVhD0OGaKVExd3h6sG5oPvDZXAg6tCJg1J3jKOrB6zQ-ckbzLL-qcKU8X9RY5e_sPenvMSsPM0clqehW88assCxHR4emj4QJ18wOVJ/s1600/DSCF3649.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB4AORnke18XQdeMzy30447Fsz8jkVNhGz7gjQUIFVhD0OGaKVExd3h6sG5oPvDZXAg6tCJg1J3jKOrB6zQ-ckbzLL-qcKU8X9RY5e_sPenvMSsPM0clqehW88assCxHR4emj4QJ18wOVJ/s320/DSCF3649.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snow showers near Mont Mounier.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq5-6EeiL9IVJGtsf-AYjdGz42IgyxZQ7eogEtKGjknzLXZah1V0pLTiqgHDj6Df9dq095cc3RHwY537Mu5yMzYnXbqkTklQ5yM7fiM_P_MezJYKix13VEKTxyiCoI_XsqXbMLwUpYMJFW/s1600/DSCF3752.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq5-6EeiL9IVJGtsf-AYjdGz42IgyxZQ7eogEtKGjknzLXZah1V0pLTiqgHDj6Df9dq095cc3RHwY537Mu5yMzYnXbqkTklQ5yM7fiM_P_MezJYKix13VEKTxyiCoI_XsqXbMLwUpYMJFW/s320/DSCF3752.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bivouac at Lac du Basto.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBIQMtpoSkVcz_8EruEv6R9CqpMGkvEwfejtPgD5b5zYUJyKdWH9OoTnfkHyfYkkyexIBWoxJ5zxktn6_hn18gEbMr3F1GF_wx73bwmiaFymTJ6EliGEz7DzZD65NvfTmfJidNn_4cgUl8/s1600/DSCF3807+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="738" data-original-width="1600" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBIQMtpoSkVcz_8EruEv6R9CqpMGkvEwfejtPgD5b5zYUJyKdWH9OoTnfkHyfYkkyexIBWoxJ5zxktn6_hn18gEbMr3F1GF_wx73bwmiaFymTJ6EliGEz7DzZD65NvfTmfJidNn_4cgUl8/s320/DSCF3807+%25283%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sospel.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim2eSb4p3feJ-_b20Ykd01cfI-KcyA9B3kAQTgVR5lgIucayKDa2mtq-Kt5ZcLZ6qYbKKV-jVoem5Dod_lw_Ds2kZblGlvEM0ck1jrsPCjGAuWJwx5qVfVpQEt3w0ZG7XusJPAJa2xF7wE/s1600/DSCF3823.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim2eSb4p3feJ-_b20Ykd01cfI-KcyA9B3kAQTgVR5lgIucayKDa2mtq-Kt5ZcLZ6qYbKKV-jVoem5Dod_lw_Ds2kZblGlvEM0ck1jrsPCjGAuWJwx5qVfVpQEt3w0ZG7XusJPAJa2xF7wE/s320/DSCF3823.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emotional last night overlooking Menton</td></tr>
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Every part of our journey from the mighty Mont Blanc left us wishing we had more time to explore, from the Beaufortain, Vanoise, Queyras, Ecrins and Mercantour seemingly endless trails teased us with their promise of hidden lakes, peaks and valleys as we continued South.<br />
Tired and sore we pitched our tent for the last time overlooking Menton, an intense mixture of emotions threatening to overcome us as we ate a fine supper and drank the wine we hauled up from Sospel to a Mediterranean sunset.<br />
The end of a great adventure, yes there were mishaps and disappointments along the way but we did discover "our" Alps. We have "our" favorites, places, people and food, and a thousand memories that come flooding back unexpectedly with a smell, sound or colour. I suppose the final test has to be would we do it again? to which the reply would be an emphatic YES!</div>
Nick Mandevillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02253828298647316305noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2784606909514903780.post-65535784444290155742017-06-05T15:54:00.000+01:002017-10-25T18:14:04.062+01:00Primus Primetech 1.3l Stove SetOver the years I have become far more jaded about the latest whatever piece of kit that is flavour of the month for this expert or that magazine. I confess I still waste a fair amount of cash on stuff for the outdoors, although in my defense until you have tested things in your chosen environment no amount of poking in shops or reading of reviews like this will necessarily help.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAE8O9c5ehaWO8UzxRNOw7Uw5F9ZzxjzeZ5l_FfkQVQNKRID2mJde8N7D1Bmb2VPsUNiU1pM6rLbMC8tCDWVdZvCa3lgmMA8H9sMeJx0KP7k8a5Jv9Qr0NpzGPFbgGwTIKKkDAHnA7dKKv/s1600/DSCF1483.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAE8O9c5ehaWO8UzxRNOw7Uw5F9ZzxjzeZ5l_FfkQVQNKRID2mJde8N7D1Bmb2VPsUNiU1pM6rLbMC8tCDWVdZvCa3lgmMA8H9sMeJx0KP7k8a5Jv9Qr0NpzGPFbgGwTIKKkDAHnA7dKKv/s320/DSCF1483.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just a selection from the stove collection</td></tr>
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By now I have tried most cookers, from ultralight titanium meths burners, wood stoves, multi fuel, canister top and remote. My chosen playground is mountains, Scotland, North Wales, the Lakes or more likely the Pyrenees, generally the higher the better and this is the main influence on my stove choice. Bad weather high up is when I need hot food and drink if only to lift the spirits, so the ability to work well in cold and windy conditions is essential, as is simplicity in set up. Until now my favorite would be the MSR Reactor, robust, effective and simple but, and it's a big but on long trips, I find it really difficult to do much more than boil water with it.<br />
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Then whilst mooching around our local outdoor emporium, Trail Outdoor, I came across the Primus Primetech Stove.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwdUxh7KYwFyujrUU-RJqnXMu5FkLj1sGasjTT6RBZV2mTc85ZdJSRMq4CoLwt5cCf918LCrSSfG45u98WJ3QSeQMF-wKxbhoDtDu3EWx47RZsxG7MFPt5tJP7RQk3A8rZif8mDoirAfbw/s1600/DSCF1485.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwdUxh7KYwFyujrUU-RJqnXMu5FkLj1sGasjTT6RBZV2mTc85ZdJSRMq4CoLwt5cCf918LCrSSfG45u98WJ3QSeQMF-wKxbhoDtDu3EWx47RZsxG7MFPt5tJP7RQk3A8rZif8mDoirAfbw/s320/DSCF1485.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Primus Primetech 1.3l Stove</td></tr>
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The second pan, stove, handle and igniter all store inside the main pot for transport, and although not as neat and tidy as a Trangia did a reasonable job at making a compact unit. In use the handle clips to the pan and feels secure and the strainer lid works really well with pasta or rice. The integrated heat exchanger on the pot together with a partial windshield on the burner reminded me of the simplicity and robustness of the Reactor and with a multi month trip coming up, which will require I do more than just boil water, it had to be worth a go.<br />
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Long gone are the days when I measured the grams of every item, that lead to some very miserable trips! Now items are far more performance driven, having said that I'm not daft and I'm not strong so out went the second pot, the igniter and the transport bag, added were my trusty firesteel and a cuben fibre bag from Treadlite.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOwKqqEmYrwKFnc8hISgAx9ds5AswcQWMOVq6W-DUxtfqSCE4RtOwMXnMmiBR3CHl5CCqQy_sq_2HcVgptQhgbpflPd97-3OQBS92fY48_V9ZX-dVvpFS3bxU8krRTsrVQZS_ZmLgWSier/s1600/DSCF1488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOwKqqEmYrwKFnc8hISgAx9ds5AswcQWMOVq6W-DUxtfqSCE4RtOwMXnMmiBR3CHl5CCqQy_sq_2HcVgptQhgbpflPd97-3OQBS92fY48_V9ZX-dVvpFS3bxU8krRTsrVQZS_ZmLgWSier/s320/DSCF1488.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Primus Primetech 1.3l Pot and Stove </td></tr>
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A couple of nights camping high in Snowdonia confirmed what a great stove this appears to be, cold blustery conditions with intermittent rain the stove was fast to boil for hot drinks and simmered when asked allowing thoughts of a varied menu. The main pot is non-stick meaning at least initially I won't need the titanium chisel to keep it clean, scrambled eggs or pancakes anyone? The next 4 months will reveal any weaknesses but for now I'm really rather excited!<br />
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<h3>
Post Via-Alpina Update.......</h3>
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Ok so the stove did a lot of things pretty well. It does appear very frugal on gas, copes with both cold and windy conditions well. We cooked inside our tent on many occasions in foul weather without the worry of knocking anything over. Above all we even managed to "cook" scrambled eggs, vegetable curry, halloumi burgers and other real food from scratch, a real boost on a long trip.</div>
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However that was all whilst the stove was still working because on day 67 it fell apart.</div>
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This reduced the stove to a useless piece of ballast to be carried for the remaining 27 days of our hike. Earlier concerns we had over the stove's build quality now came to the fore. Within the first few weeks small bits of plastic fell off the handle, these were supposed to help the gripper hold the pan firmly without damaging the non-stick surface, they did appear from the beginning to be a bodge.</div>
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Whilst not affecting the stove or pans performance the damage is irritating and the pan handle fit was now sloppy. At the same time the pan lid started to display cracks. Now the whole system was packed in a sleeve and carried very near the top of my pack so very little on top of it, for years I have carried a reactor with a similar plastic lid with a climbing rack to no ill effect.</div>
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In conclusion from experience I expect better quality from Primus. I think the design idea is good but I am not sure the finished product lives up to either expectations in use or the Primus name.<br />
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I have spoken to Rosker, UK distributors for Primus who in turn have spoken directly to Primus who indicated there was a manufacturing batch problem that they were aware of that has now been resolved. Obviously this may or may not be comforting.<br />
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Nick Mandevillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02253828298647316305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2784606909514903780.post-43117422594607556772017-01-12T16:59:00.000+00:002017-01-12T16:59:23.961+00:00Pic Perdiguere<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The dark of a January evening in front of the fire surrounded by a soggy Dartmoor it is easy for my mind to wander back to recent mountain adventures in warm sunshine. This is one such episode that will live long in my memory as a grand day (or so) out.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJyAfmaa2hR69JuD-ncuB_AcbsstbZiDIMZ9SALakgKWsReNzsNAA6ky5DA-ZIOXTUfaKa6GauabHXpOXDOhHvTJDqBJWqVpZab0GhLVfpPaLy5c4vJ5rx-2l9Xnx_F2ycPbxzT9apocuP/s1600/DSCF0818.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJyAfmaa2hR69JuD-ncuB_AcbsstbZiDIMZ9SALakgKWsReNzsNAA6ky5DA-ZIOXTUfaKa6GauabHXpOXDOhHvTJDqBJWqVpZab0GhLVfpPaLy5c4vJ5rx-2l9Xnx_F2ycPbxzT9apocuP/s400/DSCF0818.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lac d'Oo</td></tr>
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Starting out from the Granges d'Astau an easy path (GR10) leads quickly up to Lac d'Oo and the Auberge. Continuing further up the valley we reach Lac d'Espingo and its accompanying refuge. At this stage the GR10 has turned off for Bagneres-de-Luchon and if you started late the crowds will have thinned.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4DdiOaiT_blib5YsemuBi_T0xhSq1VA2R-gK4ny3lbHWttpdrqjGm_raXll0ogxEq25xIhKaM7miyR9rwSjhqF7zATQMpxzHhynBG73Gbe6977qye8KPZExNBIVTv02PVEF8LuNCgQpKO/s1600/DSCF0807.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4DdiOaiT_blib5YsemuBi_T0xhSq1VA2R-gK4ny3lbHWttpdrqjGm_raXll0ogxEq25xIhKaM7miyR9rwSjhqF7zATQMpxzHhynBG73Gbe6977qye8KPZExNBIVTv02PVEF8LuNCgQpKO/s400/DSCF0807.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lac Saussat and Lac d'Espingo</td></tr>
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After the third piece of water, Lac Saussat, the path starts to climb through the Cirque d'Espingo in order to reach Portillon where the fun begins.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cirque d'Espingo</td></tr>
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Refuge du Portillon is in a stunning position on the HRP and surrounded by numerous 3000m peaks.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR2DMOuX90Ge_zV4OwC1fvyagf0kNN208Nw5YERo11eNSUAgXtG79INT6Co12_st2B6tA5Cyl33j3jnfip8Uienu7pQKaCsdxm8SGuBJCJP9tCGEUWmFwBtJNy6DPLQ81nxVp0l0q-g5ON/s1600/DSCF0805.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR2DMOuX90Ge_zV4OwC1fvyagf0kNN208Nw5YERo11eNSUAgXtG79INT6Co12_st2B6tA5Cyl33j3jnfip8Uienu7pQKaCsdxm8SGuBJCJP9tCGEUWmFwBtJNy6DPLQ81nxVp0l0q-g5ON/s400/DSCF0805.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Refuge du Portillon</td></tr>
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It took us about 4.5 hrs and 1400+m to reach the refuge where we enjoyed a cold drink with our picnic lunch sat in the warm sunshine overlooking Lac du Portillon. Rested we now cross the dam and set off up to Collado Inferior de Lliterola, another 500+m at 2964m.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeClF5nGmNLOvH4JckK1tI7TL6M5HxEDclGCXJIDSDjWFj9kiaehTuIPtwkP3FfsB7TcZnfsTeBKDkgle9Y623Sjg_2pXPB3IGhLCbgwoZIakXTF4CoTqFRqxae_-UtKKeQlNtH5DIII71/s1600/DSCF0751.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeClF5nGmNLOvH4JckK1tI7TL6M5HxEDclGCXJIDSDjWFj9kiaehTuIPtwkP3FfsB7TcZnfsTeBKDkgle9Y623Sjg_2pXPB3IGhLCbgwoZIakXTF4CoTqFRqxae_-UtKKeQlNtH5DIII71/s400/DSCF0751.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Approaching Collado Inferior de Lliterola</td></tr>
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The col marks the start of our real objective to gain the ridge up to Punta de Lliterola 3116m, Pico Royo 3103m and Tuca de Lliterola 3080m. Initially the snow can be quite steep although this can be preferable to the broken loose ground lying underneath! but gaining the crest reveals good rock and plenty of opportunities for scrambling.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtYMp20sK-deymUMGOIG-gf6FBzSiXaabjHWQg0bIe0Ss9nGjV9I1WYCSoJtZ2j9_UFSEyf9LGBMDcr21Y5hVk5GlowZffV9XzyeFwytIshZp7poam818mmWzFYWU4P8A3lf3asD-B30Ec/s1600/DSCF0759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtYMp20sK-deymUMGOIG-gf6FBzSiXaabjHWQg0bIe0Ss9nGjV9I1WYCSoJtZ2j9_UFSEyf9LGBMDcr21Y5hVk5GlowZffV9XzyeFwytIshZp7poam818mmWzFYWU4P8A3lf3asD-B30Ec/s400/DSCF0759.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gaining the Crest</td></tr>
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and........<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhizT805V974dNH_wY91m-C_7iv1J5-071uF0cOxRFwPH1BlEOV_Pn4E2b5z3GT_nHdSCylbXZuX4MN5GdDGx2m6YH2oLyO2CtPCyE1o62eoKtAffIEWq_wGxmPIvvAqZ4BaDNdFYhpuotd/s1600/DSCF0769.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhizT805V974dNH_wY91m-C_7iv1J5-071uF0cOxRFwPH1BlEOV_Pn4E2b5z3GT_nHdSCylbXZuX4MN5GdDGx2m6YH2oLyO2CtPCyE1o62eoKtAffIEWq_wGxmPIvvAqZ4BaDNdFYhpuotd/s400/DSCF0769.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Approaching Punta de Lliterola</td></tr>
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and........<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMffWFkjOlbhJLKRkj-bvw5py89fMUxELzE2sntuIMdisPFA8yrBwhkX8F_Bd3r9T0xJAaNGwMvg3IYzZPfGClLMtXOasEfCfhzHSrUVmBfzhV78xX5AkCPOQQNTWpd-JvLtrJHaVlUgTH/s1600/DSCF0770.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMffWFkjOlbhJLKRkj-bvw5py89fMUxELzE2sntuIMdisPFA8yrBwhkX8F_Bd3r9T0xJAaNGwMvg3IYzZPfGClLMtXOasEfCfhzHSrUVmBfzhV78xX5AkCPOQQNTWpd-JvLtrJHaVlUgTH/s400/DSCF0770.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pico Royo with Pico Perdiguero behind left</td></tr>
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The ridge is followed easily down to Collado Superior de Lliterola. An initial fairly steep scramble establishes you on Perdiguero (or as it is affectionately known to my wife "Jenga Mountain" due to the generally loose nature of most of the blocks on the North face), so exposed crest or loose blocks, neither are that bad.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNgMFLuhzP-mgMfgQHWXp_XynFaB4PWmFIZi3J6L9hGAyZbUVaLwmy76x9KxFRg89v-qijn0rCpJCQaKeQlFRtpjQtsKQSIhnE4vl6pVx0bpMTf84UelBhGzJbGL72dELyXt1JMupKTIAo/s1600/DSCF0783.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNgMFLuhzP-mgMfgQHWXp_XynFaB4PWmFIZi3J6L9hGAyZbUVaLwmy76x9KxFRg89v-qijn0rCpJCQaKeQlFRtpjQtsKQSIhnE4vl6pVx0bpMTf84UelBhGzJbGL72dELyXt1JMupKTIAo/s400/DSCF0783.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After the initial scramble Pico Perdiguero</td></tr>
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and........<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW-1qFYI_DJ_sIY2s5t1qGH_bBTLLfQP53zWotUiv827WjKUaH5QczWfP2NnzYbB28Nfi8ragpv6vJgXdzn8OCQMOFGjl5JRj1wZbaMgvq_b1efcnhPo4Jh4ccMQvBwANSl91fKH5gCZGR/s1600/DSCF0776+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="90" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW-1qFYI_DJ_sIY2s5t1qGH_bBTLLfQP53zWotUiv827WjKUaH5QczWfP2NnzYbB28Nfi8ragpv6vJgXdzn8OCQMOFGjl5JRj1wZbaMgvq_b1efcnhPo4Jh4ccMQvBwANSl91fKH5gCZGR/s400/DSCF0776+%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pico Perdiguro summit view</td></tr>
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and........</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Portillon far below</td></tr>
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The route is now reversed to regain the col to head directly back to Portillon, firstly on a large fairly steep snowfield, followed by boulder fields festooned with occasionally useful cairns. As the way opens up in a more northerly direction a path becomes more evident which eventually rejoins our earlier path to the Col Inferior.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Collada Superior de Lliterola crampon moment</td></tr>
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Reaching the Refuge at 7pm meant they were going to be busy with their guests so we passed without a celebratory beer and continued a little further to a bivy spot for the night.(2200+m positive/850+m negative)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking back from Portillon at 7pm</td></tr>
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Lots of hot coffee and sandwiches for supper we watched the stars on and off through the night before the 4hr stagger out the following morning.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Comfy Pyrenees bivy</td></tr>
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Nick Mandevillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02253828298647316305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2784606909514903780.post-80554417835286840402016-11-14T19:09:00.000+00:002020-04-17T16:54:39.964+01:00Via-Alpina 2017<h3>
Another end to end hike.</h3>
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We have always wanted to visit the Alps but never really decided where as there does seem to be quite a lot of them. Cicerone's "Trekking in the Alps" alone lists "20 classic routes" all competing for our attention, but there is nothing quite like starting at the sea and ending at the sea as the Pyrenean Haute Route does. So in what seems like a good idea in front of the fire on a cold Dartmoor evening tickets to Trieste are booked and we begin pouring over maps and kit lists in excited anticipation.<br />
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So its coming to the end of April, much planning, route worrying and kit selecting has been going on, most of which is totally unnecessary but still an integral part of preparing for one of our hikes. To make it "official" we announced to the world, or at least the Via Alpina Facebook page that we would be starting in June.........<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px;">Hi, we are Nick and Jo Mandeville. We live and work in the Dartmoor National Park in Devon UK. This year we start walking the Via-Alpina from Trieste on the 24th of June hoping to reach Monaco in early October. We have hiked, climbed, camped and bivouacked throughout Dartmoor, Snowdonia, Cumbria, Scotland and the Pyrenees. At a time of great change politically and environmentally we hope to discover an Alps that is inclusive and that inspires particularly the young who once captivated by mountains and wild places are sure to be their future guardians. If you see us stumbling along the trail please come and say Hi.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cccccc;">We aim to follow the "Red Trail" from Trieste as far as its intersection with the "Green Trail" (Alpine Pass Route) which we aim to take through Switzerland before meeting up with the "Tour Du Mont Blanc". At some point on the "TMB" we will break off to join the "GR5" which will form the basis of our route down to Monaco. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #cccccc;">Along the way if the weather is kind, we have the time and a little extra in our legs we will try and summit Triglav, Buet and Viso.............its a rough plan anyway!</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Via Alpina Kit.<br />
So that is it we are off, if you would like to catch up and see what happens next look us up on Instagram.</td></tr>
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We made it!!!!!.................</h3>
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On the morning of Monday 25 September, day 94, we hiked the final one and a half hours from our last bivy to the beach at Menton bringing to an end a great adventure. Discovering Slovenia, Italy, Austria, Germany, Lichtenstein, Switzerland and France. Bears, Wolves, Boars, Squirrels, great birds of prey, salamanders, snakes and the most wonderful flowers. Sunshine to nearly 40c, blizzards and high bivys down to -10c.</div>
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Lots of pain and huge amounts of pleasure, we reveled in glorious landscapes and met some amazing people.................just for now we will let it sink in!<br />
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Read the full story <a href="https://justanothertrail.blogspot.com/2019/06/hiking-via-alpina-all-by-feet.html" target="_blank">here</a></div>
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Nick Mandevillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02253828298647316305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2784606909514903780.post-89105837238192986682016-09-24T18:34:00.002+01:002016-09-24T18:34:58.661+01:00Pyrenees Haute Route Variants<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Having through hiked the Pyrenees twice, deficiencies in Ton Joosten's HRP route become more evident. Obviously individual timescales, snow conditions, prevailing weather and re-supply strategy all make demands on route selection but there are some sections that can certainly be improved. A look at the original George Veron Guide is useful.<br />
One such section is that from Gavarnie to Biados. Here Joosten will send you all the way down to Heas with a road walk to the Auberge and camping that in high season is often full. Following the climb out to Hourquette Heas, Hourquette Chermentas and Barroude you descend once more through the Cirque de Barrosa to a very busy road to follow towards Parzan before which you turn up a dirt road for the long climb up to Collado de Urdiceto. In effect you have traversed through a wild, high section of the Pyrenees mostly on road and track and to a large extent low down, not very Haute Route.<br />
There is an alternative, not for bad weather, but certainly far more interesting and within the spirit of the HRP, this would be the George Veron route.<br />
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Follow the HRP from Gavarnie through the Hourquette d'Alans and head down the Cirque d'Estaube to Lac des Gloriettes. At the southern end of the lake a bridge leads to a rising path heading East, follow this as the way becomes clearer and eventually a broad grass track that intersects the road leading to the Cirque de Troumouse, follow the road to Auberge du Maillet.<br />
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The Auberge has rooms catering for hikers, meals and a bar, it is also possible to pitch a tent opposite as this is outside the National Park.<br />
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From here you will have to follow the road and/or take the paths between the hairpins until picking up the path leading to the Cabane de la Vierge. Paths abound, some human some animal but it is fairly easy to follow the curve of the Cirque in order to reach the Cabane des Aires.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBGJDj-_2HsXuEWqZsBI3GmAs8cLrgtiCpDXLrYi-Xv52ey4XO9qZlw5-rxN542T6r284-3D5cWT33_UiumBH1zO7_tgsa_hJkr1E-JGR-5lp6qklsorqBwEWW7u2CvKT4OHk15gLgAS3c/s1600/DSCF0955.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBGJDj-_2HsXuEWqZsBI3GmAs8cLrgtiCpDXLrYi-Xv52ey4XO9qZlw5-rxN542T6r284-3D5cWT33_UiumBH1zO7_tgsa_hJkr1E-JGR-5lp6qklsorqBwEWW7u2CvKT4OHk15gLgAS3c/s320/DSCF0955.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cabane des Aires, Troumouse.</td></tr>
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North East of the Cabane is an obvious hill (Tuc de l'Escaurede), keeping to the South side of this a vague path becomes clearer as you approach the steep flank of Pic de la Sede.Once started the way is clearly marked with many cairns, zig zaging up the steep limestone height is gained quickly to reach the Col de la Sede.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ3D7IowWg9lH5eFxlGlsuJc0I8-8oOxEYObsHkP9TPeTpRgyqhKYixvPBGnyVa23Ev2i7M0RGd7NvxgpyZ6pxVMPXEjlADcEEJLqXYvp-W_KyhxXyJ2siz1HJ0LXFIMeqcTaSzxQFezqu/s1600/DSCF0833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ3D7IowWg9lH5eFxlGlsuJc0I8-8oOxEYObsHkP9TPeTpRgyqhKYixvPBGnyVa23Ev2i7M0RGd7NvxgpyZ6pxVMPXEjlADcEEJLqXYvp-W_KyhxXyJ2siz1HJ0LXFIMeqcTaSzxQFezqu/s320/DSCF0833.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Improbable from here, cabane, hill and flank of la Sede.</td></tr>
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There are stunning views of the Cirque de Troumouse from the Col de la Sede.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg169o9Bdoz_AlxlSBxmd-ZmNDtThPcu2Ay4MyIekj3-XSOZKRhQ2DCsUeAa_whdrCrP1jVdciD-HGGWikef36xNkWPaIjZk6hAKJj5aCO4VQ3pKznFcLp13mEzJ7x1Luh67x7GCuhcFbFc/s1600/DSCF0837.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="90" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg169o9Bdoz_AlxlSBxmd-ZmNDtThPcu2Ay4MyIekj3-XSOZKRhQ2DCsUeAa_whdrCrP1jVdciD-HGGWikef36xNkWPaIjZk6hAKJj5aCO4VQ3pKznFcLp13mEzJ7x1Luh67x7GCuhcFbFc/s400/DSCF0837.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cirque de Troumouse.</td></tr>
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At the Col rather than going through climb up onto the ridge and head South towards Pic de Gerbats where you will find a vague path through the scree and boulders below the cliff of its Northern flank. On arriving at the grassy edge there are increasingly dramatic views into Barroude as you get closer to Pic de la Gela.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitHXQMLfHrGkhEKbpZRA693vCpvXv9O0XTqbzBi6YsBFta_h_zPkkvWSruaw-x8UYxf3pMfxDbMb15mBOaIex6pw2OdeqJXrA4GGRiDyMJ5Fwe1rcf47mloQMiWXB5I9XcrcOntST_bHHE/s1600/DSCF0842.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="90" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitHXQMLfHrGkhEKbpZRA693vCpvXv9O0XTqbzBi6YsBFta_h_zPkkvWSruaw-x8UYxf3pMfxDbMb15mBOaIex6pw2OdeqJXrA4GGRiDyMJ5Fwe1rcf47mloQMiWXB5I9XcrcOntST_bHHE/s400/DSCF0842.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barroude and the ridge to Rioumajou.</td></tr>
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If you have the time there are great views from Pic de la Gela or continue to skirt below its peak on a traverse to gain the ridge at a grassy col and continue North Westerly to gain Horquette de Heas. (This final section of ridge is quite narrow and rocky, a la Striding Edge, approach with caution in poor conditions)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRkxiuR5prB5p6c7hFllKzvtohoUXBSy4Nm0NOyT_5680wrnM_WmbMOp0oJkp9LLWOnxw56XjarLudkSjZX_8V_9bYdxDwJZKNK05gQHjqoijYI4SgTOmbVGTMnDyYTa1l_3NxEexqs7C3/s1600/DSCF0852.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRkxiuR5prB5p6c7hFllKzvtohoUXBSy4Nm0NOyT_5680wrnM_WmbMOp0oJkp9LLWOnxw56XjarLudkSjZX_8V_9bYdxDwJZKNK05gQHjqoijYI4SgTOmbVGTMnDyYTa1l_3NxEexqs7C3/s320/DSCF0852.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Approaching Hourqette de Heas.</td></tr>
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Back on the standard route now heading East and then South through Hourquette de Chermentas on a clear path to Barroude. Really miss the Refuge for it's friendly welcome and sustenance, I hope that one day it will be re-built.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0MktlrAmiujXHprTTFCYALT06PZAw4pIJGDudm8ecx4essPnRoo2bbFVnvzr4M2REGYYA0wQ-qMI4fu0erAP4XysTsqzVdf6fNIlRmRUnfhjqDbXdrWvfw3l0_oj0Rv-bms-ak10c9ida/s1600/DSCF0864.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0MktlrAmiujXHprTTFCYALT06PZAw4pIJGDudm8ecx4essPnRoo2bbFVnvzr4M2REGYYA0wQ-qMI4fu0erAP4XysTsqzVdf6fNIlRmRUnfhjqDbXdrWvfw3l0_oj0Rv-bms-ak10c9ida/s320/DSCF0864.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lac de Barroude.</td></tr>
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From Barroude it is a short climb up to Port de Barroude. Here Joosten's guide has you descending the Cirque de Barrosa and on down to the Parzan road before joining the GR11 up the long dirt road to Urdiceto. Instead we turn left and follow the ridge over Pic de Port Vieux.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDx3qDokWUS6_mY5nWBCirweQCAtPEgeoIwfbAjUNVpWEsXOm10M_LrDBWbxIVqWON2T6E0HrDW_wj3VxsBIErM7TeIs0n1lTEZ5w42BsjwJ4MX-g5p2MKDpkryxqG5m_czQa3zkDL_6ZN/s1600/DSCF0871.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDx3qDokWUS6_mY5nWBCirweQCAtPEgeoIwfbAjUNVpWEsXOm10M_LrDBWbxIVqWON2T6E0HrDW_wj3VxsBIErM7TeIs0n1lTEZ5w42BsjwJ4MX-g5p2MKDpkryxqG5m_czQa3zkDL_6ZN/s320/DSCF0871.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaving Barroude.</td></tr>
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This is a long day, through hiking with a reasonable pack at least 9hrs walking so be prepared and take enough water for the day. The ridge is generally wide and easy but poor visibility could lead you into problems with steep ground and you would be very exposed to stormy weather, having said that it is escapable at fairly regular intervals on reasonable paths. The way is obvious in places, but not always, there are cairns and the occasional white paint mark indicating the way but in good weather sticking to the ridge the way is pretty obvious.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTZzFRTZ9DDh18zB7ZYxQMbSGuJ1Lz_XZh6WhhjEda7RXiy4GaxFZcFPMOISXFwSrlni3sxnAQ_5ZhZaZGN0rEUtg7XHQ_s5LeAL_KPMu_N5QCKoaAdvk53v3OY2gDWt3sLyxiZIBhP9i8/s1600/DSCF0881.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTZzFRTZ9DDh18zB7ZYxQMbSGuJ1Lz_XZh6WhhjEda7RXiy4GaxFZcFPMOISXFwSrlni3sxnAQ_5ZhZaZGN0rEUtg7XHQ_s5LeAL_KPMu_N5QCKoaAdvk53v3OY2gDWt3sLyxiZIBhP9i8/s320/DSCF0881.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pic de Bataillence.</td></tr>
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The real sting comes right at the end if the ridge where you arrive at a well marked col just South of Pic de Lias. The initial down climb is steep and loose and seemingly heading into an abyss, but orange paint marks on your left (looking out) on better rock provides a fairly easy descent that soon eases.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRv9dssTlxIqEpqUORkWno0PgastxUfW-KnQaouEP4699_gRAhYta7V5keOCpgfr8oeRzB1mtWClz66j3BzCh4if-dK7VqTvg5BeYKuxr0nWcuc7yZgA5obitlkYl0UXpKIFBrb3KClPGD/s1600/DSCF0892.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRv9dssTlxIqEpqUORkWno0PgastxUfW-KnQaouEP4699_gRAhYta7V5keOCpgfr8oeRzB1mtWClz66j3BzCh4if-dK7VqTvg5BeYKuxr0nWcuc7yZgA5obitlkYl0UXpKIFBrb3KClPGD/s320/DSCF0892.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Un-named col South of Pic de Lias.</td></tr>
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There is now a long traversing descent to reach Hospice de Rioumajou that is not to be under-estimated, nothing difficult but route finding can be taxing as the path disappears repeatedly in the grassy sections as you search for orange paint flashes on the odd rock!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS_8iJZ0ZPp3OswreHCQZ3m6j0v62Cd_G1zMebAs1SDbV7Ym1uU1CjJByM-XgpQZVEUtBBIb0oLvxFyeVNr3NXo73tCsk7-W03xh0GqiUuIlRHnwTmckp33FDVvtP5TKljan_mX18EnoMU/s1600/DSCF0894.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS_8iJZ0ZPp3OswreHCQZ3m6j0v62Cd_G1zMebAs1SDbV7Ym1uU1CjJByM-XgpQZVEUtBBIb0oLvxFyeVNr3NXo73tCsk7-W03xh0GqiUuIlRHnwTmckp33FDVvtP5TKljan_mX18EnoMU/s320/DSCF0894.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Long way down to Rioumajou.</td></tr>
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Hospice de Rioumajou is not going to be of any use as I think it closes at about 4pm, but there is a water source, a bivouac area and a good foot soak in the river on a nice evening can set you up for tomorrow.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVM5CdyJeGNbSBQcf4sFtTXIDU8hk-_avnfp3j5nd-PfVxt6qksGtiauAmdijD8s4xi-t3sPAwqJRePIfwUZm5yuqwLx8IxHG6htT_YhqmtHCjPdoRi7Q9rP-YCBuTapDVMV3K60FRERJf/s1600/DSCF0901.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVM5CdyJeGNbSBQcf4sFtTXIDU8hk-_avnfp3j5nd-PfVxt6qksGtiauAmdijD8s4xi-t3sPAwqJRePIfwUZm5yuqwLx8IxHG6htT_YhqmtHCjPdoRi7Q9rP-YCBuTapDVMV3K60FRERJf/s320/DSCF0901.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hospice de Rioumajou.</td></tr>
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Veron now takes you South on a very pleasant hike to Port de Urdiceto where we can rejoin the GR11 to Camping Forcallo or Refugio de Biados. There is also Port de Plan which will also lead on down to the GR11 and Port de la Madera which catches up with the GR11 beyond both the camping and Refugio.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLmPEaBmiwR8kfpTwPNBceD_7ooS0abrkyxk4r-lTK-wn2hFzpsDwSla82BCFWqkMLC9VhO-QFUPSYDluKfrKAD5Co1visEGtlhzUBapbyaVYKhSmUYtzC64l_IrdVlJITtGhVpLhBrBun/s1600/DSCF0912.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLmPEaBmiwR8kfpTwPNBceD_7ooS0abrkyxk4r-lTK-wn2hFzpsDwSla82BCFWqkMLC9VhO-QFUPSYDluKfrKAD5Co1visEGtlhzUBapbyaVYKhSmUYtzC64l_IrdVlJITtGhVpLhBrBun/s320/DSCF0912.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaving Rioumajou.</td></tr>
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A fine route, highly recommended for inclusion in anyone's Haute Route Pyrenees crossing.<br /><div>
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Nick Mandevillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02253828298647316305noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2784606909514903780.post-10990540247076031002016-09-18T16:16:00.000+01:002017-10-23T19:52:11.260+01:00Shoe Review: La Sportiva Raptor and Synthesis Mid gtx, Salewa mtn Trainer gtx, Millet Trident gtx, Super Trident gtx and Garmont Dragontail MTNOk so this is a real mixed bag, but these are all shoes I have worn, abused and destroyed in the last 12 months or so. Despite big names, much marketing hype and sometimes misleading reviews I will try and give it straight, particularly as it's my money that paid for them all.<br />
Obviously fit is hugely important, my feet are fairly standard for Northern Europeans, a fairly broad forefoot and across the toes and a low arch in a size 45, somewhere between a hobbit and a ballerina! (have you seen a ballerina's feet!?)<br />
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<h3>
La Sportiva Raptor</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_l9v9n02ePAtANMudimDdr-6b0o649tqud59e3jGQa3WQc-oB3oIK4SmwN7F9jgBVFGLxr9Vmp3ZbDsO7ZAayCBLn3qA9D8AVNscER54rRw9TSVpw92LqVf-78nSBETcikY0RwXg0cBCT/s1600/DSCF1116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_l9v9n02ePAtANMudimDdr-6b0o649tqud59e3jGQa3WQc-oB3oIK4SmwN7F9jgBVFGLxr9Vmp3ZbDsO7ZAayCBLn3qA9D8AVNscER54rRw9TSVpw92LqVf-78nSBETcikY0RwXg0cBCT/s320/DSCF1116.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">La Sportiva Raptor</td></tr>
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Firstly these really fit my feet, plenty of room up front, a very supportive mid section and incredibly stable heel, this shoe is so right in many ways. The lace system is simple, but given the elasticated integral tongue I more often than not just slip them on. Then we have the sole, stable in the right places and bendy where it needs to be, it will grip to pretty much anything. Lastly the mesh upper is super breathable making them really comfortable in hot weather.</div>
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The perfect hiking shoe? Well for me not quite, that super breathable mesh upper lets water straight in, now most modern ultralight hikers seem to love this but I struggle on multi week trips to stop my feet falling apart in the end. Bashed feet when tackling lots of boulder fields and scree can be wearing as can the amount of debris that finds its way through the mesh and don't try and kick steps in a snow slope with them. Good for about 500 miles so on long trips they will need replacing.<br />
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La Sportiva Synthesis Mid</h3>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;">
La Sportiva Synthesis Mid GTX</div>
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Well I fell for the marketing guff and shiny reviews on their release expecting the "STB Technology stabilizes the foot by wrapping the midsole and unifying the midsole with the upper for the perfect locked-down fit" would be similar to the Raptor. Unfortunately there is nothing remotely fitted about this shoe, it has none of the arch support, heal stability or forefoot stability provided by the Raptor, it is just wide, baggy and the foot slides around on a flat innersole.</div>
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Despite all this they were light and waterproof which I needed for an upcoming hike, what the hell. Well they lasted 16 days, and it was only that long because it took a few days to hike out to a town big enough to replace them, by which time both shoes leaked, both lace systems were broken and the sole was coming away from both. If after all this you are still tempted do not attempt wet rock unless you enjoy skating!<br />
I did contact La Sportiva's UK distributor on my return, Lyon Outdoor, who kindly provided a refund through the retailer.<br />
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<h3>
Salewa mtn Trainer</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_rn00Qn9eLbhC9qw7atWllnsVQJovc7i5j9Uy2y8vcZ5_Lw07Hsc_ZyBJu1AqgJIDXV5SG0nrbsUqan0ADw5eCd4qK9UggJFyzkuig36hts4LTlcGrkMNTLmt7rxggkTtKbEwI41k9hOs/s1600/DSCF1120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_rn00Qn9eLbhC9qw7atWllnsVQJovc7i5j9Uy2y8vcZ5_Lw07Hsc_ZyBJu1AqgJIDXV5SG0nrbsUqan0ADw5eCd4qK9UggJFyzkuig36hts4LTlcGrkMNTLmt7rxggkTtKbEwI41k9hOs/s320/DSCF1120.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Salewa mtn Trainer GTX</td></tr>
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Whilst reasonably broad in the forefoot these are narrower across the toes causing some discomfort to the small toes. Support under the arch is quite pronounced and takes some getting used to, but once you are they feel particularly stable and comfortable( if your feet are the right shape). I have worn these a lot day to day on and around Dartmoor and in most conditions have been reliable except on damp or wet rock where grip is at best average.<br />
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Millet Trident</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsxfsccF4IcfLWgYwLt6MNtFNVn1hMQ9WwGu9Sq6by5AGQI8VKaWlqhaoPSd1uFww5rmaR6_E03OmvpbnKYf_QucuFPt4_E69VaEZWu9NZ8u2sbhgYrZeu0CW5yoSEakzl_Qbur58BgSTc/s1600/DSCF1117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsxfsccF4IcfLWgYwLt6MNtFNVn1hMQ9WwGu9Sq6by5AGQI8VKaWlqhaoPSd1uFww5rmaR6_E03OmvpbnKYf_QucuFPt4_E69VaEZWu9NZ8u2sbhgYrZeu0CW5yoSEakzl_Qbur58BgSTc/s320/DSCF1117.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Millet Trident GTX</td></tr>
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Broad across the forefoot, just broad enough in the toe box, a supportive heal and a very stable sole unit, goretex too. I had great expectations for these shoes and in many ways they are my favorites. The fit isn't quite as good as the Raptor or as comfortable to walk in but they still have great grip and a "connected" feel to the ground. Very happy across boulder fields, up and down steep scree or kicking snow steps.</div>
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So what's wrong, well they have had a hardish <u>25</u> days and they are in bits! Cuillin Traverse nearly 3 days (we are slow!), Ogwen valley easy climbs 3 days, La Porta Del Cel (Pyrenees) 4 days, Pic's Lliterola, Royo and Perdiguero (Pyrenees) 2days, Troumouse-Barroude-Rioumajou and return (Pyrenees) 4 days, Pic Grande Fache (Pyrenees) 2 days, plus a couple of bimbles on Dartmoor and a day climbing at the Dewerstone prior to going to Skye hardly makes the 25 but I'll be generous. The side protection rand is sewn, rather than bonded to the shoe like the toe bumper, and through abrasion both sides have blown out. </div>
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I have tried contacting Millet about the poor construction/design flaw of these shoes but had no response.<br />
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<h3>
Millet Super Trident</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDQWfUvw5SCU5cDR5ZvuduSsAxhR8QzJGxFTN_gk8haFiBZODjdVsLW81VrlxY5g918EWDKH1CYruws8c4QZHcYkFtuUt9ArXY-iT3-5_IPWi8MU7P8ECgrsxmuzltLE0gCLhPIMzIbGFP/s1600/DSCF1119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDQWfUvw5SCU5cDR5ZvuduSsAxhR8QzJGxFTN_gk8haFiBZODjdVsLW81VrlxY5g918EWDKH1CYruws8c4QZHcYkFtuUt9ArXY-iT3-5_IPWi8MU7P8ECgrsxmuzltLE0gCLhPIMzIbGFP/s320/DSCF1119.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Millet Super Trident GTX</td></tr>
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I bought these in the Pyrenees last year when the Sportiva Synthesis shoes failed so completely. I am not keen on Mids generally as I end up with sore achilles, as I did here, but there was little choice and the rest of the fit was good. They have covered a good 300 miles of hard mountain trails and show little real wear other than the rand blowing out again as above although these have retained their shape and integrity better than their fabric counterparts. However in both cases it seems ridiculous that footwear apparently created for the Chamonix Guides last less than a month and are less durable than a pair of trail runners.<br />
If however Millet were to bond a rubber rand around the Trident Mid or Shoe as other manufacturers do these would be as near to perfect for me as I would expect to find.</div>
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<h3>
Garmont Dragontail Mtn</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbAXz2Q1SQ8DV5Pzd0pVg6SPNICSdJWBGUgS7X3XhnNPni_0HbeHTP6Ajr0VLcM2dp12_LYKbDwRzUHJpKBTX_s0IpSNJl3Jx4-wJ__WZvry1iU2Qm4BhnXPk5ijPQQSyhqinPJt3uEgJ3/s1600/IMG_20170926_084811_088.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1280" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbAXz2Q1SQ8DV5Pzd0pVg6SPNICSdJWBGUgS7X3XhnNPni_0HbeHTP6Ajr0VLcM2dp12_LYKbDwRzUHJpKBTX_s0IpSNJl3Jx4-wJ__WZvry1iU2Qm4BhnXPk5ijPQQSyhqinPJt3uEgJ3/s400/IMG_20170926_084811_088.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Garmont Dragontail Mtn GTX after 94 days hiking</td></tr>
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I bought these in the Pyrenees (2016) as cover for a pair of Millet shoes (see above) that were falling apart. Fast forward to spring 2017 and I was undecided about what to wear for our Via-Alpina through hike. Knowing the Millet boots or shoes were unlikely to last even halfway, I wore the Dragontails to work and around Dartmoor in the run up to our departure. Pleasantly surprised they were chosen.</div>
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The fit is broad across the forefoot and very secure in the heal, with lacing down to the toes it is very easy to customise the fit. At first they felt harsh and "clumpy" but they wore in quite quickly becoming comfortable for long days even on hard ground, although not as comfortable or connected as the Millet. </div>
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However I think the fit is a little short, great for scrambling but not so good for long descents. The original insoles are a rubbish piece of foam that once damp (sweat or rain) will just rot your feet, they need to be swapped out for a proper insole. The other negative was the Goretex leaked from the first rain storm we had in Slovenia which meant managing periodic bouts of wet feet over the next 90+ days.</div>
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All that said they lasted to the end, tired but relatively intact (my wife's boots had to be replaced at Samoens) so the general construction, apart from the goretex liner, is extremely good. As a result I will buy these again in the non gtx lite version as I think they will be great for summer scrambling and easy climbs.</div>
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Nick Mandevillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02253828298647316305noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2784606909514903780.post-44941918216545974482016-09-15T19:08:00.000+01:002017-10-25T18:26:43.874+01:00Locus Gear Menkaura Sil Review<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0_ylj_etaVLFdd5xaZS0ZLO0oQK0ZShVpoMVs1INypbQOWtJUD83_CWnfbT3G4oSauIm6CZnvbH2-JfLbUnvO723EtJbOwYzeviLXoM-ZetzWzGYv8eGq4DuWO6Jui15GmcFZEERDoFZE/s1600/Pyrenees+2014+044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0_ylj_etaVLFdd5xaZS0ZLO0oQK0ZShVpoMVs1INypbQOWtJUD83_CWnfbT3G4oSauIm6CZnvbH2-JfLbUnvO723EtJbOwYzeviLXoM-ZetzWzGYv8eGq4DuWO6Jui15GmcFZEERDoFZE/s320/Pyrenees+2014+044.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Menkaura camping high in the Pyrenees<br />
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I have long been a fan of single pole tents for both their simplicity and their weatherliness and like many our first was the Golite Shangri-la 3. Whilst this provided a comfortable home on extended trips it was not particularly light, the door zip always snagged and strapping trekking poles together as a centre pole to keep the weight down was an unnecessary faff.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkJ7-fexaq1eryEsxKFyljfsXpDp8pufk0mvyjV__IBKSzKC3wiF2TKR_j6Qopa2_rpemlxJuIFHrj3Eie4s_o8HpMMoQS2UqJsS_WqreCSx_chvAgurTm5ZD15WGz4SOd8UdxbBwUdZjl/s1600/DSC00727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkJ7-fexaq1eryEsxKFyljfsXpDp8pufk0mvyjV__IBKSzKC3wiF2TKR_j6Qopa2_rpemlxJuIFHrj3Eie4s_o8HpMMoQS2UqJsS_WqreCSx_chvAgurTm5ZD15WGz4SOd8UdxbBwUdZjl/s320/DSC00727.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Shangri-La 3 on the HRP<br />
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A search of the web will now reveal a myriad of " mids" constructed by cottage manufacturers around the globe using the latest gucci fabrics.<br />
Locus Gear first caught my eye because I couldn't find a picture of a badly erected tent, testament to their cut and design, but initially their models were either too big or too small, that is until they came out with the Menkaura. At 270cm x 270cm it had great floor space for 2 and a height of 130cm meant only needing a single trekking pole to set it up, but still plenty of headroom to sit up for breakfast in bed and getting dressed and generally hanging around in shitty weather.<br />
In the real world this is a shelter that is up in moments whether using just the Sil Nylon fly or in combination with the mesh inner. Total combined weight of ours including stuff sacks, additional tie outs and a good set of pegs is just under 1500g (this includes the heavier PU Taffeta inner).</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpMjKwuSLqVYP6_PWczJVN_lc7fRqRrZZQuw_N8BPKugbFo0oZBuR2itHGXZJ3xsK-jY5lJ8ZVrjrE7QV29_nh2-s42xi39JnMP9p2zJtSamJnhjtzDRUZri4rvWvSMPFTitK2VSAiOqP9/s1600/DSC03731.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpMjKwuSLqVYP6_PWczJVN_lc7fRqRrZZQuw_N8BPKugbFo0oZBuR2itHGXZJ3xsK-jY5lJ8ZVrjrE7QV29_nh2-s42xi39JnMP9p2zJtSamJnhjtzDRUZri4rvWvSMPFTitK2VSAiOqP9/s320/DSC03731.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Menkaura with a view to Posets<br />
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Whilst I had high expectations for this tent they were very soon surpassed as we encountered storm after storm on it's first outing to the Pyrenees. The slightly lower profile and pyramid shape give the wind very little to get hold of, allowing a more relaxed approach to pitch selection. An 8hr storm with all the proper accompaniments will still be bumpy but I don't worry about the tent anymore.<br />
It's very nice when the sun shines too!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Locus Gear Menkaura near Iraty Pyrenees<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQtcyhFGhmwFiillR4VByh7Q7Y8W1s0fekBeiHOqASqG8pFdkEfVecctbclE7YRR3qxkya29BjNwhy03z3qs38I8SFaOOhKIq-F0S_yG26aPaF4HXPkyYl58PJYsIsODxykICYSzJB-G-_/s1600/DSC04176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQtcyhFGhmwFiillR4VByh7Q7Y8W1s0fekBeiHOqASqG8pFdkEfVecctbclE7YRR3qxkya29BjNwhy03z3qs38I8SFaOOhKIq-F0S_yG26aPaF4HXPkyYl58PJYsIsODxykICYSzJB-G-_/s320/DSC04176.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Menkaura mesh inner, Iparla Ridge</td></tr>
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Down sides?..... as with any lightweight tent and mesh inner combination condensation can be an issue and I am not convinced the built in vent does much, however undoing the door a little from the top is pretty effective.</div>
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Sil Nylon holds on to water, so whether it is condensation or rain from last nights storm and you want an early start you are going to have a wet fly. I always pack mine in the compression straps of whatever sack I am using and if possible give it the chance to dry over a lunch stop, no big deal. Sil nylon is also more forgiving than cuben fibre when it comes to difficult pitches without even looking at the comparative costs.</div>
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So how good?..... this is about the only gear I have not changed in the past 3 years, in fact I have just bought another Menkaura Sil in another colour because we need something a bit more stealthy for a long trip next year, love it!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSaXGjDv3MU_ZostumaUQmbIY3WWNYW1gWw9hSVFrz_i11ZDwLt0ZtnWf8bvXWJu3fnGwZpbCQxGJxXCdlkPcyzLab8P9q-AwUMZFzswfDeX3wqfL0yK13-KenZsomv9Qh-7kdibEkj03A/s1600/DSCF1460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSaXGjDv3MU_ZostumaUQmbIY3WWNYW1gWw9hSVFrz_i11ZDwLt0ZtnWf8bvXWJu3fnGwZpbCQxGJxXCdlkPcyzLab8P9q-AwUMZFzswfDeX3wqfL0yK13-KenZsomv9Qh-7kdibEkj03A/s320/DSCF1460.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our new Locus Gear Menkaura in Snowdonia </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Locus Gear Menkaura on a cold and snowy morning<br />Via-Alpina GR5 Mont Thabor French Alps</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjqrWHoUnVcQog_s7cTjNyJ1B4RrbpNhRFIj4iBU6SwDZqEufWBIXv2Nz3nlDMmiotVQf82l8SVEGQRjRfVBMOz3GhGMHvy0R9X0kjMFy8rc6TAUsLvi3Y_mExHUCmour7lvpjrm6v-gAy/s1600/20170915_181443.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjqrWHoUnVcQog_s7cTjNyJ1B4RrbpNhRFIj4iBU6SwDZqEufWBIXv2Nz3nlDMmiotVQf82l8SVEGQRjRfVBMOz3GhGMHvy0R9X0kjMFy8rc6TAUsLvi3Y_mExHUCmour7lvpjrm6v-gAy/s320/20170915_181443.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More snow for the Menkaura in the French Alps</td></tr>
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Nick Mandevillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02253828298647316305noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2784606909514903780.post-85227583633098177622016-08-31T19:49:00.000+01:002016-08-31T19:49:25.396+01:00Hiking "La Porta del Cel" in the Pyrenees<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last year during our second traverse of the Pyrenees we had intended to include an ascent of Pic d'Estats, however the weather had other ideas and it was whilst sheltering at Camping Bordes de Graus we learned of "La Porta del Cel" (Sky's Door). The route generally starts at Tavascan with a short walk to the Refuge at Bordes de Graus and continues clockwise via the Refuges of Certascan, Pinet and Vallferrera, taking in the Peaks of Certascan and d'Estats before returning to Tavascan. Whilst we were not interested in staying at the refuges and getting the T-shirt the route looked fun and whilst being roasted on a Mediterranean beach we were in need of mountains.<br />
Not wanting to drive all the way around into Spain we decided to start in Ariege (l'Artigue) and pick up the route at Aiguamolls and continue anti-clockwise towards Certascan thus allowing ourselves a little time to find our feet before Pic d'Estats.<br />
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Cascades de l'Artigue</span></div>
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From the parking at l'Artigue we initially follow the path to Refuge Pinet but soon leave on a rising path along the North side of the Ruisseeau de l'Artigue. The path splits again on crossing the stream, the northerly route heading to Pic Rouge and ours continuing westerly into a hanging valley, where we join the main route, before finally reaching Port de l'Artiga (2477m) with clear views over to tomorrow mornings objective Pic de Certascan.<div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pic de Certascan from Port de l'Artiga</td></tr>
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A well marked path led us on down to Estany de Romedo de Baix and then back up to Estany Romedo de Dalt where we knew there were good camping spots. Pitch selected, a swim in the lake, supper and we were ready for sleep.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Estany de Romedo de Dalt</td></tr>
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<br />Much of today is familiar from our HRP crossing in 2013, a short climb to the col before a steep descent and traverse to Estany de Certascan and the Refuge.<div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Estany de Certascan</td></tr>
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<br />Under clear skies we climbed to the Coll de Certascan, no snowfield this year, dumped our packs and set off to climb Pic de Certascan. Great views and a small group of Bouquetin on the summit made the climb worthwhile.<div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pic de Certascan with Bouquetin</td></tr>
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<br />All downhill from here, return to the col for a snack before starting the long descent to Noarre and on to Camping Bordes de Graus for much needed cold beer, followed by an equally required shower! Supper was as hearty, fun and tasty as usual, late and full we turned in.<div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Noarre</td></tr>
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<br />Whatever way you look at this route our third day would be the crux, having decided to stay at Bordes de Graus meant adding the short section down to Tavascan on to what would undoubtedly be a long day, and so it proved. In just over an hour of pleasant walking we were outside the only shop in Tavascan, we waited 10 mins before ringing the bell, after a shout from the balcony above it was another 10 mins before the door opened. Re supplied and fed in the warming sun we set off to climb out of the valley, from 1100m it would be 7hrs of up before reaching our high point of the day, Roca Cigeralera, at 2668m.<div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaving Tavascan</td></tr>
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<br />It was here that we met a shepherd with his flock, 3 collies and 2 mountain dogs. Having worked as a shepherd it was great to talk sheep and dogs in such an amazing position.<div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_9iot3L1ArKU1T-sM6NoOsyw6cprip9d4DWj7H0m6DKzWja81W8toELfyPuaClwd8E9A5wDAuII4SGFKIOxjIXvOSGz-uu8TGyLEhvueXQ7PBK5OZ1i0jJZ0KdwPqd4HOM6pKaTf8EOyO/s1600/DSCF0670.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_9iot3L1ArKU1T-sM6NoOsyw6cprip9d4DWj7H0m6DKzWja81W8toELfyPuaClwd8E9A5wDAuII4SGFKIOxjIXvOSGz-uu8TGyLEhvueXQ7PBK5OZ1i0jJZ0KdwPqd4HOM6pKaTf8EOyO/s400/DSCF0670.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pyrenean Mountain dog at Roca Cigalera</td></tr>
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<br />From here the route descends from Coll de la Llaguna across a fairly testing boulder field, up to coll de Sellente and down again to the unmanned Refugi de Baborte. At this point most trekkers would continue down to Refugi de Vallferrera but without the need to visit the refuge we continued rather sluggishly to Coll de Baborte intent on finding a bivy spot around the Estanys de la Coma de Sotllo.<div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coll de Baborte from Coll de Sellente</td></tr>
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<br />It was very tired legs that searched out a flat spot that evening but we were in a prime position for tomorrow and so far the weather was still good.<div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBk23diF0sAcKXjzt-5Eal1dmWR6gtWuY7DhO_LDQEegMK2vXSaAPWDIhaVSIXTrtlDwG-RfC2_6u4KSOJoyGfnItY38CjAYGcxDOmTK3kUbmcotICeKFNyrvrQ-857jMTQ-t1rgBvt3or/s1600/DSCF0689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBk23diF0sAcKXjzt-5Eal1dmWR6gtWuY7DhO_LDQEegMK2vXSaAPWDIhaVSIXTrtlDwG-RfC2_6u4KSOJoyGfnItY38CjAYGcxDOmTK3kUbmcotICeKFNyrvrQ-857jMTQ-t1rgBvt3or/s400/DSCF0689.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Someone reluctant to leave their sleeping bag</td></tr>
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Despite some reluctance in the camp we were away by 7am the following morning to descend to Estany de Sottlo to pick up the main route up Pica d'Estats, a steady climb and then steeply through scree up to Port de Sotllo and into France.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Port de Sotllo</td></tr>
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<br />The main path went way down to avoid a rock step and snow which were easily tackled without having to lose much height and from Coll de la Cometa we followed the direct line of ascent.<div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuGfBBQtDfV8Go01PCbe2pnKE9QknCfIiVZiskO5lm-ZJfzetf4-803928soZCEVyRPleW7G3j4G9IbpUwWlGeivpdhdGQvZe8MaBDZkmHDVlenr-1HeJcercOBNCEKweMhKhz_oK07VMS/s1600/DSCF0703.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuGfBBQtDfV8Go01PCbe2pnKE9QknCfIiVZiskO5lm-ZJfzetf4-803928soZCEVyRPleW7G3j4G9IbpUwWlGeivpdhdGQvZe8MaBDZkmHDVlenr-1HeJcercOBNCEKweMhKhz_oK07VMS/s400/DSCF0703.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This way!</td></tr>
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<br />This felt like a proper mountain summit despite the crowds it was high, pointy and strangely remote feeling, all helped by the rather obvious change in the weather.<div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCBx7kqdB38wCjN1sjSC0bWum37O960S3AbHhtC_ws2A0zR9mh6PimqcRJoJjUCyQT_EY-AwedM1MTTyaKwtCrHJodou4HHraf6C4rIRcAjgyezDZ_5tSAr0W_jYmYyVK57YuWJdDnf260/s1600/DSCF0712+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCBx7kqdB38wCjN1sjSC0bWum37O960S3AbHhtC_ws2A0zR9mh6PimqcRJoJjUCyQT_EY-AwedM1MTTyaKwtCrHJodou4HHraf6C4rIRcAjgyezDZ_5tSAr0W_jYmYyVK57YuWJdDnf260/s640/DSCF0712+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pica d'Estats<br /><br /></td></tr>
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All thoughts of Pic de Montcalm were dismissed and we set off to see if we could beat the inevitable.<div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXlaAQuZXGiP_j04_PsRJ1szafe9smSKNUNtnqojx0gGCCuZlPUVn8hJAJDnVlt5XnLGIIoDqUOA-EOhyphenhyphenSt-soFbIvaa63L1CEEJ09vVM6zmq_kSMZDmrjkhyphenhyphenv9fY1urXLUFEOku9Jz0Lb/s1600/DSCF0715.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXlaAQuZXGiP_j04_PsRJ1szafe9smSKNUNtnqojx0gGCCuZlPUVn8hJAJDnVlt5XnLGIIoDqUOA-EOhyphenhyphenSt-soFbIvaa63L1CEEJ09vVM6zmq_kSMZDmrjkhyphenhyphenv9fY1urXLUFEOku9Jz0Lb/s400/DSCF0715.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Storm clouds</td></tr>
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<br />Before we reached Etang d'Estats we were swallowed by cold wet mist reaching the Refuge Pinet in light rain and zero visibility. After a short stop for a drink we stepped out into heavier rain and rolling thunder which would accompany us all the way back to l'Artigue with bouts of heavy rain and hail for good measure but nothing could dampen our spirits following our 4 days on La Porta Del Cel.<br /><div>
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Nick Mandevillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02253828298647316305noreply@blogger.com1Pica d'Estats42.6669358 1.397905300000047617.144901299999997 -39.910688699999952 68.1889703 42.706499300000047tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2784606909514903780.post-33211784741736610632016-06-19T19:58:00.000+01:002016-06-19T19:58:03.987+01:00Cuillin Ridge Traverse<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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This was a bit of a weird one for me as there was no real thought or planning because I didn't really expect it to happen. A chance comment to a very old friend from the dark ages led to us agreeing that if the forecast was ok-ish for the last week in May we would drive up and have a look.<br />
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Now as much as I love Scotland I gave up going there a long time ago. In another life, for a few years, I would drive through on my way to Shetland buying sheep in the Borders and on the Islands, the weather usually appalling. I even persuaded my wife to come with me on a couple of summer excursions, the weather was similarly appalling for the most part, we do however still talk about standing atop An Teallach under a glorious blue sky looking out to the Summer Isles, but despite the passing years we also remember the midges! So living on South Dartmoor close to a ferry port it's actually easier to head south to the Pyrenees. Anyway the forecast was pretty optimistic.<br />
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16 hours driving brought us to Glen Brittle campsite. Some sleep and then copious amounts of coffee we settled the camping bill and by mid morning we were gearing up to go. Now I had never been here before and my partner in crime had sat on Skye in the rain on a few occasions in the hope of getting on to the ridge, pretty much a pair of virgins. We did have some photocopies of a guide, a good 2+ days food and a well established ability to suffer, we were ready.<br />
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We followed the well trod path from the campsite towards the southern end of the ridge and headed up into Coir'a' Ghrunnda to the Loch for a quick lunch. Here we gained the ridge and headed south in the sunshine to Gars-Bheinn where we about faced and did it all again including the detour to Sgurr Dubh Mor. We now needed to replenish water supplies and with the previous day's travelling catching up with us we headed down to a bivy spot we spied earlier beneath the T-D Gap with a good spring.<br />
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Apart from my snoring mate a good night was had and we were breakfasted and back on the ridge quite quickly having finally given up our warm sleeping bags, no alpine starts here! The immediate scramble up to, abseil off, and climb back out of the T-D Gap first thing in the morning certainly grabbed our attention, but what an awesome day of never ending interest we had as far as Bealach na Glaic Moire where finding a good supply of melting snow only a few metres off the ridge we decided to have supper and set up our second bivy.</div>
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Well we were lucky the forecasted showers didn't arrive during the night but the niggling northerly breeze of the previous 2 days intensified making for a freezing bivy, wore everything but still too cold to catch more than a few moments of sleep. Dawn brought the sun again and the wind died back to a breeze, I just lay finally warm in my sleeping bag, seriously tough getting out!</div>
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We were both tired and although it didn't look as though we had far to go it was slow going, route finding to multiple abseils it was a relief to have sections of grade 3 scrambling to solo!</div>
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With lunch on the summit of Bruach na Frithe the end was in plain view. Arriving at the Baister Tooth we were both fried and bypassed it to climb Am Baister up the east ridge then return to Bealach a'Bhasteir to climb Sgurr nan Gillean to complete the ridge.</div>
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Having given no thought to what happens now it was fortuitous to meet several people on the summit who wanted to descend in the same direction as us but didn't have a rope or harness for the final abseil, lift back to Glen Brittle negotiated we saw everyone down and staggered the remaining miles down to Sligachan in a daze. Having showered at the campsite the breeze that had been our companion for the last 3 days died and the midges came out to feast! Crisps, peanuts and a few noodles provided a celebratory supper whilst hiding in the van.</div>
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A broken nights sleep preceded the caffeine fueled 16 hour journey home, what an adventure! Thanks Pete. </div>
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Nick Mandevillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02253828298647316305noreply@blogger.com0Skye, Highland, UK57.5359261 -6.2262725000000556.4396876 -8.80805950000005 58.632164599999996 -3.6444855000000502tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2784606909514903780.post-91130933623747100162016-06-12T17:08:00.005+01:002016-06-20T13:40:23.523+01:00Just stuff about walking across the Pyrenees Haute Route<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anisclo</td></tr>
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This is all about personal preferences, mine. Having done two full crossings, one in either direction and countless multi-day trips, I now have some opinions. Taken with a healthy pinch of salt they may even be relevant to someone.<br />
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The Route.<br />
All three routes, GR10 GR11 and HRP, are great adventures, however I love the high mountains and the solitude they can still provide, sometimes, so for me it has to be the Pyrenean Haute Route. Herein begins another dilemma, which HRP? Most common for the English speakers is to follow Ton Joosten's Cicerone guide, however far better is the Georges Veron guide, if you can find one, which will keep you higher if you have the supplies and weather with you. Above all don't get bogged down in an only one way mentality, there are many variants from which to choose your crossing and every year is different depending on the previous winter, spring conditions and current weather cycles.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Planning a Pyrenees walk</td></tr>
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Which Way?<br />
Firstly travelling East is the direction the two main HRP guidebooks have been written which makes them easier to follow especially when tired, but there are other factors. The Basque country is generally cooler than the Mediterranean and provides a longer and more gentle introduction to get those limbs match fit. For me I love walking into the sunrise, the first steep ascent of the day tends to be in the shade and the views from that first col are why I'm there.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading down to Refuge Pombie for breakfast<br />
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How Long?<br />
Both guide books describe the route in 45 stages, which I think would be pretty luxurious. Mid 30s with a lightish load, reasonable weather and the ability to adapt the route if required should be fine for those not relying on Refuges. More time allows you to wait out poor weather to keep to your intended path or fit in additional side trips of which there are many tempting options.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early starts and late finishes</td></tr>
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Re-Supply<br />
This can be frustrating in some of the smaller communities as advertised opening times are often just a maybe and lunch closures can be very long. That said I have found the shops at Aldudes, Lescun, Candanchu, Gavarnie, Salardu and Arles sur Tech to be good and fairly reliable. There is a great shop in Bolquere but is closed for 3 or 4 hours around lunch and the shop in Hospitalet has been unreliable and limited. The border shopping at Ibardin, Dancharia, Parzan and Perthus are less useful as they tend to cater for cheap bulk purchases, whole hams and a gallon of olive oil may slow you down a bit but with a bit of hunting something can always be found in these shops, just don't expect to enjoy the experience.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixOSZocbT77a64iNENJCO8s0ToSo5zKWjQbPGOCVuHKhi_LQjDFsFIr3wf734kO4TbTXGyRAntKzI9t0jQN4HgmZ2SNR915zTW-2ldsZCrmMQrJyLBuD5RoM8sSfIxwyJUZ46rQED5lbwC/s1600/DSC01276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixOSZocbT77a64iNENJCO8s0ToSo5zKWjQbPGOCVuHKhi_LQjDFsFIr3wf734kO4TbTXGyRAntKzI9t0jQN4HgmZ2SNR915zTW-2ldsZCrmMQrJyLBuD5RoM8sSfIxwyJUZ46rQED5lbwC/s320/DSC01276.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Banyuls the land of plenty.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">And would we, will we do it all again one day?................ Absolutely!</span></td></tr>
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Nick Mandevillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02253828298647316305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2784606909514903780.post-9474318726185087552016-06-05T22:03:00.001+01:002016-06-20T13:39:29.326+01:00Walking the HRP (or not) Pyrenees East to West 2015<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB0U-utaO9sHMixdhBYm0_5c5jyJ289obvtnJzSA-Y4QjGJvQqU2hA3W4ir9Gun31Lt11UcJ17ywBCYJapPni_kXDXuqDQcg6z0lPZd3tgIceVgB39s5Q2EOEfQUQe-c7ax_ERG5z0lG-m/s1600/DSC03578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB0U-utaO9sHMixdhBYm0_5c5jyJ289obvtnJzSA-Y4QjGJvQqU2hA3W4ir9Gun31Lt11UcJ17ywBCYJapPni_kXDXuqDQcg6z0lPZd3tgIceVgB39s5Q2EOEfQUQe-c7ax_ERG5z0lG-m/s320/DSC03578.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Estanh de Baish de Baciver</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
So with a free summer and our love/obsession with the Pyrenees we decided to see if travelling West was particularly different and if possible to have a look at some alternatives routes we've had in mind since our last crossing.<br />
This is the trail diary of how that went...........<br />
<br />
<br />
18/7/15 Banyuls sur Mer to Font de la Tagnarede<br />
<br />
If 36 hours of travelling, trying to grab snatches of sleep in a variety of singularly uncomfortable chairs were not enough, it is hot, very hot, well into the 30s. It takes us 5hrs to climb Pic Sailfort, less than 1000m. The day's high point is about 1200m and no water along the ridge we press on to Font de la Tagnarede, arriving at 7.30pm having set out from Banyuls at just after 10am. Marginal heat stroke, very sore limbs, unable to eat - this is Fun!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkzvryJOXiRRjRuQxJ924xOvmhMKEdUouhTCFH-p0hsMWN-iW4CMpQjMdKNPIsMQniOGVz1lOTjJComr3FNW5ETKmm9eTOwdVn4zbZAlGBpZf4n8jA2ksukXuoGgAFpyHWQIPQ2Z8hAh-Y/s1600/DSC03177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkzvryJOXiRRjRuQxJ924xOvmhMKEdUouhTCFH-p0hsMWN-iW4CMpQjMdKNPIsMQniOGVz1lOTjJComr3FNW5ETKmm9eTOwdVn4zbZAlGBpZf4n8jA2ksukXuoGgAFpyHWQIPQ2Z8hAh-Y/s320/DSC03177.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pic Sailfort</td></tr>
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19/7/15 Font de la Tagnarede to Las Illas<br />
<br />
Never camp near a road access at the weekend in good weather,there are always chavs around wherever you are. They didn't stop partying until gone 2am. Perthus was as revolting as we remembered but the little bar we visited 2 years ago remains an oasis of calm, friendly, good food and cold drinks. The heat of the afternoon is brutal, we scurry (slowly) from piece of shade to piece of shade. Followed the GR10 markers, which is the long way and arrived at about 6pm. Cold coke at the Hostel, camped in the middle of the village and made use of the shower at the bus stop, everywhere should have this. I am still unable to eat, its also obvious others are struggling too.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnfTJDxxmHY-zAqG_CniyEoD7ZzC2Wevb2dpQAJBvmCSEhLEdEZj_7AxCp8ZckFuXyBoLr_-X52nfioiH8sRlCBxQhscAGvtu4gV8EP7Xw2lnSstxcpI8XCsrhh6SFmK19RfI8V7179Jv3/s1600/DSC03188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnfTJDxxmHY-zAqG_CniyEoD7ZzC2Wevb2dpQAJBvmCSEhLEdEZj_7AxCp8ZckFuXyBoLr_-X52nfioiH8sRlCBxQhscAGvtu4gV8EP7Xw2lnSstxcpI8XCsrhh6SFmK19RfI8V7179Jv3/s320/DSC03188.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Canigou</td></tr>
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20/7/15 Las Illas to Arles sur Tech<br />
<br />
Reasonable early start for the climb to Las Salinas, stopped at the source with its luxurious cold water, then climbed through the col to Roc de Frausa and then the long down to the Eco Gite for cold drinks melon and a salad, managed to keep it down. We dangled our feet in the river before attempting the climb up to Col de Paracolls and on to Arles. We left the river at 3.30pm, but by the time we reached the col I was done, unable to regulate my temperature and maintain hydration the long descent was punctuated by regular stops/collapses, only Jo's careful encouragement got us to the campsite at 7.20pm, I was baggage, sat/lay/collapsed in a cold shower for an hour, not going anywhere tomorrow.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhieayEQX461mYizw-fN1bxJyeU3uOLCKffm_WlT96wtwN4yJ7PmsUeTchkJIIl754qtag-aSv-n0vrk9thF1ZlYxzQuGZ8b9BHHJ1gewCoXC8LR4sWH_1bdBWd8pnDX4neXb7TiRozNv17/s1600/DSC03208.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhieayEQX461mYizw-fN1bxJyeU3uOLCKffm_WlT96wtwN4yJ7PmsUeTchkJIIl754qtag-aSv-n0vrk9thF1ZlYxzQuGZ8b9BHHJ1gewCoXC8LR4sWH_1bdBWd8pnDX4neXb7TiRozNv17/s320/DSC03208.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Col de Paracolls</td></tr>
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21/7/15 Arles sur Tech<br />
<br />
Yesterday was hideous and close to being a disaster, got to know when to stop, as it was we were the only ones of the group we have met to make it to Arles, but I am in bits. The others arrive during the day and like us head to the river, I am not the only struggler. Cold drinks, cold showers and the cold river have hopefully put us back on track, I am at least eating. Given an early start progress should be made. Love the vibe at this campsite.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWvGdR8RLrZZLtj8H1C6K4Tqy9UnEWhCr7tTXF8vCgDfBvLezOo6V2W34luSZAJvuk9_MiCfDKSGuRGbRT99fONasPn__nKthHxYULBL8xhguCOEuGniHr6SKJ72dAgdWXF2eJRUtGE0ss/s1600/DSC03213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWvGdR8RLrZZLtj8H1C6K4Tqy9UnEWhCr7tTXF8vCgDfBvLezOo6V2W34luSZAJvuk9_MiCfDKSGuRGbRT99fONasPn__nKthHxYULBL8xhguCOEuGniHr6SKJ72dAgdWXF2eJRUtGE0ss/s320/DSC03213.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Riuferrer</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
22/7/15 Arles sur Tech to Refuge des Cortalets<br />
<br />
Managed supper at the campsite restaurant along with a carafe of wine, unfortunately the heat in the evening continued to build and it was impossible to sleep. We set off before 6am arriving at Batere before 11am, the air now begining to clear a little with the gain of about 1000m. Fabulous ice-cream, home made lemonade and coke, what a binge! amazing, but not surprising that not feeling that great climbing the further 400m to the col. Having cooled in the breeze at the col we continue along the Balcon de Canigou as far as l'Estanyol hut where we meet up with Nicholas, aspiring guide, who kindly comments on our slowness! Whilst discussing route selection for the next few days over coffee Jo slept only to be awakened by the first rumbles of thunder. With Refuge des Cortalets our intended stage we headed out into the storm, with no real camp options after l'Estanyol (beside the famously bed bug infested hut) we had to push on, this time it was me doing the encouraging as it was Jo's turn to feel lousy. All in a 13hr day with well in excess of 2000m of ascent, fine planning that one!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPYbWLQLoAR7-wOGWgD4BlLRvPL1uYpu59cnGIOEeQ59W2NjOWF31JpTkON-ox99390TAIJ1eomYxcbSlrm8r5jybwz0WaP8wv5dyyRCCnRS5NFs8y1iK2HXraE0rs0XjUPmFB8VU19DoW/s1600/DSC03245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPYbWLQLoAR7-wOGWgD4BlLRvPL1uYpu59cnGIOEeQ59W2NjOWF31JpTkON-ox99390TAIJ1eomYxcbSlrm8r5jybwz0WaP8wv5dyyRCCnRS5NFs8y1iK2HXraE0rs0XjUPmFB8VU19DoW/s320/DSC03245.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Refuge des Cortalets</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
23/7/15 Refuge des Cortalets to Pla Guillem<br />
<br />
Stormy night with strong winds and rain allows only intermittent sleep. Jo still not good in the morning, but as the weather is obviously improving we decide to try for Canigou, up in about 2.5hrs we enjoy the summit views with a few others before downclimbing the chimney and gradually make our way to Mariailles for a late lunch. Omelettes, fresh apple juice, champagne ice-cream and coffee, all is well with the world. Coke, generally a disgusting concoction suddenly becomes the beverage of choice for many when working hard in hot weather, an English lad on the GR10 orders 2 which are dispatched in quick order, never touches the stuff at home. Headed up to the ridge at Pla Guillem, found a camp spot with water and settled down to watch the clouds build again. Watercress soup and garlic croutons for supper, mmmmmmmmm!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZXWCJ1Ulv71Wa53mWNWuTl8TVlD3RJGcwnAGrssG2LhjIYtsNTDrvPlPiiBYJE3iYObUIfPqk_cRodYwRmPE1GdE4sSWW0zfJXaZ4XXniyglROwunR1xWb5A39v4YgvkukYJcmXHzwY5N/s1600/DSC03276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZXWCJ1Ulv71Wa53mWNWuTl8TVlD3RJGcwnAGrssG2LhjIYtsNTDrvPlPiiBYJE3iYObUIfPqk_cRodYwRmPE1GdE4sSWW0zfJXaZ4XXniyglROwunR1xWb5A39v4YgvkukYJcmXHzwY5N/s320/DSC03276.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pla Guillem</td></tr>
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24/7/15 Pla Guillem to below Col de Noucreus<br />
<br />
First cold night. 6.15am start and its not long before the sun starts to warm things up, fortunately as the heat rose so did the breeze and we made great progress along the easy ridges. 2 cans of coke and a freshly cooked chicken baguette at the ski station before moving on past Ull de Ter. As we climbed higher the gathering storm became more apparent although we could see the worst of it behind us, we made coffee at the emergency shelter below the ridge to wait and see how it developed. With the storm appearing well behind us and moving away we headed onto the ridge with the intention of making the Eyne valley. Very soon we were enveloped in cloud and a huge clap of thunder greeted us at Col de Noucreus, we raced down the scree to the valley below and a fairly flat and safe pitch.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjmhc-qpHDr_7zbEbjkrXlmREYxTs8Uoi0Eoeb_WECiibcjShSuTxx1YY0sxIqYDRF6_BkZO6OG4zxwWDo_OledRTCRqjFwmlcxXnhyphenhyphen1GQtFs5Ff7DMk8NJJ_To40yNDHzX5k2ouLT5Vd8/s1600/DSC03307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjmhc-qpHDr_7zbEbjkrXlmREYxTs8Uoi0Eoeb_WECiibcjShSuTxx1YY0sxIqYDRF6_BkZO6OG4zxwWDo_OledRTCRqjFwmlcxXnhyphenhyphen1GQtFs5Ff7DMk8NJJ_To40yNDHzX5k2ouLT5Vd8/s320/DSC03307.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Storm over Cirque de l'Ull de Ter</td></tr>
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25/7/15 Col de Noucreus to Etang de Trebens<br />
<br />
There appeared to be a Troll in the valley last night who delighted in rolling stones of various sizes down the mountainside towards us, this and the near constant light show from the now far off storm made any sleep difficult. We were up and climbing back up to Noucreus before 6am with cloud and mist swirling around the edges. Fairly nervously we pushed on gaining in confidence as blue skies appeared with the rising sun. Eyne is a long valley but the wild flowers were stunning. With only a short stop for coffee we pushed on hard to Bolquere for the shop and much needed supplies - Bollocks - shut until 4pm! Not wanting to waste 3hrs we carried on up to Bouillouses. No chance of a meal until after 7pm we opted for a coke and sandwich from the Auberge followed by chocolat chaud in the Hotel Bones Hores. Finally finished walking at 7.30pm near the highest lake before Pic Carlit for tomorrow. Hospitalet for a Sunday, what could go wrong!!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPEt4LPdwhTc-UXpUJ8CroMf9NEYcQqiAdH8hCsqUXfUtfk_W91HicGK7VKR81Ks8aI1hWTKxTYtZMS1OhiAh38m4RWblJyEBhIMlYhn97aTOrHx664klbS6GFeoKcpR2XRn6i_cicuh9E/s1600/DSC03331+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPEt4LPdwhTc-UXpUJ8CroMf9NEYcQqiAdH8hCsqUXfUtfk_W91HicGK7VKR81Ks8aI1hWTKxTYtZMS1OhiAh38m4RWblJyEBhIMlYhn97aTOrHx664klbS6GFeoKcpR2XRn6i_cicuh9E/s320/DSC03331+%25282%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dawn from Col de Noufonts</td></tr>
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26/7/15 Etang de Trebens to Hospitalet<br />
<br />
Up and going by 6am we were topping out on a very windy Pic Carlit by 8am with stunning views all around, first up! Down the scree is not too bad but it was a mistake to go via Besines again, its longer than the other way and we didn't need it. We did stop at the Refuge for an omelette before heading on down, about 10mins outside Hospitalet we bumped into Nicholas which led to a great evening meal at the Gite d'Etape with said French fastpacking aspiring guide, a Dutch couple and an English guy, much food, beer, wine and good company. We stayed at the Camping Municipal which was great and cheap.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV3rPkFATBX6dHjAWxDyiR2Z8bRZ6vHM7oRi8G-DyqVl-t1t0kzQ9UJKYHG13MLneVSsHdDKUSy0bpvLH2WdEk-xgh6JUMgr5A_umy-p0dMI15NzMJI_ZIAT2ummzgF3zhEQKKcvWz8MZn/s1600/DSC03392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV3rPkFATBX6dHjAWxDyiR2Z8bRZ6vHM7oRi8G-DyqVl-t1t0kzQ9UJKYHG13MLneVSsHdDKUSy0bpvLH2WdEk-xgh6JUMgr5A_umy-p0dMI15NzMJI_ZIAT2ummzgF3zhEQKKcvWz8MZn/s320/DSC03392.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dawn ascent of Pic Carlit</td></tr>
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27/7/15 Hospitalet to Collada de Juclar<br />
<br />
Having missed Bolquere and with no fuel in Hospitalet (and little choice of food) we took the train to Ax les Thermes, good supplies, fabulous pastries, nice cafes and Telemark Pyrenees who supplied me with a new rucksack and sent my old one home for me, excellent service. A problem with the trains meant having to get a bus back which slowed us up a bit, but still packed and away by 2pm, camp set up at Collada de Jucla by 7pm. A fabulous walk of never ending interest and beauty. Unfortunately it appears the camera was on strike!<br />
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28/7/15 Collada de Juclar to Val de Sorteny<br />
<br />
Awoke tired which I think coloured my decision to go through Andorra again rather than a new route in France. What a hard day it turned out to be. The breeze kept some of the heat at bay but I slow roasted as the day went on. Skinny dipping in the lake we shouldn't have gone past was fun although getting back on track was tiresome and by the time we reached the Col de la Mine at about 2700m I was done in. Found a cabin for the night which was a nice change but the pasta supper I had been looking forward to was awful, such is the way of Birthdays!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ1UHOo0W_hq5NZNxx4_KL75cC8aJnY_3bC95_6td-xXW17fKaXPwYQvYBdDYhiN8EBZqEGxFRNasZFm-bcOegZk9G6QCpphYdX8ZyWq0gEDSex6UC7spe4P92n2NDc7fO37ECc7qf3BDo/s1600/DSC03451.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ1UHOo0W_hq5NZNxx4_KL75cC8aJnY_3bC95_6td-xXW17fKaXPwYQvYBdDYhiN8EBZqEGxFRNasZFm-bcOegZk9G6QCpphYdX8ZyWq0gEDSex6UC7spe4P92n2NDc7fO37ECc7qf3BDo/s320/DSC03451.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Val de Sorteny</td></tr>
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29/7/15 Val de Sorteny to West of Port de Romaset via Port de Creussans<br />
<br />
Not an auspicious start falling from the top bunk onto a stone floor, now bruises on top of a poor nights sleep.The walk down to El Serrat was pleasant although the flowers were not as abundant as our last visit. El Serrat is a waste of space for hikers but we found the trail up to Vallnord along the river very nice despite its proximity to the road at times. Vallnord was abuzz with activity mostly related to tourists visiting the Estanys de Tristainia. Bar Restaurant open! Burger,chips, coke and Haagen Das awesome. A good pull up to the col with outstanding views to Pic d'Etats and a very deep valley between, both had sore knees by the time we reached the valley floor, sat and recovered by the stream. Decided to keep going so headed towards Port de Romaset first alongside a stream to a hanging valley where a number of people had already set up camp, then more steeply until reaching a huge boulder field, the extent of which we were never quite sure as the visibility dropped the higher we went. Not much in the way of a trail on the other side of the col so headed down as far as a reasonably sheltered pitch, its cold now.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAbZLrRndPS0-O7mVrX-xO1Nces2vbdOOZRn67Arq0-4hSFCz_gEA0gIb2uKoNMCo24lvbWuAazzUvnNINUtMnWzU2acI9FzEtqm_chWhmQV21yTWQ0E_GdTRWIYLj2Lt7mNoHW0yzHf_y/s1600/DSC03473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAbZLrRndPS0-O7mVrX-xO1Nces2vbdOOZRn67Arq0-4hSFCz_gEA0gIb2uKoNMCo24lvbWuAazzUvnNINUtMnWzU2acI9FzEtqm_chWhmQV21yTWQ0E_GdTRWIYLj2Lt7mNoHW0yzHf_y/s320/DSC03473.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pic d'Etats</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
30/7/15 Port de Romaset to Tavascan<br />
<br />
The first squall hit the tent at about 5am, 2 or 3 more short ones before we raised ourselves to head down to Val Ferrera, my nav error meant some messing about in the rain before we reached the refuge for hot drinks and kitkats. Raining hard, thunder and lightening we abandon all hope of Pic d'Etats and instead decide to follow the GR11 to Tavascan, no redeeming features, a boring walk in the pissing rain we arrive 12hrs after setting out. Very friendly welcome at the Hotel, hang gear everywhere in the hope of getting it dry, batter myself once again falling out of the bath, then beer and olives followed by a 3 course meal and a bottle of wine, slept well.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG-U81xKlmxpFaHXgFEwcQGaTCrELl7Ye9YX7sVTVS0FWBdCpyUH80dIAeMZHPk6yVMf9k1mHciiodGwcFNlwms1y9BfuEcJQNUF8x-s2orhDZxlHT10KI0sJpCNy7_CQWMDBbKkea2_HL/s1600/DSC03508.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG-U81xKlmxpFaHXgFEwcQGaTCrELl7Ye9YX7sVTVS0FWBdCpyUH80dIAeMZHPk6yVMf9k1mHciiodGwcFNlwms1y9BfuEcJQNUF8x-s2orhDZxlHT10KI0sJpCNy7_CQWMDBbKkea2_HL/s320/DSC03508.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the way to Tavascan in the rain</td></tr>
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31/7/15 Tavascan to Bord de Graus<br />
<br />
With the forecast still stormy we remained in the Hotel for breakfast before setting out in the wrong direction from Tavascan, nice walk though it was, wrong direction is still wrong direction, so on returning to Tavascan and completing our warm up we took up residency on a bench, did a little food shopping and had lunch. Now headed in the right direction we were at Camping Graus by 2.15pm, bar for beer and olives! Fortunately we had decided to stay put as the storms that now rolled in were of the very long and very lively variety. Great supper in the Refuge and lovely staff, a real pleasure.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbsBqQw0tdu14CDqCiIM4QIgD0K0JJXAWvBqijFzjokLDGPcqkuWTO6vYPzRZb98ghooKPrdo1sjp2rVrUQXimlzOnV4Sgq5DPIVEiBg-TG1B4266VoIBn8XVKIylYfsOdQEINBsd553sB/s1600/DSC03516.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbsBqQw0tdu14CDqCiIM4QIgD0K0JJXAWvBqijFzjokLDGPcqkuWTO6vYPzRZb98ghooKPrdo1sjp2rVrUQXimlzOnV4Sgq5DPIVEiBg-TG1B4266VoIBn8XVKIylYfsOdQEINBsd553sB/s320/DSC03516.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Favourites</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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1/8/15 Bord de Graus to Bassa de Sobriu<br />
<br />
After a great night, and following our recent navigational prowess we are pretty slow trying to find our way over unfamiliar ground with irregular traces of a trail. We then had a crisis of confidence which resulted in nearly climbing the col, backing off, re-assessing and deciding it probably was right, maybe! only to find some while later we recognised the small lake some way down the other side when almost convinced we had never been here before, see things do look different heading West. Some easy miles would be nice but a lovely walk.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHgAOfTJkvBrTW7NBp10rhdD97g6YtDaZxztKaHf7fQjUCC5crDhyphenhyphenTEnz7amx8EpnrtpCbQmhEAoItOS2Kfl0qfksR8y0w_S2reRtOiqVTsAdo175pQsYrYI5il-bXpfYS_Zm_RSJ-qZ6e/s1600/DSC03554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHgAOfTJkvBrTW7NBp10rhdD97g6YtDaZxztKaHf7fQjUCC5crDhyphenhyphenTEnz7amx8EpnrtpCbQmhEAoItOS2Kfl0qfksR8y0w_S2reRtOiqVTsAdo175pQsYrYI5il-bXpfYS_Zm_RSJ-qZ6e/s320/DSC03554.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bassa de Sobriu</td></tr>
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2/8/15 Bassa de Sobriu to Estanh de Baish de Baciver<br />
<br />
Very cold night, awoke to clear blue skies.Familiar gentle walk down the valley and then along the road through Alos Isil to Isil. The girl in the bar made us sausage and onion ciabatta sandwiches, awesome. Decided to head down to the abandoned hamlet of Arreu, a very sad sight. The gently rising trail made light work of the 1000m of ascent despite the heat. Jo briefly swam in one of the lakes, very cold. From here the trail is intermittent up to the second lake and on to Forquetta d'Arrou, 6.30pm, to cross the ridge for the run down to Salardu. Another pretty lakeside camp.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCAqUE0FNXAIJvd34NIj9aiO2Ly4bfh37TYUaZ1pxWUqCRJmWwoG5COR3vkU_o-NKIDVppD4Qc30XVwehfgHCXNbBE2xCqY-kOLObl3zaX6yLkt382PUOmj8Z2fAO8YFVkctbuUxMLJnnQ/s1600/DSC03577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCAqUE0FNXAIJvd34NIj9aiO2Ly4bfh37TYUaZ1pxWUqCRJmWwoG5COR3vkU_o-NKIDVppD4Qc30XVwehfgHCXNbBE2xCqY-kOLObl3zaX6yLkt382PUOmj8Z2fAO8YFVkctbuUxMLJnnQ/s320/DSC03577.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Estanh de Baish de Baciver</td></tr>
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3/8/15 Estanh de Baish de Baciver to Lac de Deth Port<br />
<br />
Beautiful clear morning for the walk into Salardu which took just a little bit too long although the wild flowers were stunning. Breakfast at the bakery after shopping at the supermercado, very friendly, and an early sandwich at the outdoor cafe before the long road climb to Colomers. So hot now, Jo struggling, by the time we reach Port Caldes we have been walking up hill for 6hrs. As we are within a restricted area we had to carry on over the next col towards Deth Port, the approaching storm was very evident making for an interesting boulder field descent. Tent is up before the worst and a brief gap in the hail allows for a hot supper and coffee.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEcwrRQX8VYr6scDigupGfDC-5ROwDVS-Bz_IlxOnOtacrX1kiiifv1j9bD8v7QsVo8ze8CIkCoqcXlgpDvB4qdogWOHAaJSsc9xAuE-xva41Fql1iLzJH7CC4ady8nRYRmprOkAv7AnAx/s1600/DSC03613.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEcwrRQX8VYr6scDigupGfDC-5ROwDVS-Bz_IlxOnOtacrX1kiiifv1j9bD8v7QsVo8ze8CIkCoqcXlgpDvB4qdogWOHAaJSsc9xAuE-xva41Fql1iLzJH7CC4ady8nRYRmprOkAv7AnAx/s320/DSC03613.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Port Caldes</td></tr>
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4/8/15 Lac de Deth Port to Lac d'Anglos<br />
<br />
What a night!! Lightening, hail, rain and strong winds, 8hrs the storm rages on, at well over 2000m it all seems rather close, fortunately the tent is bomb proof. However the lack of sleep and steep trails make this a day to remember, I'm a right grump. Steeply down to Restanca, then followed the GR11 up to Port Rius which seemed to go on and on and no where near as beautiful as the HRP via Collada de Mar. I remember disliking Port Rius to Conangles in ascent and it wasn't much better in descent against the tide of day hikers. Coke at Conangles next to a screaming child who managed to find our picnic spot sometime later. The route up to Lagos de Anglos starts gently through woodland along the river but rears up through scrub for nearly 1000m, hot, fly ridden, tired and my new boots are falling apart, a hard day.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBjtgtaPioyAmS0N0aiRtbluYGUF0WcBXsUI6Tvtihd9KtPfC5QDuCyIr8_mzezun5iyZR-P3idHsEMjj2WqZ-_S3XE4m7wnmOppa54r2NDLcv6RDOeWk9ohPMY63cRoKxP6-rOOHI9S9n/s1600/DSC03629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBjtgtaPioyAmS0N0aiRtbluYGUF0WcBXsUI6Tvtihd9KtPfC5QDuCyIr8_mzezun5iyZR-P3idHsEMjj2WqZ-_S3XE4m7wnmOppa54r2NDLcv6RDOeWk9ohPMY63cRoKxP6-rOOHI9S9n/s320/DSC03629.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Restanca</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
5/8/15 Lac d'Anglos to Camping Aneto<br />
<br />
Extreme fatigue and a still, cool night allowed a good nights sleep and we got going by 7am. We have no map for this route, as we hadn't planned to be here!, but managed to photograph an artistic impression of the route and it will be marked GR11. The fact we have done it before counts for very little. As it was the 3 steep cols we negotiate in the first few hours sap the strength from our legs but provide little to remember, it is only as we reach the Balibierna lakes that it becomes more familiar and we make Camping Aneto by 3.30pm. Made the mistake of having a nice cold beer, wasted, the heat (mid 30s) and tiredness catch up. Great supper at the tent, plenty of wine chatting to some young Austrians about day routes close by. Rest and shopping tomorrow.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr4EOTMc7hLH8-alnSkpSBGZn5GDCPkdIuH852hhJp2EJUodY5797XwYDDTDihvoaRmqShyDngGFfqMAOiGYo9Ak7NozoD4YsAfr9uOQ3UAdQSiDy0Y0dsW-bPPX1wuwXUzZTpJrciNMqJ/s1600/DSC03682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr4EOTMc7hLH8-alnSkpSBGZn5GDCPkdIuH852hhJp2EJUodY5797XwYDDTDihvoaRmqShyDngGFfqMAOiGYo9Ak7NozoD4YsAfr9uOQ3UAdQSiDy0Y0dsW-bPPX1wuwXUzZTpJrciNMqJ/s320/DSC03682.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coll de Vallibierna</td></tr>
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6/8/15 Camping Aneto<br />
<br />
Good nights sleep, pain au chocolat and chocolate for breakfast!. Walked down to Benasque, cool early on but heating up very fast, to buy a new pair of shoes as the new pair I had bought for the trip were falling apart (more on this later). Bought provisions at the supermercado and stopped at a garage on the way back for an ice-cream. Back to the campsite to spend the rest of the day between the swimming pool, bar and restaurant whilst keeping up to date of England trouncing the Aussies at cricket, all rather good.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX8O5u6XCqBSbEx6dtxr-nrOA6am8HEJDzU_B_fkwPYubKPcqyvsDfsnaC4iajUewuA0EXHlt94DbBi_pf-Kw2Y8w3ZAohLfQ8ASoBXreLFv5Lywwh0fwF5X-nINgqh7qj9e6ZW1xSJJto/s1600/DSC03698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX8O5u6XCqBSbEx6dtxr-nrOA6am8HEJDzU_B_fkwPYubKPcqyvsDfsnaC4iajUewuA0EXHlt94DbBi_pf-Kw2Y8w3ZAohLfQ8ASoBXreLFv5Lywwh0fwF5X-nINgqh7qj9e6ZW1xSJJto/s320/DSC03698.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Camping Aneto</td></tr>
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7/8/15 Camping Aneto to Paso de Los Caballos<br />
<br />
Big day in new boots! Left Camping Aneto after breakfast at 7am. Cokes at Refugio Estos at 9.20am with a spanish mountain biker drinking beer, that could be an interesting day. Through the Col Christau with lunch down at the crossing. We had intended to cross to Riamajou from here but with storms every other day we couldn't afford the time waiting for clear weather for the ridge to Barroude, so we followed the GR11, stopping at Camping Forcallo for more coke before continuing to Passo de Los Caballos where we picked out an iffy camp spot by 8pm, great views of Posets. Helped an Austrian HRP'er east bound with a few litres of filtered water for him and his Australian companion, they were pretty done in. V. tired, Barroude tomorrow.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizQxw3FSRdpN94PShX-KFMVO55zP2AYRhDtixBqlrUhU6psn3IO1OEHQ_dlgyaHzdkiSwIOkrK0hXw4tRLq02MLDX29HvkwyiCqGe-3LxapNFvB0DV75cvHYaPOeHnH-ydtrMGzVG7bMRe/s1600/DSC03731.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizQxw3FSRdpN94PShX-KFMVO55zP2AYRhDtixBqlrUhU6psn3IO1OEHQ_dlgyaHzdkiSwIOkrK0hXw4tRLq02MLDX29HvkwyiCqGe-3LxapNFvB0DV75cvHYaPOeHnH-ydtrMGzVG7bMRe/s320/DSC03731.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paso de Los Caballos</td></tr>
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8/8/15 Paso de Los Caballos to Refugio de Barrosa<br />
<br />
Didn't make it, rain stopped play again! Showers are hitting the tent before we even contemplate getting up and its all about timing in getting packed up. Long dirt track down to the valley. With supermarkets in sight hunger gets the better of us and we go the extra 1k or so for a breakfast of yoghurt, magdelenes and chocolate washed down with fizzy orange, and peaches for later. All this makes the tedious road march up to our exit valley all the longer, the storm hits and all is horribly familiar to 2 years ago. We shelter on the steps of an abandoned border post and make coffee. Get going again and make quick time to the Refugio de Barrosa 1.30pm, have lunch but there is little let up in the weather, not wanting to get caught out on high ground we make ourselves comfortable for the night.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieAJdIJDhA2GrRrlETFzqpDynlma4o5cBejxrKvOtWMj-l2n-jhDp-iUa6nZ9X8YS2XQIYv5s9fF5A4e64Jb0lvqCPZYFMj_N6fPr5DLv-MFGz6lp5CB1QqedOsWC4WSnrsBIUFUigfEON/s1600/DSC03748.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieAJdIJDhA2GrRrlETFzqpDynlma4o5cBejxrKvOtWMj-l2n-jhDp-iUa6nZ9X8YS2XQIYv5s9fF5A4e64Jb0lvqCPZYFMj_N6fPr5DLv-MFGz6lp5CB1QqedOsWC4WSnrsBIUFUigfEON/s320/DSC03748.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Refugio de Barrosa</td></tr>
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9/8/15 Refugio de Barrosa to near Estaube Hut<br />
<br />
Very cold start 7am, after a pretty rubbish nights sleep. 2hrs up to the Port de Barroude where we are greeted by an icy wind and swirling cloud. Some brave souls were trying to dry their kit out having camped beside the burnt out refuge. Stopped and had coffee before continuing towards Horquette de Chermentas, on route we had a very near miss with a rockfall, fortunately nothing more than a cut to the hand protecting my head. The cloud continued to push over us as we climbed the Hourquette de Heas, too cold and zero visibility we avoided the Col de Sede and continued down to Cabane Aiguillous for a lunch stop. We then picked up the path to Traverse the Cirque de Troumouse, Jo struggling on the initial re-ascent but despite the conditions its an interesting walk and far preferable to the road at Heas. Energised by an early supper at La Maillet ,omelette salad coke and gateaux basque, we could set of on another traversing line that leads into Estaube finding a pitch near the hut at 8pm.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheaqlSHms-1UkKWU3KJrX4Vpo6gVhQllbK9aIjOYjiA1fvkghDdfP-jt61P928YygYeMawXi3UU44ioridT5AuvE9vc7gSUDN27Q2FBSL3aOf-8mVwAFstLV7WduBCNvWMYVM77Qu5PZc3/s1600/DSC03761.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheaqlSHms-1UkKWU3KJrX4Vpo6gVhQllbK9aIjOYjiA1fvkghDdfP-jt61P928YygYeMawXi3UU44ioridT5AuvE9vc7gSUDN27Q2FBSL3aOf-8mVwAFstLV7WduBCNvWMYVM77Qu5PZc3/s320/DSC03761.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Port de Barroude</td></tr>
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10/8/15 near Estaube Hut to Gavarnie<br />
<br />
Knock the ice off cold this morning, clear and bright. 7am start to Horquette Alan, arrived exhausted at 9am, both tired this morning and some-one is coming to terms with a big birthday! The views from the col are immense and we enjoy them for a while before descending to Gavarnie. Campsite owner is as brusque as ever and shopping for supplies not easy. We had missed all the breakfast pastries so settled for stale croissants and a muffin. Had a massively overpriced beer whilst Jo read all her messages, then after a picnic lunch we got all our washing done. Supper out was no more than ok but it was nice to relax. There is much to dislike here but the scenery is stunning.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ1BKLAmTVOLJ3sPDWF-CiyvfCocrFbC_ywoBaq6jcAZlWyUKMa7SoJiiSONR8KoRBgUE1vM9aGbO_6FxV4XfbcynuhzDymBPeL8VjzDutBFYZmFEB5pE42czrezegBW-lYUiqAY-R-UI_/s1600/DSC03819.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ1BKLAmTVOLJ3sPDWF-CiyvfCocrFbC_ywoBaq6jcAZlWyUKMa7SoJiiSONR8KoRBgUE1vM9aGbO_6FxV4XfbcynuhzDymBPeL8VjzDutBFYZmFEB5pE42czrezegBW-lYUiqAY-R-UI_/s320/DSC03819.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Refuge des Espuguettes</td></tr>
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<br />
11/8/15 Gavarnie to Refugio Goriz<br />
<br />
Ready to go at 6.45am and walk into Gavarnie as both the supermarket and bakery advertise 7am opening, nothing! So without breakfast we head to the Cirque glad to be leaving. It is stunning, and once we have located the start of the Echelle des Sarradets we enjoy the easy scramble up into the heart of the Cirque and then on to the Refuge by 11am. Chorizo Tortilla and chocolate brownie, best we had on this trip, also despite being overrun daily with day trippers from the Col de Tentes the staff were very friendly. We quickly made the Breche, must be quite fit, and arrived at Goriz soon after 3pm. Fantastic walk.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRokkk8P3lx7lDyuBzmj_j3BzpZl8nsde3UqpuogsqM8kGFL-yDoemJTW3MwCpxCB_Tpw4Tx3kpLhQKpUbMjZ36Rphn6ebU4mJTEkpR4XLQgtp_X8MvJ0I5S323UPCUwrfcozA8-w8n6ow/s1600/DSC03863.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRokkk8P3lx7lDyuBzmj_j3BzpZl8nsde3UqpuogsqM8kGFL-yDoemJTW3MwCpxCB_Tpw4Tx3kpLhQKpUbMjZ36Rphn6ebU4mJTEkpR4XLQgtp_X8MvJ0I5S323UPCUwrfcozA8-w8n6ow/s320/DSC03863.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Refugio Goriz</td></tr>
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<br />
12/8/15 Refugio Goriz to Camping Valle de Bujaruelo<br />
<br />
The chaos, colour and noise at Goriz always takes me by surprise but this is Spain and things only start winding down at 10.30pm. Up at 6am to see the bobbing headtorches of those heading for Perdido, we are away by 6.45am in the other direction through the Ordessa Canyon and we are soon through the upper reaches and into the woods as the first arrivals from the summer coaches pass us. Well before reaching the Pradera we are swimming against a strong tide of disgorged tourists. The bar at the parking produced fantastic sandwiches coffee and cakes all with a friendliness and attention that is sadly lacking in much of Gavarnie. The path continues down to the road juction with stunning glimpses of the river below but without the crowds, after which its just a march up the road to the campsite, help some youngsters with their GR11 route finding, its now cooking and we are both getting grumpy. Arrived 2pm, tent up , bar for beer and olives before much needed showers and supplies from the little shop, more bar time before supper at 8pm, always good.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdwYGJc9r75GdtHB0O_OGGIbzTjVzfawD203_w32MGyTI3FSM-H5BoG7h9vMhybMkHJOElaZIsHlVzm7tp0baRQelA2dCq_NVkgZIoHR-2UyZWoBK3oZkZwyBh0HlHBpW29kFKtQlDJ8Zt/s1600/DSC03866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdwYGJc9r75GdtHB0O_OGGIbzTjVzfawD203_w32MGyTI3FSM-H5BoG7h9vMhybMkHJOElaZIsHlVzm7tp0baRQelA2dCq_NVkgZIoHR-2UyZWoBK3oZkZwyBh0HlHBpW29kFKtQlDJ8Zt/s320/DSC03866.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ordessa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
13/8/15 Camping Valle de Bujaruelo to Embalse de Bachimina Alto<br />
<br />
A proper Jo day, Big! It was a bit of a shock to be rudely awakened by a particularly sharp storm in the middle of the night following a great supper with an equally good bottle of Rioja. What was even more rude was the storm's re-appearance at about 5.30am. Packed up in the pouring rain, thunder and lightening and had breakfast in the campsite shelter, by which time things had eased off and we were only delayed by half an hour. We made our intended destination by lunch, so after a picnic at the lake continued up through the Collado de Letrero. Trickier than we both remembered but keen to keep off the boulders on the north side we had some scrambling to do, fun. Continued down past the lakes on sometimes difficult broken ground until finding a campspot near the Embalse de Bachimina Alto 7pm.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtaikW8na_eisbBOqI-33QxsAdqOxkOSjoAuw7mo9S0Jvvsi6GYsUGy2PYN5tUVgorkdJkGrwpzMjPhu7HGe-AhPvC7WuoV0d8YEZx2sPZiIS9LZQtySmxzOX2wvtne0aGMrXqdKCag6_J/s1600/DSC03919.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtaikW8na_eisbBOqI-33QxsAdqOxkOSjoAuw7mo9S0Jvvsi6GYsUGy2PYN5tUVgorkdJkGrwpzMjPhu7HGe-AhPvC7WuoV0d8YEZx2sPZiIS9LZQtySmxzOX2wvtne0aGMrXqdKCag6_J/s320/DSC03919.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bramatuero</td></tr>
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<br />
14/8/15 Embalse de Bachimina Alto to Cabane de Socques<br />
<br />
Another Jo day! Left camp about 7.15am after a very cold night. The low swirling cloud did nothing to warm us as we climbed to the Col and on down to Respumoso before 12pm for some food, Spanish omelette baguette! whilst a serious catholic blessing of mountaineering equipment was being conducted outside, this was still continuing as we set out for Arremoulit. Unfortunately the low cloud persisted over this beautiful landscape and devoid of the usual snow fields this year. However Bols de Chocolat chaud and cake re-vitalised limbs and spirits to head on.<br />
Passage d'Orteig is better dry and travelling East (Up), downclimbing the wet, polished stone was not as much fun. With no suitable pitches we carried on down the valley to the road and the cabane. We bought the best sheep's cheese we have had from the Shepherd across the road, and very nearly left with one of his collie pups.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvYhitMg3SH1TpNtyFT5Ib9XPzd3Mv-rydKA6jZTRGL5vrQK7_AwcDLZvsYzOeJaT07lnR9R_PqVyCDyqJtCLB95CzwZibXRfDzg0PLy0BCDmxqFpEyI7NimAeanD2d78EmghyphenhyphenUieQwAtU/s1600/DSC03942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvYhitMg3SH1TpNtyFT5Ib9XPzd3Mv-rydKA6jZTRGL5vrQK7_AwcDLZvsYzOeJaT07lnR9R_PqVyCDyqJtCLB95CzwZibXRfDzg0PLy0BCDmxqFpEyI7NimAeanD2d78EmghyphenhyphenUieQwAtU/s320/DSC03942.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Collado de Piedrafita o de Tebarray</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
15/8/15 Cabane de Socques to Lac d'Estaens<br />
<br />
Third Jo day in a row! I was aware of the rain before getting up, first there was the swish of the odd early car on a wet road and secondly, slightly later, the drip drip from a hole in the roof. It had eased off by 7.30am so we headed up to Pombie, initially warm and muggy but increasingly cold as we reach the Refuge. Bols de Chocolat chaud and a chat to the gaurdiens before taking their recommendation of a traversing route round to Lac Peyreget. Fantastic Marmot display at the lake. We missed the short cut on the way down, ending up further down the valley so adding to our climb back up to the Col de Moines. Great lunch at the ski station of Astun whilst it rained, only clearing as we finished coffee. A quick re-stock at the little supermercado in Candanchu, now loaded with chocolate and biscuits we decided to go all out for Lac d'Estaens! Tent up about 9pm, a real sore foot day.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhnC4lMhLG6efnsFQaIEgcjrsvGh44SxE32yYP2bP_j2Vj9voWaSP-O89I8Xbau9yTzSZ6v-x-4tHc2SSsG0BYZCN-JOmT34a2Hdw56zHTNqW9PXBSwn5nEZSyAgtweq-ORVqKjbcQ1Ddz/s1600/DSC04028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhnC4lMhLG6efnsFQaIEgcjrsvGh44SxE32yYP2bP_j2Vj9voWaSP-O89I8Xbau9yTzSZ6v-x-4tHc2SSsG0BYZCN-JOmT34a2Hdw56zHTNqW9PXBSwn5nEZSyAgtweq-ORVqKjbcQ1Ddz/s320/DSC04028.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lac d'Estaens</td></tr>
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<br />
16/8/15 Lac d'Estaens to Lescun<br />
<br />
Awoke very early very cold, put on all the layers I could find but still cold, not sure were all the feathers in my bag have gone and Jo looks so snug. Slow start with coffee so didn't get away until 8am, still made Arlet by 12 for a coke. This long traverse has many more ups and downs than we remember although its probably just the toll of the last few days. Looking back Pic du Midi still dominates the skyline and it is with sadness that we leave the high mountains, all that is left is to finish the route. Lescun proves to be something of a disaster. Arriving at 6pm we set up camp, shower and wash clothes in quick order so as to get to the restaurant. With great effort we persuade tired limbs to climb the 1km uphill, beer ordered we seem to be rebuffed regarding supper but wait as requested, this has turned into a farce, by 8.30pm with much shrugging and muttering from other would be diners we return to a now closed campsite for a cup-a-soup and no wine......fuck!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimRBjzouFEylFG3NBhBTnOL51WZu8CuFTF2ipAqmBaech8_GE4ttqcxxu7LtlGx8YFfAlHAjMCGgpDZHoOhRKZSwCjfkT2OEPqt_rVgrs-3bGK8B9q0RYIy90366tCllz7tDTEoLWg21BR/s1600/DSC04068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimRBjzouFEylFG3NBhBTnOL51WZu8CuFTF2ipAqmBaech8_GE4ttqcxxu7LtlGx8YFfAlHAjMCGgpDZHoOhRKZSwCjfkT2OEPqt_rVgrs-3bGK8B9q0RYIy90366tCllz7tDTEoLWg21BR/s320/DSC04068.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking back to Pic du Midi d'Ossau</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
17/8/15 Lescun to beyond Refuge Belagua<br />
<br />
Still dissapointed by last night we awoke late and rather wearily packed up to visit the shop on our way westward. An expensive upgrade in provisions and a large breakfast complete we continued uphill on road track and stony trails for more than 1200m to the col above Source de Marmatou where we enjoyed lunch in thick mist.<br />
All started well enough at the col until coming across fresh red and whites, we became dazzled by their brightness despite the obviously wrong direction in which they went, inevitably this led to an additional although pleasant detour of around 2hrs (GR12 I think). The rather spooky ruin of Belagua appeared to have its own Golom in residence, so having collected water we carried on to the windiest and coldest camp spot I could find just to make boiling water with the alcohol stove more interesting.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguMyHOwUN4x1jpwpI0YShjfScbgMUwmhBEatcxhpO3AAhz10L_2mNw2zJOXh0n0rcDbZK0OBJqPN-mAxpp4FVGAfP5oPh13JSutJDTVgF-ORjl4XMpd70y6_j7htuu9tSSPXNmBtBw5jra/s1600/DSC04092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguMyHOwUN4x1jpwpI0YShjfScbgMUwmhBEatcxhpO3AAhz10L_2mNw2zJOXh0n0rcDbZK0OBJqPN-mAxpp4FVGAfP5oPh13JSutJDTVgF-ORjl4XMpd70y6_j7htuu9tSSPXNmBtBw5jra/s320/DSC04092.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After Col d'Anaye</td></tr>
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<br />
18/8/15 Belagua to Chalets d'Iraty<br />
<br />
Rubbish nights sleep. The wind cold and Golom did for that. We dragged ourselves out of our bags and into the cold by 7.30am. No visibility and a strong wind, its very cold and I'm wearing everything I have. Fortunately much of the route is way marked red and white for the same GR12 we followed yesterday. Not much in the legs but once established on the ridge its easy going in our fog bound bubble until the steep up to Pic d'Orhy. We saw vultures in the distance bring down a healthy sheep with sheer numbers, slightly more nervous the next time they cruise past. Arrived at Iraty 6.30pm missing the shop and early for supper, so more coke before a fine meal, nearly dark by the time we had found a pitch.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV9qndMd2u2_0zzTeRn3-zSNYJFqmMQAQf4UerlYiprquo5L6dJp5s_ZZ5-7m6dAEjugspQr2ZaBMRkxsgUnePqqSh5Kwmsn1oeJku6mA8a6xR9OGmwrouTTNS8P3dM5dG9p5B5L1cLBU2/s1600/DSC04105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV9qndMd2u2_0zzTeRn3-zSNYJFqmMQAQf4UerlYiprquo5L6dJp5s_ZZ5-7m6dAEjugspQr2ZaBMRkxsgUnePqqSh5Kwmsn1oeJku6mA8a6xR9OGmwrouTTNS8P3dM5dG9p5B5L1cLBU2/s320/DSC04105.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Frontier ridge near Txardekagaina Barazea</td></tr>
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19/8/15 Chalets d'Iraty to beside the Compostella trail<br />
<br />
Cattle clanked all night and we are slow to get going in the beautiful morning light. Cold under the inversion as we descend to Chalet Pedro and we climb through the woods until we feel the sun's warmth and stop for coffee and cake. Route finding is fairly easy but the ups and downs are taking their toll on both of us. We meet a surprising number of people a week into their Eastward crossing, all carrying huge packs. Topped up water at one of the huge horse troughs before reaching the Compostella trail, made supper but a local farmer was not keen on our presence, so having eaten and refilled water bottles at the font we continued down the trail to a bivy spot.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH6MMTWYlD_h-4OYANpA-GpKKEFUzvJpTdtx4Tqnl3WxqkxDglgS5UQvhtCidvFq9TdMsKnI6ADKTZ0pXg1XeHoruHvenzsKr-yZ10kI5xVcK-wIEDhXKnVSXso5LDIGM8JX3RARWF3IMm/s1600/DSC04126.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH6MMTWYlD_h-4OYANpA-GpKKEFUzvJpTdtx4Tqnl3WxqkxDglgS5UQvhtCidvFq9TdMsKnI6ADKTZ0pXg1XeHoruHvenzsKr-yZ10kI5xVcK-wIEDhXKnVSXso5LDIGM8JX3RARWF3IMm/s320/DSC04126.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Near Iraty</td></tr>
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20/8/15 Compostella trail to Iparla Ridge<br />
<br />
Easy miles on Basque ridges kind of a day. Firstly along the Compostella trail (which has the worst litter encountered), then a mixture of road, track and trail to Aldudes where we over indulged. Coke in the Bar whilst waiting for the shop to re-open, then prepared Couscous, Cacolac, Peaches and Yoghurts! We could hardly move, especially with the extra food and water we were now carrying. The afternoon is very hot and the climb up onto the Iparla ridge is a slow steep 600m, both soaked in sweat by the time we reach the summit of Urrichka to camp in the breeze.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB-3fSuk-o3SkRqMp71H5KPtEVy0Pi9Dglkbo_C-7cLN2U5T-DosmxfskiC3XVeGcEDQGLF7Aw_uYq1VI_0dJfnbSEX_ovulXHNiCKmmWBHrQLmZm73BF2KVbkfsv8pfhC8ezGWgvu0LZI/s1600/DSC04175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB-3fSuk-o3SkRqMp71H5KPtEVy0Pi9Dglkbo_C-7cLN2U5T-DosmxfskiC3XVeGcEDQGLF7Aw_uYq1VI_0dJfnbSEX_ovulXHNiCKmmWBHrQLmZm73BF2KVbkfsv8pfhC8ezGWgvu0LZI/s320/DSC04175.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aldudes from Iparla Ridge</td></tr>
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<br />
21/8/15 Iparla Ridge to Bidarray<br />
<br />
The heat was apparent at sunrise, all hint of the previous evenings breeze had gone, in fact we had both overheated in our bags in the early hours. The ridge itself provides a great variety of walking, never difficult in itself, but in this heat by the afternoon it was more trial than fun. Ispeguy is a great stop for lunch in terms of quality value and service. On the long descent to Bidarry we met some English guys on the GR10 who told us of a free camping field in the centre of the village. After a long hard day in the heat the evening's cold beers were awesome.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEzo5G86jjTEVEJOBQcF7dm7L0zWmVAfRjMoaUX3Bho4sCwdLUEjrbM9T0yd0NV8_k6IKGfu_AebAvBKNsVrBL2DHsy2j3HRRKhbDRrAEbgRFejxxqot6tiGIrH78iHYRO2m52UI0gh8lE/s1600/DSC04205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEzo5G86jjTEVEJOBQcF7dm7L0zWmVAfRjMoaUX3Bho4sCwdLUEjrbM9T0yd0NV8_k6IKGfu_AebAvBKNsVrBL2DHsy2j3HRRKhbDRrAEbgRFejxxqot6tiGIrH78iHYRO2m52UI0gh8lE/s320/DSC04205.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Iparla Ridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
22/8/15 Bidarray to Ainhoa<br />
<br />
Awoke early again, hot, expecting the storm to finally develop but nothing happens and we drift back to sleep only to wake about 7am. A quick look around doesn't reveal a bakery so we sit on a wall waiting for the small supermarket to open at 8am. Been here before, nothing! empty handed we set off into a muggy overcast morning. All up at first on road then steeply on a sometimes rocky path, we are dripping again, but each of a series of cols is reached fairly easily in turn. A coke in the Gite d'Etape is followed by a long traverse, nothing is big or arduous but we are tired and ratty. Arrive at the campsite at 3.30pm, it takes a while to raise the owner to get set. Long long shower before we hobble back to the village which seems to only cater for tourists, fortunately the pizza van is in town, washed down with local cider and chocolate. All tucked in as the storm starts.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading to Ainhoa</td></tr>
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23/8/15 Ainhoa to Ibardin<br />
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Today was the day we needed to put in a good shift to make the last day a short hop or limp! The storm kept us awake on and off through the night didn't help. Taking down a wet tent in the dark pre dawn in the hope things would improve. We set off in full waterproofs through dark woodland and riverside tracks with little to see but the weather was improving. A fantastic feast of blackberries supplemented our meagre breakfast before arriving in the land of plenty, Sare. Great boulangerie for more breakfast and bread for lunch, we were all set for the climb up La Rhune. Fantastic views along the coast, Hendaye, St Jean, Biarritz and Bayonne all laid out before us. After a picnic lunch near the summit we made good time to Col d'Ibardin, which in 2 years has become more like Perthus, where after a brief drink and stock up we carried on for an hour to camp.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPG5O3RTAIwNCj_n3Yk7g2nXBHZJdVuFUKbu4AvBwWZtkB-dkM05njAhcFTSVDXX5e0_247QSoKskXUIUimVkHJoXYwr-_zIrr-PuHSq80cslPGD_my1Cv7za55J4qpQexGv3EHdcLJqcc/s1600/DSC04248.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPG5O3RTAIwNCj_n3Yk7g2nXBHZJdVuFUKbu4AvBwWZtkB-dkM05njAhcFTSVDXX5e0_247QSoKskXUIUimVkHJoXYwr-_zIrr-PuHSq80cslPGD_my1Cv7za55J4qpQexGv3EHdcLJqcc/s320/DSC04248.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">La Rhune</td></tr>
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24/8/15 Ibardin to Hendaye<br />
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Wind and rain showers came throughout the night although the stiff breeze dried the worst off the tent before packing up. Well past 7am we set off uphill starting the rather convoluted route down to Hendaye, up, down, round and even around we went before plodding along the river, not to the GR10 finish at the Casino but rather the 8ahuit store at Sokoburu, 10.30am, in search of breakfast of pain au chocolat, yoghurt, orange juice and peach, the first of many meals!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnwrw1qAL9j_CJkyBY8eZPBIuSVleh2Au3OmDhUknJKlKlSBjiaE3Uyq_JURRRI3fh9OD5Yfe8g63AXRt4SAJSUHIlYg3wx9YnnD9mfE7CbFUEsbSZWDxFPfUM0vbM0ko9RdNOJoAz31Gl/s1600/DSC04268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnwrw1qAL9j_CJkyBY8eZPBIuSVleh2Au3OmDhUknJKlKlSBjiaE3Uyq_JURRRI3fh9OD5Yfe8g63AXRt4SAJSUHIlYg3wx9YnnD9mfE7CbFUEsbSZWDxFPfUM0vbM0ko9RdNOJoAz31Gl/s320/DSC04268.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hendaye Plage</td></tr>
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I hate finishing a trip, even a difficult one. There is always a tendency to rush to the finish with its promise of food beer and relaxation, all the things you crave on the hard mile days, but when its over there is an emptiness, the purpose has gone which can quickly turn to listlessness. The sharp focus of distance, navigation, nourishment and shelter give way to the immediacy of everything at hand. Its the time to reflect and plan another adventure!<br />
<br />Nick Mandevillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02253828298647316305noreply@blogger.com0Pyrenees42.6681804 1.001189899999985839.681711899999996 -4.1623841000000139 45.6546489 6.1647638999999854tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2784606909514903780.post-73259398957291573472016-05-18T17:39:00.000+01:002016-07-12T19:09:51.092+01:00HRP 2013 Kit ListThe good, the bad and the ugly..........<br />
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Neither of us are ultralight in our approach to hiking but we recognize the need to keep weight to a minimum whilst maintaining a level of comfort and safety with which we are both happy.<br />
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Nick's Gear<br />
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<ul>
<li>Rucksack - Granite Gear Leopard AC 58 (1500g+) Comfortable generally, medium waist belt too big by the middle of the trip, too many straps and buckles every time you needed to get into the main bag.</li>
<li>Sleeping Bag - Feathered Friends Osprey UL (730g) Light , warm and full zip gives plenty of venting options. I have used this bag a lot but I'm not sure its wearing as well as my Jo's Western Mountaineering Ultralite.</li>
<li>Sleeping Mat - Exped Synmat 7 UL M (460g) Light,warm and comfortable.</li>
<li>Tent - Golite Shangri-La 3 (1830g) Really like single pole tents, used trekking poles instead of the supplied pole, upgraded pegs and guys, a great space, and its yellow!</li>
<li>Stove - MSR Reactor 1.7ltr (480g) A fantastic stove in any conditions, especially when the weather means you really need it, BUT compatible gas canisters are not always available without long detours making it a heavy useless lump in your pack.</li>
<li>Water Bottles - Schweppes 1ltr tonic bottle (40g) Great, Platypus 1ltr folding bottle (34g) Good although more difficult to place in pack side pockets, Nalgene 1ltr wide mouth folding bottle (62g) Rubbish leaking within days.</li>
<li>Water Filter - Steripen, we have an untreated stream fed water supply at home so are fairly relaxed about most mountain water, wanted to like this system but seems unreliable and fragile.</li>
<li>Phone/GPS - I-Phone 4S with Viewranger and custom Pyrenees mapping. The system is awesome, as are the guys at Viewranger to deal with, great backup when you need it ( the Spanish mapping isn't that great)</li>
<li>Camera - Sony RX100, love it (350g including spare batteries and case). Only problem was it resembled a bar of soap in my shovel hands, nearly cried when I dropped it for the final time.</li>
<li>Solar Charger - Goal Zero Guide 10 Plus (420g) It is an extra lump but it kept phone and camera topped up fairly easily.</li>
<li>Boots - La Sportiva Raptor Ultra (700g pair) Awesome,they grip anything,comfortable, supportive, stable and cool. However you have to accept wet feet, which takes some getting used to and more careful foot management. They also need replacing after about 500 to 600 miles.</li>
<li>Crampons - Kahtoola Steel (650g) Not always necessary depending upon the year but these are bomb proof for the weight and can be fitted to anything from running shoes to boots.</li>
<li>Walking Poles - Black Diamond Alpine Carbon, the benchmark.</li>
</ul>
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Jo's Gear<br />
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<ul>
<li>Rucksack - Gregory Jade 40 (1600g) Rather heavy but extremely comfortable.</li>
<li>Sleeping Bag - Western Mountaineering Ultralite (840g) Comfy, warm and long lasting.</li>
<li>Sleeping Mat - Exped Synmat 7 UL M (460g) She says "so worth it"</li>
<li>Kitchen Sink - Sea to Summit 10ltr folding bowl (160g) This thing is magnificent, water for camp, clothes washing and a bath rolled into one!</li>
<li>Boots - Asolo Tribe GV. Fantastic fit for fairly narrow low volume feet and wonderfully long lasting, winter and summer, peat bog and mountain.</li>
<li>Crampons - Kahtoola Steel (650g) She says "brilliant security when needed"</li>
<li>Walking Poles - Black Diamond Alpine Carbon, Easy bombproof and comfortable to use.</li>
</ul>
Nick Mandevillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02253828298647316305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2784606909514903780.post-66776140761840816762016-05-18T09:20:00.001+01:002016-06-25T05:42:45.439+01:00Walking the Pyrenean Haute Route (HRP)What follows is a post I wrote on a previous blog in 2013 following our first full crossing of the Pyrenees. We have previously been criticised for calling this an HRP crossing when we avoided what one correspondent referred to as the "crux sections". In some respects I understand this playground mentality, however every crossing is different, fast or slow, camping or huts, heavy snow year or no snow year they will all present their own challenges. In my own view Joosten's route (the one most commonly followed by the British) misses some of the toughest days to be enjoyed in the Pyrenees, so far better look at the maps and look to Veron and make your way.<br />
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This has been a long time coming. Having walked the HRP last summer it was always on the cards to write something about the experience, if only to encourage others to go for it and to acknowledge and thank those who's previous accounts helped in our planning.<br />
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First up has to be Andy Howell's blog that some years ago pointed us in the direction of Cauterets where our love affair with the Pyrenees began.<br />
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What followed, over a number of years, were a series of multi-day hikes criss crossing the border visiting truly breathtaking scenery and feeding our growing obsession. This was superbly supported by Jean and Chantal, then owners of Camping Cabaliros in Cauterets and by their daughter and successor Fanny and partner Fred.<br />
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Did we need to move on to mountains new? Well maybe one last challenge, the Haute Route and we would be free to explore other ranges. David Lintern wrote a great account of his crossing in 2011 with a huge amount of additional detail, but it was perhaps Amy Lauterbach's account in backpackinglight.com that proved the most relevant, you see we had a slight timescale issue due to work and Amy and Jim crossed in 35 days! which would be perfect and allow a couple of days on the beach in Banyuls sur Mer at the end.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNazNkctOFxdI4mV17OZjx5u2W9jkvPRDF9RqaRJDgBgfRUPE3AIddLTcwLgpTJaQ06FJhefgP-7M0UvbfZrz8w0ikZOQECEhcOMRc3-fxpwyIYMFfxI8e0QsF99v8yfHOMYL62Mp8JQR0/s1600/DSC00329.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNazNkctOFxdI4mV17OZjx5u2W9jkvPRDF9RqaRJDgBgfRUPE3AIddLTcwLgpTJaQ06FJhefgP-7M0UvbfZrz8w0ikZOQECEhcOMRc3-fxpwyIYMFfxI8e0QsF99v8yfHOMYL62Mp8JQR0/s640/DSC00329.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pic d'Orhy from Les Chalets d'Iraty</td></tr>
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So, best laid plans and all that, we arrived in Hendaye 4hrs late and exhausted in some of the hottest most humid weather we had experienced outside the tropics. We found ourselves a camp spot much to the reluctance of the campsite owner, showered, fed and crawled into our tent for the first night just before midnight.<br />
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26/7/13 Hendaye to Col de Lizuniaga<br />
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Sweltering at about 6.30am. Jo throws up several times, not ideal. Nice rest at the Col d'Ibardin, beer and peaches for me! Finished about 5pm, Jo picked at some food but still not great. Big storms through the night.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5oA8ewUGfw791P6Do6EWIFnWhJBkkpGxruIQDddc3yIvzq0UezqX7wtvw733ftHyU1GEcWHiwFBegCc0_VKEzEMzRnCYPgf9DEhc5XUcQQWXWmKHh3MJhPze7ckTNHHJ1tXM2nfH6CGsd/s1600/DSC00236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5oA8ewUGfw791P6Do6EWIFnWhJBkkpGxruIQDddc3yIvzq0UezqX7wtvw733ftHyU1GEcWHiwFBegCc0_VKEzEMzRnCYPgf9DEhc5XUcQQWXWmKHh3MJhPze7ckTNHHJ1tXM2nfH6CGsd/s320/DSC00236.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaving Hendaye</td></tr>
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27/7/13 Col de Lizuniaga to Elizondo<br />
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Still really hot, set off at 7am into a day of frequent thunder storms. Camped on the GR11 path east of Elizondo at 7.30pm.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2XKdqj2R2OoRfixbTSFBzlVGlxuqYvGN3htJ9kfiJnlsHBF-va5_8XM4h-6a2KDtQbKHyUuPsDC92UCuvnVT0cUOtag0jqp86ERCPDrJMZIMCC3M0nIrcx3PlFDTP6lWMzvbgv5EEOIkc/s1600/DSC00249.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2XKdqj2R2OoRfixbTSFBzlVGlxuqYvGN3htJ9kfiJnlsHBF-va5_8XM4h-6a2KDtQbKHyUuPsDC92UCuvnVT0cUOtag0jqp86ERCPDrJMZIMCC3M0nIrcx3PlFDTP6lWMzvbgv5EEOIkc/s320/DSC00249.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaving Col de Lizuniaga</td></tr>
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28/7/13 Elizondo to Roncevalles<br />
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7am start, beautiful clear day, fantastic brunch from the little store in Aldudes. Camped by the stream just outside Roncevalles at 6pm, washed and fed before the rain starts again<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5QXLPGg48Cb3r4QLLUDeGX_vXDz6n3lsr2YhvK2E3HtikWbZmlC6QM7pAHrFNxAb2GKFTf3lnWKlcHdo_5JWo-Mdyv3Ygs8s0V2PS9ZCfqRoUKmSZdvMZ9SMVMYnhg35HM3z3ZEY50vM1/s1600/DSC00278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5QXLPGg48Cb3r4QLLUDeGX_vXDz6n3lsr2YhvK2E3HtikWbZmlC6QM7pAHrFNxAb2GKFTf3lnWKlcHdo_5JWo-Mdyv3Ygs8s0V2PS9ZCfqRoUKmSZdvMZ9SMVMYnhg35HM3z3ZEY50vM1/s320/DSC00278.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aldudes</td></tr>
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29/7/13 Roncevalles to Bar Kayolar<br />
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Another good 12hrs with a very steep grass valley to cross whilst being eaten by horseflies, unfortunately this would happen a few times on this trip. Chalet Pedro was very uninviting but a little further on is the fabulous Bar Kayolar, omlettes aux cepes, beer and profiteroles, so good. Nice camp spot along the river opposite.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs9z3d_qHDrwVj0WNfWDv888e8r8ZQFqlQVwcYwZIo3NlbRLv1Aw9jdHzzSKGKqpBM09MPeJ0DM3X9Yy3Qtb5Pvo3KVD8RRWM_Jdr-JF6dxOzPRCzfGliCd6W1ixM6hbD3L30TgtYvOTDx/s1600/DSC00319.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs9z3d_qHDrwVj0WNfWDv888e8r8ZQFqlQVwcYwZIo3NlbRLv1Aw9jdHzzSKGKqpBM09MPeJ0DM3X9Yy3Qtb5Pvo3KVD8RRWM_Jdr-JF6dxOzPRCzfGliCd6W1ixM6hbD3L30TgtYvOTDx/s320/DSC00319.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bar Kayolar</td></tr>
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30/7/13 Bar Kayolar to Col Uthu<br />
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Cold and misty at 7am, walk through fine birch and pine forests before arriving at Col Bargargui in clear blue skies. Breakfast on the terrace and stock up at the shop before the long climb to Pic d'Orhy and a summit lunch. Continued along the border ridge, but had to descend towards Cabane Ardane in search of water. Fed and washed we returned to the ridge to camp 9.30pm.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4PAax4BeEQv9DzsA8r8xPZx-51-uMc4IiIqIAY-Su8lE0adr1MqmkXv7itn2c0tG99cXPnRXIqdzW0JS_e3a4mW0cGx0D_DKMBgFfAKxgF-wL6PUXyNkkVitmwp2BWHA9X1ONTrMC1JJk/s1600/DSC00332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4PAax4BeEQv9DzsA8r8xPZx-51-uMc4IiIqIAY-Su8lE0adr1MqmkXv7itn2c0tG99cXPnRXIqdzW0JS_e3a4mW0cGx0D_DKMBgFfAKxgF-wL6PUXyNkkVitmwp2BWHA9X1ONTrMC1JJk/s320/DSC00332.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pic d'Orhy</td></tr>
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31/7/13 Col Uthu to Lescun<br />
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Usual 7am start on a clear cool morning along stunning ridges as the day heats up. After a short stop near the derelict Refuge Belagua we enter the beautiful but brutally hot and dry limestone area before the Source de Marmitou, water so clear, cold and plentiful in stark contrast to the previous 3hrs. Lescun was another 3hrs but with the prospect of a restaurant and a shower there was no stopping us. Finally turn in at 11pm.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkLEOX9u7AoVdP6vPoe1a_4r7cytNm5OdDtaVNvaog7xGfeGYo2MUIqVeDaxWpkK5JIAbS62rfb3L5lKDNJL-KbH5JsMqZokJ8tvcQ4C0Fl4YvYMUw11Zc0KSp7IxMsnu9SXIeAmyNpw9F/s1600/DSC00376.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkLEOX9u7AoVdP6vPoe1a_4r7cytNm5OdDtaVNvaog7xGfeGYo2MUIqVeDaxWpkK5JIAbS62rfb3L5lKDNJL-KbH5JsMqZokJ8tvcQ4C0Fl4YvYMUw11Zc0KSp7IxMsnu9SXIeAmyNpw9F/s320/DSC00376.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sources de Marmitou</td></tr>
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1/8/13 Lescun to Pla d'Espelunguere<br />
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Bit of a lie in as we wanted to stock up at the shop in Lescun so a slow start and a good breakfast, finally hit the trail at 10am. Nice easy walking after the horseflies at the start of the initial climb. Set up camp by the stream at 7.30pm.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi52OQ7V9NedYqtGD2T9vBX7QAHSIp4kIyRTqt3tl63igVmRGGNEXq54dh6bXpK3hGqagCODFKRbosB4upJhQVUBXWQEjjF_PIvVU2AGIOY6yFfMvvdUYcCs_qoG8ndRbFEv9Fed4EknOH8/s1600/DSC00382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi52OQ7V9NedYqtGD2T9vBX7QAHSIp4kIyRTqt3tl63igVmRGGNEXq54dh6bXpK3hGqagCODFKRbosB4upJhQVUBXWQEjjF_PIvVU2AGIOY6yFfMvvdUYcCs_qoG8ndRbFEv9Fed4EknOH8/s320/DSC00382.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaving Lescun</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
2/8/13 Pla d'Espelunguere to Lac de Peyreget<br />
<br />
6.45am and its clear and hot already, after a pleasant start the route goes through the rather shabby ski resort of Candanchu (small supermercado), on to Col du Somport where we stopped for a rubbish sandwich and on to the ski resort of Astun where a super little restaurant was doing brisk business, we wished we had known!<br />
Fairly long and steep up is swiftly followed by an equally steep down and another up before we reached our camp spot below Pic du Midi d'Ossau, shared only with Marmots and Izards. Wind and rain throughout the night.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPC7w5bf3c_PnHyX6nKYQ6VjWoEYkwaFkaLf-EagjgVRTsqkDihQEwndN0R3WrUdidn3v4ne8XRKzHYDUDH036y07fHlNGgNXw9GJx5WaZ38pnHgNLHh6elcWjmiafqN5zNpnsaABRyYoS/s1600/DSC00432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPC7w5bf3c_PnHyX6nKYQ6VjWoEYkwaFkaLf-EagjgVRTsqkDihQEwndN0R3WrUdidn3v4ne8XRKzHYDUDH036y07fHlNGgNXw9GJx5WaZ38pnHgNLHh6elcWjmiafqN5zNpnsaABRyYoS/s320/DSC00432.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lac de Peyreget</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
3/8/13 Lac de Peyreget to Embalse de Campoplano<br />
<br />
A big day starting at 6.45am, stunning cloud inversion, we head to Refuge Pombie for breakfast before the long descent and re-ascent to Refuge d'Arremoulit for lunch. Further ascent to Col d'Arremoulit before the long descent and traverse around to Compoplano stopping at 7.15pm, shattered.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIzuLx0oQ9cRLYR4vx2r23u1V4CEvMLsQzEW1tfa4Z0IRYmg4Gk0uPs0H_npG0Me46jmuntqOu-_19aAcoD17cUSH-owbk26nsUJVhX8wKwy_jhLX7-u2y7CiWYj7LYZA5Yzb4g9DbzmRO/s1600/DSC00456.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIzuLx0oQ9cRLYR4vx2r23u1V4CEvMLsQzEW1tfa4Z0IRYmg4Gk0uPs0H_npG0Me46jmuntqOu-_19aAcoD17cUSH-owbk26nsUJVhX8wKwy_jhLX7-u2y7CiWYj7LYZA5Yzb4g9DbzmRO/s320/DSC00456.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Col d'Arremoulit</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
4/8/13 Embalse de Campoplano to Oulettes de Gaube<br />
<br />
A very tired start at 6.40am through lots of snow to the Col de Fache, very much home turf. After coffee at the Col its down to Refuge Wallon for omelettes au jambon and bol de chocolat chaud. We make good time to Col d'Aratille across to Col de Mulettes and the long descent into La Gaube. Washed, well fed and relaxed.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgofaGk3pFnPT1ov9Cuxp_WTRCfhCLLPbLTsj4o2FNMLiXVRCWpTayvC3qvUXK-IGiNKHX1ixE6meOVmH0R_gz0dU1yzkx5cgKUzuFsRm2TzIaHMLd4ZQGw02vxUCga2x1j27zLzTGmmSHj/s1600/DSC00493.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgofaGk3pFnPT1ov9Cuxp_WTRCfhCLLPbLTsj4o2FNMLiXVRCWpTayvC3qvUXK-IGiNKHX1ixE6meOVmH0R_gz0dU1yzkx5cgKUzuFsRm2TzIaHMLd4ZQGw02vxUCga2x1j27zLzTGmmSHj/s320/DSC00493.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vignemale</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
5/8/13 Oulettes de Gaube to Gavarnie<br />
<br />
So difficult to get up, but still manage to be on the trail by 7am. Its a struggle on the long pull up towards Bayssellance but we are there by 9.30am for crepes and chocolat chaud, we are keen to get going with the promise of restaurants, shops and a shower in Gavarnie. Unfortunately a little too much enthusiasm in running down from Bayssellance leads to a pulled thigh muscle which will add to my general grumpyness over the coming days! However pastries and coffee, a shower, beer, three course supper, a large carafe of wine and the prospect of a lie in followed by a good breakfast helps to ease the pain for now.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlBeYG-q2qd5yJumSo3wvzrP0-8PnIx1OG-oS8h4CLDMhHMY4xvLQqIFjsF0XZZOryBknWmEX6olqKJKJ9O2zISjhuyS2p8d4gNNT7U8wZ2PN4Cs3hhCfNtsCuHHeEe-cR1nEkVscrbcTS/s1600/DSC00499.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlBeYG-q2qd5yJumSo3wvzrP0-8PnIx1OG-oS8h4CLDMhHMY4xvLQqIFjsF0XZZOryBknWmEX6olqKJKJ9O2zISjhuyS2p8d4gNNT7U8wZ2PN4Cs3hhCfNtsCuHHeEe-cR1nEkVscrbcTS/s320/DSC00499.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Refuge de Baysselance</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
6/8/13 Gavarnie to Cabane de l'Aguila<br />
<br />
Breakfast in bed before collecting more provisions and setting off at 9.30am. Lovely climb up to Horquettes d'Alan with stunning views in all directions. From here I find out just how painful the downhills are going to be and its a long hobble to Heas. Beer in the Auberge but camping complet, so we set off again towards Barroude. With the growing threat of a storm we bail to the Cabane de l'Aguila, its not long before the storm sets in for the night.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnniKxuTD64ayzEVlAu6hVXEDhElzHhWCkwtSalFmgW2cL1ckbnk9UtIwqJyU70zNeO5SF2FWFuywCEh3tvHtcx9mm9swDiqlT_j0C8GjLp-hyF75iv8FO4b6naiQ_rtAyipIuIHeFADDa/s1600/DSC00545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnniKxuTD64ayzEVlAu6hVXEDhElzHhWCkwtSalFmgW2cL1ckbnk9UtIwqJyU70zNeO5SF2FWFuywCEh3tvHtcx9mm9swDiqlT_j0C8GjLp-hyF75iv8FO4b6naiQ_rtAyipIuIHeFADDa/s320/DSC00545.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cabane de l'Aguila</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
7/8/13 Cabane de l'Aguila to west side of Paso de Los Caballos<br />
<br />
Its very cold following last nights storm, off by 7.15am to climb up to Horquette Heas before traversing along the Barroude Wall to the Refuge for brunch. With the weather still cold and threatening we get going on the long descent towards Parzan. On reaching the road the heavens open and its a miserable walk down the road to pick up the GR11. This turns out to be an endless climb up a dirt track for a further 3hrs accompanied by constant thunder and pouring rain before finding somewhere flat enough to pitch, its 9pm.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsylSKSFV2rn_awa-pIge_1LjkIXdB3yw37Zfmngb9CGD9xzVb20gi3JevtSQLvoGPURxPPeXlVbt1oTg1Ek3b_f1Ur4UXGxsFU_riX3l33-uG-64680sVmjyJW-yhXl72-8l1QtsLXRFc/s1600/DSC00556+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsylSKSFV2rn_awa-pIge_1LjkIXdB3yw37Zfmngb9CGD9xzVb20gi3JevtSQLvoGPURxPPeXlVbt1oTg1Ek3b_f1Ur4UXGxsFU_riX3l33-uG-64680sVmjyJW-yhXl72-8l1QtsLXRFc/s320/DSC00556+%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Horquette Heas</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
8/8/13 Paso De Los Caballos to Refugio De Estos<br />
<br />
Battered by storms all night we wake to a freezing morning, very difficult to get going and its 7.30am before we set off. A beautiful walk through alpine meadows before reaching Refugio Viados who appear particularly disinterested in supplying anything to eat so, disappointed, we head on. Its here we have to make the decision whether to head up to Portillon or follow the GR11, the pouring rain made the decision easy. So cold again as we make the Col Gistain and my leg is very sore on the descent as we look for a camp spot, finally stopping at 6pm next to the stream just before the Refugio.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEhDLb4-wHijuxF7K0EYZo9sSNb-S9X7RoshcTOeYYGHMhcGCdIhMsyGPak396X6XSqXSK2LxseR910d7UXMFNMrIacugKCkR0B9rSeXYT8elrANgdGDw9c9k0sVRdOqS5-sgtk9KVSdA-/s1600/DSC00588.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEhDLb4-wHijuxF7K0EYZo9sSNb-S9X7RoshcTOeYYGHMhcGCdIhMsyGPak396X6XSqXSK2LxseR910d7UXMFNMrIacugKCkR0B9rSeXYT8elrANgdGDw9c9k0sVRdOqS5-sgtk9KVSdA-/s320/DSC00588.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Storm clearing Posets</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
9/8/13 Refugio Estos to Camping Aneto<br />
<br />
Another freezing morning, but a really short day, arrived at Camping Aneto at 10.30am. Pitched the tent and raided the supermercado for a huge breakfast. Lovely long shower and clothes wash before supermercado again, for provisions and lunch. Afternoon between the swimming pool and the bar before supper in the restaurant, just like a holiday!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpTks748Vm7eX1sHvzAQV8sMPk5lpMs-yuyyrSQml0KKHrbhtAxlvn7lcNPCqBNLTNtdzE3Frfbr_zC6h3WMcnnmcx57z0lZ9EWamnPxFZkxlEybtAGbnSA9XQZTMxMNGHakfmpZpWssTA/s1600/DSC00635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpTks748Vm7eX1sHvzAQV8sMPk5lpMs-yuyyrSQml0KKHrbhtAxlvn7lcNPCqBNLTNtdzE3Frfbr_zC6h3WMcnnmcx57z0lZ9EWamnPxFZkxlEybtAGbnSA9XQZTMxMNGHakfmpZpWssTA/s320/DSC00635.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Camping Aneto</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
10/8/13 Camping Aneto to Lagos de Anglos<br />
<br />
Not even the hint of a hangover despite our best efforts last night. Off at 7.20am, cloudless and hot already, 6hrs climbing to Colada de Vallhiverne takes it out of us but the scenery is stunning. Set up camp around 5pm and watched the trout rise around us whilst eating supper.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqEJsfi6GNYbyeF-P_MI5iqAiVQ9U8mh8sHTXej_SKh5w5ZryMivg6tvgh8DfTkO1fayFypht0JMMkpea9h8e1BChoNZ0-daX6ZokeRdR6IPyUBGErsPQ7xSG04q2uN17dClPyMcKuWM8A/s1600/DSC00684.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqEJsfi6GNYbyeF-P_MI5iqAiVQ9U8mh8sHTXej_SKh5w5ZryMivg6tvgh8DfTkO1fayFypht0JMMkpea9h8e1BChoNZ0-daX6ZokeRdR6IPyUBGErsPQ7xSG04q2uN17dClPyMcKuWM8A/s320/DSC00684.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lagos de Anglos</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
11/8/13 Lagos de Anglos to Estany Tort de Rius<br />
<br />
Woke late to another glorious day, long descent through forest before reaching the friendly Refugio de Conangles for brunch before the even longer ascent to Port Rius and on to our camp before Collado de Lac du Mar. Only 4.30pm and still very hot so swam in the lake, cold! Stunning.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzGbTJcvSKOMZRPt3PLzelA2gRWAB8wRryfTne2BlF8gajMFSGbv2FDIcpcwAvAZZ0YXX9RCM5CsGwr8-USpvtcJq_ohYHZSAX7lqk2ySlkgoT8zcFfRyacKXOAiWr6ld0yjg_095Vks8q/s1600/DSC00728.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzGbTJcvSKOMZRPt3PLzelA2gRWAB8wRryfTne2BlF8gajMFSGbv2FDIcpcwAvAZZ0YXX9RCM5CsGwr8-USpvtcJq_ohYHZSAX7lqk2ySlkgoT8zcFfRyacKXOAiWr6ld0yjg_095Vks8q/s320/DSC00728.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Estany Tort de Rius</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
12/8/13 Estany Tort de Rius to Salardu<br />
<br />
Set off early to catch the sunrise from Collada de Mar, well worth the effort. Very steeply down to the beautiful Lac de Mar and the first of several large boulder fields in the increasing heat. Disappointment as we find the Hotel Bahns de Tredos obviously damaged in the spring floods is closed up, within minutes more disappointment as the first thunder crash brought the rain, so we headed down the road on the long walk to Salardu. Given our drowned state the staff at the Hotel Mont Romies were great. Showers, bar, restaurant and supermercado, a great end to a difficult day<br />
.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbMfdX62FxK3xZ1wa6NYcNdxcET5Mb0kVVRu-foVZiGYCkTmfY6IarRyAbJVYrMaLisAx4Pw13Ug3hFau10RhqsZTN0AdcMipApKPnKPrp_H9Yiw-4JLTylToHklmEbXYmUo-Rvn_Kxu-H/s1600/DSC00742.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbMfdX62FxK3xZ1wa6NYcNdxcET5Mb0kVVRu-foVZiGYCkTmfY6IarRyAbJVYrMaLisAx4Pw13Ug3hFau10RhqsZTN0AdcMipApKPnKPrp_H9Yiw-4JLTylToHklmEbXYmUo-Rvn_Kxu-H/s320/DSC00742.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lac de Mar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
13/8/13 Salardu to Refugio d'Airoto<br />
<br />
Very leisurely start, breakfast and supermercado for supplies, its nearly 10am before we hit the trail. Very humid and heavy packs make for pretty slow progress. Then more boulder fields and the steep ascent of Tuc de Mirimaya and onto the ridge. Some fun scrambling until the clouds bubble up once again and the first rumbles of thunder hasten us along to Col d'Airoto and a steep descent onto another huge boulder field. The little refuge was occupied so we set up camp nearby at 6.30pm.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy30qWT-kNnX53kUvCV2D4FHu0pswKkm3-LD8_C1D8HuyhekAg-kZObRR23NwZyzPJaBGq1Ja2WaX1cR4DPG8qKSyjFfAeImSgYILpniNwZxkJGdxUt_TJ80bNLwn8Q1ujasD9u_8vDBo6/s1600/DSC00760.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy30qWT-kNnX53kUvCV2D4FHu0pswKkm3-LD8_C1D8HuyhekAg-kZObRR23NwZyzPJaBGq1Ja2WaX1cR4DPG8qKSyjFfAeImSgYILpniNwZxkJGdxUt_TJ80bNLwn8Q1ujasD9u_8vDBo6/s320/DSC00760.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Salardu</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
14/8/13 Refugio d'Airoto to Refugi Eric Pujol<br />
<br />
Up early to a cool clear morning and watched the sunrise from the Col. Sleep had been somewhat broken by the wild boar rooting near our tent. Steep descent from the Col led to a small hanging valley with a large herd of Izards grazing so we just sat and watched for a while. The way down to Alos de Isil consists of a dirt road and then bushwacking through abandoned terraces to the village. Following more road and track the trail becomes truly alpine again passing steeply through a number of Cols, crossing scree and boulder fields until Col de Calberante overlooking Estany de la Gallina, a long walk through glacial landscapes brought us to a camp spot by the lake at 7.30pm, really cold evening.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8g63ph7k2owgYmnuURCvq_M2hRIUxfOnJp3IhrYJ2TjH6Mt3R9g4E154c-acmhgqAnSzrf2JX5aiL2lzT-kI0v9e4xVegkDZUas7yfDN21RDXnx5hUkM9PtL1Jo5mRqVXvXHWNSqewtpV/s1600/DSC00793.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8g63ph7k2owgYmnuURCvq_M2hRIUxfOnJp3IhrYJ2TjH6Mt3R9g4E154c-acmhgqAnSzrf2JX5aiL2lzT-kI0v9e4xVegkDZUas7yfDN21RDXnx5hUkM9PtL1Jo5mRqVXvXHWNSqewtpV/s320/DSC00793.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Collada del Clot de Moredo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
15/8/13 Refugi Eric Pujol to Estany Romedo de Dalt<br />
<br />
Had a bit of a lie in and started walking at 7.30am in a cool morning down through an alpine landscape to a very pretty valley around the hamlet of Noarre. Then steeply up through woodland and back into high mountain landscape of small lakes, rock and snowfields. Stopped at Refugi de Certascan for sustenance before setting off again to a campspot recommended by a group of young French hikers we met at the Refuge. Camp set by 5pm so time for a good bucket shower, seriously cold!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6H7EjpimeNOFK7m6AS_xwLOPzOHqYylnVFiPRdNNajlcdL43TvBgNwKhpfv8lg5JodYDlb7yRFJ4PoejT9dLIPyBzkuRJTx3z4YlwpUxRFkOxhNBiF24m5vQfo5eM4EZMKeALKegAiT9j/s1600/DSC00869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6H7EjpimeNOFK7m6AS_xwLOPzOHqYylnVFiPRdNNajlcdL43TvBgNwKhpfv8lg5JodYDlb7yRFJ4PoejT9dLIPyBzkuRJTx3z4YlwpUxRFkOxhNBiF24m5vQfo5eM4EZMKeALKegAiT9j/s320/DSC00869.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Certascan</td></tr>
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16/8/13 Estany Romedo de Dalt to Pla de Boet<br />
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Cold again as we set of at 7am, 3hrs clambering downhill trying to follow a faint path, across a rotten snow bridge and a bushwack through the forest to Pla de Boavi where we pick up a better trail. Horse flies bad again lower down and its a relief to get higher only to have to descend again through endless scrub and forrest on a rather vague track, my fault I think! Called into the bustling Refugi de Vall Ferrera, 5pm, for coke crisps and muesli bars. Feeling refreshed and to the sounds of the impending storm we set off again, after about an hour with the storm nearly upon us we pitched just in time to get out of the hail which battered us on and off through the night.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJb_HbX1g5TpImbbC3YJfPOPG1naf7NGKwyoWH7kfx61lgcTaQVAhm6IwoUDzkOpPXffRGdldzw-I_uZnRBdVoNjpDjSeRH1XN2ceIaKfoRGRd9D-0SAzgUFSr691Bf1KVXTgvLdLggr7r/s1600/DSC00873.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJb_HbX1g5TpImbbC3YJfPOPG1naf7NGKwyoWH7kfx61lgcTaQVAhm6IwoUDzkOpPXffRGdldzw-I_uZnRBdVoNjpDjSeRH1XN2ceIaKfoRGRd9D-0SAzgUFSr691Bf1KVXTgvLdLggr7r/s320/DSC00873.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Estany de Romedo de Dalt</td></tr>
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17/8/13 Pla de Boet to Llorts<br />
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Struggled out of bed to a cold morning and set off at 7am. Some great alpine walking, high Cols full of scree and snow fields, a slight nav error led to some scrambling much to Jo's enjoyment! Finally a 2hr descent through grassland and pine forest led to Llort, arrived at 6.30pm. Booked into campsite and restaurant. Long shower followed by an even longer supper. Both feeling very tired and skinny.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaDYjw2Q3onnwStQTyDGELczz_LQOv2b697C4cLIK3uz9DyygBKgfb6MKZkPeUUI8XHtzkPhlz1kGmRBlhWc2fsykeAUjRjHFqLwQyvM6AjMoFgy0qa0r9FlgQ_9PMlXHd7vlazHuVNjJQ/s1600/DSC00936.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaDYjw2Q3onnwStQTyDGELczz_LQOv2b697C4cLIK3uz9DyygBKgfb6MKZkPeUUI8XHtzkPhlz1kGmRBlhWc2fsykeAUjRjHFqLwQyvM6AjMoFgy0qa0r9FlgQ_9PMlXHd7vlazHuVNjJQ/s320/DSC00936.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wrong Col?</td></tr>
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18/8/13 Llort to Etangs de Fontargenta<br />
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Nice lie in waiting for the bakery delivery, set off at 8am in a clear cold morning. A very long climb through pine forest and some very pretty meadows, even saw an adder. Having reached a good altitude the path contours and crosses a number of steep Cols before reaching the final one for today, Port d'Incles at 6pm. Very tired we sat at the Col and had supper in the last of the sunshine before making our way down to the lake to camp, getting very cold again now.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYtqG4YjgKh2QJjxPi1dsfRC7xi1sm4ANefkuGxbbYrMfMSX5PFK58WkNa9dWlLZxVNcWuoC9LByH06oN6fxcYurNzjIHIKwYtLLocry1niPDN1Sqid6JSYKa0BxUPr4RnMwoCERTXLLcL/s1600/DSC00962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYtqG4YjgKh2QJjxPi1dsfRC7xi1sm4ANefkuGxbbYrMfMSX5PFK58WkNa9dWlLZxVNcWuoC9LByH06oN6fxcYurNzjIHIKwYtLLocry1niPDN1Sqid6JSYKa0BxUPr4RnMwoCERTXLLcL/s320/DSC00962.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Val de Sorteny</td></tr>
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19/8/13 Etangs de Fontargenta to Etang de Besines<br />
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Off at 7am, cool but clear on a great walk through Col de Juclar and Col de Alba, lots of boulder fields and lakes. Had lunch at the last of the lakes before the descent to Hospitalet Pres d'Andorre. Arrived at 2pm to find it shut, shop, campsite, even the restaurant had stopped serving, although he very kindly made us pate baguettes and advised us the shop would certainly be open at 5pm, it didn't! No supplies and a wasted afternoon, we set off in the now intermittent rain to climb up towards Besines. The weather worsened, as we climbed it got colder and we were losing visibility so we set up the tent at 7.30pm as it started to pour. Last handful of peanuts and cold chicory coffee for supper, mmmmmmm!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLfTRGfGoVR0g52Mw0zv8iH5vEyiFkPL4gkz0sV-xvWXhCAmqy6wy4TphEBNThFHc0N4g14UGXj6EfrV92DBXX_YeQDt6wBVgbWPu8eTlyTskt36pM2RTlbjnG6eLeLPPYSx1NBZeSsYkc/s1600/DSC00999.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLfTRGfGoVR0g52Mw0zv8iH5vEyiFkPL4gkz0sV-xvWXhCAmqy6wy4TphEBNThFHc0N4g14UGXj6EfrV92DBXX_YeQDt6wBVgbWPu8eTlyTskt36pM2RTlbjnG6eLeLPPYSx1NBZeSsYkc/s320/DSC00999.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Col de l'Alba</td></tr>
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20/8/13 Etang de Besines to Estany Negre<br />
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Another freezing night, it takes a while to knock the ice off everything before heading up to Refuge Besines for breakfast. Fantastic welcome from the guardians and visitors wanting to know about our walk, we are rather more interested in eating! Bought sandwiches and mars bars for lunch. An easy walk to the base of Pic Carlit where Jo took one look at the scree slope and decided to backtrack to the GR10 we crossed earlier to meet up at the bar at the end of Lac de Bouilleses. Both had great walks but had to wait until 7.30pm for the restaurant to open, great Tartiflette then off to find a camp spot by the amazing full moon.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaF4AWhOfc99eWx6V93scGv8r1A-b0OOldKkVgEb0Wuw-nRMGrUrcy3dvf93xmlgUpYbvQPuynAJFMPc3LPR9HBQkbuq7c_hfsM1RQ40LRXSI1LNt69TCFoW9n9C-ijpi3GauQ2MRjgDXd/s1600/DSC01044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaF4AWhOfc99eWx6V93scGv8r1A-b0OOldKkVgEb0Wuw-nRMGrUrcy3dvf93xmlgUpYbvQPuynAJFMPc3LPR9HBQkbuq7c_hfsM1RQ40LRXSI1LNt69TCFoW9n9C-ijpi3GauQ2MRjgDXd/s320/DSC01044.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Estany Negre</td></tr>
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21/8/13 Estany Negre to Cabane de l'Orri de Baix<br />
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Cold and slow again, washing done we leave at 8am, my leg very sore, not sure if it was a stumble on the way up to Besines or running down Pic Carlit. A long trudge through forest before arriving at Bolquere, excellent shop, we set off with very heavy packs and its now very hot. Just down the road in Col de Perch a rather uninteresting hotel had a little terrace tucked away where we enjoyed steak hache frites and icecream. We continue pretty slowly in the heat of the day to Vall de Eyne, and having climbed about two thirds we stopped to enjoy the early evening, get washed, relax and eat again! Superb views back to Pic Carlit.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3GzhYQC6BKmQsC5-fRRNxm_neqnVYXECBb3nl1IAnJBvwaB5QJyNyDBJZEa9OuV-k6R1syT2tG5ZR1x6xV5lF7qYzx2zRG5WoTBn7DnbcZLtrQnxy2XdsWRlJXNTLApHSh2zsoPytNMyw/s1600/DSC01060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3GzhYQC6BKmQsC5-fRRNxm_neqnVYXECBb3nl1IAnJBvwaB5QJyNyDBJZEa9OuV-k6R1syT2tG5ZR1x6xV5lF7qYzx2zRG5WoTBn7DnbcZLtrQnxy2XdsWRlJXNTLApHSh2zsoPytNMyw/s320/DSC01060.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pic Carlit from Val d'Eyne</td></tr>
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22/8/13 Cabane de l'Orri de Baix to below Pla de Coma Armada<br />
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Off at 7.20am, cool and clear for the remaining climb to Col de Eyne, and then an amazing ridge walk taking in Pic de Noufonts before continuing along the ridge, all the while aware of the building clouds. My leg really sore having run out of neurofen. Hot chocolat and biscuits at Refuge d'Ull de Ter before heading on again to try and beat the storm. In the end we are chased off the ridge and find a safer place to camp at 6pm, rain thunder and cold not far behind.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg41-h2oiLwjPXPImJKnve24RGqFx71kIeD5R_4s5r2_pcA_j-G1JLZPV6kRFvfcvD_Dn72FSEEh-74q1vDw7YXhfXHF0wUqpKlFiUxsq_323cTuh0FFGylG8jd_Hsyp149GDVk7_4kh374/s1600/DSC01086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg41-h2oiLwjPXPImJKnve24RGqFx71kIeD5R_4s5r2_pcA_j-G1JLZPV6kRFvfcvD_Dn72FSEEh-74q1vDw7YXhfXHF0wUqpKlFiUxsq_323cTuh0FFGylG8jd_Hsyp149GDVk7_4kh374/s320/DSC01086.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Col de Nuria</td></tr>
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23/8/13 Pla de Coma Armada to Refuge de Cortalets<br />
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6am start, still nearly a full moon and then a stunning sunrise as we walk along the ridge. Leg quite swollen now so cut up a sock to strap it up. Had lunch at Refuge Marielles before setting off towards Pic Canigou. The afternoon is very hot and the clouds build again but we need to cross Canigou today, the thunder starts as we reach the final scramble so on we go. No views, now surrounded by very cold clouds. Long descent before finding a pitch near the refuge but the mossies drive us to bed, very smelly so hopefully campsite and shower tomorrow.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6H3_khpXSqijVRKVbk8pl_I9qO8t2kKfIDAgBPRWEaXIpOBmGxdndMwX71UI_vgjipwu9IH2G7bUW5yVdtBgWr2g38hgK7os6aEytc67QjLqu6bryddSuPI189A5MS6Ywvyt7wb754GPr/s1600/DSC01107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6H3_khpXSqijVRKVbk8pl_I9qO8t2kKfIDAgBPRWEaXIpOBmGxdndMwX71UI_vgjipwu9IH2G7bUW5yVdtBgWr2g38hgK7os6aEytc67QjLqu6bryddSuPI189A5MS6Ywvyt7wb754GPr/s320/DSC01107.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dawn near Roc Colom</td></tr>
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24/8/13 Refuge de Cortalets to Arles sur Tech<br />
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7am and a superb Mer de Nuage across France, with a glimpse of the Mediterranean for the first time. Easy walking as we lose 2200m today, by mid day we are in thick cloud, the first rain starts at 2pm and by 3.30pm we are in the midst of the most amazing electrical storm, the thunder is physical, running water up to our ankles and broken down steel rigging from abandoned mines all around, nervous! Arrive at the campsite cold and soaked, but a hot shower, supermarket and a huge poulet frites in the campsite bar restore our flagging limbs.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL8CyXMlAr0cIwMaNXxh3hutzyq_tjHlQRjx-NcfT0CbzcWodIqt-eKJ49M7ThjilioRUHCLKrvkI1-pwRUvUUs_BSCb0i_tXriuCbh498uf_5M8BXhOcmcrraRxFTgDM_Ct8TuucZdFTj/s1600/DSC01164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL8CyXMlAr0cIwMaNXxh3hutzyq_tjHlQRjx-NcfT0CbzcWodIqt-eKJ49M7ThjilioRUHCLKrvkI1-pwRUvUUs_BSCb0i_tXriuCbh498uf_5M8BXhOcmcrraRxFTgDM_Ct8TuucZdFTj/s320/DSC01164.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Balcon de Canigou</td></tr>
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25/8/13 Arles sur Tech to Col de Porteile<br />
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Breakfast from the boulangerie at 7am on our way out of Arles, cloudy and humid as we made our way to the first Col 2.5hrs away mainly through chestnut forest. Stopped at a lovely Eco Gite d'Etape for Chocolat chaud and muesli bars to keep us going. Leg really swollen and painful now the neurofen I had been given by a Kiwi HRPer had worn off, plod plod. Beer in Las Illas before carrying on for another couple of hours, found a pitch on the track crossroads overlooking the Med and Perpignon.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDpw2sza_gKycsHTJMzk19iLXjwS1n5C5QTS3bwEWyYiae7-N-erhT0wpwZhyphenhyphencKWpKE28Qlrs_VG3ncpj61eNIJn1-RRSmzc1oQv9xUtezlWR_lOvOF0oDWXj1vZVMhtR33C9FCM-TadaU/s1600/DSC01200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDpw2sza_gKycsHTJMzk19iLXjwS1n5C5QTS3bwEWyYiae7-N-erhT0wpwZhyphenhyphencKWpKE28Qlrs_VG3ncpj61eNIJn1-RRSmzc1oQv9xUtezlWR_lOvOF0oDWXj1vZVMhtR33C9FCM-TadaU/s320/DSC01200.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Col de Porteile</td></tr>
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26/8/13 Col de Porteile to Pic Sailfort<br />
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Both woke up at 3am and just stared at the lights of "civilization" below, didn't quite seem real. Broke camp at 7am for the descent to Perthus, which was only too real and horrendous. Grabbed supplies of food, Rioja and neurofen and were off again to gain the ridge that would deliver us to the sea. The winding ridge seemed to take forever before we arrived at Pic Sailfort, 6.30pm, the Mediterranean laid out below us. We decided to stay here for the night and enjoyed a fine supper washed down with a bottle of wine.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9kAt6CFlEu20Ir7wNNlb-JfTff9CaDT855SWCQpvL0IV9HPofdDW5uymJpdSvUo_U54xglAaHFj4aYjF4iFYNHFs0V_EejKnv8XcR9sZ6QfeQ2x5hbUKau_u4mt0rqGcLGL6eMAQ2p3fa/s1600/DSC01235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9kAt6CFlEu20Ir7wNNlb-JfTff9CaDT855SWCQpvL0IV9HPofdDW5uymJpdSvUo_U54xglAaHFj4aYjF4iFYNHFs0V_EejKnv8XcR9sZ6QfeQ2x5hbUKau_u4mt0rqGcLGL6eMAQ2p3fa/s640/DSC01235.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cote Vermeille</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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27/8/13 Pic Sailfort to Banyuls sur Mer<br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">
So much for a relaxing night, storms rolled in again and at one point it seemed likely we would be blown down to the Med. Up and away at 7am the descent to the finish raced by, obligatory completers photo at 9.40am. Finis!!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOKwlS0-SrKiaxLrr9tUR9Dk-6SeBBNpypShgUIqu-LyW4eBOweTg9AyNERNaYylR12QSDi9GHt4P9t4Y42GgewDm7axCUVad0btMWSuZX_bmhibMQXwZTpV1yYeg3K-blUlWLnXRZCzky/s1600/DSC01250.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOKwlS0-SrKiaxLrr9tUR9Dk-6SeBBNpypShgUIqu-LyW4eBOweTg9AyNERNaYylR12QSDi9GHt4P9t4Y42GgewDm7axCUVad0btMWSuZX_bmhibMQXwZTpV1yYeg3K-blUlWLnXRZCzky/s320/DSC01250.JPG" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Banyuls sur Mer</td></tr>
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Nick Mandevillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02253828298647316305noreply@blogger.com2Pyrenees42.6681804 1.001189899999985839.681711899999996 -4.1623841000000139 45.6546489 6.1647638999999854