Travel
Travelling is for life
Keep up to date with my travel adventures.
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Llanca to Cape de Creus
I completed the GR11, walking through low shrub and up to the bar/restaurant on the end point. There were fantastic views overlooking the rocky coastline and the blue sea below.
Espolla to Llanca
In the late afternoon, I walked to the port area and the beach. Here I waded into the Mediterranean sea and celebrated reaching it with a large chocolate ice-cream.
La Jonquera to Espolla
The wonderful pension managed by a friendly Romanian couple opened their bar/restaurant early despite it being a Sunday. I relished being able to eat fresh croissants and drink green tea ahead of my day's walk.
Macanet to La Jonquera
I slept so well in my tent last night. I always feel clear headed, fresh, fit and ready for the day ahead on days like this.
Albanya to Macanet
Today was a joyful day full of delightful moments and hours of peaceful hiking.
Talaixa to Albanya
It was sunny when I woke up; I packed, had a drink of water from the spring and set off. I passed two monasteries nestled in the woods and valleys. The later one, at Sant Aniol d'Aguja, was by a bridge and next to a refuge still to be completed. The environment is very spiritual and peaceful - these monks chose their spots well.
Beget to Talaixa
Talaixa is an amazing place - based next to the remains of an old monastery. There is a bunk house which was built by a keen hiker as a retreat and emergency shelter for others. It sits up on a pass above the valley and has the most incredible views. It is so peaceful and sunny.
Setcases to Beget
I asked the hotel manager if there was accommodation open in Beget. He assured me I would be able to get a room at the hostel El Forn, so I walked today with no worries about where I would end up staying.
Nurio to Setcases
Armed with a large packed lunch, I set off up the hillside to Col de Noucreus at 2785ms. I was apprehensive - what if its too dangerous? what if I have to turn back?
Querablo to Nurio
I felt a little vulnerable this morning. I thought I'd see some of my fellow trekkers at breakfast today - however they had already left. I packed and set off. Once on the route, I felt better.
Planoles to Querablo
I set off at 8:00 today, heading up through the forest at the back of the camp site. I was joined by a large group of Spanish hikers from a local club. We climbed together to Refugi Corral Blanc, where we stopped for refreshments.
Puigcenda to Planoles
I set off in rain this morning, however the cloud was lifting and I didn't need a coat. I felt fantastic to be on the road again though my usual apprehensions about finding my way, managing the hills and am I fit enough? lurked in my thoughts.
Refuge de Engorgs to Puigcerda
I just love waking up in the mountains as the sun starts to creep up from behind the mountains. It's so peaceful and quiet. The sheep dogs start to stir as we get up and about - the shepherd is not here yet to release the sheep out into the mountain pastures.
Refuge de Fortverd to Refuge de Engorgs
There are some days that just top it all - this turned out to be one of those.
Ordino to Refuge de Fortverd
I felt so much better today and was excited to get back on the trek.
Arinsal to Ordino
I had a usual hostal breakfast and set out for the next stage. I felt unfocussed today and not particularly motivated - probably a lot to do with staying in a grotty dead ski resort out of season.
Vallferrera to Arinsal
Today has been one of my best days yet; I felt fit, strong and motivated to do the distance and terrain.
Areu to Vallferrera
I loved this little village in the mountains, the small hotel, the people who sat on the terrace to chat to, the rich mountain food and my Dutch travelling companions.
Tavascan to Areu
I have now been hiking the trail for 32 days with 2 of them as rest days. It's amazing how you just get into a rhythm of waking up, getting ready, put the rucksack on your back and set off. You never know how the day will pan out or what you'll do.