Arinsal to Ordino

4 september 2022

I had a usual hostel 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.

I set off up the steep path through the forest and soon became motivated when I met a group of volunteers at the top who were organising a run for one of the local town's celebration days. The runners had all passed by and were heading for the next peek. On the descent I met a woman who was searching for her greyhound, who done a runner into the forest. I hope she finds her.

I stopped at a cafe in the valley to have tea and apple tart. A delicious Andoran speciality.

I decided to walk down the valley next to the river along an old pathway. It was beautiful, autumnal and fresh. Such a relief to not being watching my feet all the time and ascending.

I reached Ordino in the middle of the day and found it difficult to decided what to do next in terms of a manageable stretch for the afternoon with a sleeping option. A deliberated for a while before deciding to try and hitch a ride to Coll de Ordino making a descent to Encamp a doable option. I walked to the end of the buildings on the road and no one had stopped. Hitching doesn't seem to be done anymore and I was no nearer to getting to the top.

I decided to stop at a hotel on the way up the steep winding road and try again in the morning. Sometimes travelling out of season gives you great deals. I got a one night all inclusive cheap deal at a wonderful hill top hotel overlooking Ordino which included time in their Spa.

A very relaxing end to the day.