Wow what a day! we left early this morning, Alvina and I. Kirsten was planning to take the bus to our destination, which she did, but made the mistake of getting off at a town about one hour farther so she had to walk back which was not a bad thing for her to test out her ankle. It was an uphill climb for us a lot of the way. We are thankful that we walk at the same pace and most of the time the incline is at a degree of ascent that is comfortable to walk in our own pace. It was incredible, the beauty of the walk today, actually through the Pyrenees, over about 3 inclines and then a very steep downward walk for about 3 kms at the end.
We passed through isolated farms, with the symphony of the donkeys, cows, sheep and the roosters either their own unique sounds or the large bells tied around their necks.
We could look over vistas that were incredible for the height and the distance across the mountains. We saw the sea only in the beginning of the day and then were in the middle of the mountainous interior. We walked through forest of pine trees, eucalyptus and cedars which created an exquisite odor and a wonderful sound with the wind whistiling through the high branches. It was heavenly.
We are loving the experience of being in Spain. Last night in Deba, we decided to splurge on a dinner and sat in the local square and watched the families and the young children out for their evening socialization. So many people and quite a vibe of activity. It was actually lovely! It was also nice to have a hot meal.
We are in Markina at the moment and planning to walk to Gernika tomorrow which is about 25 kms away. It will not be so tough as today I think, but before that we will have our menu del dia at a local restaurant for E9 (including the wine) and then go to bed.
We are in an alberque that is below the residence of the sisters and it is warm and comfortable, with about 16 people in the room - hopefully no one snoring tonight.
We have decided that we like to get up at 0630 hours and then begin to walk eary around 0700 or so. It is so lovely to be in the mountains in the early morning.
It is still lovely weather for us - about 25C today and again warm this evening so it is wonderful not to worry about the weather effect on our ability to walk. I cannot imagine doing this tough journey with the wind and the rain that we read about in the earlier spring.
I think often about my cousin Neil who died in Feb and who I am doing this walk in memory of. He would just tell me to buckle down and use my Icelandic female energy to conquer the challenges and to enjoy the adventure of the travel experience. Walking is such a totally unique way to experience the country. It is interesting that this location is run by an African and there are very friendly people at the front desk area - all African - who have helped us to get on line today. (makes me think that Chris is at my back as well)
Well, the wine is waiting and the day is beginning to fade for me so I will sign off for now
Maggee
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