Most Inspirational Moment
Scrambling up to the peaks on day 7 to the summits of Mancondiu, meeting Chamois enroute, and taking in the unbelievable views in all directions
Thoughts on Group Leader
Nachio (Ignachio) was a great tour leader, kept everyone well informed, gave timely advice on the need for water, appropriate clothing, electrolyte and mineral replacement (isotonic additives), suntan lotion, and the need for 'pacing' the walks to avoid exhaustion. He juggled the programme to suit both the prevailing and forecast weather, and ensured everyone stayed safe. He was very much 'part of the group'.
Advice for Potential Travellers
The weather can be unpredictable, and whilst we did not need to layer up, nor did we need wet weather gear, the humble umbrella can be a useful bit of kit to be used in rain or searing sunshine. The tour leader on both this trip, and previously in Austria, have recommended one as almost essential.
Trekking poles, and stout walking boots are very suited to the terrain.
There are very few ' mountain huttes' for toilet facilities ( so a 'toilet' kit - hand sanitiser etc. is useful) and few places to buy drinks en route in this part of Spain. There are quite a few opportunities to fill water bottles from springs, and whilst we were assured that the spring water is safe, some people might feel safer using water purifier systems. You do need to make sure that you have sufficient bottle capacity (about 2 litres) so that it will last betwenn refills.
We did canoeing on the free day; it was 40 euros per person, includes transport to and from the hotel, a packed lunch, canoe or kayak, double ended kayak paddles (no single blade paddles available, nor left handed paddles) and gives you between 3 and 4 hours of paddling with many opportunities to 'beach' for a break. The river has a few very tame grade 1 'rapids', and you are paddling with the current. The river can be very busy at the launching ramp, usually the school trips, but soon thins out a you progress down stream.
