Garganta de Escuain Walk
The path down to the River Yaga from Escuain has been cut for the past few years due to a landslide, however we chanced our luck and had no difficulty descending to the river despite a steep descent and some slippery tree roots from previous day's light rainfall. Being more used to climbing peaks, it was a major change to find myself walking up the Garganta de Escuain with 100m walls rising up on either side. The walk skirted the river Yaga with its waterfalls, ponds, caves and lammergeiyer flying overhead. We were able to do a circuit as some cairns marked the exit from the canyon up to the turn off for the Mallos bridge and Escuain. In total, a 6 hour walk.
Posted by Jayne at 16:32 ·
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Tour of 3 Refuges in Posets-Maladeta Park
Started out the 3 refuge tour or the tour of the Posets Massif -Viados, Angel Orus, Estós, Viados-last Monday. There was some discussion about sleeping out, however weight considerations and fitness levels meant we opted for demi pension in the refuges. The first leg from Viados to Angel Orus involved a 1120m climb. It took us 8 hours but that was including at least an hour for mid morning and lunch break. Loads of chamois on crossing the Collado de Eriste and marmots whistles' accompanied us for the duration of the 3 day trek. If doing the circuit, a stay in Orus means descending 400m only to have to climb back up the next morning. Orus has a nice terrace with some great views, however it is a huge refuge catering to a 100+. A bivouac might be a better option to avoid extra walking and for a generally more authentic experience in the mountains.
Orus to Estós took us 9 hours, again with time included for breaks. Descent to Estós included a staggering number of mountain lakes. In the height of summer, no doubt a dip is a must. Raspberries just ripe for picking lifted our spirits on the final approach to Estós. The delicious broth, chorizo and lentil stew, meatballs , coffee and friendly staff were must appreciated after the day's walk.
Estós to Viados was a misty leg with nearly totally white out conditions at the Puerto de Chistau. Luckily the sun was shining on the other side and we made a rapid descent for a great lunch in Viados. We walked for 5 and half hours including break with lots of bell clanging as local herd munched their way through the pastures.
The tour is easy to follow in good conditions with cairns marking much of the way. The ascent to Collado de Eriste and descent on other side is pretty steep, so I would be careful if Collado still has snow in spring and autumn. Make sure to try out good mountain cooking in Estós and Viados. A great circuit with a large variety of mountain landscapes. We all enjoyed that feel good factor that comes from being out for 3 days with great scenery and lots of exercise.
Orus to Estós took us 9 hours, again with time included for breaks. Descent to Estós included a staggering number of mountain lakes. In the height of summer, no doubt a dip is a must. Raspberries just ripe for picking lifted our spirits on the final approach to Estós. The delicious broth, chorizo and lentil stew, meatballs , coffee and friendly staff were must appreciated after the day's walk.
Estós to Viados was a misty leg with nearly totally white out conditions at the Puerto de Chistau. Luckily the sun was shining on the other side and we made a rapid descent for a great lunch in Viados. We walked for 5 and half hours including break with lots of bell clanging as local herd munched their way through the pastures.
The tour is easy to follow in good conditions with cairns marking much of the way. The ascent to Collado de Eriste and descent on other side is pretty steep, so I would be careful if Collado still has snow in spring and autumn. Make sure to try out good mountain cooking in Estós and Viados. A great circuit with a large variety of mountain landscapes. We all enjoyed that feel good factor that comes from being out for 3 days with great scenery and lots of exercise.
Posted by Jayne at 14:53 ·
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