Walk 29th November 2008

The weather for our walk on Sunday was a lot better than had been originally forecast, whilst not reaching the temperatures we had in August it was warm enough for some to walk in T shirts. I personally kept my fleece on, it did only get up to 16 degrees. The walk started from the car park in Monachil and followed the easy route through the gorge. The National park have done a lot of work on the footpath, erecting new fences, and fitting hand holds where the rocks overhang, a big improvement. The health and safety executive must have been around, the next thing, we will have to do a risk assessment, before doing the walk.
Once again the autumn colours were wonderful and, set against the bright blue cloudless sky, it made the walk well worth while. Sadly this week it did not get the accolade of the best walk ever.
On our return to the valley we went to Josettes for a celebration and tapa, Finally the courts have seen sense, and Josette has won the court case that seems to have dragged on for ever over her old house. An excellent turnout and a fine selection of food, a very enjoyable afternoon. Thank you toJosette for hosting.

This weekend things are arranged a little differently.
First the walk is SATURDAY because we are proposing to do the Estrella path above Guejar Sierra which can be a bit difficult to do, due to car access on a Sunday. The walk can be split into a number of different walks depending on the weather and the grade of difficulty anybody wants to do. For the first hour and a bit we follow an easy path above the Rio Genil to a view point, this is a convenient spot to take a break and take in the majesty of Alcazaba. You can now if you wish retrace your steps and be pleased in the knowledge that you have walked in some magnificent scenery. The second part of the walk for the stronger walkers continues to follow the river for another 6km, passing various worked out mines along the way. Once again you can turn around and go back at anytime. The third part is for the Idiots and Masochists who can, if they wish, come back on the high level route. As the name suggests the high level route involves some climbing. While it does not add much in distance it certainly adds to the effort.

The Second change this weekend is there is no tapa after the walk. The tapa is SUNDAY, this is because of the potential length of the walk, and also because we are having it at Quinas, and she wants to do a BBQ. To help Quina plan the BBQ can you please let me know by THURSDAY if you are going to tapa, normal tapa rules apply, bring the usual type of fayre plus you can bring things to BBQ. The tapa starts at 2pm. If you don't know whereQuina lives, coming from Durcal take the first exit to Padul, follow the main road for 1 km and keep on as it goes left and then right onto the main street in Padul . After about 100 meters find somewhere to park, and take the little road on your right, there is a shoe shop on the corner. Go to the end of this and turn right you should now see an oldLaverdero on your left, continue down the road 20 meters and Quinas house is the last one on the left, opposite the new flats. If anyone wants to meet me at 2pm I will wait by the shoe shop.

The weather in our part of the world looks to be heading downhill this week as we catch the tailend of the Gales that the UK experienced at the weekend, hopefully things will soon improve both in the UK and here.

Walk 26th November 2008

What a great day out we had on Sunday, in fact it was described by one walker as the best walk ever, mind, she says this after every walk. but it was a cracker, the scenery and the autumn colours were stunning. The walk started in Fondales in the Alpujaras and headed down to, and then across, the Rio Trevelez before heading up the dark side of Sierra Mercina. At this time of the year this north facing hillside is mostly in shadow in the morning with a few patches of sun light dotting the path, it was like walking in and out of a freezer. One of the big attractions of this walk is the way down from the top of Sierra Mercina. The drop is near vertical but the path is very ingeniously woven into the hillside, so much so that, when you get to the bottom you cannot see where you have been. I have done this walk a number of times but have never stopped at the health fountain. This is a natural spring, with carbonated water, absolutely fantastic, on the next visit I will take some bottles and start marketing this elixir of life. I feel sure that if I let my hair grow into dreadlocks, and tied our cat to a bit of string, I would do well at Orgiva market.
Upon our return to the valley we all went around to Margarets for tapa, now I really do feel sorry for Liz and Graham, Arthur, Deborah and a few others who have left the valley this last couple of weeks for warmer climates, so I won't bang on about the tapa, but we did have Mushroom tart, Fish pie, Shepherds pie, Carne de Membrilla, Salad, Garlic bread, Sauteed mushrooms, Quiche, Custard tart, Apple tart, Apple crumble and a load of others. Thank you to Margaret for hosting the do.
The weather forecast for Sunday is for a nice day but temperatures down to 11 degrees, so I think we will go to the Monachil gorge and try and get out of the way of what may well be a cool wind. Afterwards we shall be having tapa at Josettes house in Chite from 3pm

height gained	200 meters
Length	9 km
Estimated time	3 hours walking
Difficulty	4
Meet	The Acropolis bar Mondújar 9am or the roundabout at Padul 9.15

This is a €2 walk please pay the driver.

Walk 16th November 2008

Sunday dawned bright and sunny, and for me that was a welcome change, having just spend 5 days in the UK. I think someone must have forgotten to turn the sun on, I had to walk round with a torch all week. Our walk this week took us down the hill to Guájar Faragúit and we were soon walking and stripping off to T shirts and regretting we had not put shorts on. After a short, stiff climb we arrived at the ruined moorish castle, situated high above the valley where we stopped for our breakfast. Our return journey took us through the lush valley bottom, and the hunter gathers amongst us were in second heaven as we wandered amongst Tangerine, Advocado and Custard Apple trees. Quina excelled herself this week by wangling an invite into a very friendly farmers field, by the time we arrived back in Faragúit we were loaded down with produce. Tapa was held at our house this week and an excellent meal was enjoyed by all.
Our walk this Sunday, the 16th November, is a trip into the Alpujarras, starting from Fondales we follow an ancient silk route on the easy climb up Sierra Mercina with spectacular views over the Sierra Nevada, the route is a circular one and comes back via a spectacular descent.
Tapa this week will be held at Margarets house in Murchas from around 4pm.

height gained	400 meters
Length	9 km
Estimated time	4 hours walking
Difficulty	5
Meet	The Acropolis bar Mondújar 9am

This is a €3 walk please pay the driver.


The photo shows the Castle at Guájar Fondon

Walk 9th November 2008

I do not know what the official government position is regarding the ending of the 7 year drought, but here in the valley we have seen so much rain this week that I keep expecting Noah to knock on the door wanting to know if I want to buy a boat. Combine that with the low temperatures that we are having to endure at the moment and you can understand the trauma that us Lecrin folk are going through.
Our walk on Sunday was always going to be a hit or miss affair, not knowing from one day to the next what the weather would bring. When the cat came in at 5am Sunday morning, dripping wet, I thought it was going to be another day reading the Sunday papers, but by 7 am the clouds had rolled back and we had the makings of a fine day. By 9 the sun was shining but it was still only 4 degrees when we met in Nigúelas, but with hats, scarfs and gloves and the odd layer of thermal clothing everything was set for a stroll into the hills above Nigúelas. The views were stunning with Caballo covered in a fresh layer of deep snow and there was also water flowing in the Rio Torrente, not many folk can say they have seen that. An excellent walk rounded off wonderfully when we all went round to Liz and Grahams for tapa. Thank you L&G for providing the venue and once again to everyone for the food.

Hopefully by next Sunday the weather will return to something like normal but to be on the safe side we will go down to Guaja Faragúit and a walk to the ruined castle. This is a delightful walk but there is a steepish climb of 100 meters up to the castle. This is a 3 Euro walk please pay the driver direct.

Afterwards tapa will be held at our house in Chite around 3 pm

Height gained	150 meters
Length	6 km
Estimated time	3 hours walking
Difficulty	5
Meet	The Acropolis bar Mondújar 9am

Walk 2 November 2008

With the clocks going back at the weekend we had, what was in effect, a late start for the walk, and boy did the group turn out in force, we nearly had enough for a charabanc. The walk was classed as easy, with the possibility of wet feet, as we were going up the Rio Dilar. Because of the heavy rain we have had this last week the possibility of wet feet turned into a certainty when we saw the level of the river, but, in the true spirit of the group we did not have any dissenters. One of the exciting things about this walk is the number of times that you have to cross the river, and the techniques used varied from the rock hoppers to the paddlers, in the end it made no difference, we all had wet feet, but it was worth it because of the Autumn colours and the stunning location of the valley.Nobody disgraced themselves by actually falling in, but the cameras did seem to come out every time we had to do a crossing. One thing that I did find was a mushroom, with what looked like a pixie under it, if anyone can identify this species can you please let me know.
After the walk we all went round to Bob and Githa's for a feast, thank you B&G for the venue and to everyone who turned up.

Our walk this coming Sunday, the 2nd of November, is a local circular one from Nigúelas that goes via Acequias, then up to the GR7 before dropping back into the Torrente valley and returning to Nigúelas.
Tapa will be held at Liz and Grahams house in Chite from 3pm.

Description of walk

Height gained	420 meters
Length	8 km
Estimated time	3 hours walking
Difficulty	5
Meet	The car park Nigúelas 9am

The photo appears to show a pixie under a mushroom.

Walk 26th October 2008

Sunday was one of those days that if you had not made arrangements to go out, you could have turned over and gone back to bed. The weather forecast was promising rain, there was a lot of cloud about, and a thick mist hung over our intended route around lake Beznar. But I had promised birthday girl José a nice walk, so I had to get out of bed. When I got to the meeting point there was only 3 other people, so I was beginning to think the bed option had been taken up by the rest of the group, when suddenly people appeared from all directions, the locals ran screaming to lock their doors as it looked like an invasion. As we made our way down to the lake the mist rolled back to give an almost surreal view over to the windmills. With the weather now improving by the second, and the country side a lush green after the recent rain which is helping to fill the lake, the scene was set for a very pleasant walk in glorious sunshine. The pomegranates are ready for picking, the oranges are just starting to turn Orange, and Quina managed to find some Asparagus, gone were the thoughts of bed, replaced by thoughts of what a great place to live. One of the highlights of this walk is the chance to call for a drink on the way round at the new Bar in Melegis, the Puente de Lecrin. The terrace is very pleasant but the tapa was lacking until Quina went in and had a quiet word with them. On our return to Chite we all went our separate ways, only to reconvene later at José house in Pinos del Valle for what can only be described as a sumptuous tapa birthday party. Thank you to everyone for turning up and making it a great day.

Our walk this Sunday the 26th October should, if I have got the timing correct, be a very colourful one. We are going to Dilar to walk up the river valley. In the past, at this time of year, the Autumn colours can be wonderful. All we are going to do is walk in the valley bottom, no hills to climb, but there are rivers to cross, accidents do happen so wear something that does not mind getting wet. Because we are walking in the valley, you can make the walk as long or as short as you want, turning around whenever you have had enough.
Tapa will be held at Bob and Githa's house in Mondújar at 3 pm.

Description of walk

Height gained	300 meters, if you walk to the end of the valley
Length	10 km, if you go to the end of the valley
Estimated time	3.5 hours walking if you go to the end of the valley
Difficulty	2
Meet	The Acropolis bar Mondújar 9am

Walk 19th October 2008

Well I don't know if last weeks description of this weeks walk put folk off, but suddenly this last week everyone has skipped the country, folk have jetted off to Boston, Budapest, London and any other destination they could think of to get out of the Sunday walk. There were only Arthur and I men enough to turn up, but don't worry, I will sneak it in again when everyone is back. The walk started in Restabal and headed up hill to the camp site where we had hoped to get coffee, but it was closed and the gates padlocked, so we had to make do with water from our flasks instead. It was an hour later whilst we were starting to make our way back that Arthur realised that he had left his walking sticks back at the rest point. Not having seen a soul all day we confidently believed that they would still be there when we returned later in the day by car to pick them up. Isn't it surprising how easily your confidence can be shattered? When we returned a couple of hours later they had gone. If anyone knows of somebody recently acquiring a pair of walking sticks please let Arthur know. He joins a long list of folk forgetting or losing things whilst out walking recently, the long hot summer must have finally dried our brains out! Upon our return to Restabal the group numbers suddenly swelled when we stopped at the bar for drinks, obviously the way to get the numbers up is to forget the walk and go straight to the bar. Afterwards we returned to our house for tapa, thanks to everyone who turned up.

Our walk this Sunday the 28th September is combination of 2 walks to make a circular one. We start in Mondújar and set off on the route towards Lanjaron, when we get to the Barranco Tablate we head down hill before picking up the high level Acequias heading back to Mondújar. The paths are all good and there are no steep sections.

Tapa will be held at Deborah's house in Nigúelas around 3pm.
The weather forecast for this week is unsettled with thunderstorms forecast for Saturday night. In the event that it is raining on Sunday morning the walk will be canceled but the tapa will still take place. If you are unsure if the walk is on check your email by 8.15 Sunday or ring me 627021994

Description of walk

Height gained	90 meters
Length	10 km
Estimated time	4 hours walking
Difficulty	5, good paths no steep bits
Meet	The Acropolis bar Mondújar 9am

Walk 28th September 2008

Well I don't know if last weeks description of this weeks walk put folk off, but suddenly this last week everyone has skipped the country, folk have jetted off to Boston, Budapest, London and any other destination they could think of to get out of the Sunday walk. There were only Arthur and I men enough to turn up, but don't worry, I will sneak it in again when everyone is back. The walk started in Restabal and headed up hill to the camp site where we had hoped to get coffee, but it was closed and the gates padlocked, so we had to make do with water from our flasks instead. It was an hour later whilst we were starting to make our way back that Arthur realised that he had left his walking sticks back at the rest point. Not having seen a soul all day we confidently believed that they would still be there when we returned later in the day by car to pick them up. Isn't it surprising how easily your confidence can be shattered? When we returned a couple of hours later they had gone. If anyone knows of somebody recently acquiring a pair of walking sticks please let Arthur know. He joins a long list of folk forgetting or losing things whilst out walking recently, the long hot summer must have finally dried our brains out! Upon our return to Restabal the group numbers suddenly swelled when we stopped at the bar for drinks, obviously the way to get the numbers up is to forget the walk and go straight to the bar. Afterwards we returned to our house for tapa, thanks to everyone who turned up.

Our walk this Sunday the 28th September is combination of 2 walks to make a circular one. We start in Mondújar and set off on the route towards Lanjaron, when we get to the Barranco Tablate we head down hill before picking up the high level Acequias heading back to Mondújar. The paths are all good and there are no steep sections.

Tapa will be held at Deborah's house in Nigúelas around 3pm.
The weather forecast for this week is unsettled with thunderstorms forecast for Saturday night. In the event that it is raining on Sunday morning the walk will be canceled but the tapa will still take place. If you are unsure if the walk is on check your email by 8.15 Sunday or ring me 627021994

Description of walk

Height gained	90 meters
Length	10 km
Estimated time	4 hours walking
Difficulty	5, good paths no steep bits
Meet	The Acropolis bar Mondújar 9am

Walk 21st September 2008

Well, it looks like the extreme summer heat has now passed by, the sheets and duvets are starting to reappear on the beds, and it is noticeably cooler in the morning, creating perfect conditions for a walk in our beautiful mountains. So on Sunday we went walking above Cumbres Verde, on the side of Trevenque, and what a beautiful walk it was, the sky was a deep blue, the footpaths wandered in and out of the pine trees, the Crocus flowers were in full bloom, and the smell from the curry bushes as we brushed past them reminded us of our last great Indian meal we had. For some in the group the temptation to eat was so great they had consumed their lunch by 11.30. Luckily the walk also passes a large blackberry bush, full of lush berries, so we spent a few minutes there, eating all we could pick. The official lunch break for anyone with anything left to eat was at Tomar Canal. The path is a circular one and returns on a high path, looking down on the Rio Dilar. If I had taken my camera with me, I could have taken some wonderful pictures, but due to advancing years and approaching senility, I keep forgetting to pack it. So this weeks poor specimen was taken with the phone.
On our return to Chite we all went round to Josettes house for tapa and what a house full she had. Thank you to Josette for hosting and to everyone who turned up.
Something that cropped up on the walk, and I said I would throw it open for discussion was, could a way be found of recompensing the drivers for the use of their cars when we venture outside the immediate area of the Valley? If anyone has any thoughts let me know.

Our walk this Sunday starts in Restabal and heads up hill to the abandoned village, and then up to the campsite where, if it is open, we may be able to get coffee. The path then returns via Restabal castle, and perhaps a bar afterwards in Restabal. The walk is not difficult, but it does head up hill for the first hour.
Tapa will be held at our house around 2.30pm

Description of walk

Height gained	350 meters
Length	9 km
Estimated time	4 hours walking
Difficulty	4, good paths no steep bits
Meet	The Church in Restabal 9am

Walk 14 th September 2008

Can I start by extending a warm welcome back to Bob, Githa and Daniel who have returned to the valley after their extended trip to Holland, in the past Bob has been the butt of many of my sarcastic comments, I will try to behave myself in future.

Our walk last Sunday was to the Castle at Murchas, or Melegis, as nobody seems to know which village lays claim to it, but either way we started off in Murchas and followed the river Torrente to Melegis. The path then turns right and heads off towards the Castle before dropping down and following the Rio Durcal for a short while. Ever since we first discovered this route you have had to look carefully to find a little path marked by a dead tree. True to form the dead tree has done what dead trees do, it has fallen over and the route is no longer marked. This caused us to back track about 10 meters before we picked up the correct route through the Bamboo tunnel. Once again you wonder why they built the castle here, when all the bars and shops are at least 3km away and I bet the bread man did not call in a morning. Once again a pleasant little walk, which was made all the better when we all went round to Arthurs house afterwards for tapa. Young Daniel had been looking forward to going to Uncle Arthurs house because Uncle Arthur has a very nice pool for little Daniel to splash about in. Unfortunately while the boy was willing, the man was not.

Our walk this Sunday is to Tomar Canal above La Zubia, the walk starts at the carpark at cerro de Sevilla and follows a good path as it wonders along the side of Cuerda del Trevenque before dropping down to Tomar canal and returning along a path above the Rio Dilar to the carpark. The walk offers excellent views of the Sierra Nevada and the Rio Dilar.

Afterwards tapa will be held at Josettes house in Chite around 5pm.

Description of walk

Height gained	308 meters
Length	10 km
Estimated time	4 hours walking
Difficulty	5, good paths no steep bits
Meet	The Acopolise bar Mondújar 9am, Padul roundabout 9.15 or at cerro de Sevilla 9.45

Walk 7th September 2008

Our walk last Sunday took us to the Ermita Vieja in the Rio Dilar, and whilst you do gain quite a lot of height the path is well graded and no effort is involved in getting to the top, also because most of the walk was in the forest we were provided with anatural sun screen, mind you it was not always needed because there was some cloud about and Alison did report 2 drops of rain, it nearly had us all dashing to put the cagoules on. It was a very good walk with spectacular views and was enjoyed by all. Tapa was held at our house afterwards, a big thank you to all who turned up.

Our walk this coming Sunday, the 7th of September, is to the Castle at Melegis. To describe it as a Castle is stretching it a bit far as there is not much more than a wall left standing, but to say we are walking to the wall inMelegis does not have the same ring to it. The walk is a circular one starting in Murchas and follows the river down to Melegis before heading through the orange groves and the bamboo tunnel, The views from the Castle over the Sierra Nevada are outstanding and you can understand why they built a Castle there.
Tapa is at Josettes house in Chite around 5pm.

Description of walk

Height gained	150 meters
Length	7klm
Estimated time	3 hours walking
Difficulty	4, good paths no steep bits
Meet	The bridge in Murchas 9 am

Walk 31st August

There has been a lot of news just lately about the wet weather they have been having back in the UK. Not having seen any rain for the last 3 months I decided last weekend to go and check it out. Well folks I can tell you, I spent 3 days there and there was nothing, no drizzle, no floods, no thunderstorms, no Sun,nada. So I came home and guess what! The Sun is shining.

Ermita Vieja from Dilar
Our walk this week, Sunday 31st August, starts from the car park in the Rio Dilar opposite the Merendero bar. We follow a Camino Forestal, and a good footpath as it climbs slowly through the thick pine forest before arriving at the Ermita Vieja. From here we pick up another good track and follow it to the foot of Pioacho Alto, before it starts its descent by way of a barranco and back to the car park.
Tapa is at our house in Chite around 3.30, all welcome.

Description of walk

Height gained	435 meters
Length	10 klm
Estimated time	4 hours walking
Difficulty	4, good paths no steep bits
Meet	Acropolis bar Mondújar 9 am Padul roundabout 9.15

Regards

Walk 24th August 2009

The weather forecast for our walk on Sunday had slowly been going down hill all week, with the promise of cloud and cooler temperatures getting a little bit worse each day, things were not looking good for our walk to Mulhacen, mainland Spain's highest peak. We were committed, in part, to at least some of the walk because we had booked tickets on the National Park bus out of Capileira. Our early Sunday morning start brought cloudy skies and no sun, it was 7.15 in the morning and apparently the sun does rise at this time of the day in August, but by the time we caught the bus at 8.30 the clouds were breaking up and we had the start of what looked like a promising day. The bus drops you off around 10 am, the clouds had gone and the sun was warm. The conditions were perfect for climbing Mulhacen. For 5 years I have been reading fairy tales about being able to see Africa 200 km away from these mountains, I have always considered it a myth similar to Ryanairs customer care policy, but there Africa was, in the far distance, what a start to the day! We used the old road route to climb to the summit, whilst it is longer because it zig zags it's way up, it is not steep, you would hardly know you were climbing the 2400 ft to the top!!! Last year when we went up, it was so windy and cold we only stayed a few minutes, frightened that we would all turn into ice men. This time we were reluctant to begin the descent it was so warm, and the views stupendous, but we had a bus to catch. Upon our return to Capileira refreshments were taken in a local bar before returning to Talara for 7.30, a very enjoyable 12 hour outing. There is no planned walk this weekend as I have to return to the UK for a short break, my friends over there assure me it will be warm and sunny, so I am really looking forward to it! The next walk is Sunday the 31st August, plans to follow. The Photo shows Quina, Sandy and Maria on the summit of Mulhacen

Walk 17th August 2008

Our walk on Sunday was the delightful little stroll from Albúnelas to Restabal, it was advertised as very easy and ending up in a bar. I think I have finally found what motivates people to get out of bed on a Sunday to come on a walk, it is that little 3 letter word "BAR" because this week 12 turned out for the walk. The walk starts in Albuñelas and follows the GR7 path as it meanders down through the campo, to Salares and Restabal. It offers plenty of shade at this time of the year, and the views over our Valley and the Sierra Nevada are wonderful. As we neared Restabal the pace rapidly increased as the prospect of a cool beer became a reality, our planned stop of bar Sifon was dismissed in favour of the new bar Andrea, which I must admit served very tasty tapa. Because of the high temperatures and wall to wall sunshine we are experiencing at the moment, it is too warm to sit out and enjoy our afternoon tapa parties, it was decided that we would all go home and have a nice siesta before meeting up again at Josettes house in the evening. I am sorry if this last sentence rubs salt into the wounds of our UK based members as you sit huddled around the gas fire with a mug of cocoa, but it is fantastic at the moment, whoops, sorry! I am upsetting another group of folks again!! Thank you to everyone who turned up, and to Josette for hosting the wonderful tapa, a very enjoyable day.

Our walk this coming Sunday, the 17th of August, is Mulhacen.
The walk is about 12km long and involves 735 metres of climbing on a well marked path, it is not steep, but at 3479 metres it is the highest point in mainland Spain, so a few points need to be mentioned. Bring plenty of food and water (at least 1.5 ltrs), a fleece and windproof/ waterproof jacket, sun hat and a warm hat, gloves, sun tan cream. At the moment the weather forecast for Mulhacen on Sunday is 14 degrees and cloudy, if it is not suitable to go to the summit we will still do a high altitude walk. If you have not booked your place on the bus and want to go on the walk please get in touch.
Because we have to catch the bus from Capileira at 8.30 we have to leave at 7.15, we should get back around 7.30 in the evening. There is no tapa arranged we will stop for a drink or 2 in a BAR in Capiliera.

Description of walk

Height gained	735 metres
Length	12 km
Estimated time	5 hours
Difficulty	8
Meet	Acropolis bar Mondújar 7.15 am

Walk 10th August 2008

Sunday saw the first of this seasons campo fires, and at one stage it put in doubt Sunday´s walk, as it was in the barranco de Rio Verde the valley that we had intended to walk in. Fortunately because of our planned late start, it was an afternoon walk, the Bomberos and the helicopters had succeeded in bringing the fire under control, and they were just damping down by the time we arrived at the other side of the valley. This weeks walk was split, with a very easy section to start with along the top of the gorge for the ones who wanted a short walk, and a trip up the steep sided gorge of the Rio Durcal for the ones who wanted to go further. The gorge walk has lost some of its beauty over the years as successive storms have somehow altered the river flow. When we first discovered it you walked through a series of waterfalls, now there is no water in the river at all, but it is still a spectacular gorge to walk in. Tapa was held at our house in Chite, thank you, to everyone who turned up.
Our walk this coming Sunday, the 10th August is another short, easy one, ideal for all on a hot Sunday. It is virtually all downhill, having only 63 meters of ascent, and is only 5km long. It starts in Albuñuelas and follows the GR7 back to Restabal, where we will stop for refreshment in bar Sifon. Like this last Sunday there is evening tapa arranged, this time at Josettes house, once again is is because it is too hot to sit outside at lunch time. If you are going on the walk meet at 9am at Acropolis Bar Mondújar, and tapa is at 7.30 at Josettes.

Once again if you want to go up Mulhacen on the 17th and you have not let me know, please do so, as we have to book tickets for the mini bus.

Walk 3rd August 2008

Sunday saw us on the first of this summers high level walks, unfortunately it coincided with a sudden drop in the groups fitness, with a large number reporting in sick, which was a pity, because while everyone was sweltering in the valley (it melted my fake crocs which I had left out in the patio) we were walking in temperatures of about 18 degrees. The walk started at the upper carpark on Veleta, and followed the path up from there and over to the Observatories and onward to the Embalse de las Yeguas , where lunch was taken. We then continued onward a little further to check out another path, which looks like we will be able to develop it into a high level ridge walk in the future. On our return to the valley we went to Arturo's house for tapa. Once again thank you to Arturo and everyone who turned up. Please note, I wish all the sickies a speedy recovery and no disrespect is intended, but someone had to get the stick this week.

Our walk this Sunday, the 3rd of August, is a little different. Firstly, it is split into two parts, which are both easy, secondly it is an afternoon walk. The first part of the walk is a linear, level walk of about 1 hour and is suitable for everyone, even a blind man with a wooden leg can manage this, as it follows an Acequia on a drivable track above the Rio Durcal. This is a new section that the Limpers have not done before. The second section is the usual Rio Durcal walk, for any one who has not done this before it is a wonderful valley walk deep into the Sierra Durcal hills, this section whilst not difficult, is not suitable for anyone who suffers vertigo, and you will need walking sandals or some such, as you will get your feet wet, this section adds a further 1.5 hours to the walk. The plan is that we meet at 5 pm to avoid the main heat of the day. We drive to the start of the walk above the Rio Durcal , and all set off on the first section which is level, after 25 minutes the ones wanting the easy walk, stop and enjoy the view on a convenient seat before making their way back to the cars and returning to Chite for pre tapa drinks. The second group will continue up the valley for a further 3/4 of an hour, before turning around and heading back to the remaining cars and tapa at our house in Chite.

A note for the diary we are planning a trip up Mulhacen on the 17th August, this is a full days walk up mainland Spain's highest mountain if you want to go please let me know as we have to book tickets on the mini bus.

Walk 27th July 2008

This week we went to look at the new windmills they are building on the hilltop above Murchas, at the moment all the paths are a bit chewed up with all the construction work going on, but I feel sure once everything is in place and working the area will return to its own natural beauty. I consider it a good idea that they generate as much power as possible using these windmills, and at least living inChite we can't see them! After the walk we went to Margarets house in Murchas, Apologises to anyone who was looking for Margaret's house in Chite as advertised last week, at least it kept the riff raf out. As always a superb spread was laid on. Thank you to everyone who turned up and to Margaret and Family for the venue.

Our walk this Sunday the 27th July is the long postponed one to the Embalse de las Yeguas on the side of Veleta. The walk is not difficult from a path point of view the only problem is, it is all above 3000 meters and the lungs do have to work a bit harder, but it is good training if you want to go on the Mulachen walk in August. Please make sure that you bring some warm clothing, a fleece and windproof jacket are ideal. The forecast temperature up there is 16 degrees but it always seems to be a lot colder especially if it is windy. Also sufficient food and drink are vital.

Afterwards tapa will be held at Arturo's house in Chite at around 5 pm.

Walk 20th July 2008

Last Sunday, by way of a change, we went to Dilar for a picnic and an enjoyable afternoon was had by all. The only cross words said all afternoon were by Quina's 2 dogs, who decided they no longer wanted to be friends after Uka had been to the hair stylists for a short back and sides, and all Nana had said was "I preferred the old style".
The walk we had planned for last week was up Veleta, but was cancelled due to a sudden drop in temperatures and low cloud, so we were going to do it this coming week but the weather forecast for Veleta on Sunday is no better, with even the possibility of snow this week. So plan B will brought into action.

Plan B
For the last few weeks there has been a lot of activity taking place on the hillside above Murchas, it looks like some windmills may be in the offing, so I am proposing we go for a walk on the Loma de Murchas to have a look at what is going on. We start off by following the Acequias out of Murchas and then walking up the forest road to where the windmills should be.

Picnic 13th July 2008

Last weekend saw us returning to Cumbres Verde, always a very pleasant area to walk in and a little cooler than walking at lower altitudes. It was also the Wimbledon men's final, so I was under great pressure to make sure that we returned in time for the start of what was promising to be a good match, or so I was lead to believe, knowing even less about tennis than I do about football. The walk took us to the twin peaks of Boca de la Pesca, where we stopped for lunch, with splendid views over Granada and the Sierra Nevada. The thing about the walk at this time of the year is the smell of Curry you get when you walk past some of the herbs growing next to the path, by the time you get to the top you have only one thought on your mind, an Indian takeaway. So it comes as a disappointment when you only have a Marmite sandwich in which to slake your appetite. Our walk back to the cars was in double quick time, as we rushed back, in order not to miss the start at Wimbledon. I understand we made it with about 2 hours to spare, anyway at least our man won.

We had planned to go on a walk on the slopes of Veleta this coming weekend in order to cool down a bit, but the weather forecast is for a cold front moving in, driving temperatures on Veleta down to 10 degrees, I like it cool but that is too much. So with 29 forecast for the valleys I propose a picnic in the Rio Dilar. So bring the usual things plus plates, glasses and a chair.

Meet in Mondújar 1pm for the drive to Dilar or around 1.40pm in the car park at Dilar. family and friends welcome

Walk 6th July 2008

Before I forget Josett has got hold of some tickets for an evening concert at the Alhambra on the 25th of July. This is a repeat of the Lorca in New York concert we went to see last year, and was such a success that they are doing it again, it is highly recommended, if you did not go last year or you want to see it again can you please contact Josett on 958795180, payment required by the 15th July.

Our walk on Sunday was to the Hermitage above Pinos del Valle, normally you go straight up from the Laverdero in Pinos, but in an effort to extend the walk we added a further 6km to the walk, and a bit more interest, by going the long way round. The path, while not difficult, has certainly deteriorated somewhat since the storm last September, but never mind, it added to the interest of the walk. It is only when you get to the top and look down that you realise how green our Valley is. We stopped for a beer in Pinos before returning to Chite for a BBQ, now as you may have noticed meat does not play a big part in my life, but I must say that the range of things that were brought, and the quality of the cooking, was superb.

Our walk this coming Sunday, the 6th of July, is an attempt to gain some height without too much effort, so we will go up to Boca de la Pesca. We drive to Cumbres Verde for the start of the walk, and then walk following the forest road for about 3 km, before heading for the twin peaks of Boca de la Pesca. Our return takes us back through farm land and forest.

There is no tapa arranged this week, so we will stop off at a bar on our way back.

Walk 29th June 2008

I hope last weeks letter did not cause too much confusion by dating the next walk as the 21st July. This was the kind of typical mistake made by any guy suffering from overwork, and as you all know, all we poor souls over here do all day is work, work, work. Well that is my excuse!
With the petrol strike over, the sun shining and the temperature rising it was decided that a higher level walk was called for, so we headed off to the Alpajurras for a walk in the Poqueira gorge, always a delight, but particularly at this time of the year with its lush verdant landscape. Last time we did the walk there was a lot of vocal complaints about it being all up hill, so taking note, we did the walk in the reverse direction, and this time even though it was the same length, same altitude climbed, there were no complaints. I wish all problems in life were so easily solved. The walk takes you from Capileria into the gorge at Cebadilla and back via way of the river to Capileria. It was one of those days when you could see for miles, or in Spain Kms, and the snow capped peaks of Veleta and Mulachen looked magnificent. Passing back through Capileria we stopped for a beer before returning to Margarets house for an excellent tapa, and entertainment from the neighboughs next door.

Our walk this coming Sunday the 30th of June is a local one up to the Ermita at Pinos del Valle, it takes about 3 hours and it is not difficult, we start off from the Laverdero in Pinos and walk on farm tracks for about 1 hour before turning and heading for the Ermita.
Afterwards a BBQ and tapa be held at our house in Chite, the walk or tapa is open to all Limpers, around 3 pm. Olwyn is doing Sausages on the BBQ if you want anything else doing bring it along.

Walk 21st June 2008

Because of the transport drivers dispute last week we had to cancel our planned outing to the Alpujarras and go with a local walk instead, this was a circular walk starting in Mondújar and going by way of the old Buddhist retreats to the GR7 and returning to the old Arab castle in Mondújar. Sunday was the first really hot day of the summer and I know it is only a short climb up to the castle but boy! was I puffing when I got to the top, I must be getting old.
Afterwards we returned to Josetts house in Chite for tapa and welcome refreshment. Thank you to everyone who turned up.

Due to other commitments on Sunday, this weeks walk will be held on SATURDAY. The lorry drivers have called off their strike as they do want to cause any further damage to the economy, so we will revert back to last weeks plan A walk.

Plan A

A wonderful walk in the Alpujarras, we meet in Mondújar 9 am or at the Beznar roundabout at 9.10, before driving to Capileira for the start of the walk which takes us into the Poqueira gorge then alongside the river before climbing back up to Capileira.

Afterwards tapa will be held at Margaret's house in Murchas around 4.30pm

Walk 15th June 2008

It was party time in the valley this week, so we did not have a walk, instead we all went to the Chite fiesta for Paella, and Arturo's house for tapa. Arturo's garden looked wonderful, the food was fantastic and a great day was had by all.

For the walk this Sunday we have 2 plans A Capileria and B a local walk, this is because of the lorry drivers strike which is affecting fuel and food deliveries. So if they are still out on strike Plan A will be scrapped because we can´t afford to waste petrol and we will go with Plan B.

Plan A

A wonderful walk in the Alpujarras, We meet in Mondújar before driving to Capileira for the start of the walk which takes us into the Poqueira gorge then alongside the river and back to Capileira.

Plan B

Starts from Mondújar and follows a track up to the GR7 track before looping back to Mondújar by way of the castle, both walks offer spectacular views of the surrounding area.

Afterwards tapa will be held at Josettes house in Chite around 4.30pm

Walk June 1st 2008

Well, I know it was not a bank holiday in Spain this weekend, but it was typical UK holiday weather, cool with grey clouds and a chance of rain. So it was a wise choice that this week we were walking in the low hills behind the Alhambra Palace. This was a new walk for the group and what a delight this circular turned out to be. With very little climbing involved we soon had extensive views over the Rio Genil and the Sierra Nevada mountains, unfortunately the latter were cloaked in low cloud so you had to imagine that part, but it would have been good. On the way back the clouds lifted and the sun did shine, on and off, and this time we were able to look down into the Rio Darro, another area ripe for exploring. A big thank you to Pepa for suggesting and guiding us on this walk. Afterwards we returned to Deborah's house for tapa and an exchange of insults, the insults were good the food superb. Thank you Deborah for being the host.

Our Walk this coming Sunday the 1st of June is Huetor

Huetor

A Spectacular walk in the Heutor National park, about 15 km outside of Granada on the Guadix road. The path is 12.5 km long and takes about 4.5 hours along good tracks. The views of the park itself and of the Sierra Nevada are stunning, that's why it takes so long. The paths are excellent with only one short steep ascent.

If the weather is poor please check with me on Sunday morning

Walk 25 May 2008

Our walk last Sunday was from Lanjaron to Mondújar and, whilst normally it is a very pleasant route, at this time of the year with all the wild flowers out it was a delight, and for me it was nice to see some sunshine, having just spent another 4 days back in the UK checking out those unbelievable reports that the old country was bathed in wall to wall sunshine. Believe me, it's a myth, there was nothing but grey cloud and a cold wind. The only time I got warm was when I was huddled around the gas fire. By contrast, over here we were soon walking in T shirts. I do admit that the fleece jackets came out on a number of occasions, when, rounding a corner we were hit by a cool northerly breeze. Even the gathering black storm clouds kept well away from us. We rounded the day off at Josette's house in Chite for another wonderful tapa party. A big thank you to Josette for hosting and to everyone who turned up.

Our walk this Sunday, the 25th of May, is an easy one. Suitable for everyone. We start off near the Alhambra Palace in Granada and go on a circular walk around Llano de la Perdiz. The walk starts off with an easy climb, and our guide this week will be Pepa. This weeks tapa will be held at Deborah's house in Nigúelas.

Walk 18th May 2008

Can I start by saying how sad I felt on hearing the news of the death of Linda Thorpe, Linda died on Wednesday after suffering a heart attack, Ross and Linda had spent the last 2 years renovating their house in Chite, Ross retired recently and they were planning on spending a lot more time in the valley, she will be sadly missed.

There is no walk report this week because we had to cancel the walk due to bad weather, I did receive a number of emails from the usual pack of jokers in the UK telling me how wonderful it was over there, but at least we now have some water to drink. The tapa at Quinas house went ahead as planned, the food was excellent as always and we had an enjoyable afternoon.

Hopefully the usual good weather will return for next Sunday so we are planning on doing the Lanjaron to Talara walk.

This weeks walk is from Lanjaron to Talara

Description of walk

The walk starts in Lanjaron by the old water factory and follows the GR7 back towards Nigúelas, after one hour of steady climbing we branch off towards Mondújar and follow tracks across country before finally arriving back in Talara. We then have to drive back to Lanjaron to recover our vehicles.
The tapa this week is at Josettes house in Chite around 2.30 to 3 ish.

Height gained	300 meters
Length	11 km
Estimated time	4 HOURS
Difficulty	5
Meet	Acropolis bar Mondújar 9 am or the old Lanjaron water plant at 9.20

Walk 11th May 2008

On Sunday we returned to the old favorite Monachil, but this time we turned the walk into something even more interesting and somewhat harder. Instead of setting off for the usual stroll in the gorge we headed for the hills on a walk Jose and myself discovered a few weeks back. We had not gone very far before Quina and Pepa met an old friend called Pepi who invited us all back to his Cortijo after the walk for a glass of wine. Not ones to turn a glass of wine down we accepted the invitation. The walk continued and as we started to gain height the extensive views over Granada increased in the same proportion to the moans about the lack of oxygen in the lungs. We found a wonderful place for lunch, on a dam wall in the shade of an hawthorn tree in full blossom, overlooking the upper reaches of the lush RioMonachil. We stopped for a quick drink and tapa at the merendero before heading off for our appointment with Pepi, that was when the problems started, as no one knew where Pepi's Cortijo was. Do you know how many Cortijo's there are in Monachil or even how many Pepi's there are? We drove up hill and down dale shouting for Pepi, half of the population of Monachil came to the door. Eventually we tracked his Cortijo down, only to discover that he had gone out, Ah well back to another bar. An excellent walk highly recommended.

Our walk on Sunday the 11th May is one we did a few weeks back, but it has been requested again because of the wild flowers, that should be out! So subject to decent weather, because at the moment rain is promised, we will go to Huetor , if the weather is not suitable for this high altitude park we will find a local walk in the valley, and if it is that bad we will go straight to Tapa at Quina's at 4pm

Huetor

A Spectacular walk in the Heutor National park, about 15 km outside of Granada on the Guadix road. The path is 12.5 km long and takes about 4.5 hours along good tracks. The views of the park itself and of the Sierra Nevada are stunning. The paths are excellent with only one short steep ascent.

Height gained	183 meters
Length	12.5 km
Estimated time	4.5 hours
Difficulty	5
Meet	Acropolis bar Mondújar 9 am, Argos roundabout 9.15

Walk 4th May 2008

Our walk last Sunday was to Pico Lucero and for some, including me, it is one of the finest walks you could find anywhere. For a start it takes some finding, and when you know where it is there is a 20 km off road drive to the start of the path, and then you start the walk in countryside that could have come straight out of the Lord of the Rings. With views in all directions you traverse across a series off lesser mountains before what looks like the impossible ascent ofLucero itself, in fact the path is a well constructed zig zag track that slowly winds it's way to the summit. After stopping for lunch at the top we all took part in an impromptu Tai Chi lesson from Angel. He was so taken with the area he proposed that we go up one day and have a sleep over, to enable us to watch the Sun come up. One thing that does concern me is the lack of a comfortable mattress, lets just say that the top is rocky, if anybody is interested let me know. On our return to the valley we had tapa at our house, an excellent day out and some excellent food.

Our Walk this Sunday, the 4th May, is an Extended Monachil walk. Whilst on this route you do have some 480 meters of ascent, it is spread out over about 5 km. There is only one very short steep bit. The walk is not difficult and is within the capabilities of most. There is no tapa arranged so we will stop at a bar somewhere on the way back.

Description of walk

Height gained	480 meters
Length	14 kLM
Estimated time	4.5 HOURS
Difficulty	5
Meet	Acropolis bar Mondújar 9 am

Walk 27th April

Our walk this Sunday the 27th April is Pico Lucero, this for me is the finest mountain walk you can find. It is not a big mountain, only 1678 meters high, and there is only about 300 meters of ascent, but what a wonderful ascent it is, as the excellent path with open views to all sides zig zags up to the summit of what is a true gem of a mountain. Total walking distance is only 6km, estimated walking time 3.5 hours. A must for anyone who needs a fabulous day out. It is not difficult but may not be suitable for vertigo suffers. If you want to go meet in the car park at the Acopolise bar in Mondújar at 9am or at the Argos roundabout Padul at 9.15. We have to drive to Jayena and Fornes before picking up a forest road to the start of the walk, this forest road is generally in reasonable condition and we have seen all classes of vehicles up here, but it is about 20km long. Afterwards tapa is at our house in Chite around 4pm.

Walk 30th March 2008

It is with sadness that I have to announce the death of Nick Jackson who died whilst walking in the UK at the weekend, I know over the last few months that we have had a difference of opinion which caused a split within the group, but I have known Nick for 7 years and feel a great sadness with his premature death. My sincere condolences go out to Carol.

Our walk last Sunday was a circular one starting from the car park in the Rio Dilar. It was a cold day requiring coats, hats and gloves, but with the walk starting in the valley the bitterly cold wind was kept at bay. The walk follows the river and crosses it 8 or 9 times, the absence of a definite number is due to different accounting procedures amongst the counters, or more correctly due to the age of the group, short and long term memory loss. The return path took us along the rim of the valley before descending back down into the valley. Even though the weather was cold it was an enjoyable walk and we returned to Josettes house in Chite for tapa.

Please note clocks move forward on Saturday night, to make sure everyone still gets the correct number of hours in bed we will meet at 10am.

Our walk this Sunday the 30th March is a short walk up Pico Lopera.

Pico Lopera

Description of walk
A walk of about 3 hours on well constructed tracks.

Height gained	200 meters
Length	10 klm
Estimated time	3 hours walking
Difficulty	4
Meet	Acropolis bar Mondújar 10 am

After the walk tapa will be held at our house in Chite.

Walk 23rd March 2008

Our walk on Sunday was to the Huetor park natural, this walk is one of my favorites and it always gets awarded top marks from the Limpers, today was no exception . The conditions were perfect, a deep blue sky, warm sunshine, snow on the Sierras and good company to walk with. The arrangements for the walk were that we would meet inMondújar at 9am, but a story had gone around lower Chite during the week that the clocks went back this weekend. Can I state now, I did not have anything to do with the rumour, but it did mean that one person arrived inMondújar one hour early, modesty precludes me from mentioning names. The walk itself sets off from a car park on the Guadix road and you are soon walking in a thick pine forest on a camino forestal. One of the disadvantages of walking on a camino forestal is that they make excellent bikes tracks, whilst this is not normally anything to worry about, it can lead to unforeseen problems when, say, a female limper wants a few moments to herself behind a bush. It certainly nearly caused a major traffic accident when 5 high speed mountain bikers nearly collided after coming around a corner and discovering what one wag described as the "back end of Spain¨. The standard of the conversion went down hill from this point. I even received complements about my lovely legs, as this came from Kevin I was a bit worried. The views on the walk were stunning with every turn of the track revealing new vistas and it was a bit of a disappointment when after 4 hours of walking we found ourselves back at the cars. Upon our return toChite we went for tapa at Plym and Tony's. An excellent day out that was enjoyed by all. Thank you to Plym and Tony for hosting the tapa

The walk for Sunday 23rd March is the Dilar circular, subject to reasonable weather, because it is Easter it is set to deteriorate, if we can't navigate the river path we will do an alternative walk

Dilar Circular
The walk starts from the car park in the Rio Dilar and follows the path as it meanders beside the river and criss crossing it about 6 times. note there are no foot bridges, just a series of stones placed in the river to act as stepping stones. A spare pair of socks might well be worth taking, just in case of wet feet. Because we gain all the height over about 10 klm there is not much climbing to do, but we do loose all the height coming down a zig zag path with steps. This is a very good walk in wonderful surroundings. Tapa will be held at Jossetes house in Chite afterwards, if the walk is cancelled due to bad weather please come to tapa at Jossettes from 3 pm.

Description of walk

Height gained	360 meters
Length	14 kLM
Estimated time	4 HOURS
Difficulty	5
Meet	Acropolis bar Mondújar 9 am

Have a good week and we hope to see you on Sunday

Walk 16th March 2008

We have had a mixed bag of weather this past week in the valley, hot and sunny one minute and a cold wind blowing down from the north the next, I understand that this same wind had passed over the UK before arriving here, fortunately they kept sleet, rain and the snow that had accompanied it. A big thanks to our UK south coast weather watcher Annie Lamb who keeps us entertained with her tales of the lousy weather she has experienced this winter.

So it was a ¨what shall I wear¨ sort of day on Sunday when we met in Murchas, in the end I went for the 2 fleece and woolly hat option because of the cold wind whistling down the Rio Torrente, and for the first ½ hour we put on a good turn of speed until the blood had warmed up, and the sun peeked out from behind the clouds. By the time we had stopped for our mid morning snack the knees were shaking after climbing around the rock, the sun was out, and the wind had disappeared (not for long) and we were able to sit and enjoy the view from the newly constructed parador. Nigúelas lived up to it´s name of being a cold village, as we made our way through the pueblo the wind appeared to be coming in all directions. From Nigúelas we crossed the autovia and headed back to Murchas along the Acequia. A nice walk, and drinks were taken in Talara.

Our walk next Sunday the 16th March is Heutor (subject to decent weather)

A spectacular walk in the Heutor National park, on the Guadix road from Granada. The path is 12.5 km long and takes about 5 hours along good tracks. The views of the park itself and of the Sierra Nevada are stunning. The paths are excellent with only one short steep ascent.

After the walk we will return to Plym and Tony´s house in Chite for tapa.

Height gained	183 meters
Length	12.5 km
Estimated time	4.5 hours
Difficulty	5
Meet	Acropolis bar Mondújar 9am

Walk 9th March 2008

What a difference a week makes, last week we had to cancel the walk because of low cloud and heavy overnight rain, this week it was T shirts and suntan cream. Our walk was fromCumbres Verde and the day could not have been better, a perfect blue sky, warm sunshine and wonderful views of the snow covered sierras for our picnic stop. The object of the walk was to climb upBoca de la Pesca , whilst not apparent from the direction we climbed it, from the opposite side of the valley the mouth of the fish is aptly named. There are two ways of reaching the top, we chose the easy circular one, slowly gaining height fromCumbres Verde, the way back took us through farm land and forest, an excellent walk rounded off with tapa in Talara.

Our walk next Sunday, the 9th March. is a local one, cancelled the week before due to bad weather. We start in Murchas and follow the rio Torrente to Nigúelas before returning overland through the Almond trees, and following the Acequias back to Murchas, an excellent walk. After the walk we will stop for tapa in Talara.

The Muchas, Nigúelas circular

Description of walk

Height gained	200 meters
Length	13 klm
Estimated time	4.5 hours
Difficulty	4
Meet	The bridge in Murchas 9 am

Walk 24th February 2008

I am sorry that this weeks letter is late, but the weather over here has been so terrible this last week that I have had difficulty planning our next outing. I know back in the old country you have been basking in glorious sunshine with temperatures in the 22s (Fahrenheit), but over here we have had grey skies most days and yesterday we had rain. However the sun has returned and the temperature even reached 20 (centigrade) today. Our walk last Sunday had to be changed because of the weather. The planned walk up Boca de la Pesca is at quite a high altitude and, with the low cloud that was hanging about, the views would have been somewhat limited. So we changed the walk to the lagoon walk from Padul, this is a very easy walk of about 10klm across the basin of the old lagoon to the site of the Roman road and then back via the bird sanctuary, it was at this point that I started to worry, because it was an unplanned walk I had not tested the new return route I wanted to use, thinking that the path required would be easy to spot whilst out walking. How wrong was I, we missed it completely and I had visions of us wondering around the primeval swamp forever, anyway 10 minutes later we were in the bird hide eagerly looking for the birds, and we saw absolutely nothing, but it was a pleasant walk and we enjoyed the tapa back in Talara.

The forecast for this coming Sunday is once again grey skies, so we will stick to the valley, it is no good wasting energy trying to get a good view when you aren't going so see anything when you get there.

The Muchas, Nigúelas circular

Description of walk

Height gained	200 meters
Length	13 klm
Estimated time	4.5 hours
Difficulty	4
Meet	The bridge in Murchas 9 am

Walk 17th February 2008

What perfect walking weather we had this weekend, ideal for a good walk, and our stroll around our valley was certainly that. Walking amongst the Orange trees and Almond blossom was a real delight as we made our way down from Talara to Meligis and the lake. We then followed the lake side track towards Beznar, looking for wild asparagus and admiring the wild flowers and cormorants along the way. We had to do a small diversion when we got to the Chite beck, because the path had slipped away in the storms, but a new track is in the process of taking over, this is OK as long as the dam levels remain low, if at anytime it fills up again , it may well be necessary to swim this bit. When we rejoined the path we continued on to the park at where we stopped for a very civilised picnic complete with tables and chairs. We had not been there long before carloads of BeznarChite neighbours started arriving, comments were passed about me being there without my Mujer, and it was not long before word got back to Olwyn that I had been seen out with other women, So I am in trouble again! From Beznar we returned to using the high level TalaraAcequia route. To finish off a good walk we stopped at the Noche Azul in Talara for welcome refreshments and tapa.
The weather forecast at the moment for Sunday is for light cloud, if this should get worse our planned walk up Boca de la Pesca will be postponed and we will substitute a lower level walk, but in either case meet at the Acropolis bar at 9 am

Boca de la Pesca
This week we drive to Cumbres Verdes for the start of our walk. we then follow the camino de forestal road up to the car park at Sevilla before heading off in the direction of Boca de la Pesca. This is an easy attained summit and gives you 360 degrees views of Granada and the Sierra Nevada's. Our return to Cumbres Verde takes us through farm land and forest.

Description of walk

Height gained	170 meters
Length	10 Klm
Estimated time	3 hours walking
Difficulty	4
Meet	The Acropolis bar Mondújar 9am

Walk 10 February 2008

The walk on Sunday was to the Ermita Vieja, the walk started from the Merendero in the Rio Dilar and followed the Camineo forestal as it snaked its way up the hillside to the Ermita where we stopped for breakfast and to enjoy the views. Afterwards we continued following the path to the base of Picacho Alto where we changed directions and followed the barranco back to the car park. We were entertained on route by Antonio who gave us an impromptu 4 hour Spanish lesson. The weather forecast had not been good for Sunday, but it turned out to be bright and sunny, if a little breezy at times, with that cool northerly wind coming down from the UK. I understand that things have been a little rough in the old country, these last few days/weeks/months (strike out accordingly) but can I just say that I empathize with you all and fully understand the difficulties you are going through. There, that should get me a few brownie points and put an end to the torrent of abuse I usually get when I mention the weather here.

Our walk this Sunday, the 10th February, is the Talara and Beznar Circular. With the weather forecast predicting excellent weather this should be a good walk as the Almond blossom is in full bloom in the valley.

The walks starts outside the Banco Popular in Talara and heads downhill and across country to Melegis, from here we pick up the lake side path to Beznar stopping at the picnic area for refreshment. We then continue into Beznar before the short ascent up to the Acequias for the level walk back to Talara.

Walk 3rd February 2008

Dear all

Sundays walk took us to the Rio Verde, and what a wonderful days walking it turned out to be, after dropping a car off at the finishing point we set off on the path down into the Rio Verde, this is a well maintained path, and whilst steep at the end presents no problem as a way down. Upon arriving in the valley there is a waterfall and pool, which we sat by and enjoyed our mid morning snack. Rob, ever eager to explore, came back after discovering a cave, this cave was full of stalactites and stalagmites, anywhere else they would charge 5€ to go in and look, here it is free, wonderful. We then continued on, climbing up to the small lake that feeds the waterfalls in the area. It was great to watch a Shag fishing in the lake. From here we made our way down to the river and had lunch amongst the rock pools, before setting off back to the car, because we had come down about 330 meters into the valley, we had to regain our our height. This was done by using the Camino Forestal, this is a well graded forest road, giving us an easy way to get back. On our return to Padul we went to the Batea bar for drinks and rationes. An excellent walk awarded a 5 for difficulty on our new grading system. We are going to try and grade all our walks with a difficulty rating. Number 1 will be for an Olwyn type walk, so very easy, 10, a full days walk at high altitude. Most of the walks will probably fall in the 4 to 7 range, which will make them suitable for most of the group.

Ermita Vieja from Dilar
Our walk this week starts from the car park in the Rio Dilar opposite the Merendero bar. We follow a Camino Forestal and a good footpath as it climbs slowly through the thick pine forest before arriving at the Ermita Vieja. From here we pick up another good track and follow it to the foot of Pioacho Alto, before it starts its descent by way of a barranco and back to the car park. If you want to go on the walk meet in the Nigúelas car park at 9am. There is no tapa arranged we will stop at a bar somewhere.

Walk Sunday 27th Januay 2008

Dear all

I hate to start the letter this week by mentioning the weather, particularly when you poor souls back in the UK have been inundated with non stop rain since goodness knows when, but this weekend the weather has been unbelievable, absolutely fabulous, not a cloud in the sky, T shirts and shorts weather. There, that's upset 50% of the group in the first 2 lines.

Our walk this week was to Restabal castle. The walk started in Restabal and followed the path up to the abandoned village, and then continued as far as the camp site, where after persuading the owner to unlock the gates we stopped for a very enjoyable coffee on the terrace in the sunshine, and a tour of the site, while his cabins look comfortable enough, the ground looks a little rough for camping. Fortified with coffee and biscuits we resumed our walk to the castle at Restabal. I can't imagine that the castle was ever attacked, because nobody would ever find it, as the only evidence that it is there are the underground chambers, obviously an early attempt to make a stealth castle. We continued our walk back to Restabal stopping at bar Sifon, before returning to Chite for tapa.

Our walk this coming Sunday is the Rio Verde walk, this is a fabulous walk, best done in winter because you walk down into the gorge to start with, to view the petrified rocks and waterfalls. The problem with going down into the gorge, is that you have to climb back out of it later, whilst the path is good you do have to climb some 280 meters out of the valley. Total walking distance about 10km and about 4 hours walking. There is no tapa arranged this week so we stop off for a drink at one of the bars.

If you want to go on the walk meet in Nigúelas at 9am or at the new petrol station at the Argos roundabout 9.15 Sunday 27th, for the start of the walk about 20km down the Otiva road.

A bit of good news is that we saw Bob (windy) in the week and he looked full of health, it was good to see him and we hope he continues with his recovery. I don't know if anybody still remembers her but Annie Lamb, who used walk with us last year, has recently got very stroppy when corresponding with me, and is threatening me with serious repercussions for carrying on about the glorious weather, I look forward to her return in the spring so that we can sort her out.

Have a good week.

Stuart

The photo shows the wonderful weather we had in the valley this weekend.

Further photos of this and other walks can be seen at http://picasaweb.google.com/holidaysingranada/LecrinValleyLimpers

Walk 20 January 2008

The walk on Sunday was the impressively named "Goldfinger walk" I know that Ian Fleming once wrote a book with a similar name and perhaps made a few bob out of it, but the original authors of this walk are Dutch Bob and Alan, who many years ago set off to mark the route with a can of Gold paint, and came back with gold digits. Because neither of the original crew were on the walk this week we were able to adapt the walk to suit our needs better. We set off from the car park in Nigúelas and made our way via the Rio Torrente to Acequias. From there it was a steady climb, joining the GR7 along the way, to the summit of Cerro Alto. After stopping for breakfast we made our way back into the barranco near the Hydro station, by way of excitement we then followed the Acequia into Niguelas along the newly built footpath. This is a delightful way into the village, the excitement part comes in negotiating the large rock at the start, Alison had said she only suffered vertigo a bit, this must have been the bit she was talking about. For tapa we went to Migúels bar in Nigúelas to sample his excellent fare.

For our walk this coming Sunday the 20th we are going to Restabal, for the circular walk to the abandoned village, the camp site coffee shop (subject to opening hours) and onwards to the castle at Restabal. The walk is about 11 km and takes about 4 hours, there is a total height gain of about 400 meters but this is spread over about 4 km on a campo road, so it is not difficult. On our return to Restabal we will stop at Bar Santi for drinks before returning to our house in Chite for tapa. If you want to go on the walk meet at the church in Restabal at 9am.

The weather this last week has been a bit unsettled, with rain and thick fog some days, sunshine others, Sunday was brilliant. Today, Monday, there is heavy rain. The forecast for next Sunday is 18 degrees, if it looks like it might turn out that way I will have to unpack the shorts and suntan cream.

Have a good week and we hope to see you on Sunday

Stuart

The photo show Plym, Alison and Margaret

Walk 13 December 2008

Dear all

I hope you all had a good Christmas and New year and are once again looking forward to this years walks around Granada. Inevitably it will mean a repeat of the old favorites, but we will introduce new ones as well. We will try and stick to the tried and tested format with a wide range of walks appealing to different abilities, and the usual after walk tapa club when it can be arranged, If anybody wants the important job of organising the tapa venues please let me know.

To ease everyone gently back into walking after the Christmas excess it was decided an easy walk was called for, and what better stroll could you wish for than the Carretera de Cabra. This walk is virtually all down hill, and gives you uninterrupted views over the Sierra Nevada mountains, and after this weeks heavy snow falls, it looked wonderful. Mind you it did not look too great when we set off, the weather forecast all week was saying sunshine and 16 degrees, and one of us must have believed it, because one of us turned up in shorts. There was a howling gale and the mist was drifting around at shoulder height so it was with reluctance that we left the warmth of the cars for the 11 km walk to Padul. We only needed a drop of rain and we could have been in England. but as the walk progressed the mist slowly rolled back from the Sierra Nevadas, revealing them in all their glory. Whilst the sun did shine on the walk the expected 16 degrees did not appear until 7pm, I know, it is dark and too late then, but the forecasters were right. Its just us that were wrong, to think it would be warm during the day. After the walk we stopped for a drink in Padul.

Our walk on Sunday the 13 January is the Gold finger walk from Nigúelas, This is a circular walk from Niguelas to Acequias and then up the GR7 to Cerro Alto and back to Nigúelas, a round trip of about 10km with 450 meters of climbing, the paths are good and the up hills are well graded, estimated walking time about 4 hours,

Graded not difficult.

If you want to go on the walk meet in the Car Park in Nigúelas at 9am, there is no tapa arranged unless someone comes up with an offer.

The photo shows Quina, Josette, Plym, Gillian, Charley, Veronica, Peppa