Lecrin Valley Limpers

Walk 29th November 2008

2009-04-03T17:50:00.002+02:00

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

2009-04-03T17:46:00.002+02:00

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

2009-04-03T17:45:00.001+02:00

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

2009-04-03T17:40:00.005+02:00

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

2009-04-03T17:36:00.003+02:00

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

2009-04-03T17:32:00.001+02:00

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

2009-04-03T17:31:00.000+02:00

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

2009-04-03T17:29:00.000+02:00

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

2009-04-03T17:28:00.000+02:00

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

2009-04-03T17:17:00.001+02:00

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

2009-04-03T17:15:00.000+02:00

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

2009-04-03T17:14:00.000+02:00

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

2009-04-03T17:11:00.001+02:00

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

2009-04-03T17:08:00.000+02:00

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

2009-04-03T17:02:00.001+02:00

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

2008-07-29T17:51:00.000+02:00

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

2008-07-29T17:50:00.000+02:00

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

2008-07-29T17:48:00.001+02:00

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

2008-07-29T17:43:00.003+02:00

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

2008-07-29T17:42:00.001+02:00

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

2008-07-29T17:41:00.001+02:00

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

2008-07-29T17:36:00.001+02:00

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

2008-07-29T17:34:00.001+02:00

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

2008-07-29T17:33:00.000+02:00

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

2008-07-29T17:31:00.000+02:00

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

2008-07-29T17:28:00.001+02:00

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

2008-07-29T13:42:00.009+02:00

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

2008-07-29T13:39:00.001+02:00

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

2008-07-29T13:31:00.003+02:00

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

2008-07-29T13:28:00.001+02:00

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

2008-07-29T13:18:00.002+02:00

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

2008-07-29T13:16:00.001+02:00

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

2008-07-29T13:06:00.001+02:00

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

2008-07-29T13:02:00.001+02:00

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

2008-07-29T12:53:00.003+02:00

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

2008-02-05T17:26:00.000+01:00

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

2008-01-28T20:08:00.000+01:00

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

2008-01-21T21:08:00.000+01:00

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

2008-01-14T19:39:00.000+01:00

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

2008-01-06T20:30:00.001+01:00

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

Walk 6th January 2008

2007-12-30T20:46:00.000+01:00

Dear all

For our last walk of 2007 a tough walk was called for, billed as a waist buster it was designed to undo all the Christmas excess. The walk involved following the Durcal hydro electric feed pipe up the mountain side of Peñon de Granada. At 1715 meters Peñon de Granada is the high spot behind Durcal, and getting to the top involves some effort, but at this time of the year the sun does not get on to the path until late in morning, so not too much sweat is wasted as we followed the well graded path up to the summit. The weather was perfect for such a walk not a cloud in the sky all day and as is general at this time of the year the visibility was incredible, leading one walker to describe the views as awesome, (Please note Peter does not want this quote attributed to him). For our return journey we came back via the Barranco de la Rambla, it is the first time we have been down here since the big storm, it is still difficult to believe the amount of destruction that it caused. We had a excellent walk, because of all the Christmas and New Year parties at this time of the year we did not arrange any tapa this week.

First walk for 2008 very easy.

Walk Sunday 6th January 2008

This walk is the one we had to cancel on the 23rd December, so I will just repeat the description. I know I have a reputation for stretching the truth sometimes (undeservedly) when it comes to describing the walks, but this one is easy, the lowest rating, classed suitable for Olwyn, it is 90% down hill, and the other 10% is hardly a hill at all, it is about 11km long on a good track from the carretera de Cabra back to Padul with excellent views over the Sierra Nevada, estimated walking time 3 hours. The hardest part is organising the transport, as it is a linear walk we need to position vehicles at the end of the walk, before driving to the start of the walk. If you want to go on the walk meet at 9am. opposite the Taberna Baeta bar in Padul, ( from Durcal take the first junction for Padul, follow the road into Padul going round the left hand and then right hand turns, the bar has a covered area, over the pavement and is about 50 meters on your right just before the 2nd set of traffic lights). As it is the Conchar mosto fiesta this weekend, there is no tapa organised as I know a number of you want to go there in the afternoon.

Walk 30th December 2007

2007-12-23T22:51:00.001+01:00

Well I messed up real bad on Sunday! I apologise for a serious error of judgement, What should have been a wet day, according to local and national weather forecasts, turned out to be dry and relatively sunny, so Sundays walk, that I canceled on Saturday when it was wet and misty, could have gone ahead.

The most important part of the day went ahead as normal and 17 turned up for tapa at Josettes, Thank you to Josette for hosting the tapa and everyone else for turning up with delicious food again. By request the walk will be rescheduled for Sunday 6th January.

The walk this coming Sunday the 30th is designed to get rid of the excess weight put on over Christmas, and make room for the New Years Eve parties. We are going up thetubo, this is the hydro electric feed tube that runs up the hillside behind Durcal. The zig zag path is very good, but it does take 2 hours to climb the 660 meters to the summit. The views are good all the way and from the top ofPeñón de Granada they are stunning as they look out over the Lecrin Valley and Caballo. We then follow the path as it heads around to the Barranco al la Rambla and follow this path back to the start. Walking time about 5 hours, difficulty medium high. (note the 660 meters). The weather forecast for Sunday is good, sun all day! I hope it is a bit more reliable than last weeks. There is no tapa arranged so we will go to a bar somewhere. If you are up to it, meet at 9am outside theCorivan Supermarket on the Durcal bypass.

There is a party at our house on New Years Eve from around 8pm, usual tapa rules apply, all are welcome.

Have a good week and enjoy your Christmas celebrations.

Stuart

No photos this week

Walk 23rd December 2007

2007-12-17T19:01:00.000+01:00

All week we have had blue skies and sunshine, so it was a bit of a let down on Sunday morning when we awoke to grey skies, but because our intended route was around the valley it was not going to cause us too many problems. Our path led us fromChite down to the lake and along the path to Restabal where we witnessed the damage done by the September storm, I hope they are going to get a grant from somewhere to repair the damage because it is going to cost a few Euros to restore thebankings and the road. From Restabal we headed up to the castle at Murchas, sampling the first of this seasons oranges along the way. By now the clouds had parted and the blue skies had returned and everyone was busy shedding the extra jumpers needed earlier. We returned toChite via Murchas, and the Noche Azul in Talara . This weeks prize for plonker of the week goes to me, for falling down a pot hole and then later slipping off the footpath and down a banking whilst doing a diversion caused by the storm. We reconvened back at Arthur's house for tapa, another excellent day and great tapa, thanks to everyone. This walk was voted number 1 by Damien.

Walk Sunday 23rd December

I know I have a reputation for stretching the truth sometimes (undeservedly) when it comes to describing the walks, but this one is easy, the lowest rating, classed suitable for Olwyn, it is 90% down hill, and the other 10% is hardly a hill at all, it is about 11km long on a good track from the carretera de Cabra back to Padul with excellent views over the Sierra Nevada, estimated walking time 3 hours. The hardest part is organising the transport, as it is a linear walk we need to position vehicles at the end of the walk, before driving to the start of the walk. If you want to go on the walk meet at 9am. opposite theTaberna Baeta bar in Padul, ( from Durcal take the first junction for Padul, follow the road into Padul going round the left hand and then right hand turns, the bar has a covered area, over the pavement and is about 50 meters on your right just before the 2nd set of traffic lights). Afterwards tapa is arranged at Jossete´s house in Chite, around 3.00pm.

At the moment the weather forecast for this week is not looking too good, with a chance of rain on Sunday, if we have to cancel the walk, please come to tapa at 3pm.

Have a good week, and I wish everyone a Merry Christmas.

Stuart

The photo shows Margaret, Alison, Damien, Sandy, Josette, Plym.

Walk 16th December 2007

2007-12-10T20:40:00.000+01:00

Dear Limper

After a promising start on Sunday, in sunshine and blue skies, we set off for what I had billed would be one of the finest walks ever. A beautiful mountain and fantastic views in all directions. Well, by the time we had driven the 1.5 hours including 20km on a forest track which took us deep into the Sierra Almijara, some in the group were questioning their wisdom and sanity on choosing to come out on todays outing, the weather had started to deteriorate, the clouds were rolling in, and the wind was starting to freshen. but our goal was still in sight, Pico Lucero, stood there, majestically, waiting for anyone foolish enough to climb her, ( I know it is masculine, but climb him does not sound right). As we started to climb the mountain the clouds crept lower and the wind picked up, by the time we had been going about 40 minutes we were in mist, and walking at a funny angle, Quina´s dogs were being carried as they were in danger of taking flying lessons. So with still another 40 minutes to go to the top, the health and safety committee made a decision to abandon the expedition to conquer Lucero. A wise choice, even as we dejectedly made our way back to the bar Venta del Fraile the mist continued to swirl around us. it was only when we returned to the Valley that we discovered that they had had sunshine all day.

On our return to Chite we all headed to our house for tapa, can I thank everyone who turned up for the walk and tapa, an excellent turnout and fantastic food. I was disappointed about the weather, fortunately we do not get too many like that, anyway we still enjoyed the day.

Our walk this coming Sunday is from Chite down to the lake and across to Melegis and returning via the castle at Murchas, a bar in Talara and back to Arthur's in Chite for tapa around 2.30. Total distance about 10km with no serious hills to climb. If you are going on the walk please meet at our house in Chite 9am.

The only photo we managed to get was of a little elf sheltering from the bad weather, (not my sarcastic comments this time)

Walk 9th December 2007

2007-12-04T22:44:00.001+01:00

Our walk on Sunday was up Silleta, this is the saddle back mountain above Padul. The start of this walk has always been a bit steep for the first 200 meters especially from a standing start, but while surfing Google earth I discovered an easier route, which I had intended to check out the previous week, unfortunately I had spent 4 days in my sick bed ( thanks to Dutch Bob). This resulted in trying to find the route on the day, and missing the path by about 20 meters, This led us into walking about 50 meters across virgin ground, before regaining the right path. I sincerely apologise for this lapse in planning. Once back on track we chose to do the route in the reverse direction. Whilst this still results in attaining the summit ofSilleta the way up is not steep and is in effect a Dutch flat walk. The main feature of this walk is the rock called the Ventana, which is a large arched rock high on the hillside. Well worth the effort of getting there, especially with the back drop of Caballo and Veleta covered in snow. We stopped for lunch on the summit of Silleta before returning to Padul, and on to Alans in Nigúelas for tapa. Thank you to Alan who jumped in with a late availability venue and to everyone who turned up.

Our walk this Sunday the 9th December is Pico Lucero, this for me is the finest mountain walk you can find. It is not a big mountain, only 1608 meters high, and there is only about 250 meters of ascent, but what a wonderful ascent it is, as the excellent path with open views to all sideszig zags up to the summit of what is a true gem. 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 inNigúelas at 9am. 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 inChite around 4pm.

Over the last four years the Lecrin Valley Limpers has grown, from simply being a small group of friends going out for a walk on a Sunday, into a group of about 80 individuals, and is well known in the area for its weekly outings. The expansion of the group has brought its own difficulties, but in general we have all muddled along and enjoyed ourselves. Over the years we have engaged in a wide range of activities, to which everyone has been invited, not everything has appealed to everyone, that did not matter, you were invited, as with the walks, come if you want to, if you don't come, it does not matter, we will be happy to see you next time. It is good to see that a lot of you have made new friends whilst out walking with us, and that you want to expand your friendship with them, that is why we invited you to join us. It is great that there are now a lot of new groups operating in the area offering a variety of things to do.
If you no longer wish to receive these emails please let me know.

The photo shows Martin, Quina, Alan, Rob, John, Pepa, Peter, Me, Charlie, Gillian.

Walk 2nd December

2007-12-04T22:39:00.000+01:00

After a wet week, (yes it does rain in Spain sometimes!) Sunday dawned bright and clear, setting the stage for what to most people was a new walk.The walk starts from the car park at Sevilla above Cumbres Verde, christened the " Super Mario " after a super fit older gentleman left us standing, when we surveyed the walk last year. Our original route started with quite a strenuous 1½ hours of climbing, but by reversing the direction of the walk, the climb to the summit becomes an easy 3.½ hours walk. As most of you have probably noticed I tend to walk at the rear of the group, this is to give encouragement to the tailenders, and also so we don´t lose anybody. Noticing that the group was mostly comprised of good walkers and being a new route, I decided to walk at the front. A big mistake! We had not gone more than 2km when we noticed that the 12 happy wanderers were no more, one had gone AWOL, Peter had taken time out to inspect a tree, and in an effort to catch up with us had mistakenly taken the wrong path, being very concerned, but not knowing in which direction he had gone, we decided to sit down and have breakfast while we planned a rescue mission. Our main concern was that he had the car keys, fortunately before we had time to call out the Guardia he had realised his mistake, back tracked and found the right path, much to Stella's relief, as he was carrying the sandwiches. In future we will appoint an "off piste monitor" at the start of each walk. At our next stop at the Refugio we were delighted to see an Eagle flying at tree top height looking for unwanted tit bits, needless to say he did not find any, another unusual sight was a Andalusian sheep dog wearing a bell, out for the day guarding his flock. An aspect of the walk and something I have not done for a long time, was to walk in mud, what a treat! On the flat summit we had extensive views of the Sierra Nevada´s snow covered tops. The last few weeks most of the walks have had Trevenque (The Milton refusal) as a back drop, this has not been a deliberate policy, to put the fear of God into Little John, but it is quite funny to see his knees start to shake when it comes into view. A good walk that we will have to repeat in 2008, but again when have we been on a bad walk?

Afterwards we returned to Ken and Joan´s house in Albunúelas for tapa and a wonderful selection of Curries, pies and cakes. Once again thanks to everyone for another good day.

Our walk this weekend is Silleta. This is a great walk that normally sets off from Padul and climbs up to the cross of Atallaya before continuing on to the summit of Silleta, and then back by the window, which, if you don´t know it, you will have to come on the walk to witness this dramatic view point. For a change we will try doing the walk in the reverse direction in order to appeal to a wider audience. It involves about 700 meters of climbing over 3.½ hours to the summit and 1.½ hours back, note these are estimated walking times and are subject to the groups ability and stops. The paths are good and well graded. If you want to go on the walk please meet at the first Padul junction, on the road from Durcal at 9am. There is no tapa arranged this week.

The photo shows Pepa, Quina, Sandie, John ( Lord Travenque ) pending, Rob, Linda, Alan, Annie, Peter, Stella, Rob.

Walk 25 November 2007

2007-11-20T16:33:00.000+01:00

Dear all

We awoke on Sunday to some suspicious looking cloud floating about on the Sierras, as this was the destination for this weeks walk I had to do some head scratching and try and think of an alternative venue. Fortunately by 9am the clouds had cleared and the sky was a deep blue, so back to the original plans ofPico Pioacho. This is a 1743 meter high peak, 10 km up a drivable forest road from Durcal , the road did suffer a little in the big storm in September, and so in a number of places you have to shut your eyes and tighten your seat belt, but it is well worth the white knuckle ride to save a 20km walk. The walk starts by following a goodzig zag path up to the peak, before reaching what must be one of the best high level traverse paths in Spain, with extensive views across the RioDilar, Travenque and Veleta. At the end of the traverse we climb another small path over a col, and into a baranco for an easy return back to the forest road, at this point it was difficult to tell if you were walking in the baranco , or on the forest road, such was the damage suffered in the storm. There was only one thing that marred what could have been a pleasant day and a great walk, and that was when little John decided to put on hisPringle jumper, now it may be alright to look a prat on the golf course, but here, in the peace and quiet and stunning beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains it is just not right. In future his rucksack will be checked before he is allowed out. This walk will now be called the "Pringle prat walk" The flat tyre virus of last week has now mutated into the flat battery virus, as John´s car would not start, if it is as infectious as last weeks virus we may all need to carry jump leads. After the walk we returned to Deborah´s house inNigúelas for a great tapa party. Thanks to Deborah for the hosting and to everyone who turned up.

Our walk next week the 25th November is the "Super Mario". This walk is named after the high speed Japanese cartoon character, in memory of a walk we did 12 months ago when 4 reasonable fit Limpers were out scouting this route and whilst stopping for rests were repeatedly passed by a not so young Spanish guy who came from nowhere, anddisappeared in a cloud of dust, only to appear about 1 hour later hightailing it down the track again. The walk starts at the Sevilla car park above Cumbres Verdes, and traverses along the hillside of Cerro del Tamboril before passing the refugio at fuente Fria and climbing up Cerro Gordo . The walk is about 14km and climbs about 540 meters, the climbing is spread out over about 10km on good paths, walking time about 4 hours. If you want to go meet in the car park inNigúelas at 9 am. Afterwards tapa is arranged at Joan and Kens house in Albuñuelas.

The photo shows Quina, Alan, John without his Pringle jumper, Rob, Sandy, Alison, Angel, and Andy.

Walk 18th November 2007

2007-11-17T13:30:00.000+01:00

Dear all

Due to circumstance's beyond the managements control our planned Sunday Urban walk around Granada walk was rescheduled to Saturday, this was not because has some of our lady walkers suggested because the shops would be closed, but it was to fit in with Pablo our guides busy diary. Our tour took us up and around the caves of Sacremonte and through unknown parts of the Albayzin. Pablo kept us entertained the whole time with the history of the area and wild tales of debauchery, and other goings on, among the ruling class. Something I did learn along the way was the Annie is the illegitimate daughter of Arturo, and I, have been having an affair with her, whilst betrothed to Margaret, who is Arturo's legitimate daughter, and Alan my dad, is not happy about having to give Arturo is 2 Euro dowry back. The above explanation was given to help explain one of the complicated family stories that Pablo was telling us in the middle of the Albayzin, the good folk of Granada must have wondered what was was happening when we all broke down in tears as Annie, the shameless hussy was thrown into jail. An excellent day out was had by all, and we rounded it off with drinks at Migúels bar in Nigúelas afterwards. A big thank you to Pedro for all the effort he put into it.

Our walk this Sunday the 18th November is a superb high level traverse up Pioacho Alto. The walk is a circular one and involves approximately 430 metres of accent on a reasonable path but it is quite steep, estimated walking time is about 4 hours. The walk is rated medium difficult. We meet outside the Renault garage in Marchena and then take the forest road some 10 km up into the hills, the road is passable but care is needed. Please check you have a good spare tyre, there appears to be a puncture virus going around at the moment, I know of at least 3 people who have caught it this last week. Tapa at Deborahs afterwards

The photo shows

Margaret, Annie, Pedro, Artruo, Alan, Peppa

Ken, Joan, Martin, Deborah, Quina.

I have no idea who the body is at the top of the steps.

Apologies for spelling and grammatical errors, the flunky who normally checks this is still away.

Walk 11 November 2007

2007-11-06T17:05:00.000+01:00

Dear all

After checking the historical record's, carefully stored away in our underground vaults, I can confirm that today's turnout of 24 Limpers was a group record. The walk started a little late after the inevitable delays associated with getting to Fondales high up in the Alpujarras, but the weather was warm, the sky was blue, so who cared. Our route followed a number of historic trails used by the Moors when they lived and worked in the silk trade in this area. With a group of this size we were soon spread out along the hillside as the path made its way up the Sierra de Mercina, making it very difficult to organise our breakfast stop, we will have to consider culling the slow walkers or giving the fast ones rocks to carry. The highlight of the walk is the zig zag path back down into the Trevélez baranco, what a superb bit of engineering this was. In an effort to spur the group on it was mentioned that the bar in Fondales might be open, this turned out not to be true, but at least the pace of walking did pick up when they thought a cold beer might be on offer. At this time of year the Autumn colours are spectacular and this walk got at least 1 vote as someones favorite. On our return to the Valley we went to Margaret's for our Bonfire night tapa, and the showing of the latest film from OTT productions "The Gorge". This was a great piece of investigative journalism as it tracked the illegal importation of pork pies into the Lecrin Valley, now that the culprits have been caught, it should stop "little John" from growing into "big John" as he has sought to eat the evidence week after week after week. A big thank you to Margaret for hosting the tapa, to Nick and Elsa for the film and everyone for the food.

This coming Sunday our walk is a little different as it is a walk around Granada´s historic Albaycin areas, this is an organised walk by llex educación and costs 3€, we believe it should take about 4 hours. Meet in the carpark in Nigúelas 9am the tour starts at 10am from the Paseo de los Tristes. We will stop for tapa either in Granada or on the way back to the valley.

Walk 4th November 2007

2007-10-31T18:48:00.000+01:00

Dear all

Our outing this week was not the usual walk, it was more of a ramble in the forest around Pico Lopera, because this week we went hunting for mushrooms. It was obviously a group of mixed hunting abilities because some managed to bag a bag full, whilst others went home empty handed, We certainly chose the right place to be weather wise because the Lecrin Valley was blanketed in cloud most of the day, whilst we were under blues skies and warm sunshine. Sandie was awarded first prize for best selection of setas. We managed to loose Bianca and Antonio in the forest somewhere, as this was a free forage exercise we had no back marker to sweep up the stragglers and when they failed to turn up at the rendevouz point we decided to adjourn to the nearest bar, after a few drinks we forgot all about them and went back to Chite for tapa. If anyone is over that way this week and manages to spot them can you tell them we went home and we will see them next Sunday.

Our walk this next Sunday the 4th November is to the Sierra Mecrina in the Alpujarras, the walk starts in Fondales and involves 400 meters off ascent and descent, the ascent is not difficult as it is done over about 2 km. The descent is spectacular as it appears to go down a vertical drop. How anyone thought to put a footpath here is beyond me, but it works and it is not too difficult, the guide book says the walk is 9km and takes 3 hours, 4 hours sounds more like it, plus stops. The tapa is at Margarets house in Murchas, as it is around Bonfire night and Halloween can tapa be based on this kind of food. For our Spanish friends Bonfire night is the one night of the year when the Brits are allowed to set fire works off. We do this to celebrate the fact that a terrorist tried to blow the government up in 1605, unfortunately he failed and we have been stuck with idiots ever since.

Walk 28th October 2007

2007-10-31T18:45:00.000+01:00

Dear all

Our walk on Sunday was a return to the old favorite "Monachil" and what a beautiful walk it was, lovely warm sunshine and deep blue skies, you can´t beat it! Monachil is always a popular walk due to its stunning gorge and the swinging rope bridges and Sunday was no exception with 18 turning out for the walk. It must have been national walk the gorge week because I have never seen so many people out for a walk, it was great to see everyone enjoying themselves. Or maybe it was a chance to star in the latest film from Nick nic productions that was being filmed, there were hundreds of Tom Cruz and Angelina Jolie lookalikes all looking for leading rolls. Annie took it upon herself to interview a number of the male actors and at one point the hussy was caught inspecting his nuts, and Elsa had a star part falling off a ledge into the river. Afterwards we returned to Chite and Rob and Sandies house for tapa, where this week the Veggies had a field day with a total meat free tapa, well done everyone.

Our excursion this coming Sunday is a Mushroom hunt, so bring a knife and something to carry them in, the walk is not difficult as most of the time will be spent foraging in the undergrowth, no guarantees are given as to what we may find and even though Quina can advise you on what is suitable to eat, no claims for death, poisoning or injury will be accepted.

If you want to go on the walk meet in the car park in Nigúelas at 9am (Don´t forget to put your clocks back Saturday night) for the mystery drive to the secret Setas venue, everyone including drivers must wear blindfolds. Afterwards tapa is at our house in Chite.

For Sale

Used once 1 pair of hiking boots size five and half (pink) apply Haley Bellwood

Walk 21st October 2007

2007-10-15T13:18:00.000+02:00

Lecrin Valley Limper

Dear Limper

What a hectic day Sunday turned out to be, first we had our walk in the morning from Marchena which attracted 20 keen and eager walkers, the walk had two objectives the first was to check out the state of the forest road after the storms, no serious problems found on the section we walked, the second was to check if the Seta (Mushroom) season had started yet. We found some Setas but as they were already in someone’s basket, and as we had a member of the Granada National police with us, we thought it best not to take them. The walk was a linear one as we did not have time to make it into a circular one, and so after stopping at the Ermita Vieja for a quick snack we returned the way we had come. The reason why we were so short of time was that we had to attend the film Premier of the “The Rock” This is a major new film that is going out on General release this week. The stars of the show can be seen by following the link

http://picasaweb.google.com/holidaysingranada/TheRock The film was a fly on the wall documentary made entirely on location in Andalusia. So successful was the screening on Sunday the production company has been asked to make another 6 copies of the DVD and to produce another film, and filming for this will take place this coming Sunday in Monochil. Thank you to John and Sandra for hosting the tapa and screening the film. A big thank you to Nick nic and Elsa for making the film, it was very funny.

If you want to go on the walk on Sunday meet in the car park in Nigúleas at 9am for the drive to Monochil where we should arrive about 9.45. The walk normally takes about 2.5 hours but due to filming may take a little longer, so please if you have a walk on part in the film please get it right first time, and ladies please don’t bring your hairdresser along as we all know they are drama queens and will want to take a leading roll. Tapa will be held at Sandie and Rob´s house in Chite after the walk.

The photo shows Veronica, Polly, Sandie, Carol, Stella, Elsa, Ken, Mel, Nick nic, Quina, John, Annie, Pepper, Nick, Jose, Peter, Angel, Rob.

Walk 23rd September 2007

2007-10-15T13:16:00.000+02:00

Lecrin Valley Limper

Dear All

Our walk last Sunday the 16th has always been amongst my favourites, and every time we return here some else adds the comment “the best walk I have ever done” so if you could not make it this time, make sure you look out for “Huétor parque natual” the next time it comes around. The conditions were perfect, blue sky, T shirt warm but not too hot, what more could we ask for. There were a few grumbles on the couple of places where the path got a bit steeper, but nothing I could not ignore, knowing full well once they got to the top, and saw the views the pain would soon be forgotten. Part of the group claimed to have seen a 2ft Lizard, mind you it was a bit like the old fishing story it got bigger with the telling and we have no photographic evidence to prove this. On our return to the valley we all went around to Gillian and Charlie’s house for tapa. A good day was enjoyed by all.

The walk this coming Sunday, the 23^rd September, is the walk from Lanjaron to Mondújar. It is about 11km long and takes about 4 hours, and involves climbing about 300 meters most of it within the first hour. Afterwards tapa will be held at Annie´s house in Mondújar.

If you want to go meet at the Acropolis bar Mondújar at 9am for the drive to Lanjaron, when we get back to Mondújar the drivers will have to return to Lanjaron (by car) to collect their vehicles. Numbers could well be down for this walk as half of the valley is returning to the UK this coming week.

A note for the diary, we are planning (subject to reasonable weather conditions) a 2 night away day on the 16^th October returning on the 19^th. The plan is that we walk from Capileria to the Refugio del Poqueire for a 2 night stay, there is a restaurant and bunk beds, bedding is provided. The second day is walking in the mountains and returning to the Refugio for the second night. The 3^rd day we return to Capileria and home. The walking will be hard and it could be quite cold, so cold and wet weather gear is required. Let me know if you want to go.

This week’s photos shows Carol, Sandie, Sandra, Charlie, Margaret, Annie, John, Rob, Gillian, Nick, Peter.

Walk 16th September 2007

2007-10-15T13:13:00.000+02:00

Lecrin Valley Limper

Dear All

With the temperatures plummeting this week to the high 20s, it made a welcome change to be able to climb a hill without sweating too much. Our walk took us from Mondújar up to the GR7 Niguleas, Lanjaron path, about 1.5 hours of steady climbing through Pine and Olive woods. There must have been some misunderstanding in my last email about the state of the path. I had said the path up was good, I never mention the path down. and this caused a few grumbles as we made our way back via Mondújar castle. The path was a bit steep and stony in parts, obviously having suffered severe storm damage in the past 12 months, as in my minds eye it was of wonderfully path meandering by the side of waterfalls with nymphs dancing in the dappled sun light, how ones memory suffers with age. The trip to the castle was offered as an optional extra, and typically it was only the men and Sandy (who misunderstood that it was an option) who made the climb to what is reported to be the final resting place of either Boadils mother or wife. Either way it is worth the climb for the views of the Lecrin Valley. Somehow on this walk Alison was inadvertently christened the bitch. This is of cause deeply regretted, but the confusion arose when Ross reported that Damien, Alison and the Dog were behind him, obviously Alison had not heard the word "and" thought he had said Alison the dog was behind him. You know how we all strive not to offend anyone so please not another word about it, as she is a kind, sensitive and caring person.

On our return to Chite a wonderful tapa table was served, thank you once again to every one for producing the best food in the valley.

Our walk this Sunday the 16^th September is to Huétor parque natural on the Guadix side of Granada, it is not difficult and the paths are good, it climbs about 200 meters over something like 8 km. with one very short steep ascent (it is not a problem). The total length of the walk is 12 km and should take about 4.5 hours. If you are going, meet at the Acropolis in Mondujar at 9 am, we then have about an hours car journey to the start of the walk. We last did this walk on the 11^th of March.

Due to a change of plans we have no tapa arranged this week unless someone is willing to host it, if so let me know.

The photo shows the men and Sandy at Mondújar castle, with Alan carrying the cross.

Walk 9th September 2007

2007-10-15T13:11:00.000+02:00

Lecrin Valley Limper

Dear Limper

Our Sunday outing last week was around Albunúelas, A walk we have done a number of times in the past, but it is nice and easy and a rest from the previous week’s excursion up Mulhacén. When we got back to Albunúelas we stopped off at the local bar for drink and tapa, and I appear to have upset a number of people with my suggestion that instead of just dividing the bill, you actually paid for what you had had, A fairer system all round, but hey ho you can’t please all of the people all of the time. The tapa was arranged at Ken and Joan’s house and what a wonderful spread we had. After last weeks email regarding the etiquette around the BBQ, it was good to see Alan in charge and maintaining the 3 meters female no go area. Thank you to the ladies for making the salads.

Our walk this Sunday the 9^th September starts off in Mondújar and goes up past the old Buddhist centre of La Penna before joining the GR7 path for a short distance and dropping back down to Mondújar castle and returning to our starting point. The walk is not hard but does involve climbing some 413 meters over about 1.5 hours on a good track. Tapa to be held at our house in Chite afterwards.

If you want to go meet at the Acropolis bar Mondújar at 9am.

The photo shows Nick, Arthur, Ken, Quinna, Andy, Carol, Alan, Sandy, John, Rob, Alison, Nick, Margaret, Deborah.

Walk 2nd September 2007

2007-10-15T13:07:00.000+02:00

Lecrin Valley Limper

Dear Limper

Our walk on Sunday up Mulhacén necessitated a very early start, this was required because we had 11 places booked and paid for, on the mountain bus leaving Capileira at 8.30. So we met in Mondújar at 7 am and in the true Spanish tradition, we even had time for coffee before we met the bus and Paco, our Sierra Nevada interpretación guide. It was worth the 7.7€ bus fare just for the entertainment value of listening to Paco as he described in detail the flora and fauna of the Sierra Nevada. The bus service is a great way to get at Mulhacén as it saves some 1200 meters of ascent and 4 hours of walking, 8 hours if you also count the return journey. The bus drops you off at the Mirador de Trevélez and the first thing we all did was dig the fleece jackets out of the rucksacs. Little did we know we would be wishing we had brought another two by the time we got to the top. The path to the summit takes around 3 hours, it is not steep and normally would not cause anyone any difficulty, but at this altitude I think everyone felt 20 years older. A tail wind had followed us up the mountain and it was quite pleasant for the most part. The problem started on the last 50 meters of the walk when the forecasted 24 km, 15 degree wind, suddenly turned into a 124 km, 5 degree wind, forcing everyone to walk at an unaccustomed angle and try and seek shelter behind a wall, unfortunately no matter which side of the wall you sat the wind seemed to get at you. It was not long before the motion was proposed and passed that we should hightail it back down the mountain to warmer climates. With such a short time at the top and a very fast descent we found we had over an hour to wait for the bus, so now, with some warm sunshine and somewhere comfortable to lay, it was time for the entertainment to begin. It was now that the problems began for one little chappie, when we discovered that he had used his return bus ticket as a hanky. Can you imagine what fun this caused the group especially when he said he told Sandra he would do nothing to get his name in print. Fortunately, with everyone keeping quiet about the missing ticket (!!!!) we managed to smuggle him on board and get him safely off the mountain. Upon our return to Capileira we called into a bar for drinks and tapa before our return journey to the valley. A big thank you to Al for the sterling work he did at the back of the group encouraging and cajoling the tail enders. A special celebration certificate is available to anyone at the introductory price of 10 cents.

Our walk this coming Sunday, the 2^nd of September, is a circular walk around Albunúelas, and takes about 3 hours. There is a short steep hill to climb at the start but the walk is classed suitable for Olwyn. Tapa is arranged at Joan and Kens house in Albunúelas, bring your tapa with you, because we will drop it off before the start of the walk. Meet outside the Acropolis bar, Mondújar at 9am.

The photo shows Margaret, Alan, Alison, Little John, Andy, Rob, Sandy, Annie, Arthur, Simon

Have a good week

Stuart

Walk 26th August 2007

2007-10-15T13:03:00.000+02:00

Lecrin Valley Limper

Dear all

To get over last weeks hard walk and to rest the group up in preparation for the attempt of the summit of Mulhacen, all we had arranged was a very easy stroll and a picnic, so a full turn out was expected. So it was slightly worrying when at the appointed meeting place and hour, there were at least 7 missing. From past experience we knew something terrible must have gone wrong, as they would never pass up on a picnic. Little John´s group had got delayed by a misplaced telephone request for a pickup. While they were correcting this, they came across Rob and Sandy, who some of you may know as Hanna, or Barbara, I thought it was only on the Costa del Sol, that people went under different names ! Rob and Sandy, who have had a difficult week with in-laws visiting them, decided to meet us some place where the rest of us weren’t. So setting off some 20 minutes late we headed off in the direction of the Alpujarras. This is an area that we all know well, there are big motorway signs to it, so it was a shock to discover that after only 3km we had lost Rob and (insert whatever name you know her by here) after some frantic phones calls they were discovered heading for the coast. They eventually rejoined the group as we approached the picnic spot at Puerta Palo above Cañar. The area is heavily forested giving plenty of shade and there is a good level path following an Acequia, what more can you ask for? After the walk we returned to the picnic spot for lunch. There was so much food that in the end we shared it with another group at another table who were eyeing it up enviously, they reciprocated our generosity by providing us with a mountain of fresh figs. The trouble is you can only eat so many figs when you are 50 miles away from a loo. A good day out even though all the cars had to go to the car wash after driving 30km on dusty forest tracks.

Our walk this Sunday the 26^th August is up Mulhacen, and I am sorry but if you have not booked your place on the bus, you can´t come. The arrangements are meet at the Acropolis bar in Mondújar at 7am for the drive to Capileira, if you are going direct meet at 8.15 am outside the tourist information office. Remember this is a high altitude walk, bring enough food and water for a 10 hour day, you also need boots, fleece, and waterproofs. Hopefully the rain forecast for this week is just wishful thinking on account of the weather man. If conditions are not suitable for the summit we will find an alternative high level route. Tickets for the bus have been bought and paid for. Can someone ring R and S as they don’t have an alarm clock. There is no tapas arranged, but there are plenty of bars in Capileira where we can call and get a drink. We plan to be back in the village around 7pm.

The photo shows Alan, Ken, Sandy, ,Margaret, ??? Ralph, ??? Pat, John, Gillian, Charley, Arthur, Rob, Quina, Nick, Sandra, Carol, Olwyn.

Have a good week

Walk 19th August 2007

2007-10-15T13:01:00.001+02:00

Lecrin Valley Limper

Dear All

With an early start scheduled for this Sundays walk it was a pleasant surprise to find that 16 Limpers turned up for what promised to be a great days walking. Our walk up Veleta had been postponed a few weeks back due to strong winds which caused the cancellation of the chair lift, so it was with some relief when we arrived at the car park at Hoya de la Mora to find everything working normally. There are a number of ways that you can get to the summit of Veleta but our preferred option is to walk from the car park for about 1 hour to the upper ski resort allowing some time to acclimatise to the altitude, we then take the chair lift up another 300 meters which leaves us with another 300 meters to climb over a distance of about 3.5 km. The distance walked to get to the summit is only about 7 km but when you are unaccustomed to operating at this altitude it is far enough. So about two and half hours after leaving the car park 14 tired but very happy walkers reach the summit of Veleta (3396 meters). We lost 2 walkers along the way when they decided to turn back at the top of the chair lift. It was quite a pleasant change that in the middle of August we were all dressed in fleece and windproof jackets, hats, scarves and gloves. There were a number in the group who had wondered whether they were up to the challenge of Spain’s second’s highest mountain, I am pleased to report that they all preformed superbly and will be inscribed for ever in the limpers hall of fame. The way back is somewhat quicker because you can use short cuts that your legs and lungs refuse to use on the way up. On our return to the car park cool beers were obtained from the cafes before our return journey to the valley and tapa at Annie’s, where she had prepared a vegetarian curry. I still can not understand why the carnivores, who claim that they only ever eat meat, always dive into the veggie dishes first. Is it a fact that they are all closet vegetarians who secretly prefer the delicious dishes that are served up each week? Thanks to everyone for a great day out and a superb tapa party.

Our walk this coming Sunday the 19^th August is really just an excuse to have another picnic. The walk is only about 1 hour long following a Acequias that runs high up above Orgiva (high up = cool) there is plenty of shade but bring some fly repellent because of the nearby water. Meet outside the Acropolis bar in Mondújar at 10 am. We then drive to the picnic area near to Puerto Palo, which is about 10km along a forest trail, above Cañar in the Alpujarras (approx 1 hour drive). Bring the usual picnic things plus coffee if you want a drink before the start of the walk. Picnic time around 1 pm.

Important A note for the walk planned for Sunday 26^th August

We are planning to go up Mulhacen at 3479 meters, Spain’s highest mountain This is a full day out and a stunning walk. We leave the valley at 7am for the drive to Caplleira where we catch a mini bus up to the Mirador de Trevélez. From here the path climbs about 750 meters to the summit. The walking and the path are not difficult but remember that you are at high altitude and it takes about 3 hours to get to the top and 2 hours back to catch the bus at 4.15. before returning to the valley about 7.

Because we have to book tickets on the bus, if you want to go, please let us know before Friday 17^th the cost for the bus ticket is 7.70€. Booked tickets may have to be paid for whether you go or not. If the weather is not suitable for the summit an alternative high level walk will be offered.

Walk 12th August 2007

2007-10-15T12:50:00.000+02:00

Lecrin Valley Limper

A Limper family and friends day out is proposed for this coming Wednesday at the pool in Puntal, it`s suggested that we have a picnic so bring the usual tapa and beakers, knifes and forks. We have not been this year but last year there was a large shaded area with tables and chairs to have a picnic in. If you don´t know the way follow the Durcal bypass towards Padul, continue passed the 2 Padul turn offs, and just after Delgardos there is a blue iron walkway crossing the road turn right here. Cross the service road and go up in Puntal. Turn right and follow the road round, turn left at the sign to the restaurant and go down to the little roundabout opposite the restaurant and park around there. Walk up the road 30 metres and the entrance to the pool is on your right. There is loads of shade a really big pool and sun loungers.

Meet in the pool at 1.30.

Our walk this Sunday the 12 th August is our second attempt this year at the summit of Veleta, our previous attempt last month was called off due to high winds. The walk takes about 6 hours and while not over difficult terrain it can be classed as a hard walk because of the altitude. At 3396 meters Veleta is Spain´s second highest mountain. Conditions can be totally different from what you are used to at this time of the year, So make sure that you pack suitable equipment including a warm drink, food, plenty of water, boots, fleece, windproof, long trousers and some money. Hopefully the only things you will need are the food, drink and money. We drive to the car park above the Ski resort of Pradollano, this is as far as you can drive in a car but a mini bus can take you higher, but this is not our transport for today, we have something far more exciting. From the car park we follow the road up and around to the second ski station, where we catch a chair lift up the side of Veleta about 7€. It does not take us to the top but leaves us with about 1.5 hours of walking. Whilst the gradients are not steep the reduced oxygen levels at this altitude make the going a lot harder than in the valley. The advantage of this route is that if anybody finds the going too difficult you can turn around and make your way back fairly easily. Lunch will be at the top where extensive views from the mirador are first class, with only Mulhacen at 3479 metres blocking your view. Mulhacen will feature in the coming weeks but the walk is longer and harder, so check your performance out on Veleta first. Our return route is a bit quicker as we avoid the top section of the road and come down a steep little path back to the ski lift and the return walk back to the car park. Do not plan to pick water up on route, Veleta is a dry mountain. If we have to cancel the walk because of weather conditions an alternative venue will be offered.

On our return, Annie has offered her house in Mondújar for the tapa.

If you are going on the walk please meet in the car park in Nigúelas at 8am. Can someone ring Gillian about 7 to remind her.

The walk is not suitable for dogs.

Congratulations to Simon on completing the Granada/ Veleta run last Sunday 50km and 2646 metres of accent, if that was not bad enough he then had to walk back to the car park 11 km away carrying a slate commemorative plaque.

Josette has sent a copy of the pornographic Lorca poster, if any of you girls, are interested click on the attachment. If you did not manage to get to see the concert tickets are still available and it is worth every cent of the 20€ entrance fee. Ticket available at http://www.juntadeandalucia.es/cultura/lorcaygranada/

Walk 5th August 2007

2007-10-15T12:48:00.000+02:00

Lecrin Valley Limper

Dear Limper

The weather over here has started to get warm with the mercury now hitting 38C or in old money 100F on a regular basis, and it was only the true ´´die hards´´ who chose to get out of bed for an early start this week. Our destination this week was Pica Lopera, A relatively easy walk with spectacular 360 degrees views from the 1800 meter summit. We had only been walking about 5 minutes when we discovered Annie had started collecting fir cones, after a bit of persuasion she did agree to leave them and collect them on the way back. Because of our early start we were at the top and having breakfast in a very pleasant breeze by 10 am. At this time of the year the fire watch tower on the top is manned, and the warden had even taken his dog and budgie up with him to keep him company, not expecting that anybody would be daft enough to walk up there in July. The advantage of an early start is that you can get into the bar sooner and so we high tailed back down hill and stopped at the conveniently situated bar in the car park. We could have parked in a number of places but only one place has a bar. After a couple of rounds and some decidedly non vegetarian tapa we set off back to Padul and Quina´s house for tapa. This week was a treat for the postre lovers with a total of 7 puddings on offer, what a pity Arthur was not there. Thank you to Quina for hosting and to everyone for providing the feast.

I am unable to go on next weeks walk due to prior commitments, so your guides will be Alan and John They have decided to do the Monachil walk, actually I think the walk is just an excuse for the carnivores to pig out at the Argentinean steak bar afterwards. The walk is not the full circular walk we normally do, but a foreshortened version that remains in the valley bottom avoiding the worst of the sun. If you want to go on the walk meet in the carpark in Nigüelas at 9am. Classification, walk easy, not suitable for Vegetarians.

Walks coming up

Veleta

Cañar picnic

Mulhacen

Have a good week

Stuart

The photo shows Annie with the fur cones she finally collected.

Walk 29th July 2007

2007-10-15T12:43:00.000+02:00

Lecrin Valley Limper

Dear all

Today’s walk was bound to be popular, 10 am start, easy river walk and a picnic. What more could you ask for on a sunny Sunday morning. So the 19 Limpers set off for the short drive to the rio Dilar. For anybody who has never been before and for the ones making a return visit, this is a delightful steep sided valley with a river running beside the footpath. I know that for UK residents at the moment any river is to be avoided, but for the Limpers a river offers the opportunity to cool the feet down. The path keeps crossing the river by a series of stepping stones useful in the winter, but in the summer it is more fun just to wade across. Last week we sat by the side of a lake 2850 meters up Veleta, this week we walked in the river from the lake 2000 meters lower and it was wonderful .Because you have to retrace your steps, you can return at anytime you want. In an effort to keep some sort of order in the proceedings it was decided that the picnic would start at 2pm. This guaranteed that everyone was back in time even the ones who managed to find a bar. The large picnic table we had commandeered groaned under the weight of the delicious food placed upon it. After some 2 hours of eating and drinking, it was obviously too much for some of the group as a number were found to be taking siestas under the trees.

About a month ago whilst on another river walk a number of the group brushed past an innocuous looking plant, this resulted in some very nasty blistering and scarring. The picture shows the plant, be warned keep well away from it, we have only noticed it growing in very damp areas i.e. river banks. The effects are very similar to poison Ivy, more information about symptoms and treatment http://www.uspharmacist.com/index.asp?show=article&page=8_1281.htm

The walk this coming Sunday the 29^th July is the Pica Lopera walk. The last time we did this I made the comment that it should be possible to see Africa from the top, true to form you were unable to see your hand in front of your face. The walk takes about 3 hours and while it does climb some 200 meters it is not steep. If you want to go on the walk meet in Padul, where we usually meet just before the second set of traffic lights, at 7.45 am. Because Quina has offered to host the tapa party bring your tapa with you, and we can leave it in Quina´s house. The early start should mean that the walk will be finished by 12 am and as we start the walk opposite a bar we may well end up in said bar at the end of the walk, before going on to Quina´s for 2 pm.

I am sorry to hear that Chris has decided to leave the valley by the end of the year, and head off to SW France, the good news is that all his books are half price. The book shop will close on August 4th. Until then it will be open only Saturdays and Wednesdays (1030 to 1330) and everything is on sale at half price, including Twinings teas! We wish him good luck in his new country.

The picture shows this weeks walkers Josette, Deborah, Alan, Arantxa, Carol, Nick, Annie, John, Quina, Bob, Arthur, Olwyn, Ken, Joe, Margaret, Jilly, Gillian, and Sandra.

Walk 22nd July

2007-10-15T12:42:00.000+02:00

Lecrin Valley Limper

Dear all

On Sunday we awoke to a bright sunny morning, alleviating the fears we had during the week that the threatened cloud would cause us to cancel our long awaited walk up Veleta. Because this is quite a long day out with a an hours drive and a 5 hour walk, we could not afford to waste time hanging about for stragglers, this left at least one with a shiny pair of boots and no mountain to climb. When we arrived at our starting point for the walk at Hoya de Moro conditions were a little different from what we had left in the valley, there was a howling wind and temperatures that sent you scuttling for the fleece jackets, what a difference 2000 metres make. To further dampen our spirits there was no sign of the chair lifts operating which we were hoping to use to help us reach the summit of Veleta. After a hastily convened committee meeting it was decided to abandon the attempt on the summit and instead go and have a look at Embalse de lay Yegnas. This was an excellent idea because it brought us to a new unexplored area with snow and a proper grass field, before arriving at Yegnas and its icy cold water. At this point a special note has got to be made in the minutes. While I admit that it was windy and sometimes you felt like you were walking backwards, never before has a Limper turned back on a walk. This walk will be now known as the “windy Bob walk” Please note, do not confuse windy Bob with Dutch Bob. This was added to avoid any litigation. When we eventually all met up again at the car park we all had beer before returning to Chite for tapa. Most of us had a good day out and the summit can wait for another day.

Our walk this coming Sunday the 22^nd July, is more like a fun day out, An easy stroll in a wooded valley bottom criss crossing the river. You can do as much or as little as you want, because the main reason for going is for the picnic. We drive to the Rio Dilar and park in the large car park. If all you want to do is sit and watch the river go by, fine, if you want a paddle, fine, do what you want. Just be about when the picnic starts. There are picnic tables available but if you have a chair bring one with you. Usual tapa rules apply except bring a plate, knife and fork and a glass.

If you are going on the walk meet in the car park in Nigúelas at 10 am (9.50 for Gillian)

The photo shows Manolo, Pepa, and José, unknown German guy, I don’t know where he came from, Arthur, Alan hiding, Annie, windy Bob, and Quina. With the unconquered summit of Veleta in the background.

Walk 15th July 2007

2007-10-15T12:34:00.000+02:00

Lecrin Valley Limper

Dear all

As predicted last week the transport arrangements this week were chaotic, I thought I was doing a reasonable job of organising everything when the blond said we needed a proper logistics manager. She promptly got in her car and set off in the wrong direction. At this point I must own up by saying I then committed a serious error, when I was bringing the drivers back from Izbor ,before the start of the walk, I missed the Pinos turn off and had to do a circuit back to Lecrin. I will also like to say that the blond trainee logistics manager committed the same error some 5 hours later, perhaps she will be able to apply for the job again at a later stage.

The walk was from Pinos del Valle to Izbor and our guides this week were Nick and Carol, this routes uses a series of tracks, paths, and short cuts as it twists and turns on the wooded hillside between the two villages. I started a new game that was soon taken up by Veronica and Rob, it involved finding a suitable section of the path that had loose stones scattered about, standing on them and watching in amazement as your feet disappeared from underneath you.

While the walk was only 4 hours long I think it was with relief that the 16 walkers eventually stumbled into the Casa Blanca bar in Izbor, where suitable refreshment was served.

On our return to Chite we had tapa at Rob and Sandy´s new house and once again a wide and varied selection of delicious food was on offer. Sandy had a full time job showing people around, it was a bit like the Alhambra palace tours with timed tickets.

Our walk this Sunday the 15^th July is Veleta. The walk takes about 6 hours and while not over difficult terrain it can be classed as a hard walk because of the altitude. At 3396 meters Veleta is Spain´s second highest mountain. Conditions can be totally different from what you are used to at this time of the year, So make sure that you pack suitable equipment including a warm drink, food, plenty of water, boots, fleece, windproof, long trousers and some money. Hopefully the only things you will need are the food, drink and money. We drive to the car park above the Ski resort of Pradollano, this is as far as you can drive in a car but a mini bus can take you higher, but this is not our transport for today, we have something far more exciting. From the car park we follow the road up and around to the second ski station, where we catch a chair lift up the side of Veleta. It does not take us to the top but leaves us with about 1.5 hours of walking. Whilst the gradients are not steep the reduced oxygen levels at this altitude make the going a lot harder than in the valley. The advantage of this route is that if anybody finds the going too difficult you can turn around and make your way back fairly easily. Lunch will be at the top where extensive views from the mirador are first class, with only Mulhacen at 3479 meters blocking your view. Mulhacen will feature in the coming weeks but the walk is longer and harder, so check your performance out on Veleta first. Our return route is a bit quicker as we avoid the top section of the road and come down quite a steep little path back to the ski lift and the return walk back to the car park. Do not plan to pick water up on route, Veleta is a dry mountain.

On our return to Chite tapa will be held at our house.

If you are going on the walk please meet outside the Acropolis bar Mondújar at 8am

The walk is not suitable for dogs.

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

Stuart

Walk 1st July

2007-06-25T15:45:00.000+02:00

Lecrin Valley Limper

Dear Limper

Our walk this last Sunday was a return to one of our summer favourites, and judging by the approval ratings, it must rank amongst best of the best. The problem with the approval ratings system we have, is that after nearly every walk someone will say " I enjoyed that, it's my favourite" and everyone agrees, so can someone please devise a points system, so we all know which is the best walk. We met in the car park in Niguelas, and I was quite surprised at the large turnout, 18 eager souls wanting to go and play in the river, and of course you always get one who comes home wet. The walk starts down by the recreation area and follows the Rio Durcal as it twists and turns its way in a steep sided canyon. You follow an Acequia on the left of the canyon to start with, before walking in the river and passing a magnificent waterfall, it was the best I have ever seen it. 12 months ago after a violent thunderstorm, the riverbed was totally altered and the river disappeared. I am now glad to report that while things are different the river as returned and once again you have a wonderful cool, shady, summer walk. The one thing that as always stopped the walk continuing for more than about 3km is a very large bolder about 10 meters high with water coming over, but now Rob (Spiderman) who climbed up the rock, recons we can put a rope ladder up, opening the possibility of turning the walk into a circular one. I can feel my explorer’s hat coming out again. On our way back we stopped off at the waterfall, someone suggested to little John if he stood behind it, he would not get wet! What a plonker!! In an effort to try and rebuild his self-esteem, I suggested that he lead the group on a slight diversion though a tunnel, would he do, No he would not. It was left to a group of women to show him how it was done. This will have to be noted in the minutes as the second Milton refusal.

The tapa this weekend was hosted by Deborah, and what a spectacular do it was, with a BBQ, Paella and salads a plenty, there was even a pork pie, big enough to feed everyone, except a little guy was found to have had three pieces, He never refuses anything were food is concerned. What a great day out we all had, thank you to everyone.

Plan A for this coming Sunday the 1st of July was Veleta from the Ski resort, but I have been unable to get up to date information with regard to the ski lift. So we go with Plan B, which is a circular walk from Capileira, and takes us to the hydro station at La Cebadilla in the Poqueria gorge. The walk is written up as 7km long with 300 meters of ascent and decent, with the hardest part coming at the end as we climb out of the gorge. But you do get an opportunity to paddle in the river before hand. We are now moving into the warmest part of the year so we have no option but to start the walks earlier and go higher, so meet outside the Acropolis bar in Mondujar at 8am, for the drive into the Alpujarras. This is a wonderful walk and the views are superb, the tracks are not steep or difficult, There is no tapa arranged so plan to stop in a bar somewhere. The spell and grammar checker is on holiday this week so apologises for any errors you may have found. I am experiencing Internet access problems this week so no photos, yet. Telefonica was informed that I would be switching broadband supplier, so they promptly cut me off, before the new company had provided their equipment. The promise was I would be without the Internet for 5 minutes whilst the new equipment was been installed. They must have forgotten to mention, the week you have to wait for the equipment.

Have a good week

Stuart

Walk 24th June Rio Durcal

2007-06-20T14:25:00.000+02:00

Dear Limper
Our walk this last Sunday took us to the castle above Guajar Faraguit, We started off with 8 intrepid members but shortly after we started climbing up to the Castle one was taken ill with heat exhaustion, so 2 had to return back to the car. The views from the Moorish castle are well worth the climb even on a hot day and you can see why it was positioned here, but it must have being a long way down to the bar even in them days. The bar was what spurred the group on as the sun climbed higher and the temperature rose into the 30s. One of these days we will learn to go straight to the bar and miss the walk out completely. The walk is a circular one and the return leg takes you through Guajar Fondon, how anybody ever learns to find their way about in these narrow streets and alley ways is beyond me, but eventually we found ourselves back at the starting point and a very conveniently positioned bar where cool drinks and tasty tapa were consumed. We were very lucky with our choice of transport this week, with John and Sandra being able to return early in their car, leaving six walkers and Max to all pile into Rob and Sandie's Mini bus. To see pictures of the walk, and X rated photos of Max naked click on http://picasaweb.google.com/holidaysingranada/LecrinValleyLimpers

Our walk this coming Sunday the 24th June is the Rio Durcal, The walk is easy as it follows the river in the gorge, there are only two small banking's to climb, it is a wet feet walk so you need walking sandals or old trainers that you don´t mind getting wet, and a pair of shorts (getting wet is not an option), you will get wet. Afterwards tapa is arranged at Deborah´s house in Niguelas, who is this weeks birthday girl. There are BBQ facilities available for anyone who fancies themselves on master chef. Meet in the car park in Niguelas at 9.30, if you bring your tapa with you, we can drop it off at Deborah's before the start of the walk.

The photo shows Rob, Sandie, Bob, Marie Trinni, Gillian

Walk 17th June Guajar Faraguit

2007-06-20T14:19:00.000+02:00

Dear Limper
Our walk on Sunday was a circular walk starting off from Restabal. After nearly four years of Limping we are starting to get the hang of this walking lark so our first stop was at the bar Sifon to order drinks and tapa for our return, after last time when 17 thirsty walkers trouped through his bar, doubling his day´s takings, we thought we would not shock him again. We then proceeded to climb the hill up to the new Moorish archway they have built at the entrance to the abandoned village. We have now got two stories as to why it was left to fall into ruins. The first is that an earth quake destroyed it and it was never rebuilt. The second is that there was difficulty with the drinking water supply, so they all moved down into Restabal. My own theory is they got fed up of walking up the hill after visiting the bars Sifon and Jovi. After spending 10 minutes walking around the ruined village it came as a surprise about one hour later when Sandie asked when we would be seeing the abandoned village. Our next stop was at the Valle de Lecrin caravan park, this is due to reopen in July (year not stated) it will have a club house, swimming pool and wonderful vistas from it´s lofty position high up in the hills above Restabal. This last point may be it´s downfall, as you need a Hummer RV to reach it. From the Caravan park the track meanders along a forest road in the direction of Albuñuelas, before turning down hill and heading for Restabal castle. Now I know there is no above ground evidence of a castle, but there are some underground chambers that are exposed and clearly visible. So again it was a surprise when another Mondujar lass asked, while we were stood on it, "where is the castle", I think there must be something in their water supply. On our return to Restabal we stopped off to enjoy a drink or two at bar Sifon, how they produce so much fresh tapa so quickly I don´t know.
I think you all know that I do not normally moan about anything, But I have got to mention the plastic plates that were used to serve the rather delicious curry, it appears they were bought as a job lot, 200 for 50 cents, unfortunately they all had holes in, so you could tell every one who had had the curry by the yellow stains down their shirts. The tapa was it´s usual high standard and as usual Arturo was at the front with the women when the puddings were being served. This time we have photos to prove it. This and some other good photos taken by Andy of the days outing available at http://picasaweb.google.com/holidaysingranada Thank you to Annie for hosting the tapa

Our walk this coming Sunday the 17th June is to another castle at Guajar Faraguit the walk should take about 3 hours but we have about 45 minutes drive each way. The walk is not difficult but there is a short steep ascent of 150 meters. There is no tapa arranged but a stop will be made in a bar somewhere for refreshment. If you want to go on the walk meet outside the Acropolis bar in Mondujar at 9 am. Anyone found to be wearing flip flops will be sent home.

The photo shows Ken, Rob, Dave, Arthur, John, Sandie, Annie, Bob, Alison and Arthur at the Moorish arch at the entrance to the abandoned village.

Have a good week, and for anyone back in the UK, get over here the weather is wonderful.

Stuart

2007-06-20T14:17:00.000+02:00

Dear all
This Sundays outing started with us all meeting in Chite, this caused a major traffic snarl up, the like of which has not been seen before in Chite. Once again the walk was a linear one, this time setting off from Albunuelas with a stopping off point in Restabal for the easy walkers. Trying to arrange these outings, using the minimum number of cars, is becoming a logistical nightmare, and I feel sure that one day it will all go belly up for us, when after a long walk we will find the wrong cars in the wrong location, but today it all went fine. We had a small deviation at the start of the walk in Albunuelas when we were unable to find the little alley way that leads out of the village, someone had painted out the GR7 sign. But the problem was easy rectified and we soon found ourselves walking through the fertile valley that separates Albunuelas and Salares, the path is virtually all down hill and is very easy going. A coffee stop was made in Salares before we walked into Restabal and the bar Sifon. The poor landlord of this quiet bar must be getting used to us calling in on him and eating a weeks worth of his delicious tapa in one session, he waved us straight through to the outdoor patio, only in Spain would you happily sit in the middle of a long since abandoned building site on upturned beer crates. Bar Sifon is a convenient half way point where the easy downhill section finishes and the uphill section back into Chite starts. So we said goodbye to 3 walkers who then returned to Chite by car, leaving 15 die-hards to cope with the rising temperature and the hill back up into Chite. Tapa was held at the lodge, thank you to every one for all the outstanding food. Our walk this coming Sunday the 27th May is the many times postponed walk up Boca de la Pesca above Cumbres Verde. The walk has been scheduled a number of times in the past and has had to be cancelled due to poor weather, so be prepared for a wet Sunday. We have to drive to the start of the walk at the Cerro de Sevilla car park. The path is then level and very easy, leaving only a short easy climb up to the summit of Boca de la Pesca, the 360 degree views over the Sierra Nevada and Granada are well worth the effort. As an alternative for those who don't want to climb there is a short level path to a view point. We then follow the path as it gently winds down into Cumbres Verde, were we may be able to take refreshment in a local hostelry if anybody wants to! before returning to the car park via the forest road. The walk should take about 4 hours and is classed suitable for Olwyn. We will return to Padul and the bar Los Romeros for tapa. If you want to go please meet in the car park in Niguelas at 9 am. Guillermo from the Normadas walking shop in Durcal informs me that he will give all Limpers a 15% discount on purchases of sports equipment, so don't forget when you pay him a visit to mention you are in the walking group. This weeks picture shows the group on the path coming into Restabal. They are Mick, Liz, Phil, Annie, John, Graham, Sandra, Carl, Gerry, Chris, Olwyn, Charlie, Quina, Al, Ross, Gillian, Peter.This and other photos can be seen by following the link http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/holidaysingranada/LecrinValleyLimpers Have a good week.
Stuart

Walk 20th May

2007-05-15T15:21:00.000+02:00

Dear all
The walk this last week was a return to the Huetor National park at the far side of Granada, and in line with our recently acquired green credentials we managed the outing by using 3 cars. On future outings we are planning to use pack mules only. There are 2 ways to do the walk, the hard way, which is a circular walk, or the easy way which is a linear walk, we chose the easy way which involves driving to the top of the park and walking back through the woods on a very easy and pleasant path. The route is a high level route at around 1800 meters and the views in all directions are outstanding. At the first picnic stop there is a pictorial map showing all the peaks of the Sierra Nevada which can be seen from this point. Our ornithological knowledge was further expanded when we saw numerous different types of birds which we were able to identify as big birds and little birds, couple this with the birds that float on water we saw a couple of weeks ago and you can see why someone needs to bring a wildlife and flower book on the walks. At the end of the walk Quina ferried the drivers back to retrieve their cars, while the rest of us sat by the side of road awaiting collection. This must have looked a little strange to the other passing drivers, as we received numerous waves and funny looks, plus requests for stray dogs and something else we could not decipher. The walk has been christened the wet T shirt walk after Sandra's accident the details of which will remain secret. The arrangements for tapa this week were a little different from the usual. We went to the San Isidro pilgrimage in Padul. I know the word pilgrimage as connotations of making your way to a church on your hands and knees, but this being southern Spain things are slightly different. For a start it is held in an old abandoned military base, you arrive by car, there is a good supply of beer on offer and music and dancing is the order of the day, I think we managed to entertain the local Spanish community when the band played a Glenn Miller song and the Limpers, all wearing hiking boots, got up to dance. A good day was had by all and we shall return next year, fully prepared with tables, chairs, sun brollies, bbq and enough food and drink to make a day of it. A full selection of pictures of the days outing are available at http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/holidaysingranada/LecrinValleyLimpers
The walk this coming Sunday, the 20th May, is a two part walk. The easy part is from Albunuelas and back to Restabal where refreshment will be taken at bar Sifon, at this point the sick and the lame can return to Chite via car, while the soft in the head can walk around the lake and back to Chite. Tapa will be held at our house in Chite. Please meet in Chite at 9am, tapa can be left at our house at this point, and we can arrange what cars we need to take to Restabal and Albunuelas.

A note regarding walk insurance that we mentioned in a previous letter, Guillermo, at the Nomadas walking shop in Durcal, has researched this for us and has come up with a solution. We can be added to the policy of the Federacion Andaluza Montanismo on an individual basis. This will give you cover in case of accident while out walking, and should cover you for the expense of being recovered if necessary. The biggest downside to the policy I can see is that it runs from 1st January to 31st December with no reduction for a part year. The cost is 34.50 euros per year. Further details can be found at www.fedmon.com/licencia/coberturas/coberturas.htm or in english http://translate.google.com/translate?u=http%3A//www.fedamon.com&langpair=es|en&hl=es&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&prev=/language_tools
If anyone is interested contact Guillermo direct, He will need a copy of your full name, passport, date of birth, address, and type of cover you require.

The weather in Spain remains glorious with long hot sunny days, perfect for our days out.

The photo shows Arthur, Quina, Graham, Alan, John, Sandra, Margaret, Liz, Jose.

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

Stuart

Walk 13th May

2007-05-15T15:15:00.000+02:00

Walk in the Monochil gorge on Sunday 6th May.
We set off in a convoy of three cars (fully loaded - leaving some cars in Niguelas car park - very ecological.) Having arrived at the Otivar - Padul roundabout we proceeded to be very Spanish by parking on the roundabout itself to await the arrival of Quina. On arrival at the car park above Monochil we met with Colin and Lesley and the group of twelve happy souls together with three dogs wondered off into the gorge.
Renewing my acquaintance with the gorge proved to be in the realms of "as good as it gets"! and everyone seemed to enjoy the experience particularly those who had not been before. In the absence of el Presidente I took an executive decision to extend the walk by half an hour as far as the hydroelectric station.
We duly returned to Monochil with fantastic views down into the gorge. On the way back Peters' dog encountered a herd of goats and had to be restrained having never seen a goat before. Peters' dog appears to have unlimited supplies of energy and must have covered at least six times the distance, often behaving like a mountain goat!
On our return we proceeded to the bar situated just below the car park to meet with Bob, Githa and baby Daniel. However, the bar owner was very unwelcoming, stating that we could not sit on the terrace unless we ordered meals. We promptly left and went to the small bar by the bridge in Monochil. We had a very friendly welcome from the Argentinians running the bar, where we spent a pleasant two hours consuming jugs of beer followed by raciones of an Argentinian meat feast from the BBQ and very good tapa.
I have to report an incident at the picnic area on the walk. Gareths' cake was snatched from his hand. Before I am condemned as the culprit by reputation I have to "dob - in" the guilty party as Peter's dog.
Present on the walk
Charlie, Gillian, Peter, Margaret, Alan, John, Gareth, Quina, Liz, Lesley, and Colin.
Your humble leader in the absence of Stuart
Graham

P.s I apologise for the tardiness of the report.

Our walk this next week the 13th May is back to the Huétor National Park, I know we went there a couple of months back, but this is a different walk, and at this time of the year, now that the sun has decided to shine upon us, the wild flowers should be wonderful and the views will be spectacular. We have to drive to Huétor at the other side of Granada and then, depending on the group and the road conditions within the park, we will make a decision as to what the walk will be. The preferred option is that we drive to the top end of the park and walk back on a wonderful path. There is only a small amount of ascent but there is a long descent, and it should take about 3 hours to walk, but because the walk is linear we will have a number of cars to move about. There is no tapa arranged but we can stop at the Bar Romeros in Padul on our return.
If you are going on the walk please meet in the car park in Nigúelas at 9am

Have a good week

Stuart

I don't want to gloat but the weather in Spain as finally returned to normal, warm sunshine blue skies. I understand that the UK as also returned to normal, grey skies and rain. Ha. Ha.

Walk 6th May 2007

2007-04-30T22:35:00.000+02:00

Dear all
Our weather may finally be on the turn, we have had a few dry days and the sunshine has been quite warm on a number of occasions this past week. So we were all looking forward to the easy walk we had planned for Padul. We all met in Padul and after a delayed start we set off in perfect walking conditions, sunshine, brilliant blue skies and a slightly cool wind. The walk first crosses the bed of the old lagoon passing some very lush campos, whose soil could inspire anyone to grow just about anything. At the far side of the lagoon there is a crystal clear spring and the remains of an old Roman road. We have not managed yet to turn this walk into a true circular walk, and part of the route has to be retraced in order to cut across the lake bed towards the bird sanctuary. It was while crossing this section we decided to go off piste in the hope of finding a new path. Our track eventually disappeared and we left to scramble over a small weir and discreetly make our way across a ploughed field, not the easiest thing to do when there are 19 in the group, but Quina knows everyone in Padul so it was not really trespassing. The bird sanctuary was a bit quiet, or it could have been all the noise we were making that kept the birds away, but one thing we did see was a rare sighting of a lagoon turtle. On our return to Padul we went to the bar Los Romeros for drinks and tapa.

Our walk this coming Sunday the 6th May is to Monachil and will be led by Graham as I am unable to make it due to prior commitments. The walk is one of the finest in the area, and is suitable for all and is classed suitable for Olwyn. It follows the Rio Monachil as it twists and turns in a very narrow valley. The path crosses the river 3 times by well constructed wire rope bridges and there is excitement around every corner. There is no tapa arranged, but no doubt if anybody wants to stop at a bar afterwards this could be arranged. Please meet in the car park in Niguelas at 9am before the drive to Monachil. Your contact name for this walk is Graham

The photo shows Peter, Stella, Alan, Charlie, Arthur, Gillian, Pepper, Colin, Blanca, Monolo, Liz, Quina, Graham, Sandra, John, Margaret, Gareth.

This and other photos can be seen at http://flickr.com/photos/lecrin-valley-limpers/

Walk 29th April

2007-04-22T21:46:00.000+02:00

Dear All

Our scheduled Sunday walk this week was cancelled due poor weather, I appreciate that this will amuse you who are basking in the sunshine back in the UK, but for us poor souls over here, it is starting to interfere with our life style. We should, by now, be topping up our tans and sipping G & Ts by the poolside. Instead we are having to console ourselves by devising even more imaginative tapa whilst standing around the fire. So it was that this Sunday some 20 sad and dejected Limpers went around to John and Sandra's for our weekly social event while the hiking boots stayed locked away. Once again a big thank you to John and Sandra for hosting the party and to everyone for the delicious food.
Our walk this coming Sunday is an easy one that we did a few months back, but which quite a number of the group were unable to do. It starts in Padul and crosses the dried bed of the lagoon, then continues by the side of the old Roman road before re crossing the lagoon and calling in at the bird sanctuary. the walk is classed suitable for Olwyn/Alan and takes about 3 to 4 hours and covers about 11 km. There is no tapa arranged but we will stop at a bar back in Padul on our return. If you want to go on the walk, meet in Padul at 10am just before the second set of traffic lights coming in from the Durcal end.

Walk to Siletta

2007-04-15T23:13:00.000+02:00

Dear Limper

It was with a sinking feeling in my heart that the group met this week in Nigúelas, for our Sunday walk. We had just finalised our transport arrangements for our onward journey to Padul, when a coach carrying some 50 people arrived, and began disgorging hikers. I know the emails get widely distributed, but this was taking it too far, had they brought tapa? Would Deborah have enough glasses? It now appears that it was a rival group from Armilla, who go for long hard walks, and then go home, because they don’t do tapa! Our walk this week took us up the cruz Altaya above Padul which takes about 1.5 hours of gentle uphill plodding, where we stopped for breakfast. Some in the party were hoping that this would be the extent of our uphill exertions, but in true Limper tradition, there is always another hill to climb. Another 1.5 hours of steady walking, including a search and rescue stop when 2 members wandered off in the wrong direction, they were found chattering away, with not a care in the world, led us on the top of Siletta the goal of this weeks walk. Whilst the weather had been ideal for our up hill excursion, the clouds were building up over the Sierras and with our experience, built up over the last few weeks, of clouds meaning rain we had a short lunch break before heading off back to Padul and the awaiting tapa back at Deborah’s in Nigúelas. Once again the food beat anything available anywhere and finished off an excellent days walk.

The weather forecast for the coming week is once again poor with rain promised for most days. With this in mind our walk for next Sunday the 22^nd of April is a coastal walk from Salobrena. It is not one we have done before and is straight out of the guide book. The route description is that it is 13.76km long involves climbing 235 metres, has a maximum uphill gradient of 5.4%, difficulty low and takes 4 hours. Who says I don’t give accurate descriptions. Tapa is arranged at John and Sandra’s and will take place whatever the weather. If you are going on the walk meet at the car park in Nigúelas at 9 am. Email updates regarding the walk and tapa will be issued if the weather is bad.

Stuart

Walk 15th April, Siletta

2007-04-10T04:33:00.000+02:00

Dear all

Can I just mention, before you read this newsletter, that the behaviour by one member this week at the tapa party was totally reprehensible, more will be said about this later.
Our walk this Sunday found us heading for Conchar, in what turned out to be the only decent day we have had for a fortnight. When the sun finally reappeared it caught everyone unawares, and we had to discard the multiple layers of clothing we have become accustomed to wearing. The walk followers the course of the Rio Durcal and is an absolute delight as it meanders in and out of bamboo tunnels and crosses rickety little bridges. We have been unable to do this walk for the last 9 months, because the bridges were swept away in a storm last June. But they have now been restored, and the walk can once again be classed as one of the best short walks in the valley. We had split the walk up into 2 sections with the first part finishing at los Naranjos in Melegis, where refreshment was taken on the terrace, and where some members of the group returned to Chite by car and the rest had a mystery tour of Melegis before returning to Chite via footpaths. Before Tapa could commence the cars had to be recovered from Conchar, and not wanting to get stuck into the food and the wine before all the drivers had returned, myself and a number of other walkers had agreed to stay at our house until little John, who was acting as Taxi driver, returned. The round trip should have taken about 30 minutes, so we became increasing worried when after 1 hour they had not reappeared. After a number of telephone calls, it was established that not only had he not called for us ( he claims he had rung the door bell ) but he was into his second glass of beer and was eating a plate full of tapa. This is his first walk with the group since his return from the UK, and it is not how we expect a fellow Limper to behave. I won't say any more(!) but if he does it again he's out. A big thank you to Pat and Val for the venue and to everyone for the food which was delicious.
Our walk this Sunday the 15th April, is a bit longer and harder than we have run for the past few weeks. It is a circular walk from Padul and involves climbing up Siletta, the mountain range behind Padul. Whilst the walk is not difficult it does involve climbing about 700 metres and takes about 2 hours going up and 3 hours to come down. but if you are of reasonable fitness it is no problem. Tapa will be taken at Deborah's house in Nigúelas on our return around 3pm. If you want to go on the walk meet at the car park in Nigúelas at 9am. before we drive to the start of the walk in Padul. Please note bring sufficient water, and boots are recommended for this walk.
Over the last few months a number of you have been receiving some emails that are unreadable ( I know a lot of you say they are full of garbage anyway) but this has been caused by outlook express having difficulty handling about 50 emails at once. also a lot of people with Hotmail accounts have not received anything in the last week. In an effort to overcome these problems, this, and subsequent emails will be sent using my holidaysingranada@gmail.com address
If you are having difficulty picking emails up try the blog site which should have any up to date changes to the itinerary listed. Limpers blog
http://lecrinlimpers.blogspot.com/ this site also contains links to another photo site of walks we have done.

Walk photos on view at flickr

Can I finish by thanking everyone back in the UK who wrote to express the sorrow they felt for us stuck here having a cold and wet Easter whilst they basked in our sunshine. I also must be having trouble receiving emails because my "sympathy in box" remains empty.

Have a good week

Stuart

Walk 8th April Conchar

2007-04-03T16:47:00.000+02:00

Dear All

Today's walk was a total wash out, due to heavy rain and low cloud, but at least some more snow has appeared, so the ski resort should have something for Easter, and we may have something to drink in the summer. One Limper happy about the cancelled walk was little John, who I had spent all week winding up, ready for the 1st of April. The only bright spot of the day was the tapa at Colin and Lesley's, which attracted 18 Limpers, which was probably more than if we had gone on the walk. This begs the question should we scrap the walks and go straight to tapa? It appears that this week I have been awarded the Billy Bunter prize for gluttony after eating 2 slices of mince pie, But I know Sandra made it especially for me, so I consider myself extremely generous for sharing the rest of it.Thanks to Colin and Lesley for hosting the tapa and to everyone for providing the great food.

There are two outings planned this week. The first is to Padul on Friday evening to watch the spectacular Easter procession of floats as they make their way around the town. I realise that this is not enough to attract the group out, so the bait is that we start off in a bar, then go and watch the procession for awhile before returning to the bar for tapa and pizza. If you want to go, meet in the bar, name Los Romeros. Directions:- coming from Durcal, take the first exit to Padul, follow the road for about 1 km and as you approach the town the road turns down to your left, park around here and the bar is the first one on the left hand side of the road, meet around 8pm.

The second outing is the Sunday walk on the 8th. and is from Conchar to Melegis and for those who want, continuing along to Chite via the lake. The first half of the walk takes about 2 hours and finishes at Los Naranjos where transport will be available to return the short walkers (not little John or Margaret) back to Chite, this walk is classed as suitable for Olwyn walk. The second part of the walk onward to Chite takes another hour and finishes with an uphill section from the lake. Tapa will be held at Pat and Val's. Meet in Conchar at 10 am where the cars park on the RHS. After we return to Chite the cars will be recovered from Conchar.

The wet weather continues into Monday and there is now more snow on the Sierra Nevada's than in the middle of winter.Have a good week, and all of you who are living where the sun is shinning, please spare a thought for us over here.

Stuart

1st April 7.45 am Walk cancelled

2007-04-01T07:47:00.000+02:00

Dear all

Well the weather forecast was right after all, So with deep regret we have to announce that the walk this week is cancelled. The good news is that the tapa is still on in Monachil, so if you are coming to this meet at the car park in Niguelas at 1 pm. at least little John got away with it, this time.

Regards

Stuart

Latest update for 1st April walk

2007-03-30T08:34:00.000+02:00

8.30 pm Friday 30th March
The weather forecast is not looking good for Sunday, heavy rain. If the weather is dry but cloudy we can do the Monachil walk and then go on to Colin and Lesley's for tapa, so meet at 9 am in Nigúelas. If it is raining and the walks are cancelled, the tapa will still be on, so meet in Nigúelas at 1 pm. Check this site for the latest information.

Carretera de Cabra

2007-03-28T15:16:00.000+02:00

The walk this week, the 25th March, saw us all meeting in Padul and, even though the clocks had gone forward during the night, everyone was on time. The big feature of this walk is the great car shuttle, which involved leaving 2 cars positioned at the end of the walk, 16 walkers and 3 dogs squeezed into 4 cars which were then driven to the start of the walk., about l 2km down the Carretera de Cabra., The cars had to be retrieved when we had completed the walk.. The walk is on a good quality campo road that twists and turns through farm land, and so far it has escaped the attention of the cement mixing road builders. The road is as near as you will get in these parts to a 12 km long down hill road, having only 3 short up hill sections. At all times you have extensive views over the Sierra Nevada. The weather was good and the strong northerly wind that had been blowing all week had abated. After all the walkers were reunited with their cars we all headed off to Rob and Sandy's house in Mondújar, where to the delight of the vegetarians we could eat just about everything on this weeks very extensive menu. The only sour note in the proceedings, was when Arturo put garlic favoured yogurt on Sandy's celebrated Cornish scones instead of cream.

To celebrate the return to the Valley of little John, the group secretary, this weeks walk, the lst April, sees us returning to the area above Cumbres Verde, so he can see the peak of the infamous Trevenque, otherwise known as the Milton refusal. The walk should take about 3 hours and is classed as multi ability as you can do or leave out sections depending on how you feel. The walk starts at the car park at Cerro de Seville and heads off on a level path towards Boca de la Pesca, a peak we have passed on a number of occasions but have never climbed. It only takes about 20 minutes to the top, and the 360 degree view is well wealth the effort. If you feel unable to do this section you can continue along the level path to another view point. When the group reunites we head across country on good paths for Cumbres Verde, where once again you can drop out if needed and sample the local hostelries. The rest then returning back to the car park for the cars. Tapa will be taken at Colin and Lesley's house in Monachil. This walk has been planned to take place on a number of occasions, but has had to be cancelled due to low cloud, if once again we are unfortunate with the weather we will do the Monachil gorge walk instead. Colin and Lesley have a cat so dogs will have to sit in the car for the duration of the tapa. If you are going on the walk please meet in the car park in Nigúelas at 9 am. for the drive to Cumbres Verde.

Last week I put up for auction either to publish or destroy a picture of a guy wearing a paper hat, I can now disclose that I have received a unspecified amount to publish the photo on the web. This and other photos can be seen on the photo site.

Nigúelas Gold finger walk

2007-03-28T15:13:00.000+02:00

We awoke on Sunday morning to a bright and sunny day, which was a pleasant surprise after the mist and rain we had had on Saturday, its great to have a wet day now and then, but we can't do with it interfering with our Sunday walk. After meeting up in Nigúelas, this weeks group of Limpers set off on the Gold finger walk, that starts off by following the GR7 path from Niguelas towards Acequias before heading up the hillside of Cerro Alto, quite daunting to the untrained eye, but surprisingly easy once you get started. and we did it with only one stop, so the fitness levels must be going up. I can see the high altitude summer walks becoming a race to see who can get to the summit first. This weeks tapa had been arranged at Chez Als', who unfortunately is still on sick leave, and unable to walk in his beloved mountains, but it did give him time to prepare a rather delicious Paella, but I did notice on a couple of occasions Quina offering him helpful suggestions. The party was held outside on Als' roof terrace in what turned out to be a wonderful afternoon. How the world is shrinking, we welcomed our 2nd Limper this week who lives in the valley and commutes courtesy of Ryanair to London, and there is me thinking it's a long way when we go into Durcal.

Our walk this coming Sunday, the 25th of March, is a linear walk that starts off from the Camino de Cabra road, better known as the Padul to Alumunecar road, and finishes in Padul. The walk is about 12km but it is virtually all down hill (gentle gradient) on a drivable track. The views are magnificent as it looks over to the Sierra Nevada, the walk is classed as suitable for Olwyn, and should take about 3.5 hours. If you want to go on the walk meet in Padul at 10am, by the second set of traffic lights on the main road coming in from Durcal. Don't forget the clocks go forward on Saturday night. After meeting up, we then have to drive to the start of the walk, and upon our return the cars will have to be collected again. Tapa is arranged at Rob and Sandy's house in Mondujcar afterwards.

Just a few points I would like to make particularly as we are attracting a lot of new members at the moment.

The Lecrin Valley Limpers are not an official walking group, we are just a group of friends who go out for a walk, Even though I usually know where we are going I am not a walk leader, the title of which implies some responsibility for the safety of the group. I try not to plan walks that may be considered dangerous, but paths and tracks do change over time and diversions sometimes have to be taken. Also my interpretation of dangerous may be different to yours. You are solely responsible for your own safety, but we all try and look after each other. Water is vital, particularly while out walking in the summer, I know it is heavy but you will die without it. We usually have at least one stop for food, so bring what you require. Walking boots are the preferred form of footwear as they give some much needed support on slippy surfaces. Everyone agrees what a great bunch folk we all are, so if you are thinking of introducing someone to the group try and make sure they will fit in with our friendly easy going ways, most folk will, but we all know the ones who everyone tries to avoid. Your friends over on holiday are welcome, but we don't do tourists. Finally if something goes wrong it's not my fault.

Huetor Parque Natural

2007-03-26T17:17:00.000+02:00

Dear All

I know I keep saying in our walk reports how wonderful the walks have been, and that the views were great, but our walk this weekend, to the Huétor Parque Natural, must rank amongst best. To get to the park, which is north of Granada, involves a 45 minute drive, and I know that you who still live in the UK will consider this trivial, involving a journey of probably no more than 2 miles. For us hillbillies from the valley it was a major expedition, to a land far away, that not many Lecriners had ever seen before. Surprisingly the start of the walk is only a hundred meters away from the A92 autovia, but you would think you were a million miles from anywhere in the thick pine forest and the views over the park. So with a group of 12 eager walkers we set off to discover this natural paradise. The walk is a circular one and for the first part follows a forest Camino as it meanders along in the valley floor, and it is only when you have gone about 3 km and gained a bit of altitude that you get to see the stunning back drop of the snow covered Sierra Nevadas behind you. At the halfway point we stopped both to enjoy the views and our midmorning snack. At this point so intoxicating were the views that it was hard to get the group walking again in any coordinated fashion, and serious words had to be said with the tailenders, especially as the hardest part of the walk was coming up and I was worried that they would curl up and go to sleep instead of climbing up the hillside. The path then follows a contour along the side of the hill, with uninterrupted views in all directions, and at all the best vantage points the forest rangers have very kindly provided comfortable seating where you can sit and contemplate the troubles of the world, or just sit back and think what a fantastic walk this is. The sky was a deep blue, the sun shone all day and the air was fresh, what else could you wish for on a Sunday afternoon. Upon our return to the valley we retired to Annie's house in Mondujar for our usual tapa treat. So infamous have the tapa parties become that television cameras were on hand to film it for a new Sky TV channel about living in Spain.

A couple weeks ago I mentioned that Joanna had slipped and twisted her ankle while walking down the path from the Hermita in Pinos del Vale. It now transpires that it was more serious than we thought and she had in fact broken it, and she will have her leg in plaster for a few weeks. We all wish her a speedy recovery. On this note we are looking into the costs and problems involved in joining a walking federation and having insurance cover for this sort of thing. If anyone has any thoughts about this please let me know.

The walk this coming Sunday the 18th March is a local one from Nigúelas famously named the Gold finger walk. which starts by following the GR7 path towards Acequias and up Cerro Alto before dropping into the los Canjarros and returning to Nigúelas. The path is not difficult but does involve climbing about 300 meters and it is about 8 km long, estimated time about 3.5 hours. Tapa will be held at Alan's house in Nigúelas upon our return. He has suggested that we can drop the tapa off at his house which is near the start of the walk. If you want to go on the walk meet in the carpark in Nigúelas at 9.30.

Lanjaron to Mondújar

2007-03-26T17:12:00.000+02:00

Dear all

What a glorious day we had on Sunday, for our walk from Lanjaron to Mondujar. The sun shone all day, and as a change from the last two walks there was no wind. The walk sets off from Lanjaron and for the first hour follows the GR7 track towards Nigúelas, then, just as you start to get fed up of the up hill trek, it branches off on a little track that twists and turns its way across the hillside towards Mondujar. You can tell from the photo that the temperature was quite high by the fact everybody headed for the shade when we had a coffee stop. Water was a problem on this walk, but with judicious sharing of scarce resources everyone survived. The tapa club reconvened at Josettes' house afterwards. Alan, who arrived back in the valley during the week, put in a guest appearance. Having returned from India with a bad foot he was unable to do the walk, and there was me thinking that the A team walks would be starting again. Once again thanks to everyone for a good day out and an excellent tapa.

The walk this coming Sunday, the 11th March, is in the Sierra de Huétor parque natural, on the Guadix road out of Granada. If you have not been to this area before I can highly recommend it, the views of the Sierra Nevada, particularly at this time of the year when they are still covered in snow, are wonderful. The walk is a new one for the group, having previously been surveyed by the A team last year and classified suitable for general release, it is not difficult and the paths are good, it climbs about 200 meters over something like 8 km. with one very short steep ascent (it is not a problem). The total length of the walk is 12 km and should take about 4.5 hours. If you are going, meet at the Acropolis in Mondujar at 9 am, we then have about an hours car journey to the start of the walk. Tapa will be held at Annie's house in Mondujar. afterwards.

Hermita Pinos del Valle

2007-02-26T17:12:00.000+01:00

Dear All

What a delightful little walk, most of us had this last Sunday. The walk was to the Hermita, above Pinos del Valle and is a must for any true Limper because of the outstanding views of our Valley that the little hill affords. So on a very bright and sunny, slightly breezy morning our group of 17 set off on our little excursion. The normal route sets off from Pinos and zig zags straight up to the Hermita, but our route was the longer but far more interesting one that leaves Pinos on the Guajar Faraguit road for about 1km before turning right, up what was once a pleasant gravel road out into the campos, but somebody is doing their best to try and spoil it, by laying concrete and making it another soulless road. You sometimes wonder if the guy who invented cement realised how much destruction and devastation his product would cause to such a beautiful landscape. After about 2 km you come to the real objective of coming this way, a wonderful little path that leads off to the right, and we are not the only ones to recognise its charm, because someone has way marked the track with the red and white stripes of a international GR route. This may be taking it a little too far, but it is a nice track. You follow the path for about 2km steadily gaining height before it emerges onto the main track coming up from Pinos. It was only at this point that you realised the steady breeze at the bottom of the hill was a full blown gale force wind at the top. Someone had to hang on to little Margaret to stop her being carried away, luckily in the shelter of the Hermita you were able to sit and enjoy the extensive vistas that had opened up around us. On our way down we had another first for the group when Joanna sliped on some loose stones and fell and twisted her ankle. After some discussion on whether to leave her to the wolves or air ambulance, it was decided she could hobble down to a place where we could extract her by car. She became the first Limper to go on a walk, and not be able to attend the tapa afterwards. Bob and Githa turned up for tapa and introduced the third member of their team, master Daniel to the group, fortunately he slept throughout the whole proceeding, and so he never realised what exalted company he was mixing with.

The walk this coming Sunday is a little longer and harder than what we have run for the last few weeks and takes us from Lanjaron to Mondujar. The path starts by following the GR7 out of Lanjaron and climbs steadily for about 1 hour with 300 meters of ascent on a good forest road. At this point we leave the GR7 and head off across country on a variety of tracks and paths with one fairly steep but not difficult decent and a gentle up hill. The walk is about 12 klm and is timed at 4.5 hours but as always this is subject to variation due to distraction and the groups ability. We have an Easter Sunday walk planned to the Buddhist centre at Os O Ling and Sundays walk will make an excellent training exercise. Tapa will be held at Josettes house in Chite afterwards.

If you are going on the walk please meet at the Acropolis bar Mondujar 9am. We then have to transfer to Lanjaron for the start of the walk, leaving behind enough cars so the drivers can later return to Lanjaron to retrieve them, I know we don't try and arrange anything like this without our Logistics manager Liz being present, but sometimes we just have to struggle on.

A bit of good news "little John" group secretary will be returning from his 2 year sabbatical in the UK on the 26th March.

Pico Lopera

2007-02-26T16:18:00.000+01:00

Dear Limper

We had an excellent turnout today for a walk, that had been advertised as having spectacular views, and particularly views of Africa. So it was with a sinking feeling in my heart that I and 14 other brave and intrepid walkers set off for the summit of Pico Lopera. Our only hope that the views would materialise, was that the gale force wind would blow away the fog, that was swirling around us. One advantage of the fog was, because you could not see the objective of the walk we did not receive the usual cries of "Oh my God, we are not going all the way up there, are we?". Surprisingly for the altitude you climb and the height you attain, the walk is very easy. While the cloud base did slowly became higher, it was not fast enough to ensure the dramatic vistas we had hoped for, and we arrived at the summit watch tower still surrounded by fog. A quick picnic stop was taken, as we huddled around the watch tower like Penguins in an Antarctic winter. We had only just left the summit, for the way down, when the clouds suddenly cleared, and we were rewarded with spectacular views in all directions, with Ken claiming he could see table top mountain in South Africa ( I don't know where he learnt to make such exaggerated claims). The billed highlight of the day was lunch at the Bar Venta de Fraille. So excited was Arturo, about having a peppered steak, he had gone to the trouble of vesting the bar, the day before, and having another one, just to make sure it was up to standard. Even though the weather conditions were not ideal, the day was enjoyable and at least it blew the cob webs away.

The walk this coming Sunday the 25th of February is from Pinos del Valle and depending on the weather conditions will either take in the Hermitage, or take a lower level route through the Almond blossom. A decision will be made at the departure point on Sunday morning. Neither route is difficult, with both walks setting off in the same direction towards Guajar Faraguit, before the former turns and heads up hill, and the latter heads down hill. Both eventually return to the starting point, after wandering around various tracks on the hill side.

Afterwards tapa will be taken at the Masonic Lodge in Chite.

If you want to go on the walk meet at the top of Pinos Del Valle by the outdoor Laverdero on the Restabal road at 10 am.

Murchas

2007-02-26T16:16:00.000+01:00

Dear all

I thought Margarets' offer to host the tapa would swell the numbers turning up for the walk, and this turned out to be the case, with 16 of the crew setting forth from Murchas on a blustery morning. The hard part was knowing what to wear, you needed a jacket on because of the wind, but the sun was quite strong so you were soon sweating. The walk sets off from Murchas and heads out of the village up to the canal which you then follow on a broad track for about 2 km. Surprisingly for the little altitude that you have to climb the views are magnificent. At the point where the canal disappears into a tunnel, the wide track finishes and you have to follow a little track up the hillside for 50 meters. It is at this point that the sick and the lame turned back to follow the track back to Murchas. The rest continued along the track and headed up a gentle hill for the next hour with panoramic views in all directions. At the top, when El Caballo, with it's snowy top comes into view and all the villages of the valley lay below you, you can say to yourself, aren't we lucky to live in such a wonderful place. On our return to Murchas the 2 groups were reunited and tapa was taken at Margaret's house. The range of food was magnificent, and those of you who were unlucky not to be able to sample the Plum pudding and the Pavlova, then blame Arturo, because every time I saw him he was filling his plate up.

The walk this coming Sunday the 18th February is up Pica Lopera. The walk starts at the Bar "Meson los Prados" about 22 km down the Otiva road from Padul. The walk takes about 3 hours and involves about 200 meters of accent up a fairly easy track and should be suitable for most people. The views are stunning along the whole track and I have promised Quina that you can see Africa from the top, so pray for a clear day. After the walk we are going to the Taberna Venta del Fraíle, which is beside the road about half way back towards Padul. If the food is half as good as last time we went, it will be a good do. If you want to go on the walk and have not already booked a place, please let me know before Wednesday evening because we need to book a table, and particularly if you want to try the peppered steak which they had sold out of last time. Because we are reserving a table, if we have to cancel the walk for any reason, snow rain or fog, then meet at the bar for 2 pm.

If you are going on the walk either meet at the Acropolis bar in Mondujar at 9 am, or at the Padul exit junction 144 of the Autovia, just at the start of the Otiva road at 9.20.

Rio Dilar

2007-02-26T16:13:00.000+01:00

Dear All

The weather in the valley this past week has been decidedly mixed. A typically English summer week, wet, cold, and the odd burst of sunshine. So it was with fingers crossed that a last minute decision was made to go ahead with the planned excursion up the Rio Dilar. We set off with a total of 5 cars in a convoy but as the inevitable happens with so many cars we lost one along the way. They eventually reappeared saying that they liked Dilar so much they thought it would be nice to go around it twice. In true Limper tradition 12 started the walk, but we had 2 with gammy knees in the group, so after about 1 hour of walking, and a number of river crossings, 6 members decided to turn back. I think the real reason was, they were afraid they would miss the 3pm start of the tapa party. The remaining 6 in the group continued on for a further hour, but with the clouds getting lower, or the path getting higher, and a definite chance that they would miss the 3pm start of the tapa party, we reluctantly decided to turn around and head back, arriving in Chite with 2 minutes to spare. I always had a sneaking suspicion that it was more the tapa than the walk that lay behind the success of the group, and this week proved the theory when an extra 10 members turned up for tapa, citing reasons, ranging from the a 10 am start is too early to I had to take the wife to Granada market. Thanks to everyone for the wonderful food and to Pat and Val for hosting the do.

The walk this Sunday the 11th of February is a local walk in the Loma de Murchas and is suitable for everyone. The walk starts in Murchas and heads up to a acequias which it then follows on a wide level track, if we have got the weather and the timings correct the views over the Lecrin valley are outstanding and the Almond blossom should be out. After about 2 km the acequias disappears and the path heads up hill for a little while, it is at this point the group can split with the dodgy knee brigade returning the way they came while the rest continue up and over the Loma de Murchas.

There is no tapa arranged this week, but refreshments will be available in local bars.

Meet outside Margaret's house (just over the bridge) in Murchas at 10 am.

Padul and the Roman Road

2007-02-26T16:09:00.000+01:00

Dear all

After a week of bitter cold temperatures, snow and heavy rain, it was with some trepidation that we set off on our Sunday walk under heavy grey skies accompanied by a strong head wind, which eventually worked in our favour by blowing the clouds away, leaving us all sweating under the multi layers of clothing that we were all wearing. The walk eventually started from the centre of Padul, after a misunderstanding as to where we were supposed to meet, and set off across the unbelievable flat farm land that was once the bed of a lagoon. As soon as you arrive at the other side, the banking surrounding the lagoon rises steeply and it was amongst this jumble of rocks that the remains of a Roman road could be found. This is not a sample of the long, straight, well constructed Roman roads that you can still find in Britain. This is a track that you would have trouble getting a challenger tank down, never mind a horse and cart, The good people of Padul must have made a fortune from the cart repair shops that must have lined this road. It is also the source of the incredible clear water from the Fuente Mal Nombre. A little bit further along the track, after stopping to admire some Campo land and a small vine yard, we were invited by the owner to sample his home made wine. The hospitality of the local Spanish people never ceases to amaze me, he even apologised for not having any tapa for us. Whilst returning to Padul we stopped off at the waterfowl park which now consists of a number of hides amongst the reed beds, unfortunately it must have been siesta time because there were only a couple of coots swanning about.

The after walk tapa club was held at Quina's Casa in Padul, and we were joined by some members who had been unable to make the walk this week. In total some 15 people sat down for an excellent lunch. Thank you to Quina for organising an excellent day out.

The walk this coming Sunday the 4th February is in the Rio Dilar, this is by special request for Val's birthday who is ## this year. For anybody who has not done this walk before it is a wonderful walk in a wooded valley, with the path cris- crossing the river a number of times. Because there is a chance that you might get your feet wet if the river level is up a bit, a good idea I have seen is a couple of strong plastic bags to slip over your shoes whilst crossing the river. The walk is classed suitable for Olwyn and should take about 2 hours. Please note, times for walks are estimated,and don't account for unplanned diversions The tapa club will convene at Val and Pat's house in Chite afterwards, usual tapa rules apply. If you are going on the walk either meet at the Acropolis Bar, Mondujar at 10 am, or just off the Otura motorway junction, near to the Santa Clara golf sign, at 10.20

Marchena

2007-02-26T16:02:00.000+01:00

Dear all

What wonderful weather we had on Sunday, for our walk from Marchena. I know the area around Marchena does not appear too interesting and this may well have put a number of people off going on the walk, but from the start of the walk it only takes about 5 minutes before you are walking in a pine forest, on an old mule track meandering around the hill side as it slowly climbs towards the Camino forestal running below the Sierra del Manar. With no great distance to travel and a meal booked at the Mezquita restaurant we were able to travel slowly, stopping frequently to admire the unfolding views around us. Including the frequent stops the walk took about 3 hours.

Our walk this coming Sunday the 28th, is a tapa included walk, and is classed as easy and suitable for Olwyn. The walk sets off from Padul and crosses the valley floor of what once was the bed of the lagoon. Hopefully we may see signs of the old Roman road which skirted along the edge of the lagoon. There are a number of options available for the return journey, short, medium or longer. A decision to which one we take will depend on who turns up.

On our return to Padul we are invited to Quina's house for tapa, so usual rules apply, bring a plate of tapa and a bottle.

The Vale of Padul.
The Vale of Padul was formed when the Padul-Dúrcal-Nigüelas, fault line dropped. In the past a large expanse of water formed a lagoon, which was fed by underground springs the most important of which is the Dark Eye. In the 19^th century the lagoon was drained so that arable crops could be grown. It also stopped the malaria from infected mosquito’s.
The water was channelled through dykes that transferred the water to the Bridge of Cozvíjar, before running off into the River Dúrcal.
The southern edge of the vale is very rocky and in the past a road used to run along the edge of the lagoon and it was used by merchants and invading armies, as a way of access from the coast to the interior. And you can still see engraved into the rock the marks left by the wheels of the carts and carriages which travelled along this route many years ago.
We start the walk from Quina’s house (The Pilarillo) and we travel via the Camino of the Mills, before arriving at the Evil Fountain. We will stop here to drink water and to look at the old carriage tracks on the old road from Almuñecar that continues along in the direction of Granada.
Our route continues along the road passing the Ajia peat bogs before we arrives at the Bridge of Cozvíjar, where the dykes drain the Vale.

We return to the Evil Fountain and then take a road that crosses the Vale before arriving at the Aguadero peat bog. This area is home to the renowned Padul waterfowl sanctuary, bring your own bird book because I can’t tell one duck from another, the walk is an easy one and should take about three hours. We return to El Pilarillo (Quina’s house) for the traditional dish "Pot of San Antón".

We will meet at 10 am in Padul on the main street by the traffic lights (where the street widens out)

Many thanks to Quina for the research and walk description.

The flickr site is a photographic record of our walks.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/lecrin-valley-limpers/

We have had another exceptionally dry and hot week, but the weather forecast this week is for a much cooler spell, and hopefully a drop of rain. The Dutch guy I wrote about last week, must have got into trouble with his wife, either that or I am in trouble because neither he or his Mother in law turned up this week. I will try and smooth things over again, by offering him another 12 months free membership.

Barranco de la Rambla

2007-01-14T22:47:00.000+01:00

Lecrin valley Limpers

Dear limper

Can I start by trying to clear up a misunderstanding that I was not aware of, I don't want to embarrass his wife so I will just say that it involves a Dutch man who lives in Mondujar. It appears that what I thought was a friendship, based on walking, was a lot more serious than I thought. It was a shock today to hear him announce to the group that we had "been stepping out together for 4 years." I won't say anymore on the subject, but if he thinks, just because I always share my coffee with him, that I have deep manly feelings for him he had better watch out, as I am training up for a yellow belt at the self defence class.

The walk today was up the Barranco de la Rambla, and was a joint outing with the self defence class lead by Angel. With 12 walkers split equally 50/50 between the two groups we ran into the usual problems with logistics, with one walker refusing to get out of bed in time for the 9 o'clock start, and losing another along the way, the first joined the walk along the way, the second was found in a Bar in Durcal sipping a cold beer.

While the walk was quite wearing on the calf muscles I think most of us will agree that we had an enjoyable day out, and it was only the dogs who got to fighting during the photo session, Any bandits that were lurking in the area kept a low profile and we all made safely back. There is obviously a cultural difference between the 2 groups as upon our return to Durcal the Limpers headed for a bar and the rest made their way home to have a meal with their families.

Our walk this coming Sunday, the 21st, is from Marchena and climbs up the Sierra Del Manar. The walk involves about 600 meters of ascent on a well graded path before returning on the Camino de Forestall back to Marchena and takes about 3 hours.

If you want to come on the walk meet in Marchena in front of the Renault garage at 9.30. There is no tapa arranged but if any body wants to go for lunch we can try and book a table at the Mesquita hostel on the morning of the walk.

Alhama De Granada Mushroom hunt

2006-12-11T21:47:00.000+01:00

Dear limper

What a wonderful day we had this last Sunday, when we went looking for mushrooms. After what had been a pretty poor week, with heavy cloud and a lot of wind, Sunday was a stunner whilst on the cool side, some of the mushrooms we were picking came ready frozen, the sky was a deep blue and the sun shone all day. Our destination for our forage was the area around Casa forestal el Robledal Alta near Alhama de Granada. And now that the Padul/ Otiva road is resurfaced the drive there is an absolute delight. When we arrived at the carpark it was obvious that we were not the only ones out for a free meal, as all over the forest you could see people with their heads down shuffling about intent on looking for the prized Niscalo. This particular mushroom is quite difficult to spot as it tends to grow under moss and pine needles and proved elusive to the Brits in the group, who had to settle for second best with Blewits. Meanwhile Quina had wondered off to another area of the forest and returned, triumphant with her basket overflowing with the Niscalo (Lactarius Delicisus). On our way into the forest we had passed a restaurant called the " Pato Loco " so it was decided that with a name like that it had to be good to survive, and it was. It will now feature in future trips to this area. On our return to Padul we were invited to Quina's house for tea and refreshment.

The walk this coming Sunday the 17th December will take us back to Monachil for the usual walk up the gorge which takes about 3 hours and is classed suitable for Olwyn. Please meet outside the Acropolis bar in Mondujar at 9.30. Afterwards we return to Margaret's house in Murchas for tapa.

At the time of writing, no forager has reported in sick, mind you if they had died they wouldn't would they

Have a good week

Sunday 3rd December

2006-12-04T19:17:00.000+01:00

Dear Limper

Our planned walk this last Sunday, was supposed to be up above Cumbres Verde, which had been postponed from the week before due to low cloud. After a week of bright blue skies we were all looking forward to the rescheduled walk only to have our hopes dashed when we awoke Sunday morning after heavy over night rain, to find there was once again heavy grey skies over the Sierra Nevada Mountains. With the promise of sunshine down in the Happy Valley, we chose again to cancel the walk to Cumbre Verde which translates into Green Hilltop no doubt because it always appears to be wet up there. So after a delayed start due to our rescheduled destination we all set off for Beznar and a walk around the reservoir. Once again with a mixed bag of Nationalities, Dutch, English, French, Spanish and 4 dogs.I think we will have to change our name to LVL International. The only thing is me and Arthur aren't half getting some funny looks as we shepherd our flock of mujeres around. The walk is a pleasant one as it meanders around the lake edge, the only sting in the tail coming right at the end, is the climb back up into Chite. The Noche Azul was the planned finishing point with it's reputation for excellent tapa, particularly on a Sunday, where I am assured the roast pork is the finest in the valley. Unfortunately this Sunday, Miguel was not too keen to show off his culinary delights and so after one drink we said our good byes and headed off to Paco's bar in Cozvijar, where we felt sure a warm welcome and excellent service would await us. It must have been National Grumpy bar owners day, or something, because the only time he smiled was when we said goodbye.

Our outing this coming Sunday is a little bit different, because we are going to go on a mushroom foraging expedition to Jayena. Quina knows the area and has a good knowledge of what is good to eat, afterwards when we return to Padul it is intended that we go to the fiesta there and sample the food and drink on offer.

If you want to go on the walk please meet in the car park at Suspiro del Moro at 9.30 Sunday morning, bring a sharp knife and a bag to put your mushrooms in. The last time I went looking for ceps Quina and I came back with about 2 kilos. Please note what you pick and eat is your responsibility no death or injury claims will be accepted.

Walk to Melegis Castle Sunday 26th November 2006

2006-11-26T21:50:00.000+01:00

Dear Limper

Our walk this week was subject to a last minute change due to low cloud, whilst the Valley of Happiness was bathed in sunshine with a cool wind, our destination at Cumbres Verde was cocooned in a thick blanket of fog, thank you to Colin and Lesley in Monachil for alerting us to the situation. With no one willing to trade the sunshine for the fog a hasty about turn was made and we headed for Murchas and the walk to the Arabic castle before returning, via Melegis and the headless woman statue, to Murchas. Our decision to postpone the Cumbres Verde walk was, on balance, a wise one as low cloud continued to hang in the hills all day, whilst the sun shone on the righteous. Upon our return to Talara, Arthur suggested that refreshment be taken at the Noche Azul, no doubt so he could sample Miguel's Pork tapa.

We will try next week (Sunday 3rd December) to do this weeks postponed walk (subject to suitable weather) the details are the same as last week, a walk up Boca de la Pesca. We have walked around the lower edge of the hill on a number of occasions but we have never been to the top, not because it is difficult but because other tracks have been the objective. The plan is that we drive to Cerro de Sevilla above La Zubia and Cumbres Verdes, and walk out on a level path before we climb the 100 meters to the top of Boca de la Pesca, at this point depending on your level of fitness you can return the way you came, back to the car park giving you a round trip of about 6 km, or you can go on the extended route taking in Cumbres Verde. There is no planned tapa party afterwards, but no doubt a trip to Pacos bar in Cozvijar could be scheduled in if required. The views and the walking around this area are magnificent particularly now that we have snow on the Sierras.

If you want to go meet at the Acropolis bar in Mondjcar at 9.30 Sunday morning. Neither of the walks are difficult and they should be well within the capabilities of everyone.

The Photo shows Margaret, Jose, myself, Jossete checking if her head is still on and Andrew.

5th November Albunúelas

2006-11-08T18:05:00.000+01:00

Report from walk leader Graham.

Circular walk from Albnúelas Sunday 5th November

A small select band of English and French gathered in the overspill carpark, all prompt before 10am. The stand in leader, Graham (in the absence of El Presidente, Stuart) decided we would wait for 5-10 minutes for any latecomers. Where upon at 10.10 prompt we were suddenly overwhelmed by a large raiding party of Dutch. Finally we departed in the direction of the gorge with a group of eight Dutch, five English one French and 4 dogs (additionally, it is worthy of note that there were only three men in the group thus making it very difficult to keep control).

Nethertheless, the walk proved to be a success with beautiful weather and very pleasant views, particularly with interesting cloud formations above Nigúelas. Two new members, Plym (not sure of the spelling- apologies) and Deborah both said that they enjoyed themselves and promised to join us again in the future.

Liz and I are returning to England on Wednesday and unfortunately, we will not be back in Chite until March. We wish all "Limpers" a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

Graham.

Editors note.

Please note I am not responsible for the racist or sexist comments in this weeks report, as you all know from past news letters I try very hard to make everyone welcome and I try not to single out anyone, or group, for criticism, so I think it is a bit much picking on the Dutch for being late again.

Editor

To celebrate Bonfire night the tapa was held at the Masonic Lodge in chite. While we were expecting a reasonable turnout with the open invitation allowing none walkers to attend, which would have been difficult if it had not, seeing as neither I or Olwyn went on the walk, I gave up counting when the numbers exceeded 40. Once again the range of food was outstanding and the quality would surpass anything even Gary Rhodes could put on. In true bonfire tradition we had a Guy and a pretend bonfire, parkin, bonfire toffee, mushy peas, baked potatoes, BBQ, someone even found a packet of sparklers. and of course there was even time for a few games of Apple bobbing, hunt the marshmallows buried in flour and the old Maltesar and straw game.

It is with a sad farewell we say Adios to Alan,and Graham and Liz as they head off to a warmer climate for the winter, we look forward to their return in the spring.

We have a large selection of bowls and dishes that came with the tapa this weekend, if you are missing one or two can you call and collect.

We have to return to the UK sometime over the next couple of weeks so for the moment there are no further walks planned.

2006-11-08T18:02:00.000+01:00

29th October Izbor

2006-11-08T17:54:00.000+01:00

Dear Limper

Our walk this last weekend was a delight, I won't hear anybody say anything wrong about Izbor again, by the way, if you could not get the Izbor spell checker thing to work last week, I will just say that mine came up with "Inborn" whilst trying to correct "Izbor". The arrangements last weekend involved a lot of moving cars around, so we all met in Pinos del valle, then the drivers took the cars down to Izbor while the rest of us retired to a bar for coffee and tostada whilst awaiting the drivers return. The walk was being led by Nick and Carol who live in Pinos so I was a bit reluctant to mention anything when we headed up hill in a Northerly direction, when according to my memory Izbor was down hill and South,. We proceeded to hit all points of the compass for about 1 hour before finally heading off in the right direction. Nick did reassure us that he knew where he was going and was enhancing our experience of the area by taking us on unknown footpaths and alley ways. The path was an eye opener, with wonderful terraced Olive groves, lush green fields and paths winding amongst giant Cactus. What, from the motorway on the opposite side of the valley, looks like a hillside devoid of any charm is transformed into a walkers paradise. It was strange that as we arrived in Izbor what had been a well spread out group of walkers, suddenly became a tightly knit group, each person not wanting to be separated from his neighbough. Arriving at the Bar Casa Blanca the landlord wanted to know where we lived, when we mentioned Chite, Niguelas, Padul he rolled his eyes and gave us that superior knowing look of someone who had heard about the strange people who populated the head of the valley.

On our return to Chite we all went around to Liz and Graham's house for tapa. Once again the quality and range of food on offer was astounding.

This coming Sunday the arrangements are slightly different, first off I am not going on the walk, The walk will be lead by Graham and it is the delightful circular walk from Albunuelas the walk takes about 2.5 hours and is classed as easy and suitable for Olwyn. The walk starts from the car park in Albunuelas at 10 am then proceeds up hill for about 15 minutes before joining the track that runs alongside the top of the gorge, after about 1 hour the path swaps to the other side of the valley and returns to Albunuelas, where I feel sure a bar can be found for refreshment.

The tapa afterwards will be back at our house in Chite from around 4pm onwards, because of the significance of the date the 5th of November the tapa will take on a Bonfire night flavour. For our Spanish friends the 5th of November is an important fiesta day. When people all over Britain celebrate the fact that in 1605 a man named Guy Fawkes tried to blow up the Government, unfortunately he was caught and executed. The celebrations in Britain involve lighting big fires and setting off Fuegos artiificiales. You do not need to go on the walk in order to come to the tapa.

22nd October Fondales

2006-11-08T17:51:00.000+01:00

Dear All

Well this Sunday found us all heading off for the Alpujarras once again, I am really enjoying the walks in this area, its just a pity that it takes such a long time on slow and twisting roads before you arrive at your destination, you can then look back down the valley and see the hermitage above Pinos del valle only about 20 km away in a straight line, but 1 hour away by road. We had been promised sunshine on Sunday after a week of rain and heavy grey cloud, so it was with joy in our hearts that we set off from Fondales with blue skies and sunshine on what promised to be a spectacular walk, The path drops down into, and crosses the Rio Trevélez by way of an old arched bridge. In the past this bridge and route was used by the moors to transport their silk that they harvested and spun in the area. After a long steady climb we reached an old and apart from one modern house an abandoned community with spectacular views all around. No doubt soon some property developer will come along and build a smart apartment block there. From this point the way back takes an unlikely route straight down a cliff face, what possessed anyone to think that they could build a path down there in the first place is beyond me, but in actual fact the path is a work of art as it twist and turns. It makes its gentle way down with no feeling of exposure on the perilous hillside it descends. The path re-crosses the Rio trevélez via a natural stone bridge before returning to our starting point at Fondales. At this point I would like to apologise to the rest of the group for inadvertently walking past a refreshment house, there had been numerous calls along our walk, that a bar would be very welcome and I did not recognise and failed to take any notice of the fact that a picnic table with a can of beer on and a twelve year old girl, was in-fact a bar selling cold beer and that the young girl was the landlady. We returned to Chite and Josettes house for an excellent tapa, Josette had not been able to accompany us on the walk stating she needed to prepare the tapa for our return. A more believable story later emerged when we learnt that there had been a tennis match on the television in the afternoon. Josette has found a pair of sunglasses that have been left at her house, so if anybody as left them or if you just fancy a new pair please contact Josette.

The walk this coming Sunday is the long time postponed walk to Izbor, there as been a lot of interest shown in this walk particularly as stories have gone around about the residents of this Pueblo having 2 heads and tails. Just as a an experiment type izbor into Microsoft word spell checker, Our guides for the walk this week are Nick and Carol and they assure me that it is virtually all down hill and takes about 4 hours and it is not classed as difficult. Once again the transport arrangements are a bit complicated but basically if you want to go on the walk meet at the T junction were you come up from the dam into Pinos del Valle, at 9.30. At this point some folks will go to the bar Venecia for pre walk coffee, while the drivers will take cars down to Izbor, and then return by car to bar Venecia for the start of the walk. Tapa will be held at Liz and Grahams house in Chite afterwards.

15th October Guajar Faraguit

2006-11-08T17:46:00.000+01:00

Dear Limpers

Well what an interesting day out we had today, let me start at the beginning, A couple of weeks ago Alan and my self were invited to join a walking group run by Guillermo from the Nomadas outdoor sports shop in Durcal (The number 1 spot in the area for all your outdoor gear) and we had a very enjoyable day out and met and made friends with a group of Spanish walkers. To thank them for their kindness shown to us, we invited them to join us on today's walk. So it was with great excitement that a group of 11 British and 13 Spanish made their way to Guajar Alto. Where,, after stopping for coffee at Comidas Carmen a long line of walkers set of for the walk back to Guajar Faraquit. We had not been walking for long before it soon became apparent that what once had been a very good path had detoriated after the storms a couple of months back, and it was not long before the group spread out with the leaders disappearing into the distance only reappearing again when we got back to the Bar in Faraquit. At this point I must apologise to the weaker walkers in the group who found the route more difficult than was originally advertised, but having only walked the route in the opposite direction before I had not appreciated there was so many uphill sections. But help was at hand for the final road section when Nick turned up in his car to collect the stragglers. After refreshment in the bar, the cars were recovered from Guarjar Alto and 14 of the group returned to Jose's house in Pinos del Valle for an excellent tapa table.

The walk this coming Sunday the 22nd of October is a new one for the group and takes us back into the Alpujarras and to the pretty village of Mercina Fondales. In order not to confuse or mislead anyone about the walk the guide book describes it as taking 3 hours, covering 9km, it has 400 meters of ascent and descent and is of average difficulty. No responsibility accepted for the accuracy of these details. As you can probably work out from the above, I received a number of death threats after today's walk. After the walk we return to Josette's house in Chite for tapa and to celebrate her birthday.

If you want to go on the walk meet at the Acropolis bar in Mondujar at 9am for the drive up to Fondales which takes about 1 hour, with stops/breaks/diversions and the un-organised chaos of this weeks walk we should return to Chite for about 4pm.

5th October 2006 Walk with the Giants

2006-11-08T17:41:00.000+01:00

Dear Limper

Our walk last Sunday, walking with Giants in the Sierra Nevada turned out to be one the best multi-ability walks we have done. What looked like a shambles and a disaster in the making, was transformed into something better than the original concept. The original plan was that we would drive to Capileria catch the 11 am national park bus that would take us up Mulachen, walk for 4 hours before catching the 4.15 bus back to Capileria. We discovered by chance on the Saturday that we had been accidentally booked onto the Saturday bus instead of the Sunday an easy mistake to make in English but not quite so easy with Sabado and Domingo in Spanish, but never mind, nothing lost when they told us we could transfer to Sunday instead , except that we could not catch the 16,15 bus we would have to take the 18.45 instead. this left us with a further 2.5 hours to fill. After hours of debate into the early hours of Sunday morning and so many different plans that we were investigating, using the Chinese alphabet to name them, a solution was found. So Sunday morning found 8 of us in Capileria on a day with a crystal clear blue sky and perfect walking temperatures. Plan Z called for a car to be left in Capileria where 6 of us caught the national park bus stopping off at the upper car park to collect the remaining 2. The bus dropped us all at the Mirador de Trevélez at 12, where, after the family photos, the group split into 2 groups. with the girls doing a 2.5 hour walk following the gentle downhill slope back to the upper car park and then returning to Capileria for Sunday lunch and a look around the shops, while the boys headed for the Refugio at the head of the Poqueira gorge. This is an amazing place situated high amongst the mountains of Veleta and Mulachen and open all year round with sleeping for over 100 people, it serves food to weary travellers and after walking for 1 hour we thought sustenance was needed and so we stopped for soup and tortilla. Our return route should have taken us straight down the valley back to Capileria, but instead we headed uphill on a unknown shortcut, some 40 minutes later we returned past the front of the Refugio before picking up the path going straight down the valley. After about 1 hour you come across 2 Acequia with a path between them that you can follow back to Capileria and which, according to legend, defy the laws of gravity by making water flow uphill. In any case it provided 2 hours of light hearted banter between the opposing uphill or downhill water groups, On our return to Capileria some 6.5 hours after leaving the bus a welcome refreshment was taken at a small bar.

Over the years that the lecrin Limpers have been running a repeated topic of conversion has been the safety and security of the group from Bandits and Desperado's who may attack us at any time whilst we are out on the fells. To this end we have always relied on Graham armed with his bowie knife to keep us secure, but as he gets older and the group gets bigger we have begun to realise he can no longer guarantee the full protection that we come to expect. To remedy this situation a number of us have taken up training in armed combat run by Angel from the Granada National police. Already I can feel the benefit of the aggressive look the trainees have now got. Only yesterday we came across an old shepherd, who last week may have attempted to rob us, this week he just sat on a rock and waved at us. In retrospect I think he was saying don't go that way,

The walk next Sunday the 15th October is from Guajar Alto back to Guarjar Faraguit the walk should take about 2.5 hours and apart from an up hill section at the start is mostly down hill, the walk is classed as suitable for Olwyn. Meet at the Acropolis bar Mondujar at 9.30 for the drive to Guajar Faraguit, where we have to leave one car before driving on to Guajar Alto. The after walk tapa club will then meet at Jose's house in Pinos del Vale.

Planned Walk 8th October

2006-11-08T17:39:00.000+01:00

Dear Limper

The planned Izbor walk for the 8th October has been postponed, Because we have to fit in a high altitude walk before the weather deteriorates. This walk is a unique opportunity for everyone to experience walking amongst the Giants! The highest mountains in Spain, Mulhacen at 3479 Meters, Veleta, Caballo, and the best bit there is no effort involved. All the hard work is done by a bus run by the Sierra Nevada National park which takes us from Capileira to the Mirador de Trevélez at 2700 meters. leaving you with a virtually level high altitude walk along the old Veleta mountain road. The intended destination is the Glacial lake of the Laguna de Caldera but because we use the same route for both the outward and return journey you are under no pressure to walk further than what you feel comfortable with.

We catch the 11.00 am bus from Capileira which drops us off about 1 hour later at the top and we catch the return bus at 4.15 leaving us with about 4 hours to explore this wonderful area.

The return bus journey costs 7.50 euro and places on the bus are limited and have to be prebooked, Please let us know by Monday 2nd of October if you want us to reserve you a place. If you book a ticket you will have to pay even if you don't turn up. If the weather is poor and the bus is not running then you don't have to pay.

If you want to come, contact me and reserve a place on the bus.

Meet at the acropolis bar Modujar 9.30 Sunday 8th for the drive to Capileira.

We will plan to get back to Mondujar around 7pm.

24th September Restabal

2006-11-08T17:38:00.000+01:00

Dear Limper

It is with deep regret that I have to announce that this coming weekend the 1st of October there will be no organised Limper walk. This is due to an expected hangover on the Sunday morning.

Our walk this week from Albunuelas to Restabal was a great success the weather was ideal, deep blue skies, warm sunshine and a tail wind. The walk is a linear one and so involves having enough cars to transport everyone to Albunuelas and leaving something behind so that the drivers can return later to retrieve them. With 18 Limpers turning out it was obviously too much for our logistics manager and it was a disorganized rabble who made their way to the start of the walk. From Albunuelas the walk follows the GR7 path, (the second time in 2 weeks that we have been on a section of the GR7 at this rate we have only got another 3000 km to go and we will have done it all) all the way through the campo land down to Saleres before crossing the Rio and continuing into Restabal, where we retired to the Bar Sifon for a quick drink and pre tapa, tapa. Afterwards when all the cars had been recovered we retired to Arturo's garden to continue the eating and drinking.

17th September Nigúelas

2006-11-08T17:28:00.000+01:00

Dear Limper

Our walk last Sunday started from the car par in Niguelas. We headed off on the GR7 route to Murchas before taking the newly upgraded road going down into and across the Rio Torrente. The road has been constructed at great expense but does not appear to serve any purpose what so ever. Once over the river we climbed the opposite bank into Acequias. For the return trip to Niguelas it was democratically decided to take the higher of the two routes as this affords good views over the Torrente and Niguelas. About halfway up this path you can take a branch of the GR7 that returns you to Niguelas and this was our chosen route. We had not gone very far when we came across a Scorpion hiding under a rock, for me and a number of others in the group it was the first time we had come across anything so dangerous and there was only Dave who wanted to stroke it. Back down by the Rio Torrente we decided to take a detour on a recently reconstructed footpath running along side an Acequias, This is obviously the Alcades pride and joy because they have done a good job with the path and fences, but the section with the narrow path and overhanging rock has been left, unfortunately this was too much for some members and they had to turn back. We all met up again in Niguelas for a trip around the old Olive mill, and we finished off at Antonio's and Marie Trinnies house for Tapa and a sing song with Antonio leading the way on his Guitarra,

The walk this coming Sunday is from Albunuelas to Restabal an easy walk that takes about 2 hours and is virtually all down hill, we will then go on to Bar Jovi for tapa. Anybody who then fancies walking back to Chite can do.

Meet at the church in Restabal at 9.30, where we will leave at least one car, we then drive along to Albunuelas and walk back to Restabal, later returning by car to Albunuelas to collect the cars. This walk is classed suitable for Olwyn.

10th September 2006 Capileira

2006-11-08T17:09:00.000+01:00

Dear Limper

The walk last Sunday found us heading to Capileira and up the Poqueira gorge as far as the hydro station at La Cebadilla, The walk climbs steeply at first as it leaves the village of Capileira causing a few members to question their judgement in choosing to come out walking again with the group, but after 10 minutes or so the track levels off and all is forgotten as we head towards the abandoned village of Cebadilla reportedly built to service the hydro station. The track is easy walking and gives magnificent views of the surrounding peaks. At Cebadilla the track crosses the river and returns along the opposite bank passing through terraced farm land. If we had had more time and carrier bags with us we could have stopped to pick delicious tasting Blackberries growing in the hedge rows. The path meanders along the hillside for about 1 hour before recrossing the river and climbing back up into Capileira, where we stopped for a drink before returning to Chite for tapa.

The walk this coming Sunday is a short local walk starting at the carpark in Niguelas at 9am and going to Acequias and either returning to Niguelas along the edge the Rio Torrente or taking the path that climbs up Cerro Alto, the path chosen will depend upon the abilities of the group. Afterwards we will stop for a drink and tapa in Niguelas, if they have anything left after their week long fiesta.

Meet at the carpark in Niguelas 9am Sunday