The second highest mountain in the Pyrenees.
My apologies again for not blogging more often. I have plenty of ideas, that will hopefully make for an interesting read. With the long cold nights of winter upon us; I hope to use the time wisely and put all those ideas to paper. Today’s blog is about my ascent of the second highest mountain in the Pyrenees. Standing at 3,369 metres and over ten miles from the nearest road; climbing Posets is a great day out in nature. I have written a full account of my day on Posets; which you can read here: Posets.
If you do not have time to read or just prefer photographs; here below is a photo journal of that day.
Climbing out of Eriste
Through the forests of the deep Eriste valley
A view back down the valley to the Refuge Angel Orus and the approximate route through the trees.
Sunrise
To the Canal Fonda
A view up the Canal Fonda; without snow in early October 2022. The path keeps to the cliff on the left until it reaches the Coll in the top left of the photograph.
Espalda of Posets
Views from the summit of Posets
Taking it steady on the descent
“Climb if you will, but remember that courage and strength are nought without prudence, and that a momentary negligence may destroy the happiness of a lifetime. Do nothing in haste; look well to each step; and from the beginning think what may be the end.”
― Edward Whymper, Scrambles Amongst the Alps
I started walking at 4am and reached the summit around 11am. I am a slow walker, and I was carrying a fairly heavy rucksack with too much emergency clothing and cold weather equipment. The route was easy to follow, yet a headtorch is obviously needed if beginning your walk in the dark. Watch out for the path on the right in a wide grassy valley, approximately an hour above the Refuge Angel Orus.
I spent approximately twenty minutes on the summit; enjoying the views as well as a packed ham and cheese baguette. Having climbed many mountains of similar size; I knew reaching the summit is only halfway. Descending can be just as tiring on your legs and joints. As well as the reduced grip caused by your centre of gravity being slightly behind you as step down. On the higher slopes there are many sections of oose rock or scree. Take care and concentrate on each step.
A route to relax
I stopped many times on the descent to take in the views and rest my now tiring legs. There is a stream in the valley before the Canal Fonda for drinking water. It looks clear yet I used sterilising tablets to be safe.
I think this route is unsuitable for younger children. I would only consider taking a teenager who wants to do the walk. Similarly, small dogs might struggle with some sections, high on the mountain.
This route is not technically difficult so I would highly recommend to any keen hill walker if you were in the area. My level of fitness was low at the time, so I struggled walking for a few days afterwards.
A memorable day all the same. With many wide and varied views in the natural beauty of the Spanish Pyrenees. I hope you can come and enjoy it too.
