Ed and Harry’s takeover here, for a brief overview of the past few days wandering around the mountains.

After a long and surprisingly easy journey up into the mountains we were ready to attack some big walks. We unloaded our dads bags into our own so they had an easier time, (M & N’s note – don’t quite remember this ??!), and set off. The first day mainly consisted of steep horrible tree routes, with minimal views. Not what we originally signed up for. Luckily, the ‘Areste’ suite waiting for us in the Hotel Areù didn’t disappoint, and we found a nice bar to spend the afternoon and evening.

Day 2 we made our way up towards the Refugio, which was a real downgrade from our previous sleeping arrangement. A night spent in Stinky Pete’s BO fog followed by a rubbish breakfast could’ve left us in bad spirits – but we were just happy to get some fresh air as we started the 3rd, and best, day of walking.

A huge ascent up led to some crazy lakes and great views, even when Harry decided to take us on a rather large detour onto GR11.1 (see attached very obvious pic of the sign).

A sharp and hard descent pulled us down into Arinsal, where beers and huge steaks were waiting for us.

Luckily the storms that Neil had been threatening us with for 3 days turned out to be completely inaccurate, and we experienced only lovely sunshine.

The last rest day in Arinsal has been exactly that, and was very much needed, and revolves around sitting around drinking coffee and sleeping primarily. We had a decent send off meal last night too – before leaving them to it and heading back home.

Fair play to the old guys, that walking lark is tough, and to say we’re both knackered after 4 days and they’re on almost day 40 now has given Harry and I some new found respect for our Dads. It’s been a great trip and one that we won’t be forgetting anytime soon!

Adios !

Ed and Harry