The foothills of the Sierra Nevada

Today we went to a poor man’s Alhambra. We sought jaw-dropping beauty, tumbling cascading water, refreshing cool…. and peace. Javi delivered us a day in which, only some 12 km from Granada, we experienced soul-soothing quiet, dramatic views – and just a touch of adventure. And not a tourist in sight.

We started our day climbing from Monachil, a village set among arid yellow and red tinted slopes. As we went on, dramatic rock formations scrambled high above us.

Our path narrowed. We were obliged to hang onto nearly sheer rock and manoeuvre ourselves along a route whose path followed a stream. Swaying bridges too.

As our gorge widened, there were different views, and a grassy plain for a mid-morning rest. We watched choughs wheeling high above us, preparing to nest high on the mountainside.

There were Mediterranean herbs, gorse, butterflies. And suddenly, over there in the distance, Granada.

Our circuit was almost complete. We’re refreshed, invigorated and renewed. Especially after our tapas, eaten sitting in a sunny riverside bar in Monachil. Don’t choose. Get what you’re given. Perfect.

Here we are. One of Jo’s Monday Walks on a Tuesday…https://restlessjo.me/jos-monday-walk/

Author: margaret21

I'm retired and living in North Yorkshire, where I walk as often as I can, write, volunteer, and travel as often as I can.

32 thoughts on “The foothills of the Sierra Nevada”

  3. Eek! Medals for all I think, but especially for Malcolm. It looks fantastic though, and probably smelt so too. And the guide looks very happy to have got his flock through safely.

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  9. Oh my! That is magnificent, what a priviledge to share it with you. Sadly, mine will always be a vicarious experience – there is no way I could manage the cliff edge or the swing bridges. (I’m still recovering from just looking at the photos!)

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  10. What an antidote to the busy touristy world! And right up your alley, you who love a good ramble. The photos make it look pretty daunting–but what a beautiful weather day you had!

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  12. “Our path narrowed. We were obliged to hang onto nearly sheer rock and manoeuvre ourselves along a route whose path followed a stream. ” Wow! that picture looked scarey! Kudos for making that climb and taking pics while you did so. Very scenic and lovely

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  14. Like most of your commentators I’m very impressed at you both. The bridge and that narrow path made my stomach churn!

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  15. Pingback: Jo’s Monday walk : Rock cistus and water | restlessjo

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