The big adventure of the Spring was undoubtedly the climbing of Martin Gil. From the village there is one mountain that takes the eye - a nice cliched pyramid shape - and which dominates the view. Interestingly, I know a chap in Cortes (from where the mountain can't be seen) who didn't know which one it was... we are so parochial here. Even the accents change from village to village.
On the only day forecast not to be rainy, we climbed up from Cortes in the morning, via the track to the Llanos de Libar, on the other side of the ridge, then cut across and climbed up onto the peak.
The views were stunning. Jimera was tiny.
We could see south to the Rock of Gibraltar, the Mediterranean, and over to the Rif mountains in Morocco.
One of the surprises was the number of flowers so high up, especially some tiny wild narcissi growing among the rocks.
We had lunch watching the vultures beneath us, scrambled about on the rocks (at least I did) then headed down along the ridge towards Cortes, eventually getting back to the house at 8.45, just as it was getting dark.
And was I sore the next day?.......
Wednesday, 19 May 2010
Martin Gil
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Spring
In a hidden valley above Jimera, where the almond trees are covered in blossom and the ground covered with irises. The wild flowers in the early months of the year are breathtaking. Swathes of yellow, red, blue and white.
Jimera in the evening
The westerly aspect of the village means that in summer the sun shines on the village until late in the evening.
On the road to Jimera
Jimera is tucked into the mountains. You can just see the top of the church above the first ridge.
The garden of the Guadiaro
The part of the Guadiaro valley where Jimera is situated has its own micro climate which allows oranges and other fruits to flourish in addition to the almonds and olives typical of the area.
Jimera looking south west
The village does not get the same valley mists and winter rain that affect villages nearer the coast. Often, the sky is clear when Cortes de la Frontera, the next village to the south west, is hidden by cloud.
Near the village
Surrounding the Village there are numerous tracks and paths, some dating back to roman times and beyond, which you can follow and find a quiet spot to sit and read or write. Or just sit.
The swimming pool at La Jara
Don't forget your swimming costumes, although a few prefer the more social aspect of the village pool.
El Puerto de las Encinas Borrachas in winter
It doesn't snow very often, but, when it does, it is a big event. Here at the Puerto de las Encinas Borrachas (Pass of the Drunken Holm Oaks), there was enough snow two years ago to close the road for a day. The next day though, it was sunny, if a bit cold.
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1 comment:
Great climbing photos. An epic to rival anything the Lake District has to offer...!
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