Study Abroad: Les Pyrénées

 "Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop away from you like the leaves of Autumn." 

-john muir

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Living so close to the Pyrénées, I've been able to go on several excursions into this beautiful mountain range. It's so different from what I'm used to back home- all shrouded in forest with hidden waterfalls. The Pyrénées are bolder- all purple and green, rising quickly from near sea-level. 

Pic du Midi d'Ossau 

My first hike in the Pyrénées started out cold and foggy, but with a sense of excitement- how often would I have the opportunity to do something like this? We started out in the forest, trailing through a valley with streams and rocks. Eventually we came out on the side of a hill, and our guide, Bernard, shouted regardez! The dense clouds were shifting, revealing the magnificent peak. There were 3 stunning lakes, and many nearly-wild horses who's bells could be heard ringing throughout the mountains. 

Cirque de Gavernie

Our hike to Cirque de Gavernie was a little less intense, but beautiful just the same, featuring the tallest waterfall in Europe; on the other side of which lies Spain. Normally there's a hotel there that features a café, but it was closed for the season. Seeing the snow on the mountains was remarkable, the mountains seemed much more bold and imposing.

Pic d'Ayous

My last, and probably most intense hike, was the sommet of Pic d'Ayous. it was so incredible to look around and see the melange of purples, greens and yellows of the mountains. We started out by winding back and forth across the mountain side, but eventually it turned into a steep direct uphill climb. Once we reached the top of climb, we thought we were finished, but Bernard had other plans, guiding us past the edge of a cliff and up another steep climb. Once we finally reached the top, I was struck by the strong winds that took my breath away. It is so incredible what nature is capable of; what our Creator is capable of.