In the Wilderness

Villargordo’s camp site is on a hill above the lake. An abandoned hamlet has been restored to provide stone and wooden cabins as well as a camping and caravan site. The site aims to provide the wilderness experience with plenty of adventure thrown in. Tonight, out of season, there are just a few of us here enjoying the peace and quiet.

The next day is bright and clear and we decide to walk to the highest point in the area. Pic de Molengo at 1041 metres it provides an excellent view of the plains on both sides of this particular range of hills. The footpaths are well marked and despite maps in Spanish we find our way through the almond groves and vineyards which cover the lower ground. Soon we are into the pine trees and eventually reach the summit. Not too many people about but we did strike up a conversation with the local shepherd cum goatherd (we never discovered if he was lonely but seemed happy in his work) who was tending his flock near the summit – two dogs for company and an umbrella for rain or shine.

Back to the van for a cup of tea (we do try and keep up traditions!) and then out again in the opposite direction to explore the lake and follow a footpath to a local viewpoint. We walked between wild juniper, rosemary and thyme with a cold north wind and mud slides making our going a little difficult at times. Not much wildlife to see but spotted a rock bunting (a first for us both), a hoopoe and a swallow - Spring must be here!

We have not said too much so far about how we are finding being so close for so long. Well rather well actually. Obviously each day is pock marked with the inevitable sniping that has always been a central pillar of our long and happy marriage but John continues to be obliviously cheerful and Margaret, as always, remains strong in very difficult circumstances!!!