Pico Ruivo
Monday, 14th April
| Distance: | 8 miles |
| Total Ascent: | 3,120 feet |
| Total Descent: | 3,610 feet |
| Time: | 6 hours |
| Weather: | Misty |
Pico de Areiero, Pico das Torres - shoulder, Pico Ruivo, Achada de Teixera
Yesyerday the main feature of the walk was 'many tunnels'! Today it is lots and lots and lots and lots of steps, both up and down! When we weren't climbing or descending the route took us along contouring paths, often with steep drops into the valley below. While the weather was often misty there were great views in the brief clear spells. The route had been closed previously because of a serious landslide. However, the leaders had been assured that the route was open. What they did not know was that the actual path had not been cleared but a diversion had been created involving a 2km steeply undulating path which needed iron steps set into the rock to navigate the more difficult parts!
The final section to Pico Ruivo was an easy 'tourist' track but unfortunately when we reached the summit the mist had closed in. It was then an easy descent to reach our transport and waiting drivers.
Stopping to enjoy the views . . .
which come and go . . .
as we contour along the hillside . . .
with some steep drops . . .
and lots of steps
The route follows a similar profile . . .
but the views are constantly changing . . .
and sometimes the drop . . .
is quite dramatic
Eventially we reach the shoulder . . .
of Pico das Torres . . .
where we stop for 'elevenses'
A little snow hides in the gully . . .
and the route continues on . . .
and a couple of photos . . .
of our back marker . . .
before more views . . .
in clearer conditions
Ahead we find can see the landslide (in the centre of the photo) so we have to make a detour . . .
into another valley . . .
where metal steps help us climb the steeper parts
Eventually at the other side of the landslide . . .
and you can just make out the path the earlier photo was taken from
Then it's more valley views . . .
before reaching Pico Ruivo . . .
and the photographer gets in the shot
Down the 'yellow' brick road . . .
for a group shot . . .
and one of the leaders and drivers
A typical Santana house . . .
where Richard poses . . .
The ironing must have taken a long time
I hope the occupants didn't bang their heads when they got up!