I only had one goal in mind for today-to swim in a lake. My body needed a break from the past few days of high cols and difficult hiking, so I kept the mileage short in order to relax.
By the road in Espitau de Vielha, I ran into Dan and Benjamin, two HRP hikers who had done the same itinerary as me yesterday. They shared my desire to bathe in cold water today.
I reached the Lake Rius by mid-afternoon, so I had plenty of time to swim and lay in the sun. I may have stayed a bit too long because the next day I felt a slight sunburn on my chest.
For the final part of the day, I descended 7 km along the GR 11 and climbed a short but steep hill to my destination, Refugi Restanca by a dammed lake. Here I ran into Benjamin and Dan again, so we had a drink. They left to bivouac somewhere, and I decided to stay in the refuge. I spent the rest of the day cooking all of my food and eating way too much mashed potatoes.
Tomorrow I will be in Salardú, a town and resupply point!
The morning descent
After I ate a big lunch, I climbed a gentle slope following the GR 11. It was not a difficult trail but I still felt tired from yesterday.
Back on the GR 11
Lac de Rius
Swim spot
Dinner
He wanted some cheese
Refugi Mulleres to Refugi Restanca - 17.0km and 1045m gained.