Although the last week has had really amazing scenery, I was missing some social contact due to walking alone. I looked forward to talking to people at the refuge I booked tonight at Val Ferrera.
I got up pretty early today to avoid walking in the sun. The morning climbs look better and feel much easier in the shade.
Cows dominated this valley, but once I climbed above a meadow, horses took their place.
I quickly made it up the gentle slope to Col de Sellente.
After the col, I descended to a hut by a lake to have lunch. It was still early so I went for a quick swim in the water, which was too cold for me.
Some time later, I continued down the valley to a stream. I dipped my feet in before continuing to Val Ferrera. It was a really hot day.
At the refuge, I ate dinner and met some other hikers, including one Spanish guy who was doing the HRP but also climbing a bunch of peaks as side quests. He did 3000m of climbing today, which is insane.
Alpenglow on the nearby peaks
Starting the climb in the shade for once
Following the GR 11 today, red and white stripes
Really easy, gentle trail reminds me of Yosemite valley
Meadow
Quick break
Col de Sellente, 2487m
Baborte hut, an unstaffed high altitude refuge with 8 bunks inside.
Swim spot at Estany de Baborte
Water was cold but super clear
View from Refugi de Val Ferrera
Pla de Boavi to Refugi de Val Ferrera - 13.47km and 1297m gained.