Columns

We intended to go to Jaca today, but we got up so late that it didn't seem worth it. Instead we went to Graus again. This time the tourist information office was open, and the helpful man there was happy to recommend a walking tour around the town, taking in the Basilica of Nuestra Señora de la Peña perched on a cliff above the town (blip) and returning via one of the original town gates and the narrow streets of the old town. Back in the Plaza Mayor I decided to try the panorama feature of my Sony without much success (the extra is thanks to S's efforts; apparently he has a steadier hand than I do). 

By now it was lunchtime, so we sat outside a cafe recommended by the man in the tourist office for a light lunch and a couple of glasses of cava. We decided to return by the most direct route, via the massif above the Fueva valley -- certainly more exciting than the main road, especially when you meet a lorry taking up the whole width of the road. Luckily the lorry and its accompanying JCB were the only vehicles we met.There were some fabulous views towards the snow-tipped Pyrenees. We also passed a Buddhist monastery tucked into a fold of the hills, but the monks were on holiday, so there wasn't a soul about

Back in Ainsa, another detour to take a picture postcard shot of the town against its mountainous backdrop. Odd to see snow when the temperature where you are is 20C. Then home for tea in the garden, soaking up the last few rays of sunshine. Hard to believe it's the end of October!