Early start after a good night’s sleep. Pleasant walk up to the refugi that looks like an American trailer tied to a rock. Colin loves it and he’s right. The English book explains that we can take an easier route if we find snow but it’s not too clear about which way to go. The marks seem to disappear and there is snow and scree but it’s not dangerous. Over the pass however there’s masses of snow. Starting early was our saving grace and the snow is hard and in shade. Maybe 3 hours of walking on snow in total. After the snow we come across another refuge which is just a tin shed and wonderful views of the valley of Arinsal where it gets greener and greener as you go down. Arinsal is a dump and we have a bad pint of Guinness on the high street and then find a cash-point. A steep climb up from Arinsal and we meet a Dutch couple coming down who warn us that it’s a long way up. As we start our descent the storm hits and we try to run although it’s very slippery and steep on the way to Arans. Unbelievably heavy rain and we get to the edge of Arans and seek whatever shelter the entrance to a private garage can give us. I can’t find my camera for a moment and when I do we dance for joy in the rain. Soaked, soaked, soaked. A hotel is not far and it’s an aparthotel with a BATH! Put everything out to dry but the heating’s not on. Walk to the next hotel for an average dinner and the heavens open again so we stay in the bar with the Germans watching the football.
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