Our schedule alternated easy and hard days. Yesterday was an 11 km easy day. Today was 25 km, so no question that it was one of the hard days. From the Cuernos refugio we continued under clear skies to the middle of the W in the W route, the French Valley.
After continuing to skirt below the Cuernos and looking ahead at the massive Paine Grande peak, the trail turned up (and I do mean up) along the French River. This river with its rocky cascades paralleled our route as the trail climbed higher above it. This gave us views of the other side of the Cuernos, a peek at the back of the Torres and a panorama of lakes and mountains in all directions. The Shark Fin was an especially distinctive feature.
My position far at the back of the pack became more pronounced as I developed significant problems with my feet and toes. If there was a consolation it was in discovering enough toughness to persevere. How often would there be such perfect conditions and would I ever be able to return? I remembered the days when I would have kept up with those young hikers (and admittedly some my age too). But I hope never to lose my love for these wild places and I hope they are still there for these next generations.
Adventure Life has been an extraordinary travel resource for us over the years and today was no exception. Our River Cruise booking was handled by Jess (who has been our personal trip planner for several years) the same day as our inquiry. Suggestions were given for cabin choice and pre-trip options (that were not shown on the cruise line's website) like airport transfers and prepaid gratuities. Trip insurance recommendations followed and we were assigned a travel co-ordinator till the end of the tour. All we have to do is show up! Great service from friendly folks.
APtravelwell
1 day ago
My representative Kevin was very responsive generally and in crafting our itinerary to our specific priorities.
Rocco Labella
1 day ago
Although there was a lot of paper work, I received help and guidance when I needed it.
Donna Kirby
2 days ago
Our travel was flawless! The rider pickup (airport, hotel, ship) was seamless. Jane's recommendation for Emerald Cruise Sakara was everything I wanted but the experience was soooo much more. Adventure Life took care of each and every detail and this was the easiest of all my travels.
Anne Petty
3 days ago
Follow up was effective any questions were answered in a timely manner