tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56656650796561911462024-03-13T04:08:38.791+01:00Pyrenees Mountain Adventurewww.pyreneesmountainadventure.comAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.comBlogger116125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-40862773997082523032017-10-13T15:01:00.001+02:002017-10-16T14:11:12.721+02:00Brown Bears and Mountain Farmers - Is Cohabitation Possible?<div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="c2vo2" data-offset-key="8uf5c-0-0">
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="8uf5c-0-0">
<span data-offset-key="8uf5c-0-0"><span data-text="true">Mid September a video was sent to local media in the Ariège Pyrenees.</span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="8uf5c-0-0"><span data-text="true">In the video a spokesperson for the group of about 30 heavily armed individuals, their faces hidden by balaclavas, threatens to start hunting the brown bears in the Pyrenees which are a protected species. </span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="8uf5c-0-0"><span data-text="true"> </span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="8uf5c-0-0"><span data-text="true"> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2-470cAfDzY/WeCy0Ft7JuI/AAAAAAAADng/ZqCMOyHule8k_0SBNohirtdMQSTMAZ5LACLcBGAs/s1600/une-trentaine-d-hommes-masques-et-armes-apparaissent-sur-cette-video-deposee-de-facon-anonyme-dans-la-boite-aux-lettres-de-plusieurs-medias.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Masked men, weapons, balaclavas" border="0" data-original-height="625" data-original-width="1000" height="250" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2-470cAfDzY/WeCy0Ft7JuI/AAAAAAAADng/ZqCMOyHule8k_0SBNohirtdMQSTMAZ5LACLcBGAs/s400/une-trentaine-d-hommes-masques-et-armes-apparaissent-sur-cette-video-deposee-de-facon-anonyme-dans-la-boite-aux-lettres-de-plusieurs-medias.jpg" title="30 armed men, faces hidden by balaclavas, threaten to start hunting brown bears in the Pyrenees." width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still from video</td></tr>
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<span data-offset-key="8uf5c-0-0"><span data-text="true"> </span></span></div>
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="8uf5c-0-0">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WCIIh98sesk&feature=youtu.be" target="_blank"><span data-offset-key="8uf5c-0-0"><span data-text="true">This excellent programme </span></span></a><span data-offset-key="8uf5c-0-0"><span data-text="true"><span data-offset-key="bem4-0-0"><span data-text="true"><span style="color: lime;"><b>C Politique</b> <b>Le Débat</b></span> was broadcast on <span style="color: lime;"><b>Arte</b></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="8uf5c-0-0">
<span data-offset-key="8uf5c-0-0"><span data-text="true"><span data-offset-key="bem4-0-0"><span data-text="true">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WCIIh98sesk&feature=youtu.be</span></span> </span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="8uf5c-0-0"><span data-text="true">looks at both sides of the issue about whether brown bears and mountain farmers can cohabit in the Pyrenees.</span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="8uf5c-0-0"><span data-text="true"> </span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="8uf5c-0-0"><span data-text="true"> </span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="8uf5c-0-0"><span data-text="true"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WCIIh98sesk&feature=youtu.be" target="_blank"><img alt="TV studio, audience, C Le Débat, " border="0" data-original-height="444" data-original-width="857" height="206" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TIEVUHE7sxs/WeCzXo0VFKI/AAAAAAAADno/69T1EkoMcgEE8Q9qLmRvhXt-TIcE16GUACLcBGAs/s400/doc%2Bours.png.jpg" title="Studio debate 'C Le Débat' sur Arte: Is Cohabitation Possible? Brown Bears and Mountain Farmers in the Pyrenees." width="400" /></a></div>
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<div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="c2vo2" data-offset-key="bem4-0-0">
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<span data-offset-key="bem4-0-0"><span data-text="true"> </span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="bem4-0-0"><span data-text="true"> </span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="bem4-0-0"><span data-text="true"><span style="color: lime;"><b>1:46 mins.</b> <b>8 minute introductory film.</b></span> Sets out the pro and anti arguments for brown bear reintroduction in the Pyrenees and covers the summer attacks on livestock by brown bears and the video of the group threatening to start hunting the bears if the government does not start to listen to their concerns.</span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="bem4-0-0"><span data-text="true"> </span></span></div>
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="bem4-0-0">
<span style="color: lime;"><span data-offset-key="bem4-0-0"><span data-text="true"><b>10:00 mins.</b> <b>Studio debate between</b> <b> </b></span></span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="bem4-0-0"><span data-text="true"><span style="color: lime;"><b>Alan Reynes (Pro Bear) -</b></span> the Director of the Association 'Pays de l'Ours' and <span style="color: lime;"><b>François Toulis (Anti Bear) -</b></span> President of the Ariège Chamber of Agriculture. </span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="bem4-0-0"><span data-text="true"> </span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="bem4-0-0"><span data-text="true"><span style="color: lime;"><b>25:00 mins. End</b>. </span> </span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-3209311927811235542017-10-13T00:09:00.000+02:002017-10-13T11:34:21.263+02:00Working With Monty Halls Filming the Channel 4 Series 'Freedom Trails'<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The 4th programme in the Channel 4 series <span style="color: lime;"><b>Freedom Trails</b></span> was broadcast on 7th October 2017. It was produced by <span style="color: lime;"><b>Seadog Productions</b></span> and followed <span style="color: lime;"><b>Monty Halls</b></span> trekking across the Pyrenees from France to Spain.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QMPfdTHIbnM/Wd_TTkbkvrI/AAAAAAAADlo/WDAYloxTp7oRf-kh3jbWq7gcAma3tjN8QCEwYBhgL/s1600/Monty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Monty Halls, presenter, writer, ex Royal Marine" border="0" data-original-height="596" data-original-width="320" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QMPfdTHIbnM/Wd_TTkbkvrI/AAAAAAAADlo/WDAYloxTp7oRf-kh3jbWq7gcAma3tjN8QCEwYBhgL/s400/Monty.jpg" title="Monty Halls, Seadog Productions, Pyrenees June 2017. First day of filming the Channel 4 series 'Freedom Trails'" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monty Halls ready to go to work.</td></tr>
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Monty was walking in the footsteps of the brave men and women who crossed the mountains to escape Nazi occupied Europe and oppression during World War 2. We learnt about what it was like for them on the run and about the brave man and women who sheltered them, fed them, clothed them and guided them to safety.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FFW-m_dTrO4/Wd_SrDIXJ8I/AAAAAAAADk8/xmkqRMCsZlkpyxd5_npUynuHzsjmvvy3ACEwYBhgL/s1600/filming%2B2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="425" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FFW-m_dTrO4/Wd_SrDIXJ8I/AAAAAAAADk8/xmkqRMCsZlkpyxd5_npUynuHzsjmvvy3ACEwYBhgL/s640/filming%2B2016.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Initial Seadog Productions team in June 2016 filming for the teaser trailer to send to television companies to get the commission to film the series. </td></tr>
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A small team from Seadog Productions, including Monty Halls, first came to the Pyrenees for several days in June 2016. I was a 'fixer' helping with finding locations and sorting out logistics. The footage shot led to a teaser film that was sent to the major TV channels. Channel 4 were the first to reply and later commissioned the series.<br />
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A larger team returned to film in the Saint Girons area in February 2017 (completing many interviews that were never used in the finished documentary) and again in June 2017 for the filming of the trek across the Pyrenees.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lGyhyYiJZyM/Wd_XPUnvrUI/AAAAAAAADmc/9SKdywd4JAwI2YC7qNeFI0uEvaQhEs-qgCLcBGAs/s1600/Seadog%2Bteam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="356" data-original-width="1024" height="222" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lGyhyYiJZyM/Wd_XPUnvrUI/AAAAAAAADmc/9SKdywd4JAwI2YC7qNeFI0uEvaQhEs-qgCLcBGAs/s640/Seadog%2Bteam.jpg" title="Monty Halls, film crew and support team, Pyrenees, June 2017, first day of filming for the Channel 4 series 'Freeom Trails'" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption"><span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">Behind
every great presenter there is a great production company and behind
every great production company there is a great support team. Day 1, June 2017 </span></span></span></span></td></tr>
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As well as the crew filming Monty, Pyrenees Mountain Adventure looked after logistics and guiding.<br />
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Before the arrival of Monty and the film crew, George Manley and myself spent 2 days checking on snow conditions on the approach to the border. We were checking that conditions were not dangerous. Mid June is early in the season in this part of the Pyrenees.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_PYHAW9W2RM/Wd_VO-oKRgI/AAAAAAAADmM/76OJGm1KNcUCJBzdTji8vOWsjMIdRo7OwCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSC_2375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_PYHAW9W2RM/Wd_VO-oKRgI/AAAAAAAADmM/76OJGm1KNcUCJBzdTji8vOWsjMIdRo7OwCEwYBhgL/s400/DSC_2375.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'Big' George Manley checking snow conditions on the approach to the border.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
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There was enough snow to make the shots look exciting but not enough to make it dangerous for Monty and the team.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w77ZFns4Nqc/Wd_YDHUtoYI/AAAAAAAADmg/-uVTYVQldOYw6awmJZuy6h-GeQztpEGywCLcBGAs/s1600/me%2Bhappy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="www.pyreneesmountainadventure.com" border="0" data-original-height="719" data-original-width="960" height="298" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w77ZFns4Nqc/Wd_YDHUtoYI/AAAAAAAADmg/-uVTYVQldOYw6awmJZuy6h-GeQztpEGywCLcBGAs/s400/me%2Bhappy.jpg" title="Paul Williams Pyrenees Mountain Adventure" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">Big smiles from me on day 2 of the route recce. Enough
snow for some great footage but not enough to cause problems for Monty
and the crew.</span></span></td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Me and George also checked on the food drop I had made with the help of Paul Debons at the Refuge d'Espugues a week earlier. He worked as a friend accepting no payment as did Gerard Cassagne who did 2 days of portering.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CilBQJRBFvQ/Wd_d4IXXvnI/AAAAAAAADnA/AXnMgcf79T0J7BHwwEvSxFhoFT3gOc36gCEwYBhgL/s1600/Paul%2BDebons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="639" data-original-width="960" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CilBQJRBFvQ/Wd_d4IXXvnI/AAAAAAAADnA/AXnMgcf79T0J7BHwwEvSxFhoFT3gOc36gCEwYBhgL/s400/Paul%2BDebons.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Actual filming began with fine weather and progressed well although George Manley was not on top form because he had a stomach bug. Two porters Lee Sharp and George Cassagne helped carry kit so as to not overload the crew who were already carrying large loads.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9uADI7C6aSM/Wd_TSHOAYQI/AAAAAAAADlo/zwE6joD_ZWgmg0I9nre9huwnf9LATNH7wCEwYBhgL/s1600/GG.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="498" data-original-width="330" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9uADI7C6aSM/Wd_TSHOAYQI/AAAAAAAADlo/zwE6joD_ZWgmg0I9nre9huwnf9LATNH7wCEwYBhgL/s400/GG.JPG" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gerard Cassagne one of the porters with the biggest rucksack you have ever seen!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8RXlfJYDU0Y/Wd_S00gZy2I/AAAAAAAADk8/voOhxuUg8RIZ7OOUF9Q2umi7fZQKzDkNQCEwYBhgL/s1600/Its%2Boff%2Bto%2Bwork%2Bwe%2Bgo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="489" data-original-width="326" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8RXlfJYDU0Y/Wd_S00gZy2I/AAAAAAAADk8/voOhxuUg8RIZ7OOUF9Q2umi7fZQKzDkNQCEwYBhgL/s400/Its%2Boff%2Bto%2Bwork%2Bwe%2Bgo.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's off to work we go....</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Oh4lfqhfVN8/Wd_TQyyl4bI/AAAAAAAADlo/-RFZoLFVInsZCvcXRzXuNUOFnzRUJ_K2ACEwYBhgL/s1600/Little%2Bgeorge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="431" data-original-width="318" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Oh4lfqhfVN8/Wd_TQyyl4bI/AAAAAAAADlo/-RFZoLFVInsZCvcXRzXuNUOFnzRUJ_K2ACEwYBhgL/s400/Little%2Bgeorge.jpg" title="George the second cameraman" width="295" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'Little' George the second cameraman.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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In the evening of Day 1, (Big) George Manley retired early at the Refuge
d'Espugues still not feeling well and (Little) George the second
cameraman, had also begun to feel unwell. <br />
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'Little' George was ill during the night and the following morning the decision was made that he should descend with 'Big' George to the nearest road where he could get taxi transport to Saint Girons. 'Big' George would meet us all again the following day at the Refuge des Estagnous but the trek was over for the second cameraman.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cFxtT4-qJyg/Wd_TT5mOF_I/AAAAAAAADlo/SyhmKN1N0CI-i4YwKx-KWqbVGAZMjXsnQCEwYBhgL/s1600/Rich%2Bthe%2Bcameraman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="DOP, cameraman, camera" border="0" data-original-height="538" data-original-width="359" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cFxtT4-qJyg/Wd_TT5mOF_I/AAAAAAAADlo/SyhmKN1N0CI-i4YwKx-KWqbVGAZMjXsnQCEwYBhgL/s400/Rich%2Bthe%2Bcameraman.jpg" title="Rich the DOP Seadog Productions" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rich the Directer of Photography</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v8sRQ0Ufpw8/Wd_TRpfGikI/AAAAAAAADlo/qsU1OAOYO9Eb-khzxOmFUKgFlPK01uNYACEwYBhgL/s1600/Tom%2Bthe%2BProducer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="538" data-original-width="359" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v8sRQ0Ufpw8/Wd_TRpfGikI/AAAAAAAADlo/qsU1OAOYO9Eb-khzxOmFUKgFlPK01uNYACEwYBhgL/s400/Tom%2Bthe%2BProducer.jpg" title="Tom the producer, Seadog Productions" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tom the Directer</td></tr>
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Filming progressed well on Day 2 with some awesome drone footage filmed by Rich the DOP (Directer of Photography) - that's main cameraman to you and me! Rich, Sonic the Sound Man and Tom the Directer worked well together with Monty but it did take a long time with lots of retakes to get the perfect footage. Katy the fixer kept smiling and kept everyone calm.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1fIuWUbGTWY/Wd_TUZZRHwI/AAAAAAAADlo/YALaD7xM6wQeVQkJ5sWR7x-uLnVKMQn5gCEwYBhgL/s1600/sonic%2Bthe%2Bsoundman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="soundman, boom micropshone" border="0" data-original-height="526" data-original-width="350" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1fIuWUbGTWY/Wd_TUZZRHwI/AAAAAAAADlo/YALaD7xM6wQeVQkJ5sWR7x-uLnVKMQn5gCEwYBhgL/s400/sonic%2Bthe%2Bsoundman.jpg" title="Sonic the soundman" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sonic the Sound Man</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lEH6FRdeiQQ/Wd_T90fcBqI/AAAAAAAADl0/KbsggN4iZustI005Yalx6TWpNYTExAJggCEwYBhgL/s1600/Katy%2Bthe%2Bfixer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="522" data-original-width="348" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lEH6FRdeiQQ/Wd_T90fcBqI/AAAAAAAADl0/KbsggN4iZustI005Yalx6TWpNYTExAJggCEwYBhgL/s400/Katy%2Bthe%2Bfixer.jpg" title="Katy the fixer" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Katy the Fixer</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Happily the way the trek had been planned, there was the time available to get all the footage the crew and Monty wanted. A great evening was spent at the Refuge des Estagnous where we were well looked after by Laurent and Stéphan who had planned to be shut between the 2 opening weekends of the season but opened especially for us. All the crew enjoyed proper mattresses and proper food after sleeping mats and dehydrated food packets the evening before.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DCbi3L6vPSo/Wd_TQ26bXnI/AAAAAAAADlo/CakNkbCQvLIifvIPL86q4ZnCDQJXz5_JACEwYBhgL/s1600/DSC_2370-DSC_2372.tif.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Lake, frozen, ice, person" border="0" data-original-height="843" data-original-width="1600" height="336" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DCbi3L6vPSo/Wd_TQ26bXnI/AAAAAAAADlo/CakNkbCQvLIifvIPL86q4ZnCDQJXz5_JACEwYBhgL/s640/DSC_2370-DSC_2372.tif.jpg" title="Frozen Lac Long" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top lake with George Manley on the recce.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Day 3 began early as this was the longest of the 3. Big George met up with us as we arrived at the Round Lake. An even earlier start for him meant he was able to meet up with the team before the ascent on the snow to the border. The top lake was partly frozen and looked great and most of the ascent to the border was on snow which made it look spectacular.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UNSCaXDTWkA/Wd_cLqpecZI/AAAAAAAADmw/J2i2Mrmi0s02WILAR_a8agKw-tUkEMYPgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_2374.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="mountains, snow" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UNSCaXDTWkA/Wd_cLqpecZI/AAAAAAAADmw/J2i2Mrmi0s02WILAR_a8agKw-tUkEMYPgCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_2374.JPG" title="Snow covered approach to the border between France and Spain" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The final approach to the border.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
From the border, a long descent into Spain, a beer in a café that Monty bought me (like he promised he would) to celebrate the end of the trek (which was filmed but like so much of the footage, never used) and then on to the Refugi de Fornet where we arrived at 10pm! I had rung ahead with the sattelite 'phone because there is no mobile coverage and the food was waiting for us as we arrived. Like at the Refuge des Estagnous we ate well and were well looked after by René and Tatiana.Their pet Patou was the centre of attention - nearly upstaging Monty (but not quite.)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KmznmkGJSFo/Wd_k4ExuUmI/AAAAAAAADnQ/Kmemx0MAZ8wsGkEjKr3yVJfECAOjO8YPgCLcBGAs/s1600/end%2Bof%2Btrek.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="www.pyreneesmountainadventure.com" border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KmznmkGJSFo/Wd_k4ExuUmI/AAAAAAAADnQ/Kmemx0MAZ8wsGkEjKr3yVJfECAOjO8YPgCLcBGAs/s400/end%2Bof%2Btrek.jpg" title="Monty, the Seadog Productions film crew and Pyrenees Mountain Adventure support team" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The end of the trek. A happy Monty, film crew and Pyrenees Mountain Adventure support team.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
If you would like to walk the <span style="color: lime;"><b>Freedom Trail/Chemin de la Liberté</b></span> or want more information about it, please see the <span style="color: lime;"><b>Pyrenees Mountain Adventure</b> </span>website<br />
<a href="http://www.pyreneesmountainadventure.com/"><span style="color: lime;"><b>www.pyreneesmountainadventure.com</b></span></a><br />
You will find a contact page or you can contact me at<br />
<span style="color: lime;"><b>pyreneesmountainadventure@hotmail.com</b></span><br />
<br />
I look forward to hearing from you.<br />
<br />
All the best,<br />
<br />
Paul<br />
<br />
Paul Williams<br />
Pyrenees Mountain Adventure <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-42312132618065287692015-05-30T20:01:00.000+02:002015-07-23T11:22:51.470+02:00 Escape! This Summer With Pyrenees Mountain Adventure<style type="text/css">P { margin-bottom: 0.08in; direction: ltr; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); }P.western { font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; }P.cjk { font-family: "WenQuanYi Micro Hei"; font-size: 12pt; }P.ctl { font-family: "Lohit Hindi"; font-size: 12pt; }A:link { }</style>
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<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3KGzvfRJ7MY/VWn403heiFI/AAAAAAAADFo/1w7CePxZNL0/s1600/P9130226-640x640%2B%2528copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3KGzvfRJ7MY/VWn403heiFI/AAAAAAAADFo/1w7CePxZNL0/s640/P9130226-640x640%2B%2528copy%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">During August this year</span> Escape!
</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">with Pyrenees Mountain Adventure. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Pyrenees Mountain
Adventure offers you the chance to follow in the footsteps of allied
airmen escaping from Nazi occupied territory during World War 2 by
trekking the Freedom Trail (le Chemin de la Liberté in French.) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">This is a
tough trek in the beautiful, wild mountains of the Pyrenees. </span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">There
are 3 itineraries on offer to match the time you have available. </span><br />
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Price
includes:</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">All
guiding with qualified, British trek leader (International Mountain
Leader - IML) with very good experience of leading groups on the
trek.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Private
transfer back to Hotel Eychenne, St Girons from the end of the trek
in Spain.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Full
board (hot evening meal, breakfast and packed lunch) in mountain
refuge and/or gite (depending on the length of trek chosen.) </span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Hot
showers and dormitory style accommodation. For 4 and 5 day trek - one
night in shelter without warden. Minimal facilities. No food.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Price
does not include accommodation before and after the trek.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>2
Day Freedom Trail </b><span style="font-weight: normal;"> 250 euros
per person.</span></span></div>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">18th
and 19th July</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">8th
and 9th August</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">22nd
and 23rd August</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">12th
and 13th September </span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>4
Day Freedom Trail </b><span style="font-weight: normal;"> 390 euros
per person</span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">2nd
August – 5th August</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">28
th – 31st August</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>5
Day Freedom Trail </b><span style="font-weight: normal;"> 500 euros
per person.</span></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">15th
– 19th August</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The
trek is strenuous (6 to 8 hours of trekking per day) over sometimes
rough terrain. You will enjoy it more if you have had some previous
experience of mountain walking.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Meeting
point: 8.30 am Hotel Eychenne, St Girons. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Dispersal point: 8 pm Hotel
Eychenne, St Girons.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">For
more information or to suggest other dates that work for you, contact
Paul 06 52 06 12 50 </span><span style="color: navy; font-size: small;"><span lang="zxx"><u><a href="mailto:pyreneesmountainadventure@hotmail.com"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">pyreneesmountainadventure@hotmail.com</span></a></u></span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-69141197143231360332015-03-22T22:44:00.000+01:002015-04-01T10:34:35.770+02:00Looking Ahead - What Does This Summer Have in Store?<span style="font-size: large;">Spring has arrived and with the rising temperatures, the snow on the summits and high cols in the Pyrenees has begun to melt. With the first bookings of the year being taken for summer treks I find myself looking forward in anticipation. What does this summer have in store? If it is like any other summer in the Pyrenees with Pyrenees Mountain Adventure........</span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-74708819460788796542014-12-24T23:39:00.000+01:002014-12-24T23:39:30.225+01:00Merry Christmas/Happy New Year 2014/2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-74439499545578868902014-07-30T21:57:00.000+02:002014-07-30T22:27:31.001+02:00Pic Carlit Challenge July 2014Steve recently completed the 4 day Pic Carlit Challenge with <a href="http://www.pyreneesmountainadventure>com/" target="_blank">Pyrenees Mountain Adventure</a> and had a great time summiting Pic Carlit on Day 4 (2921m/9583 feet).<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LL6JpDXDz04/U9lIDXm74jI/AAAAAAAAC4I/9xyLtkrVY3Q/s1600/P7150271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LL6JpDXDz04/U9lIDXm74jI/AAAAAAAAC4I/9xyLtkrVY3Q/s1600/P7150271.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steve with the Twin Perics in the distance. Ascended both on Day 2.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
In his own words:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: small;">What a fantastic week! </span></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: small;">Having walked mainly in England, I maybe
underestimated the 'Challenge' part of the Pic Carlit Challenge. Four
days walking and four nights wild camping (my choice). Wow! But it was
worth each single drop of sweat and every aching muscle. </span></span></div>
<div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: small;">Thanks Paul for your magnificent leadership. Your comprehensive
knowledge of the area, not only in respect of the navigation but also
the flora and fauna, was impressive. It was great that your itinerary was so flexible, even providing opportunities for some extra peak bagging. </span></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: small;">Your
extraordinary patience, without being patronising, certainly inspired
me to achieve more than I thought I was capable of. It was really easy
to get on with you. You were sociable but instinctively knew when I
needed space to myself. It was an experience that will remain with me always. </span></span></div>
<div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: small;">Good luck for future expeditions.</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: small;">Steve</span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n3bV6_miHAA/U9lJOhzSd0I/AAAAAAAAC5Y/Slg_nz5zhlw/s1600/P7170322.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n3bV6_miHAA/U9lJOhzSd0I/AAAAAAAAC5Y/Slg_nz5zhlw/s1600/P7170322.JPG" height="312" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Summit of Grand Peric</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunrise from campsite on morning of Day 3</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Campsite the morning of Day 4</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">360 degree panorama from the summit of Pic Carlit</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">More information about completing the trek with <a href="http://www.pyreneesmountainadventure.com/" target="_blank">Pyrenees Mountain Adventure </a>can be found here:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">http://www.pyreneesmountainadventure.com/#!pyrenees-summer-treks/c15px</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Steve chose to complete the 4 day trek with wild camps (carrying all his food, stove and fuel, tent and sleeping bag) but the option exists to stay in mountain huts each night meaning a less heavy rucksack.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-72488798367211466512014-07-30T19:58:00.001+02:002014-07-30T21:57:44.369+02:00Pyrenees D of E Gold Expedition July 2014 with Simon Langton School, Canterbury.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Team Wizards</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Team Fat Fingers</td></tr>
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A group of 12 students from Simon Langton Boys School made the journey
from Canterbury to the Eastern Pyrenees to complete their 4 day/3 night
Gold D of E Expedition with <a href="http://www.pyreneesmountainadventure%3ecom/" target="_blank">Pyrenees Mountain Adventure</a>.<br />
<br />
The trip included a training day before and a rest and relaxation day
(visiting the castle in Carcassonne) after the of the
expedition. (2 - 8 July 2014)<br />
<br />
In the the words of the assessor:<br />
<style type="text/css">P { margin-bottom: 0.08in; direction: ltr; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); widows: 2; orphans: 2; }</style>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.14in;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a><span style="color: blue;">(*Insert
name*) and (*his/her*) team successfully completed one of the most
arduous Gold expeditions I have assessed. The expedition was centred
around the Puig Peric, deep in the French Pyrenees mountains. The
team averaged 10 hour mountain days, reaching a height of 2600m on
their 3<sup>rd</sup> day. </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.14in;">
<span style="color: blue;">(*Insert name*) and (*his/her*) team
demonstrated great personal determination, which was enhanced by a
fantastic sense of teamwork and camaraderie. Despite very tough
conditions, including torrential rain, thunder, lightning, snow
patches, high temperatures and extremely difficult terrain at times,
(*Insert name*) and (*his/her*) team remained in high spirits,
keeping each other motivated through humour, encouragement and
obvious great friendship. Small but important lessons were learnt in
navigation and campsite selection, but all in all a brilliantly
executed Gold expedition, which really embodied the ethos of the award. </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.14in;">
<span style="color: blue;">A huge note of thanks to the 1<sup>st</sup> class safety
supervision team who made it possible.
</span></div>
<span style="color: blue;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.14in;">
<span style="color: blue;">Mo! ML</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7EGNphb-r5g/U9kud1hPQHI/AAAAAAAAC3E/Cdx-QefZLak/s1600/Pyrenees+Simon+Langton+DofE+with+Paul+Lucy+and+Mo+July+2014+(60).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7EGNphb-r5g/U9kud1hPQHI/AAAAAAAAC3E/Cdx-QefZLak/s1600/Pyrenees+Simon+Langton+DofE+with+Paul+Lucy+and+Mo+July+2014+(60).jpg" height="196" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fantastic scenery - Pic Carlit</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wildlife - Mouflon</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Challenging Weather conditions on Day 4</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Post expedition rest and relaxtion. Visting Carcassonne Castle</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The staff Dream Team reunited again</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-44971259244984246772014-07-30T19:35:00.003+02:002014-07-30T19:35:44.631+02:00Commemorative Chemin de la Liberté/Freedom Trail July 2014This years Commemorative Freedom Trail (10 - 13 July 2014) saw over a 100 people walking along one of the World War 2 escape routes from France into Spain. Mainly from England and France but over 10 countries represented.<br />
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Snow conditions meant that walking into Spain across the border was not possible on Day 4. Instead walkers were bused to Esterri for the end of walk celebrations.<br />
<br />
We walked in the footsteps of the escapees and evaders (among them shot down Allied airmen, Jews, and young French men called up for forced labour) attempting to escape Nazi oppression during World War 2 and the helpers that guided them across the Pyrenees. We walked and we remembered.......<br />
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Photos copyright R. Eychenne<br />
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Photos copyright E. Aromin<br />
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Facebook page for 2014 Commemorative Chemin/Freedom Trail<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/640488406064517/">https://www.facebook.com/groups/640488406064517/</a><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-49193856299450601662014-04-16T20:36:00.000+02:002014-04-16T20:36:25.037+02:00Beauty in one's surroundings from micro....to macro<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1XGeF-f1hC4/U0mnQ5GgzlI/AAAAAAAACyM/McrznGcIYx0/s1600/Montages+(Large).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1XGeF-f1hC4/U0mnQ5GgzlI/AAAAAAAACyM/McrznGcIYx0/s1600/Montages+(Large).jpg" height="442" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-83575753729124818232014-04-05T21:18:00.000+02:002014-04-05T21:18:09.530+02:00Never Measure The Height of a Mountain.....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ka01Yqbq0lA/U0BWo_KcLOI/AAAAAAAACwY/JFbdqnjUjxA/s1600/DSCF8608_S+(Large).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ka01Yqbq0lA/U0BWo_KcLOI/AAAAAAAACwY/JFbdqnjUjxA/s1600/DSCF8608_S+(Large).jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-56062133202070386412014-03-06T17:20:00.000+01:002014-03-06T17:22:26.525+01:00World Book Day Today<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q-GrBkCtMUY/UxifvK0bILI/AAAAAAAACto/P1plhQPrVJk/s1600/book+art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q-GrBkCtMUY/UxifvK0bILI/AAAAAAAACto/P1plhQPrVJk/s1600/book+art.jpg" height="340" width="400" /></a></div>
<span class="userContent">Carved book landscape by Guy Laramee. More great book art at <span style="color: lime;"><a href="http://www.guylaramee.com/">http://www.guylaramee.com/</a></span></span><br />
<span class="userContent"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-18574877625967279612014-03-06T16:05:00.000+01:002014-03-06T16:05:26.737+01:00Andorra: Top 10 Mountain Facts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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New and exclusive to Pyrenees Mountain Adventure this summer - the<b> Andorra 5 Peaks Challenge</b>.
The highest 5 peaks in Andorra in 5 days. Looking for a challenge in 2014? You just found it!<br />
Contact me for more
information at pyreneesmountainadventure@hotmail.com or find more
information at <a href="http://www.pyreneesmountainadventure.com/">www.pyreneesmountainadventure.com</a><br />
<br />
Andorra is the smallest country in Europe (468 square km/181 square miles) and situated between France and Spain in the Eastern Pyrenees. There is no airport or railway and no coastline.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XAOiLQQzBdA/Uv-FVr0cblI/AAAAAAAACqo/FvYanZo2Tps/s1600/685px-Location_Andorra_Europe.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XAOiLQQzBdA/Uv-FVr0cblI/AAAAAAAACqo/FvYanZo2Tps/s1600/685px-Location_Andorra_Europe.png" height="350" width="400" /></a></div>
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There were 69,758 inhabitants in 2012 with a population density of 167 inhabitants per square kilometer. The geological center is near Encamp. Andorra was neutral during World War 2 with many crossing the border from France to escape Nazi persecution.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TUHCyVTh-uc/Uv-FaQqQRbI/AAAAAAAACq0/utOIY2qiniA/s1600/750px-Andorra_topographic_map-en.svg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TUHCyVTh-uc/Uv-FaQqQRbI/AAAAAAAACq0/utOIY2qiniA/s1600/750px-Andorra_topographic_map-en.svg.png" height="512" width="640" /></a></div>
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1. There are 72 peaks over 2 000 meters/ 6 561 feet <br />
2. The average height is 1 996 meters/ 6 549 feet<br />
3. The highest point is the mountain Coma Pedrosa 2 942 m/ 9 652 feet and the lowest point is Riu Runer 840 metres/ 2 756 feet where the main road out of Andorra crosses into Spain.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T6zxSQ_wa1w/Uw3_fSUdLeI/AAAAAAAACrw/geMPSRusuyc/s1600/280px-Comapedrosa01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T6zxSQ_wa1w/Uw3_fSUdLeI/AAAAAAAACrw/geMPSRusuyc/s1600/280px-Comapedrosa01.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pic Coma Pedrosa</td></tr>
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4. The country has the highest capital city in Europe - Andorra la Viella (1 023 metres / 3 356 feet)<br />
5. The border with Spain and France is 120km/ 74 miles.<br />
6. 75% of the border is over 1 829 metres/6 000 feet. Only 1.5km/1 mile is below 914 metres /3 000 feet. The border with France is not physically marked on the ground with border markers, unlike the border between France and Spain.<br />
6. There are 72 lakes. The largest is the Estanys de Juclar 23 hectares/56.8 acres in the north east.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-opIjZ0FFRj4/Uw37MvOhfMI/AAAAAAAACrY/alF5mzvK2YU/s1600/estany-de-jucla_image_parroquia_full.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-opIjZ0FFRj4/Uw37MvOhfMI/AAAAAAAACrY/alF5mzvK2YU/s1600/estany-de-jucla_image_parroquia_full.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Juclar Lakes</td></tr>
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7. There are 2 Nature Parks which equal 5% of the land area.<br />
(Sorteny 1 080 hectares/ 2 669 acres and Coma Pedrosa 1 543 hectares/ 3 813 acres)<br />
8. There is one Unesco World Heritage Site which equals 10% of the area.<br />
(Madriu valley 4 247 hectares/ 10 494 acres.)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5icJkBldTT4/Uw38DopNbdI/AAAAAAAACrk/OeErrwPKbgM/s1600/perafita_image_parroquia_full.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5icJkBldTT4/Uw38DopNbdI/AAAAAAAACrk/OeErrwPKbgM/s1600/perafita_image_parroquia_full.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Madriu Valley</td></tr>
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9. The highest 5 peaks are Pic Coma Pedrosa, Roca Entravessada, Pic de l'Estanyo, Pic de la Serrera and Pic de la Medacorba.<br />
10.Pic de la Medecorba is a tri point - the borders of France, Spain and Andorra meet at the summit. <br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-58341900002568734592014-02-26T14:17:00.000+01:002014-02-26T22:15:22.498+01:00Edward Stourton Walking the Chemin de la Liberté/Freedom Trail<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-15690262" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-15690262" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3MjQ_kjqjYs/Uw3ngJv68PI/AAAAAAAACrA/KZpozhyFfak/s1600/Ed_Stourton_at_NHS.jpg" height="320" width="249" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Click on the photo to open the article.</td></tr>
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Edward Stourton made a BBC4 radio programme about the Chemin de la Liberté which included his experience of walking from France into Spain along the escape route. The material was later incorporated into his book Cruel Crossing (2013). At the end of the BBC article you will find a link to the Radio 4 programme. <b><span style="color: lime;"><a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-15690262">http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-15690262</a></span></b><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uClw57KmzcU/Uv0Fkod56LI/AAAAAAAACYc/DkaMKTrTpT0/s1600/Cruel+Crossing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uClw57KmzcU/Uv0Fkod56LI/AAAAAAAACYc/DkaMKTrTpT0/s1600/Cruel+Crossing.jpg" height="320" width="209" /></a></div>
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Want to follow in Edward Stourton's footsteps and make the crossing from France into Spain on one of the hardest World War 2 escape routes? Contact me at pyreneesmountainadventure@hotmail.comAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-11458766720206238972014-02-13T13:55:00.002+01:002014-04-05T21:18:52.160+02:00You Cannot Stay on the Summit Forever.....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bo2nj3VcuRg/UvzAf2rLbgI/AAAAAAAACQo/6k32Ne8eL3M/s1600/Copie+de+Pic+de+la+Coume+d%27Or+summit+view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bo2nj3VcuRg/UvzAf2rLbgI/AAAAAAAACQo/6k32Ne8eL3M/s1600/Copie+de+Pic+de+la+Coume+d'Or+summit+view.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-63991079960203175582014-01-10T21:08:00.000+01:002014-04-05T21:14:37.916+02:00Simon Beck Snow Art<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="userContent">Interview with Simon Beck showing how he creates his large scale snow art 'pictures' while snowshoeing.(Click on picture. Interview opens in another window)</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2bEH_rSTp0g" target="_blank"><img alt="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2bEH_rSTp0g" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ca9pqBuK0a8/UtBTx5198eI/AAAAAAAACQA/VECJxuAP94Q/s1600/Simon+Beck.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: lime;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/snowart8848" target="_blank">Simon Beck Snow Art Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/snowart8848</a></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-16445507277840643182014-01-07T20:19:00.000+01:002014-01-07T20:39:06.628+01:00Bears - Myths and Realities<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The exhibition at the Natural History Museum in Toulouse 'Bears - Myths and Realities' was interesting, enjoyable and at the same time thought provoking.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Jx2Gv-0Isk/UsxKuEg8KtI/AAAAAAAACO0/8WyMc7tVOH4/s1600/DSCF2001+(Large).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Jx2Gv-0Isk/UsxKuEg8KtI/AAAAAAAACO0/8WyMc7tVOH4/s1600/DSCF2001+(Large).JPG" height="308" width="640" /></a></div>
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The 8 species of bear around the world were introduced using stuffed bears and then the exhibition went on to concentrate on the brown bear in the Pyrenees and the relation between bears and humankind from the stone age to the present. At one time revered and 'king' of the animals, the brown bear was demonised from the middle ages and hunted to near extinction. The population of brown bears in the Pyrenees was thought to be unsustainable so bears were introduced from Slovenia. Bear cubs are being born but the bear population remains too small at around 25.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-17iYxRqm-o4/UsxWJk61rbI/AAAAAAAACPY/AvoeZ0d3vyQ/s1600/DSCF2002+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-17iYxRqm-o4/UsxWJk61rbI/AAAAAAAACPY/AvoeZ0d3vyQ/s1600/DSCF2002+%2528Large%2529.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Skeleton of the Pyrenean brown bear Papillon.</td></tr>
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I was surprised by the size of the brown bear skeletons.The skeleton of Papillon who lived to the age of 28, which is very old for a bear in the wild, was smaller than I had expected although the claws were enormous.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B8a-HHNlF8M/UsxWQNnmKxI/AAAAAAAACPg/QqK1lkFceyI/s1600/DSCF2008+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B8a-HHNlF8M/UsxWQNnmKxI/AAAAAAAACPg/QqK1lkFceyI/s1600/DSCF2008+%2528Large%2529.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scan of a young, healthy brown bear</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scan of brown bear Papillon's skull who died aged 28.</td></tr>
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The scan of a healthy brown bear skull was contrasted with the skull of the old male brown bear (Papillon). The difference in the state of the teeth was very clear. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8TuPg9Y97JA/UsxQLyT2q_I/AAAAAAAACPE/fLxPSz2xnR4/s1600/DSCF1997+(Large).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8TuPg9Y97JA/UsxQLyT2q_I/AAAAAAAACPE/fLxPSz2xnR4/s1600/DSCF1997+(Large).JPG" height="188" width="400" /></a></div>
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This quote suggesting that how we have treated the brown bear, and continue to treat it is, reflects badly on ourselves summed up the pro bear bias. The anti bear arguments from hill farmers with animals to rear, one side of a continuing heated debate, were not touched on .<br />
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The exhibition <span style="color: lime;"><a href="http://www.museum.toulouse.fr/en/agenda/-/agenda/event/55676874?_2_WAR_agendaportlet_eventDate=&_2_WAR_agendaportlet_eventTitle=" target="_blank">Bears - Myths and Realities</a></span> is at the Natural History Museum in Toulouse until 30th June 2014. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-78451794777769442512014-01-07T18:15:00.004+01:002014-02-27T16:02:53.888+01:00Happy New Year<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The Pyrenees Mountain Adventure team wishes you a year full of magic mountain moments.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WZd-DuYJVLc/Uw9TeUvofEI/AAAAAAAACsI/jKV-edQuYwc/s1600/Copie+de+Copie+de+DSCF4467+(Large)+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WZd-DuYJVLc/Uw9TeUvofEI/AAAAAAAACsI/jKV-edQuYwc/s1600/Copie+de+Copie+de+DSCF4467+(Large)+(2).jpg" height="444" width="640" /></a></div>
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Have a look at the <span style="color: lime;"><a href="http://www.pyreneesmountainadventure.com/">new 'mobile device friendly' website</a></span> for the new holidays that Pyrenees Mountain Adventure is running in 2014. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-30787118388322479292013-12-18T23:24:00.004+01:002014-02-13T20:46:44.273+01:00Top 10 Eco Friendly Outdoor Gear Christmas Present IdeasDo you enjoy walking and back packing in the great outdoors? Are you concerned about sustainability and protection of the environment? What eco-friendly outdoor gear should be on your Christmas wish list? The Pyrenees Mountain Adventure team have put together their top 10. <br />
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<b>1. Caldera Cone Stove <span style="color: lime;"><a href="http://www.traildesigns.com/stoves/caldera-cone-system">(Trail Designs)</a></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: lime;"> </span></b> <br />
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<a class="colorbox initColorbox-processed cboxElement" href="http://www.traildesigns.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/product_full/prod_imgs/caldera-cutaway.jpg" rel="uc_image_1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Cutaway View of the Caldera Cone in action with the MSR .85L Kettle"><img class="cboxPhoto" src="http://www.traildesigns.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/product_full/prod_imgs/caldera-cutaway.jpg" height="320" style="float: none;" width="246" /></a></div>
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Similar in design to the Trangia meths stove but smaller and lighter. In summary, the
Caldera System includes the cone specifically sized to fit your pot and
provide maximum stability and wind protection. The stove runs on meths not gas. A meths bottle can be recycled but a gas canister cannot and will end up as land fill. Boil times are slower than gas burners but the stove is silent. The design is very simple (with very little to break) and therefore long lasting.<br />
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<b>2. Fire Steel Fire Starter.</b> </div>
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<a href="http://www.lightmyfire.com/products/sparking-fire-collection/swedish-firesteel-20.aspx." style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Model: Swedish FireSteel 2.0 scout &nbsp; " class="imageep5" src="http://www.lightmyfire.com/ImageGen.ashx?image=http%3A//farm9.staticflickr.com/8008/7493132666_1651e4e4c8_b.jpg&constrain=true&pad=true&bgcolor=FFFFFF&height=530&width=700" height="242" width="320" /></a></div>
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No need for matches or lighters with a fire striker. Small shavings are torn off the rod with a hard, sharp edge of the supplied metal scraper. These shavings are very hot and perfect for igniting a gas or meths stove. Very simple design (with very little to break) and therefore long lasting.</div>
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<b>3. Walking Boots <a href="http://www.lasportiva.com/mountain.html?&L=1&tt_products[product]=44&cHash=e93d13526e57e58cc246a97918c7d6c8"><span style="color: lime;">(La Sportiva) </span></a></b></div>
<img alt="" class="rg_hi uh_hi" data-height="221" data-width="228" height="221" id="rg_hi" src="https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTRLkcbptG3C0yxDfc0fko0y7PLwQ19NFt8JwjmfJWOOU8nuc67Yw" style="height: 221px; width: 228px;" width="228" /><br />
La Sportiva boots are made in Italy so labour standards are likely to be higher than average and there are less product miles for the product to travel from factory to European market. The company has a strong commitment to sustainability having achieved <span style="line-height: 1.4em;">Environment Certification ISO 14001. To gain this certification, the business must demonstrate that it meets a range of criteria aimed at reducing the negative effects of the production process and therefore the environmental footprint of the business.</span><br />
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<b>4. Waterproof jacket and trousers <span style="color: lime;"><a href="http://campaigns.ebay.co.uk/patagonia/"><span style="color: lime;">(ebay patagonia)</span></a></span></b><a href="http://campaigns.ebay.co.uk/patagonia/"> </a><br />
Buying anything that has previously been used reduces resource use (energy, water, crude oil etc). The damage has already been done. Giving an item a second life also means that the item does not end up as land fill in a rubbish dump. Patagonia has teamed up with ebay to make it much easier to buy and sell used Patagonia clothing and gear. 'The greenest product is the one that already exists'.<br />
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<b>5. Shirt <span style="color: lime;"><a href="http://www.patagonia.com/us/product/mens-long-sleeved-island-hopper-shirt-sun-protection?p=52180-0&pcc=1128">(Patagonia)</a></span></b> <br />
<img alt="http://www.patagonia.com/tsimages/52180_745.fpx?wid=1000&hei=1000&ftr=8&effect=dropshadow,0x000000,10,8,120,8&cvt=jpeg" class="shrinkToFit decoded" src="http://www.patagonia.com/tsimages/52180_745.fpx?wid=1000&hei=1000&ftr=8&effect=dropshadow,0x000000,10,8,120,8&cvt=jpeg" height="320" width="320" /><br />
A superlight long-sleeved shirt. Its ultralight blend of moisture-wicking 65% <b>all-recycled polyester</b> and
35% <b>organic cotton</b> provides big-time ventilation and 15-UPF sun
protection. <span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">At Patagonia the<b> recycled polyester</b> comes from used drinks bottles, unusable second quality fabrics and worn out
g</span>arments. These don't end up in as land fill in a rubbish dump and producing the shirt using recycled polyester requires less energy, water and crude oil.<br />
<br />
Since 1996, Patagonia has only used <b>organic cotton</b>. Conventional cotton production is chemical intensive. Fully 10 percent of all agricultural chemicals in the United States are
used to produce cotton, grown on just one percent of all major
agricultural land. Research
shows that extensive and intensive use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, soil
additives and defoliants pollutes and degrades the soil,
water, and air. It also harms agricultural workers, nearby residents and other animals. Organic cotton is produced using techniques that are healthier and safer
for the environment and people. <br />
<br />
<b>6. Socks <a href="http://www.tekosocks.com/#">(Teko) </a></b><br />
The socks are made in the USA from organic merino wool or EVAPOR8 recycled polyester fiber which is made from 100% post-consumer waste, like plastic bottles. The factory is 100% wind-powered and there is a lifetime guarantee on the product. Processing of the wool is chlorine free and the dyes used are non toxic.<br />
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<img alt="Storm" src="http://www.tekosocks.com/media/catalog/product/cache/2/image/650x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/9/9/9903-st_l.jpg" height="320" id="image" style="left: -192.5px; top: -192.5px;" title="Storm" width="320" /><br />
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<b>7. Waterproofing Product <span style="color: lime;"><a href="http://www.nikwax.com/en-gb/products/productdetail.php?productid=3&itemid=-1&fabricid=-1">(Nikwax)</a></span></b><br />
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<b> </b><img class="floatLeftProduct" src="http://www.nikwax.com/cmsdata/Products/image1_25_251_en-gb.jpg" height="200" id="mainproductimg" name="mainproductimg" width="66" /><br />
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When it rains does the rain on your waterproof not 'bead up'? Does the
fabric soak up rain? Before buying a new jacket, try Nikwax TX Direct. Wash your
waterproof in a washing machine with Nikwax TX Direct and add durable
water repellency and revive breathability. <br />
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<b>8. Sleeping Bag <a href="http://www.mammut.ch/en/productDetail/241001400_v_180/Kompakt-Recycled-3-Season.html">(Mammut Ajungilak)</a></b><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WeA4s9GiNNE/Uv0g_gNbrSI/AAAAAAAACdE/TZH-xUcvjQE/s1600/Ajungilak_Kompakt_Recycled_3Season_cement_graphite_bild1.eps_Zoom2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WeA4s9GiNNE/Uv0g_gNbrSI/AAAAAAAACdE/TZH-xUcvjQE/s1600/Ajungilak_Kompakt_Recycled_3Season_cement_graphite_bild1.eps_Zoom2.jpg" height="140" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The insulating filling and the inner and outer materials of the Kompact Recycled are all made from recycled PET bottles with the sleeping bag offering the same insulation values as its traditional brother and weighing just 50 grams more. </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It takes around 40 bottles to produce the Kompakt Recycled. Using the plastic from the bottles means a</span></span>round 50 percent less energy is required to produce this sleeping bag and . When it comes to its details and design, this environmentally friendly sleeping bag is no different to its traditional counterparts. </span></span><br />
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<b>9. Portable Solar Charger. <a href="https://www.powertraveller.com/en/shop/portable-chargers/outdoor-adventure/">(PowerMonkey from PowerTraveller)</a></b><br />
<b> </b><br />
<img height="200" src="https://www.powertraveller.com/static/asset/519b3919577eb.jpg" width="200" /><br />
Charge up your mobile devices with a portable solar charger.<br />
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<b>10. Back Pack <a href="http://www.fjallraven.co.uk/equipment/backpacks-and-bags">(Fjällräven)</a></b><br />
<b> </b><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span><br />
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<span style="clear: left; float: left; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Kajka 65" src="http://www.fjallraven.co.uk/media/catalog/product/cache/16/base/200x200/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/F/2/F27094-525_0.jpg" /> </span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">All the Fjallraven backpacks in the Kajka range have a wooden frame.The aluminium frame has been replaced by birch which has reduced the carbon footprint of the backpack by 90%.</span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 1.4em;">To be environmentally friendly as possible when choosing outdoor kit remember <b><span style="color: lime;">Reduce, Repair, Reuse and Recycle. </span></b></span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 1.4em;"><span style="color: lime;"><b>Reduce.</b></span> First of all reflect on whether you really need the item. If you don't really need it, then don't buy it! By reducing your consumption there is less demand on scarce resources. </span><br />
<span style="line-height: 1.4em;"><span style="color: lime;"><b>Repair.</b></span> Is it possible to repair the item? Choose an item that has a lifetime guarantee. Patagonia has one as does Teko. Waterproof jackets can be reproofed using products like Nikwax. Choose items that are easy to repair.</span><br />
<span style="line-height: 1.4em;"><b><span style="color: lime;">Reuse.</span></b> Try and choose 'previously enjoyed' products rather than brand new ones. If you buy items that have previously been used, the damage from the production of the item has already happened. Patagonia in conjunction with ebay have set up an e-outlet for <span style="color: lime;"><a href="http://campaigns.ebay.co.uk/patagonia/">used Patagonia clothing and gear</a> </span>to make this easier. </span><br />
<b><span style="color: lime;"><span style="line-height: 1.4em;">Recycle. </span></span></b><span style="line-height: 1.4em;">Choose items that are made from recycled materials and can themselves be easily recycled. A plastic meths bottle can be recycled but a gas canister cannot. </span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 1.4em;">If you must buy new, try and choose items:</span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="line-height: 1.4em;">made from natural fibres e.g. organic cotton and wool.</span><span style="line-height: 1.4em;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 1.4em;">made from recycled materials that can be recycled themselves.</span> <span style="line-height: 1.4em;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 1.4em;">made in Europe</span><span style="line-height: 1.4em;"> or the US</span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 1.4em;">made by companies with Environment Certification ISO 14001 and/or EMAS</span><span style="line-height: 1.4em;"> (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme.)</span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 1.4em;"></span><span style="line-height: 1.4em;"><span style="line-height: 1.4em;">made by companies with a named person in charge of Corporate Social</span></span><span style="line-height: 1.4em;"><span style="line-height: 1.4em;"> Responsibility/ Environmental Care.</span></span><span style="line-height: 1.4em;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 1.4em;">made by companies who each year, produce and make available on their</span><span style="line-height: 1.4em;"> website, a Sustainability Report, or </span><span style="line-height: 1.4em;">something similar, with goals to achieve </span>
<span style="line-height: 1.4em;">and progress towards attaining those targets.</span><span style="line-height: 1.4em;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 1.4em;">made by companies that ‘give something back’ in terms of </span><span style="line-height: 1.4em;">supporting</span><span style="line-height: 1.4em;"> organisations through donations of money or equipment.</span><span style="line-height: 1.4em;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 1.4em;">made by companies who operate a recycling scheme which encourages </span><span style="line-height: 1.4em;">the recycling</span> of the company's products.</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-41443972863909885042013-11-14T21:59:00.000+01:002013-11-14T22:24:00.157+01:00Protect and Conserve the Nature We Love - The Fjällräven Way<h2>
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You can tell outdoor clothing companies that are committed to sustainability and serious in their efforts to reduce the environmental footprint they have. They produce a durable product, make use of recycled materials and will only use organic cotton for example. They will have a named person in charge of something like Corporate Social Responsibility or Sustainability and will have a mission statement which includes measurable targets to achieve. They will produce an annual report on their progress in achieving these targets.<b> </b><br />
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<b>Patagonia</b> comes to mind as a pioneer in this area, as a market leader setting sustainability standards.<br />
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<b>Fjällräven</b> ( the name means artic fox) is a Swedish company, specialising in outdoor equipment. In 2013 they launched <b>The Fjällräven Way</b><i>, </i>a document that acts<i> </i>as
a guide for their sustainability work. It contains four areas of activity linked to the cardinal points of the compass - the universal tool for
way-finding.<br />
<br />
N stands for <b>Nature & Environment</b><br />
E for <b>Economy & Business Processes</b><br />
S for <b>Social Responsibility</b><br />
W for <b>Wellbeing</b>.<br />
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<b><span style="color: lime;"><i>"Our goal is a healthier outdoor life, now and for future generations."</i> </span> </b>Aiko Bode, Fjällräven's Chief Sustainability Officer, explains how they work with sustainability throughout the entire company.<br />
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I found their video inspirational <br />
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http://www.fjallraven.com/responsibilityAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-40808700051056860022013-11-12T17:03:00.000+01:002014-02-13T15:17:48.556+01:00Keeping A Path Open<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1AM-PLVxJnk/UvzT8tuAcTI/AAAAAAAACR4/RV3hga8of_Q/s1600/Copie+de+Soulcem+valley+(6)+(Large).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1AM-PLVxJnk/UvzT8tuAcTI/AAAAAAAACR4/RV3hga8of_Q/s1600/Copie+de+Soulcem+valley+(6)+(Large).jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-9275091578120232072013-11-07T22:03:00.000+01:002014-04-05T19:02:20.407+02:00Chemin de la Liberté/Freedom Trail -Top 10 Magic Mountain Moments (Summer 2013)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Yesterday it was grey and overcast and the rain did not stop. I found myself thinking back to the Pyrenees Mountain Adventure treks this summer along the Chemin de la Liberté/Freedom Trail. Four groups attempted to cross the Pyrenees mountains and everyone who started made it into Spain.<br />
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Here are my top 10 favourite magic mountain moments from the four treks. They are in no particular order:<br />
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1. <b>The Border Crossing.</b> Starting from St Girons, the border is crossed on day 4. After much effort, hardship and determination we are at the border and can pass from France into Spain. A great moment for everyone who made the crossing.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SkXF4cfwwcI/UvzNO90oDVI/AAAAAAAACRs/ParOA9VJvcg/s1600/Copie+de+DSCF0863.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Dos group from Holland celebrate reaching the French/Spanish border. Freedom is very close..." border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SkXF4cfwwcI/UvzNO90oDVI/AAAAAAAACRs/ParOA9VJvcg/s1600/Copie+de+DSCF0863.JPG" height="300" title="Dos Group at the Border" width="400" /></a></div>
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2. <b>Polly Bagging.</b> Sliding down a safe snow slope using a large plastic bag as a tobogan. This was great fun and an ideal way to release the tension that had built up descending the steep snow slope directly below the border.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pqTl0eMyPXg/Uv0iUO6FBUI/AAAAAAAACdw/EPPbQWB7-Pw/s1600/DSCF0748.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pqTl0eMyPXg/Uv0iUO6FBUI/AAAAAAAACdw/EPPbQWB7-Pw/s1600/DSCF0748.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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3. <b>Louis Barrau Memorial.</b> Killed by the Nazis aged 18, a memorial has been erected by the barn where he was shot. Someone picked wild flowers from the meadow next to the barn and placed them on the memorial. They had a son of similar age. A beautiful gesture in a beautiful setting.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NfzvMdC8Q48/Uv0jJlMj8gI/AAAAAAAACd0/vQhJsuHpAM8/s1600/Freedom_Trail_Chemin_+MacCinq_2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Great view across to the high Pyrenees from near where Louis Barreu was killed. " border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NfzvMdC8Q48/Uv0jJlMj8gI/AAAAAAAACd0/vQhJsuHpAM8/s1600/Freedom_Trail_Chemin_+MacCinq_2013.jpg" height="275" title="View from the Louis Barreu Memorial" width="640" /></a></div>
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4. <b>The Scenery. </b>It is not just the spectacular scenery of which there is plenty<b>.......</b><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-POyymYRiVIM/Uv0k1sBAEXI/AAAAAAAACe4/BaAcu3BcRSM/s1600/Freedom_Trail_Chemin_+MacCinq_2013+(14).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Mont Valier dominates the high mountain stages of the Chemin de la LIberté (Freedom Trail)" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-POyymYRiVIM/Uv0k1sBAEXI/AAAAAAAACe4/BaAcu3BcRSM/s1600/Freedom_Trail_Chemin_+MacCinq_2013+(14).jpg" height="343" title="Mont Valier" width="400" /></a></div>
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.........it is the group finding the time to stop, look up and enjoy the views. To soak up the scenery they were immersed in. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-erNKhGQk79k/Uv0jt-qm9oI/AAAAAAAACeY/8XNuE6YRcFE/s1600/DSCF0893_stitch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Soaking up the scenery towards the end of the Freedom Trail (Chemin de la Liberté)" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-erNKhGQk79k/Uv0jt-qm9oI/AAAAAAAACeY/8XNuE6YRcFE/s1600/DSCF0893_stitch.jpg" height="365" title="" width="400" /></a></div>
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5. <b>The Silence.</b> Ten minutes silence at the border. No wind, no words. Time too reflect. 'Find beauty; be still.' We had. We were.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lokR7GqZviA/Uv0kM2DEelI/AAAAAAAACeo/8Fba6dNSj2s/s1600/Freedom+Trail+Film+(12).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The view back into France showing the route of the Freedom trail (Chemin de la Liberté) as it climbs up to the border " border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lokR7GqZviA/Uv0kM2DEelI/AAAAAAAACeo/8Fba6dNSj2s/s1600/Freedom+Trail+Film+(12).jpg" height="300" title="" width="400" /></a></div>
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6. <b>The Shadows.</b> Griffon vultures flying above us, close enough to cast shadows that raced across the ground where we were.<br />
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7. <b>The Summit.</b> Only one group chose the optional extra day at Refuge Estagnous to ascend Mont Valier which dominates day 3 and 4 of the trek. The weather was grey and overcast. Visibility was poor and it was cold. Having reached the summit, the clouds parted and for a short time we were rewarded with tremendous views.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AlI_YHN1DH0/Uv0iAiupBsI/AAAAAAAACdY/663KPZyL33o/s1600/DSCF1020_stitch_Snapseed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Summit view from Mont Valier the mountain that towers above the Estagnous Refuge and the route of the Freedom Trail (Chemin de la Liberté)" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AlI_YHN1DH0/Uv0iAiupBsI/AAAAAAAACdY/663KPZyL33o/s1600/DSCF1020_stitch_Snapseed.jpg" height="280" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TzyYAK2URp8/Uv0iDNwLsZI/AAAAAAAACdg/F6pG2oLmAps/s1600/DSCF1022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A Pyrenees Mountain Adventure group on the summit of Mont Valier" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TzyYAK2URp8/Uv0iDNwLsZI/AAAAAAAACdg/F6pG2oLmAps/s1600/DSCF1022.JPG" height="300" title="" width="400" /></a></div>
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A similar thing happened with the same group the day before. Starting out in poor weather, we eventually find ourselves above the cloud and out of trouble. <br />
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8. <b>The Support.</b> The Chemin de la Liberté/Freedom Trail is tough. It was great to see the shared hardship brings people together. I saw new friendships form and old friendships strengthened. I saw kindness and care. People helping each other through difficult times - whether a difficult section of path, a drop in morale or fatigue. <br />
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9. <b>The Storm. </b>At Refruge Estagnous, which is spectacularly located in the high mountains, the sunsets can be unforgettable. What was more memorable for me happened after most people had returned inside after the sun had set. In the fading light, far in the distance, dark storm clouds were being illuminated from inside by lightning but because of the distance the thunder could not be heard.<br />
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10. <b>The Omelette.</b> At the Gite de Rouze I had an omelette with wild,
girolle mushrooms picked from the local forest. I know that at the end
of a hard days walking any food tastes good but the best omelette ever! <br />
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Thanks to everyone who trekked with Pyrenees Mountain Adventure along the Chemin de la Liberté/Freedom Trail in 2013. It was a pleasure to share the journey with you.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-90981469805392176022013-11-07T19:56:00.000+01:002013-11-07T19:56:37.637+01:00Snow and Avalanche Safety Training Day/Journée Securité Neige and Avalanche<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a7Zaqzb9b6M/UnvdxA9L0UI/AAAAAAAACEQ/GWnx1hhw32s/s1600/Affiche+JSNA+Toulouse+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a7Zaqzb9b6M/UnvdxA9L0UI/AAAAAAAACEQ/GWnx1hhw32s/s400/Affiche+JSNA+Toulouse+2013.jpg" width="282" /></a></div>
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There has been the first snowfall this winter in the Pyrenees this week and soon the winter season proper will be here. I find this training day is always a good preparation for the coming season. A great way to be reminded about the dangers of winter snowshoeing and have knowledge and skills already aquired, reinforced and refreshed. <br />
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<a href="http://www.pyreneesmountainadventure.com/">Pyrenees Mountain Adventures will of course be running a full snowshoeing programme this 2013/2014 winter.</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-3520074137299763272013-11-07T19:27:00.001+01:002013-11-08T10:49:06.131+01:00Film of Brown Bear<span class="userContent">Latest brown bear images from the Pyrenees
captured by an automatic camera. Unusually it is daytime. The female bear is Hvala, one of the bears successfully reintroduced from Slovenia. The name means Thankyou in English. The 2 bear cubs were born this year.</span><br />
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<span class="userContent"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-21238026757691712013-10-16T16:19:00.000+02:002014-03-06T16:44:57.270+01:00The Sunlit Sumit - W H Murray Biography<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p47fiyo-Lqk/UxiXomiU_II/AAAAAAAACtc/0E_n9SLbkT0/s1600/The-Sunlit-Summit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p47fiyo-Lqk/UxiXomiU_II/AAAAAAAACtc/0E_n9SLbkT0/s1600/The-Sunlit-Summit.jpg" height="400" width="261" /></a></div>
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'Find beauty; be still' is one of my
favourite quotes. It is by W H Murray. A biography about his life and journey has been published in 2013 the centenary of his birth. The Sunlit Summit is by Robin Lloyd-Jones with a forward by Robert MacFarlane (Mountains of the Mind, Wild Places)<br />
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On either side of the Second World War, W H (William Hutchison) Murray (1913 - 1996) was one of Scotland's most
distinguished climbers. During the war, while on active service in North Africa in 1942, he was taken prisoner and it was during his time as prisoner of war, he wrote his first classic book,
Mountaineering in Scotland. It was written in secret on rough toilet paper from memory. It was found, confiscated
and destroyed so Murray rewrote it. The rewritten version was published in
1947 and followed by Undiscovered Scotland.<br />
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2013 is also the 60th anniversary of the first ascent of Everest which Murray made a significant contribution to. He was part of the 1951 team under Eric Shipton - the Everest Reconnaissance
Expedition. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2pPF1ILgw0E/UxiV34TCmdI/AAAAAAAACtM/snuQR48u7zI/s1600/WH+Murray+everest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2pPF1ILgw0E/UxiV34TCmdI/AAAAAAAACtM/snuQR48u7zI/s1600/WH+Murray+everest.jpg" height="234" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="irc_su" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">The 1951
Everest Reconnaissance, from left, Eric Shipton, Bill Murray, Tom
Bourdillon, Earle Riddiford, Mike Ward, seated, and Edmund Hillary,
seated</span></td></tr>
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In his later years he became a successful novelist and pioneer
conservationist.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RfA13COcNtg/UxiV36_6MCI/AAAAAAAACtQ/RCACQzO44FY/s1600/Murray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RfA13COcNtg/UxiV36_6MCI/AAAAAAAACtQ/RCACQzO44FY/s1600/Murray.jpg" height="320" width="265" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="color: lime;">'Looking back over a wide landscape, cloud shadows racing over the mountains, sun, wind. I know I have known beauty.'</span></b><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5665665079656191146.post-59642642817867150582013-10-10T11:57:00.000+02:002013-10-10T13:11:41.426+02:00 Bears: Myths and Realities<div class="italic stick">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Bears, Myths and Realities</b> is the new exhibition event
at the <b>Natural History Museum </b>in Toulouse<b> </b>which runs from 13th October ton the 30th June 2014. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7LGiMwtCT-M/UlZq4rAtrCI/AAAAAAAACDE/Ycnw0awPEI4/s1600/Ours+mythes+et+realities+toulouse+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7LGiMwtCT-M/UlZq4rAtrCI/AAAAAAAACDE/Ycnw0awPEI4/s320/Ours+mythes+et+realities+toulouse+2013.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">The bear is a mythical animal and until the Middle Ages in France was regarded as the king of the animals with bear worship popular in some parts of the Pyrenees . It was the Catholic church at this time which began to demonise the bear and the cult of the bear. The lion was promoted as the real king of the animals and bears were persecuted and hunted to near extinction.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">The exhibition looks at how, whether
revered or feared, the bear is the object of many fantasies and
desires, between attraction and aversion.</span></span><br />
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<span class="a" style="left: 1062px; top: 3181px; word-spacing: 1px;">Perhaps the fascination about bears starts with the fact that they resemble ourselves in many ways.<span class="l6"> <span class="w" style="width: 20px;"></span>They can walk upright, have closely human-</span></span><span class="a" style="left: 796px; top: 3384px; word-spacing: -1px;">like ears, have <span class="w6"></span>a similar diet, and leave tracks with the whole of <span class="w6"></span>their back foot (heel, arch and</span><span class="a" style="left: 796px; top: 3587px; word-spacing: -1px;"> toes). </span><span class="a" style="left: 796px; top: 3791px; word-spacing: 1px;"></span><span class="a" style="left: 796px; top: 3994px; word-spacing: 1px;"><span class="l6"><span class="l6">In France the bear is given human names like Martin or </span></span></span><span class="g" style="top: 4198px;"><span class="a" style="left: 796px; word-spacing: -1px;"> lou pedescaous (</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="g" style="top: 4198px;"><span class="a" style="left: 2167px;">le</span></span> <span class="a" style="left: 2231px; top: 4198px;"></span><span class="a" style="left: 2254px; top: 4198px;">va-nu-pieds</span><span class="a" style="left: 2669px; top: 4198px;">, or ‘the barefooted one’), </span><span class="g" style="top: 4401px;"><span class="a" style="left: 796px; word-spacing: -1px;"> loucourailhat (‘the vagabond’) and</span><span class="a" style="left: 2493px;"> Mousu</span></span><span class="a" style="left: 2777px; top: 4401px;"> (‘</span><span class="a" style="left: 2837px; top: 4401px; word-spacing: -1px;">le monsieur’</span><span class="a" style="left: 3281px; top: 4401px;">).</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">There are examples of the 8 different bear species from around the world. The brown bear from the Pyrenees is represented by the Canelle the last 'authentic' female bear in the</span></span> Pyrenees, shot by a hunter in 2004. Her pelt has been mounted and on display.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bYP5OxSNNa8/UlZwvxdtm5I/AAAAAAAACDU/JSgdewLVa2Q/s1600/cannelle_2+stuffed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bYP5OxSNNa8/UlZwvxdtm5I/AAAAAAAACDU/JSgdewLVa2Q/s400/cannelle_2+stuffed.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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The exhibition comes at a time when the tension between the pro and anti brown bear reintroduction factions has heightened. Those previously against the reintroduction of Slovenian bears to boost the population of bears in the Pyrenees (largely farmers and shepherds in the mountains) are now not only calling for no further reintroductions, but that the existing brown bears should be removed. They have threatened to take measures into their own hands although brown bears remain a protected species and killing them remains illegal.<br />
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/Website%20:%20http://www.museum.toulouse.fr">Website: Natural History Museum of Toulouse</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13083888861722954320noreply@blogger.com0