Page 57 - 2016 AMA Spring

AMA Spring 2016 text.indd 55 01/07/2016 15:43
Cpl Tan Coult leading the way with high morale on the trail from la Cabana de Subera.
The view from the Refuge des Estagnous, south to the frontier. Our route took us down to the lake then sharply up to the left.
The group assembled prior to the mornings ascent towards the frontier.
at 0600 to sort out our packs and admin before a breakfast at 0700. Once again it was bread, jam and coffee from a bowl. We finished breakfast and began our descent into the valley bottom beside a crystal clear lake that was as cold as the glacial ice that filled it. A quick stop to shed the early morning warm kit before embarking on our final ascent, up a steep slope of scree. The going was tough, and with feet sore from days of work, backs heavy with packs and the ever present threat of our Nazi hunters close on our tail, the group was eager to make the final push for freedom. Every step was worth it as we finally reached the frontier on the Col de Claouère
at 2500m high, tired, thirsty but nearly free. Thereafter followed the descent
down the Spanish
and frost on the ground. As the contour lines fell below us the view became more and more spectacular, stretching as far as the eye could see, high above the clouds in the valleys below. With the walking came a good mix of terrain including some hands and feet action on steep terrain and over boulders. Half way up the first ascent we stopped at the wreck of a Halifax Bomber which crashed after the war was over, sadly killing all 7 crew members. Cpl Pete Hollick gave a short presentation on the plane and a cross of remembrance was placed at the site. After that we ascended to the Col de Crabérous (2,382 m) our first col of the day. Along the route we were treated to views of some local wildlife such as the Griffin Vultures, Choughs and the Ptarmigan just getting its white winter coat. A last good descent over the Col de Pécouch (2,494 m), second high col of the day brought
The Breath-taking views North into Spain from the Col de Pécouch.
us down to Le Refuge des Estagnous, a mountain Refuge, rebuilt after it was blown up by the Nazis, which was used by the evaders and escapees during their tough crossing of the mountains. Here food and shelter were offered, but more importantly there was a mountain lake a short walk away, where people went to dip feet and soak ankles. No one braved a swim as the temperature was close to freezing even with the sunlight that shone until sunset. The temperature dropped rapidly and everyone made sure they were well tucked up in sleeping bags before too long. Everyone knew that freedom loomed over one more steep climb, and they wanted to be ready for it when the chance came.
Day 5: Le Refuge des Estagnous (2245m) over the Frontier Col to the village of Alos d’Isil in Spain. We awoke early
ARMY MOUNTAINEER 55