GR11 - Day 27 - to Estaon

Beautiful day. We were on the road by 6:45. We wanted to enjoy as much coolness as possible because we had to look forward to a 1272 m climb. As it turned out, most of it was in the shade. We followed the road to Dorve instead of the trail, so that we could go a little faster. Above Dorve, we had a major navigation problem. Once again the GPS came to the rescue, but we had major bushwacking and climbing steep rocks to do before finally hitting the path. The rest of the climb was easy. The grade is so gentle. On the other side, we also had to use the GPS to help us find our way. We encountered a mark, kept on the same path and the next mark said "Not here"! Head-scratching moment... The path through the grass was not obvious, but we finally got on the trail again, and after a rugged steep descent, arrived in Estaon in 6h30. The newly refurbished refugio is beautiful and modern. The little village is also being refurbished. Beautiful stone buildings set in the hill, all brightened up with flowers. The keeper of the refugio is a technical drawing professor from the University of Barcelona. This is the 1st year that he and his wife man the refugio. They do it in style: sheets and pillowcases, tablecloths, towel in the bathroom. Peter told him that it was the Parador of refugios. For those who wonder, refugios are very basic accomodations. Usually bunk beds in a dorm for about 12-20 people. There is a contour sheet on the mattress, but I always put my own on top of it. As well there is usually a pillow, and I use my own pillowcase as well. We use our sleeping bags, but if you don't mind, you can use the woolen blankets that are available.