Our Easy Stroll

May 27, 2023

    A bright and early morning for our light hike…or so we thought. Our coordinator James explained to us it was a hike for all ages, and would only be around an hour. In the kindest way, those comments were deceiving. We arrived at the hiking trail around 9:45am, and began the hike. Honestly, I was expecting a short hike, but when I saw the hiking guide in a huge backpack, I got scared. Half of the girls were hiking in converse because those were the only shoes they had. I really love hiking, and knew I was going to enjoy it no matter what! Some girls were quite the opposite though; I think they would have preferred the extra sleep. The trail started out with a solid incline which initially was daunting. It turned out to be a beautiful view at the peak.  As we were going along, it was super interesting to hear the guide explain the different plants. He pointed out lavender and thyme which both smelled amazing! Towards the end of the hike, I noticed a strip of bare land dividing the trees. I could not imagine what it was for, so I asked the guide. He explained that because the area is so dry wild fires can spread easily. This divide helps stop the fire from moving as fast if one does occur. The hike ended up being so much fun! We all had great conversations which helped the time pass. At the end, we approached a small village with worn bricks and beautiful stone grounds. My favorite part was the greenery that traveled up some of the small structures. We learned that no one actually lives in the little houses, but many are used as lunch spots for locals and tourists to enjoy. 

This gap in the greenery is what helps prevent fires
from spreading! I have never seen this before, but I found
it interesting. 

My favorite view from the hike. I could have sat up
here all day.