Let me take you on one of our trekking tours in the Bavarian Alps. It was on a beautiful day last April, winter had finally come to an end and the briskness of spring was in the air.....
Getting ready quickly, eager to be on our way, I packed a picnic, while my husband made sure we had everything we needed for the day, before setting off. It didn't take long before the first view of the majestic mountains in the distance opened up before our eyes, setting my heart to beat faster in anticipation.
At last we reached the picturesque lake lying still and sombre under the early morning mist, encased by the surrounding splendour of the mountains.
After parking the car and changing into our beloved trekking boots, we set off, rucksack safely strapped to our backs, venturing first steps up the steep slope at the foot of the mountain.
Breathing the crisp, fresh mountain air deeply into our lungs with every step we took.
Soon leaving the lake behind us as we ascended higher and higher.
Our blitheful jaunt took us along gentle-flowing streams of crystal clear mountain water, running continuously downwards towards rivulets and waterfalls of exquisite beauty.We made our way through thick green forest, taking in the tremendous fragrance given off the tall pine trees and dew-covered blades of grass.
After a strenuous but gratifying uphill climb over moss-covered boulders, sturdy, years-old tree roots and slippy, sleek stones, we finally made our way out of the forest to be greeted by a breath-taking, awesome openness.
What a magnificent view before our eyes, we could see for miles and miles. A view that fills your heart with gratitude for our wonderful world.
The exertion up until then was blown from my mind.
The azure sky emitting it's deep-blue radiance above the lush-green plain, encircled by snow-peaked, ostentatious mountains of magnificent splendour was a sight to behold.
To just stand still, gaze transfixed to the impressive panorama, mesmerized by the sheer beauty of the grandiose sight was reward beyond our highest expectations.
All tiredness and exhaustion completely forgotten, blown away with the gentle wind.
Ultimately we reached our goal...The cross at the summit of the mountain....A place of pure tranquility.Where the unconsumed air seems cleaner and fresher than anywhere else in the world.
Where the imperturbable calm, the composed peacefulness fills all your senses, allowing you to become one with Mother Nature.
After taking sufficient rest, food and drink we felt ready to make the descending journey back down.Rejuvenated and full of new energy we made our way down the lightly snow-clad slopes for the long trek back.
Leaving behind harsh rocks and cliffs towards the soft greenery of the dense woods.
In the distance, the reticent, silent lake beckoning us to make our way slow and sedately downwards.Totally lost in our own thoughts, feeling highly contented and as satisfied as a small child on Christmas morning, we followed the path.
Carefully avoiding treading on the unique flowers, found only in these areas, we hiked on, taking delight in the celestial flight of the colourful butterflies, without losing sight of the distinguished and outstanding environment surrounding us.
Having finally reached the foot of the mountain after a long, vigorous downward trek, we compensated ourselves with a refreshing "Leichte Weisse" (A traditional Bavarian beer), before heading back to the car for our journey home......Feeling newly born......Cheers.......
