El Chalten, Patagonia, Argentina


🏔️⛰️🗻FITZ ROY🗻🏔️🏔️
The Laguna de Los Tres hike is a challenging trek covering approximately 13.7 miles (22 km) round trip. With an elevation gain of about 3500 feet (1060 m), it offers a demanding ascent. The trail begins with a moderate climb out of the valley, providing a picturesque view of Rio de Las Vueltas.
The terrain flattens out during the middle of the hike. Once you cross Rio Blanco, the trail becomes steeper. The final mile and a half pose a significant challenge with steep and rocky sections. It’s important to watch your footing.
Often known as the Fitz Roy hike, Laguna de los Tres hike offers a variety of interconnected trails that allow you to explore not only Laguna de Los Tres but also other stunning destinations such as Laguna Sucia, Laguna Capri, and Laguna Torre or even Piedras Blancas Glacier. By combining these hikes, you can create a truly unforgettable adventure, immersing yourself in the natural wonders of the region.
The hike is incredibly rewarding despite the difficulty. We’ve seen people of various fitness levels completing the journey. Some accomplished hikers finish it in under 6 hours. How long did it take us, Bennett?🤣
Remember to hike at your own pace and treat yourself to a well-deserved Patagonian mouth watering meal at Restaurante Ahonikenk Chalten Fonda Patagonia and Parilla La Oveja Negra at El Chalten afterward.

Me and my friend, Bennett

Pineda-Geres National Park

The highlight of my trip to Portugal was with IVER! We went off-roading at Peneda-Gerês, the only one to be classified as a National Park. This was an exhilarating experience. It reminded me of my childhood days .😆
Besides that, it was a perfect get away from the busy streets of Porto. We marveled around Fafião, a peaceful village nestled amidst the valleys and mountains of Peneda-Gerês National Park, adorned with charming stone houses along its serene streets. This pastoral village is also known for its well-preserved ancestral trap, called Fojo do Lobo, which was once used for hunting Iberian wolves.
The Peneda-Gerês National Park, situated in the northwest region of Portugal, is the country’s sole national park and renowned as one of Europe’s most stunning natural landscapes.
Encompassing over 700 square kilometers, it boasts a variety of ecosystems, including lofty mountain ranges, waterfalls, picturesque river valleys and old villages.

Seceda Ridgeline in the Dolomites

Patience, perseverance, courage, hope, and determination are key to achieving your goals and dreams, but without His love and mercy, all else fails. My journey from Dobbiaco to Ortisei was smooth, except for missing one stop. However, an older man came to my rescue – bless his heart. Ortisei offers numerous activities ideal for hikers, nature lovers, and photographers. Since it was sunny, I visited Seceda. The Seceda ridgeline is iconic in the Dolomites, often photographed, yet even more spectacular in person. I took many photos on October 7, 2024, to share with those interested.

Misty Morning

I walked out this morning and I fell for the mists shrouding the green beds of grass.
The sun came out and I met my friends basking in the sunlight and lone owl on a street light!

Tre Cime de Lavaredo

In the heart of the Dolomites, the majestic Tre Cime di Lavaredo rises a trio of limestone giants that redefines the boundaries of natural beauty. With an undeniable allure, this iconic landmark captivates audiences globally, welcoming visitors from all walks of life to bask in its glory. By combining accessibility with awe-inspiring scenery, the Tre Cime empowers travelers to forge unforgettable connections with nature, fostering a deeper appreciation for life’s simple yet extraordinary wonders. With their towering presence, they remind us that every experience holds the potential for growth and renewal. I’m grateful to have arrived in this extraordinary place-solo! That exudes courage, strength and confidence, right?

Solitude and Introspection

In the serenity of solitude, I’ve discovered a profound sense of clarity and freedom to explore my thoughts without distraction, allowing me to tap into my deepest passions and desires. These quiet moments nurture my self-awareness, transforming solitude into a vibrant sanctuary that fuels creativity and introspection. Here, I rediscover life’s simple joys – the gentle rustle of leaves, the feel of the breeze brushing against my face, raindrops on my skin or the breathtaking beauty of a sunset. I’ve learned that embracing my own company is a powerful act of self-love, empowering me to cultivate my interests and connect with my true self. Amidst the world’s noise, I find solace in knowing that being alone is not isolation, but an opportunity for growth and self-discovery.

Beneath the Sun

Dewdrops on the blades of grass,
Reflections on the lake like glass,
Spider spinning silver webs,
And a lovely hummingbird
Endlessly quivering its tiny wings.
What a great opportunity today,
To be alive and see all these beauty!
Life is sweet but swift,
Take time to enjoy some days
From sunrise to sunset!

Stars of Fall

The soft winds blow
Crisp autumn air,
As I marvel around the lake,
Serene and clear.

Blue skies sweep the horizon,
Green grass blankets the garden.
Autumn leaves have fallen,
Grounds have become golden!

Many trees surround the lake,
Their leaves fall every minute.
Yellow, green, red and brown,
They all fall on the ground.

I love the crunching sound,
When I step on crispy leaves
Windswept from trees
Of summer winds gone!

Beguiled by the charms
Of falling autumn leaves,
They are like stars shining,
Fluttering as they fall down!