La Sella

The mountain has two peaks, which swoop up from the flat plain to join in the middle through a narrow ridge, pine-coated and always dappled with sun. 

The climb to the top of the Northern peak is punctuated by sweet and tangy smells of Mediterranean herbs, incomprehensible patterns drawn in the limestone by countless drops of water, and the ever-present cacti waiting disconcertingly to catch a climber off-guard.

From the top we can see sierras (mountain ranges) stretching to the distance on three sides, and to the North and East, the Mediterranean sea. Just before the sea looms the friendly, rounded lump of Montgó, where eagles soar. 

The December sun is shining bright and warm, and over-excited people are setting off fireworks in the nearby town.  It's hard to believe that just over a week  ago we were shivering in the gloom of English winter.