Piñar, Granada

An overcast but a warm and humid day in Almerimar.

Al and I left by coach at 07.30 on a trip to the Cuevas de las Venantas in Piñar, north of Granada.   The trip arranged by our AMA group.

A stop for a chaotic breakfast before arriving at our destination and taking a 'train' on a steady, if somewhat rickety, climb up the mountain.   We had a tour guide through the cave but as she spoke at 100km/h we could only pick up some of the narrative.   They have found remains, pottery, skins etc there from 20,000 years ago.   It was mainly used as a burial ground, with different level of sites for the hierarchy in the tribe. (nothing changes!), although there is evidence of them living there.   It was an interesting visit in beautiful surroundings.   The main photo shows the view from the cave entrance.

You can see the acres and acres of Olive Groves, plus cereal crops.   Higher up there were almonds and walnut trees too.

Back down in the train and a cooling beer - everyone without exception did not want to climb right up to the Castle remains in the scorching heat!

A huge lunch followed and afterwards we went to see the Falconry show.   Fortunately we were in the shade as were the birds when not 'performing'.   (See extras).   Those more knowledgeable than me on the subject will be able to name them.   It was very interesting.

It was interesting, also, to see the changing scenery as we headed back   from rolling hillsides full of Olive trees and crops in the dry heat (the region is hot in the summer and very cold in the winter) to our arid mountains and scrubland with the Plastic greenhouses growing the salads and vegetables.   A huge contrast in such a short space of time and distance.

A great day out.