Olta mountain

We're still miles away from the Lake District, but it won't be long until we return and we can't wait to be back out on the local fells.

For now though, it's the Costa Blanca mountains that have been keeping us fit and in high places.

Today it was a local mountain to Calpe - where we're staying - that we aimed for, and what a treat. Kate & Leanne walked as far as the rock climbing area on the mountain and concentrated their efforts in the vertical world of climbing. Meanwhile, me, Kim, & Jenny, continued on to the summit plateau of this extensive mountain.

It's proximity to Calpe mean getting there is easy and with a good road leading part-way up to the camp-site, the walking is non-strenuous. To begin with it's fragrant pine woodland, but this soon gives way to scrub-land and Limestone pavement. Paths are easy to follow and views from the plateau are a real treat, worth every step.

It's easy to retrace your steps back to the start or follow a circular route along the broad barranc.

Photo: this shows El Penon de Ifach, Olta summit plateau, Mascarat, and the Bernia ridge. Taken from Olta summit.