In 1922 the legendary traveller Gerald Brenan did an amazing 60 mile walk from Granada, across the Sierra Nevada to the village of Yegen in under 24 hours, climbing over 3000m in the process. An amazing feat. But how would the walkers of today cope? We are going to find out and along the way raise some much needed cash for Cancer Research.
I have been fascinated with Gerald Brenan's adventure and indeed his life story for some time. Immortalized in the famous book "South from Granada" which describes his arrival and adventures in the Alpujarra, Andalucia in the 1920's. It is a great travel book that perfectly captures the essence, feel and attractiveness of the early Alpujarras.
In the book he describes the route he took from Granada to Yegen. From the description in the book we can determine the following:
(1) He walked it in September (possibly 1921?)
(2) He set off from Granada at 3am (doesn't say exactly where)
(3) Reached Guejar Sierra at dawn
(4) Ascent to the col at Laguna de Vacares
(5) Descent to El Horcajo at the head of the Trevelez valley
(6) Reached Bercules at 6pm (presumably via the Trevelez valley rather than the high ridge of Loma del Piedra Ventana?)
(7) Reached main road by nightfall
(8) Arrived Yegen at 10pm
(9) He estimated the distance of at least 60 miles and 8000 feet of ascent
(10) It took him 19 hours
The distance of 60 miles (I have actually measured it at somewhat less than that) and 3000m ascent mean this is a considerable challenge for all, whether weekend rambler, committed trekker or hardened mountaineer.
When we apply "Naismiths Rule" to the distance and height estimations we get a time of 25 hours (the basic rule is as follows: allow 1 hour for every 3 miles (5 km) forward, plus ½ hour for every 1000 feet (300 metres) of ascent) for the trip. There are variations to this rule to allow for fitness levels but what is clear is that Mr Brenan was a very fit lad indeed!
On Saturday 17th September 2011 we are going to replicate this walk as much as we can in aid of Cancer Research. Our trainee guide James Jackson will lead the walk with the rest of Spanish Highs Mountain Guides supporting with help, advice, transport, accommodation and safety. We shall meet and start the walk at the Alhambra Palace car parks on the outskirts of Granada city. Transport shall be provided from the finishing point in Yegen back to Lanjaron.
All are welcome to join in and come along and celebrate this walk in a good cause. Who knows it may become a regular fixture?
