The Iparla Ridge via Bidarray

BWinding our way through the countryside on back roads, we found Bidarray nestled on the side of the ridge.   Hiking was a steady climb up, and we had to stop quite a few times to catch our breath.  Our picnic gave us energy to tackle the steep ascent to the summit.    It is not just the diet that keeps the French healthy, it is the exercise, seeing a family near the summit with a small child!   There was a lot of scrambling and rock climbing near the top, and the drop off was dizzying.   Stopping, we just enjoyed the view - Bidarray far below, the green pastures dotted with sheep, and the mountains in the distance. The Iparla ridge marks the border between France and Spain.  We realized just how high we had climbed on our descent, carefully watching our footing.   We lingered on the way down, soaking up the sun and this peaceful, pastoral setting.