Monte Sumbra 1

On Thursday, we stirred ourselves from the terrace to climb Monte Sumbra - one of the Apuane Alps opposite us which we see in all its seasonal garbs. Although we had some excellent directions from Pietro, we didn't get our timings right, and didn.t make it to the summit.  However, it was a great hike up, with absolutely stunning views.

We saw six ravens playing in the sky over the Serchio valley, a flock of choughs over the void in the face of Monte Sumbra, and all the way up the ground was frequently furrowed by the snuffling snouts of the wild boar - the cinghiale - which we did not see!

Seen from the path - the mass of the Pania which we climbed a couple of weeks ago 

Up through the beechwoods ...

... a glowing contrast of blue sky, grey bark and green and amber leaves

An easy bit ...

... slightly harder as we approach the pre-summit ridge

The face of Sumbra looms indistinct behind the trees

The stupendous South Face of Monte Sumbra revealed

Barbara braves it for the photo

Our picnic spot high above the Garfagnana

Monte Tambura in the distance - an expedition for another day perhaps ...