Rhune, breathtaking three star view

The Rhune is the highest point in Aquitaine with its 905 metres above sea level. It is one of the most visited spots and far from a tourist trap. The view from the top is rated three stars by the Guide Michelin. You get it I think, a compulsory visit!

I went there a couple of years ago, but the children don't even remember anymore. I also wanted to go there again with a good camera... When I turned off the highway heading towards Ascain we had already seen the top from quite a distance. The landscape is rather flat, comparingly, around it, so it grows upon you as you move closer. Impressing...

First of all you should know that you can walk up this mountain. A three hour walk up 700 metres. I plan to do that someday...

But we took the traditional cog railway option. The children love this traditional train that slowly takes you up the winding road.

When I bought the tickets I got candy for the kids... strange I thougth before I realised it was for the ears! I felt the difference in altitude so it was a good thing.

On the way up we had lots of time to look at the pottoks, the small mountain horses that roam freely....

... and some sheep...

... an eagle! said Clara. You see it? And to be honest I'm not sure what it is, but it was big so more probably a vulture.... You see alot of these mighty birds up here.

So here comes the train up to the top. 

First surprise. That tiny little stick you see on top of the mountain at a distance. Close it is huge!

Second surprise is that the air is a little thinner... the first minutes up here we felt it, then we got used to it. But we didn't stay long enough to get used to the panorama. Here you see Clara looking out on the ocean side... a small stripe of clouds made the horizon milky.

If you want to get a snack or something to drink, there are three places to choose from. And you can also buy some cheap cigarettes or alcohol in this taxfree area!

We had planned to have our picnic up here but ended up eating the sandwiches while we were waiting for the train. But we had dessert in a magnificent place....

Sorry one more pottok picture but the light was so beautiful when we went down again....

Bye bye little train....