A Solo Retreat in Aigüestortes National Park

A Breath of Fresh Mountain Air

The crisp mountain air filled my lungs as I stepped onto the soil of Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park for the very first time. Leaving Bonn behind, even just for a little while, always feels like shedding a layer of the everyday and stepping into a world painted with bolder, more vibrant colors. This solo trip is not just a getaway; it’s a quest for inspiration, a chance to let the raw beauty of nature fuel my floral designs back home.

The journey here was quite straightforward. A flight from Bonn to Barcelona was followed by a train to a nearby town, which served as my gateway to this natural paradise. I must admit, I did forget my portable charger and sunscreen, a rookie mistake! But I picked up some at Supermercat El Rebost d'Espot after arriving, a charming little shop filled with local products. It was a good reminder that sometimes, the best experiences come from these little unplanned stops.


Explore local flavors and gourmet selections at Supermercat El Rebost d'Espot, the heart of culinary delights in Lleida.

My first order of business was breakfast at L'Avet de Sant Maurici. The restaurant’s location by the river was delightful, and the food was hearty and comforting. I enjoyed some ‘crema’, which they are famous for. The staff were friendly, and the atmosphere was relaxed, making it a perfect start to my day. It’s funny, even dining alone, I felt a sense of connection with the other patrons, all drawn to this place by the same promise of natural beauty and tranquility.


Discover L'Avet de Sant Maurici: A culinary haven in Espot offering authentic Catalan flavors and stunning mountain views.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I set off to explore the Parc Nacional d'Aigüestortes. The park is truly breathtaking, with its rugged peaks, verdant valleys, and crystal-clear lakes. October drapes a gentle hand over the landscape here. The summer crowds have thinned, leaving a serene quiet in their wake, and the first hints of autumn are painting the leaves in hues of gold and crimson. The weather was perfect for hiking, with a cool breeze and clear skies, though there was a chance of showers in the afternoon.


Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Parc Nacional d'Aigüestortes, a natural gem in Lleida, Spain, perfect for outdoor adventures.

For lunch, I stopped at Restaurant Juquim in Espot. I opted for the wild boar steak, recommended by a fellow diner. It was absolutely divine, tender and flavorful, and it felt like a true taste of the Pyrenees. The restaurant had a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere, and I could tell it was a local favorite. I can see why it is rated highly, with a score of 8.32.


Experience authentic Spanish flavors at Restaurant Juquim in Espot - a culinary haven nestled in breathtaking surroundings.

As the day drew to a close, I found myself at Restaurant La Llúpia for dinner. I savored every bite while reflecting on the day's adventures. What a great way to end the day.


Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors at Restaurant La Llúpia in Espot – a true culinary treasure amidst stunning landscapes.

Reflecting on the day, I am struck by how different this landscape is from the rolling hills of the Netherlands where I grew up. The sheer scale of the Pyrenees is humbling, and the air is so clean and pure it feels like a tonic. I made a mental note to try and capture the vibrant colors of the wild flowers I saw today, perhaps incorporating them into a new bouquet design when I return to Bonn.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Estany de Sant Maurici and visit the Casa del Parc Nacional d’Espot. Perhaps I will stop by Bar era cabana for a drink. I am excited to see what other hidden gems this park holds. For now, I'm off to find a cozy spot for the night, ready to embrace whatever adventures tomorrow may bring.

“The mountains are calling and I must go,” as John Muir so eloquently put it. And I couldn’t agree more. Goodnight from Aigüestortes!