The Sounds of Nature

While city life can be noisy and messy, the quickest solution is to head out on the bus to the final stop and wander out into the countryside.

We went on a most memorable hike on the outskirts of the city. It wasn't long before we left behind the sound of grinding motors, honking cars and the ever present song "Quiero Cuenca" that comes from the many gas trucks plying their trade. 

With only the birds and distant river in our ears, we ascended a long trail that ends in a set of cascades and then loops back from whence we came. With only a shallow river in our way, we sloshed through happily and wandered back down the hill on the opposite side of the river. 

Does this look like a folk album cover?

With rain comes this amazing green

 

Sure, it was muddy and slippery, but the surrounding trees, babbling water and blue sky were like a spa experience. 

We finished off at Le Petit Jardin, a restaurant on the outskirts of Cuenca. When you've had such an amazing day, being able to finish it off with a top notch meal makes the day as close to perfect as you can get here.

Salmon in herb sauce

Pulpo al carbon

Beef Wellington

Wine poached pair in chocolate

Sometimes all you need is amazing company, a good dash of nature and delicious French sustenance at the end of it all.