Setting the Stage
It began with the Ulia Hike, an official ESN event that saw over 50 participants. Coordinating such a large group with just two people was a challenge, but the smiles on everyone’s faces made it worthwhile. Hugo and I carried our oversized backpacks, a prelude to the adventure awaiting us. It became a running joke among the hikers, who speculated if we were homeless wanderers with our “homes” strapped to our backs.
The hike ended in Pasaia, where we ventured to the lighthouse near the climbing wall. Descending a steep cliff by the water, we discovered the adventurous souls among us. As the day ended, we returned to Donosti to collect some items from the car. It was a comedic realization that we could have skipped this detour, but these little hiccups make for the best memories.
As the sun dipped behind the hills of Beasain, we stocked up at Carrefour and set off toward Aizkorri.
The Night Ascent
The core crew for this journey was a mix of personalities: Antonia, Leonie, Hugo, and me. Climbing a mountain in pitch darkness felt daunting to some, but we pressed on, our spirits high.
Early in the ascent, we stopped at a small river for a refreshing “shower” lit by our headlamps. Long exposure photos near the caves added a creative flair to our midnight trek. Upon reaching the refuge, we were relieved to find it empty. Exhausted but exhilarated after two hikes in one day, we set about making the shelter our temporary home.
We gathered firewood—Hugo even braved the misty darkness to find more—and managed to start a fire with wet wood, a minor miracle. As the flames crackled, the girls prepared vegetables and meat for a barbecue. Without distractions, the night was pure: just jokes, shared stories, and the warmth of the moment.
Sunrise and Exploration
With only 3-4 hours of sleep, we woke to catch the sunrise. Carrying an abundant breakfast—pancakes, guacamole, coffee, and more—we climbed to the roof of the hermitage. There, we feasted while watching the day begin, the serene beauty fueling our spirits for the next adventure.
Exploring Aizkorri’s caves is always a highlight. Despite some initial hesitation, everyone embraced the thrill of discovery. We delved deep into two caves and found a surprising connection between the second and third caves in San Adrian. Laughter echoed as we attempted to prank one another, even if some plans didn’t quite work out.
Descending the mountain, we stopped for a quick shower in the river. The cool water was invigorating, and Hugo’s soaps made the impromptu cleanse feel oddly luxurious. The hike concluded with a visit to a nearby restaurant for pintxos and mosto, a quintessential Basque experience.
Bonus: Zinemaldia
The adventure didn’t end there. The next day, on a whim, we attended Zinemaldia, the San Sebastián International Film Festival. Dressed to impress—suits for the guys and elegant outfits for the girls—we blended into the glamorous crowd.
Our timing was impeccable. As we posed on the red carpet, whispers swirled among onlookers wondering if we were celebrities. The experience felt surreal, and we were thrilled to catch a film right before Johnny Depp’s arrival.
The following evening, we returned for a second film, a 3-hour miniseries that captivated us with its drama and unexpected twists. The emotional weight of the story left us reflective, but the artistry of the festival made it an unforgettable experience.
Final Thoughts
The weekend was a whirlwind of nature, camaraderie, and culture—a perfect mix of adventure and elegance. While words can only capture so much, the memories of Aizkorri and Zinemaldia are etched in our minds.
Here’s to more weekends like this: full of exploration, connection, and a touch of spontaneity.