Day 2: Climbing The Mountain

Weather Update: Sunny. High 12c

Elevation Above Sea Level: 280 Metres

A Perfect Day for an Ascent

The weather on Day 2 was nothing short of splendid—clear skies, glorious sunshine, and no hint of wind. After a satisfying breakfast, I set off on the trail leading to the ladder that grants free entry into the castle grounds. The journey was a challenging one-hour trek upward, climbing over 250 metres along a steep, loose-rock path that demanded every bit of careful footing.

The Elusive Entrance to the Castle

Many fellow travellers were in pursuit of what they called the “Holy Grail” of the castle entrance, though most, myself included, ended up on a track that clearly couldn’t lead to the elusive opening in the wall—a shortcut to avoid the high entrance fees. Despite this, the ascent offered magnificent panoramic views of the entire valley, a reward in its own right.

A Crossroads and a Difficult Choice

Realizing that the current path would not yield the access I hoped for, I eventually turned back while others pressed on. At a crossroads—one path descending and the other leading toward a ruined church—I decided to venture left. This detour led me to an opening that hinted at potential, where what was once a ladder now lay in ruins, replaced by piles of rocks stacked against the wall. The precarious footing and the need to scramble over loose stones left me questioning whether I should risk the climb or simply pay the fee at the base. Exercising cautious judgment, I chose to return to solid ground, saving the challenge for another day.

A Day of Conversations and Small Wins

The day was a blend of productive encounters and reflective pauses. I engaged in lively discussions with fellow travellers, sharing stories and insights about the best countries to visit, and even picked up postcards for my grandchildren—promising to send them the next day. While the day may have felt somewhat routine, it was filled with small achievements and moments of genuine connection.

Looking Ahead: Cycling to Perast

Tomorrow promises a new adventure as I plan to hire a bike and explore Perast. Though I could recount every historical detail and every captivating scene, I offer you just a glimpse—a fraction—of what life on the road truly feels like