The Good Life: Hiking La Cumbrecita in Argentina

La Cumbrecita is a small, historic village in the province of Cordoba, Argentina. At almost 5,000 feet above sea level, it was declared a pedestrian-only village in 1996. Yep, no cars - foot travel only please.

Upon arriving, my companion and I check into a hostel - not the best idea we've ever had. But, as we arrive late afternoon and are ready to find some grub, we settle in.

Once Upon a Lumpy Night . . .

One night spent on a lumpy mattress with a loud-flushing toilet nearby, we realize we have to find something else the next day.

The next morning, after finding better-suited accommodations and eating breakfast, we head off to do some light hiking and swimming.

"Lite Hiking My Arse!"

My friend is a native Argentinian and accustomed to the steep hills of La Cumbrecita. I thought we were going to do some "light hiking." It felt more like mountain climbing. On more than one occasion, I felt like I couldn't take another step.

Not from fear of heights, but because the terrain was rocky and steep. I was sure that I was going to plunge to my death at any moment on more than one occasion. But, he persisted, "You can do it; see how easy it is."

Under my breath, I grumble that it's different when you've climbed these hills all your life. I'm a Florida beach girl - the ground under my feet has always been steady and sandy!

Not one to be bested by much, my stubborn streak kicks in and before I know it, I look back at the rocky, steep, jagged terrain I've covered and beam at my accomplishment. With each step, I'm surer and surer, faster and faster.

My friend had told me to pack and/or wear a swimsuit under my hiking gear because we were going to go swimming. As we got higher and higher, I wondered where.

Down, Down, Down We Go!

We reach and peak and start to traverse down the side of the "mountain." By this time, I'm loving every challenge, but do wonder when the swimming part of this journey is going to kick in.

Although I'm enjoying myself immensely, it's hot as the dickens and I'm starving. And then, there before me is what I can only describe as a "lagoon from heaven."