The Kazbeg calls

Sunday, June 2, 2024. Day 8 of 13.

This morning, the 5047m high Kazbeg finally appeared, snow-covered and shining white in the sun, with blue skies above. This time we were quickly taken to 2200m in minibuses. There was a service going on in the Holy Trinity Church. The priest hid behind a door and only appeared sporadically, alternating with monotonous prayers. Once outside, the Kazbeg hid again. Our group split up to make a more or less rapid ascent depending on our ambition and ability. The first group quickly tackled the 800m in altitude. The second group, which I was part of, also wanted to go up - no, not to the summit, but according to the motto "the journey is the destination" - with more time to enjoy the beauty of the mountains and to photograph the numerous flowers and blossoms. Among them were gentian, white rhododendron, purple primroses and much more. The first snowfields appeared, releasing meltwater due to the sunlight. The Trinity Church became smaller and smaller, but the mountain panorama was revealed in all its splendor. Clouds created a varied play of light and shadow over snow-covered peaks. Stone pillars appeared with crosses and icons on them. When we reached a mountain saddle, the altimeter showed 2950m. A group of mountaineers had their touring skis and equipment transported up on horses, dogs lay around, weary and exhausted. We enjoyed the magnificent view and were happy. Group 1 was just about to descend again. Bear tracks had been spotted in a snowfield. I still need about 40 meters of altitude to reach 3000. Since the official route goes slightly downhill, I climb up in open terrain and meet a Brit who is trying to film the Caucasian Imperial Fowl with a camera on a tripod, whose distinctive call could be heard several times. We happily dismount and meet the rest of the group. The afternoon sun gives the magnificent landscape a special glow. We then head back down to town at breakneck speed by bus.