Fri, Jul 3, 2015

The Carpathian Mountains

From where I took this photo it is 5 kilometers to reach the top of that mountain, above the tree line. My father and Artur walked over 215 kilometers (125 miles) before they reached the town of Presow, Slovakia; where they took a train before getting off close to the Hungary border. Based on how I felt after reaching this peak, I have no idea how they traversed these mountains on foot over days of travel.

Dad and Artur carried no extra gear so as not to attract attention. No maps, compass, backpack, only contraband (watches and jewelry) in their pockets, so if stopped they may bribe their way out of trouble,

From the top of this mountain in southern Poland you can see the Ukraine and Slovakia. Dad and Artur had to slip past border guards when crossing into Slovakia. Fortunately, they eventually ran into a gang of Slovakian teens in a forest. The teens were planning their own uprising against the Germans, and guided the two tired and hungry Poles to Presow.

At the top of this peak stood a cross. Was a good feeling to make it and coming down was much easier.

My cousin Michal is an outstanding guide and travel companion. He will drop me off at a train station in Hungary in a few days. We both agreed that the beers over dinner this evening will be much deserved.