Trekking Through the Mountains!
July 13, 2026
What an eventful week it has been!
Picking up where we left off, we said goodbye to our little oasis in Caín, one of the most remote villages in Spain’s spectacular Picos de Europa National Park, and set off to hike the breathtaking Cares Gorge. Often called the “Divine Gorge,” the Ruta del Cares is one of Spain’s most famous hikes, stretching between the mountain villages of Caín and Poncebos. Originally carved into the cliffs as a maintenance path for a hydroelectric canal, the trail now attracts hikers from around the world who come to experience its dramatic tunnels, towering limestone walls, and incredible views of the rushing river below. Every turn looked like something straight out of an Indiana Jones movie! Wilson and Eugenia confidently led our group through the winding cliffside paths and tunnels, helping everyone feel adventurous while safely navigating one of the most iconic hikes in Spain.
That evening, as has become one of our favorite traditions, we gathered around a family-style table to enjoy another authentic meal together. Sharing meals has become one of the best parts of this experience, giving us time to reflect on the day’s adventures while trying regional specialties. This week, we sampled dishes like cabra (locally raised goat) and the famous cachopo, a hearty Asturian dish made with breaded beef stuffed with ham and cheese. Afterwards, we wandered through the charming mountain village of Sotres, one of the highest inhabited villages in the Picos de Europa. With its narrow stone streets, centuries-old homes, and shepherding traditions dating back hundreds of years, Sotres feels almost frozen in time. The village itself is far older than the United States, and it was incredible for our students to imagine generations of families living in these mountains long before America even existed.
After dinner, McKinley and Oliver had the unique opportunity to lead our Moonup at a scenic overlook high above the valley. Surrounded by rolling clouds that drifted in and out of the mountains, it was one of the most memorable moonup spots we’ve experienced thus far. As the clouds slowly lifted, Oliver treated the group to an acoustic concert with the mountains providing the perfect natural backdrop. Belle enthusiastically sang along to every song, making the moment even more joyful and reminding us how special these simple moments together can be.
After another hearty mountain breakfast, we laced up our boots for one more hike through the Picos de Europa. Friendly cows seemed to greet us around every bend in the trail, complete with their familiar bells echoing through the valleys. Laura Charlotte couldn’t resist trying to dance with a few of our four-legged spectators, much to everyone’s amusement. As the afternoon warmed up, Blake, James, and Alden launched an unexpected water gun battle with our Spanish guides, creating plenty of laughter while helping everyone cool off after miles on the trail. We eventually arrived in the peaceful village of Tielve- the perfect place to pause and soak in our final mountain views before making the journey back to Madrid.
The next morning brought an entirely different adventure as we boarded our flight to Morocco. Belle and Harlon did an outstanding job leading the group through the airport, helping keep everyone organized and making international travel look easy. After arriving at our beautiful riad, we spent the afternoon cooling off in the pool. Games of Marco Polo quickly broke out, followed by rounds of Silent Categories. James earned the title of “DJ Crigler” after putting together a group playlist that somehow managed to include everyone’s favorite styles of music, turning an afternoon swim into a memorable pool party.
The next day, we dove headfirst into the vibrant energy of Marrakech’s famous souks. These bustling markets have served as the city’s commercial center for centuries and are unlike anything many of us had ever experienced. Narrow alleyways overflowed with handcrafted leather goods, colorful spices, intricate jewelry, woven rugs, lanterns, pottery, and traditional clothing. One of the most fascinating parts of the experience was learning that bargaining is an important part of the culture. Rather than simply paying the listed price, buyers and sellers engage in friendly negotiation to agree on a fair deal. We even learned a few Arabic phrases to help us along the way, including “Salam” (hello), “Shukran” (thank you), and “Yalla” (let’s go!). Laura Charlotte and Ann especially impressed everyone by confidently negotiating with shopkeepers and standing their ground until they earned some fantastic bargains.
Back at our riad, Blake organized an energetic soccer match in the courtyard that quickly became highly competitive. McKinley-now affectionately nicknamed “Pete” by the group-showed off some impressive foot skills and quickly became the player everyone wanted on their team. The game came to an unexpected halt, however, when a peacock casually wandered across the field, reminding us once again that travel is always full of surprises.
Another favorite memory has been spending time swimming with the family who has been hosting us. Their children eagerly welcomed us into games in the pool, and despite speaking different languages, laughter quickly became our common language. These moments of simple connection have helped us better understand Moroccan culture and reminded us that hospitality and kindness truly transcend borders.
One of the highlights of our time in Morocco was being welcomed into Mohammed’s home for a traditional Moroccan cooking class. Cooking alongside a local family gave us a meaningful glimpse into daily life and hospitality in Morocco. Alden quickly embraced his inner chef while mastering the technique of making traditional Moroccan pancakes, looking like a young Anthony Bourdain as he worked alongside our hosts. Of course, the best part came afterward when everyone got to enjoy the delicious meal we had prepared together. Now, we are preparing for one of the biggest challenges of our expedition: summiting Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa at over 13,600 feet. The Atlas Mountains have long served as home to the Amazigh (Berber) people, whose rich traditions and resilience continue to shape life in these rugged landscapes.
We have had so much fun so far, and each day continues to stretch, challenge, and inspire our group in new ways, and we can’t wait to share what comes next.
See you in a few days!
Cheers,
Sam and Georgia
Student Thank You’s:
Oliver- Hi mom and dad, thanks so much for sending me on this trip. I love and miss y’all can’t wait to see you again!
Blake – Hey mom and dad, so excited to see you, mom at least. Thank you both so much for giving me these opportunities that most people could never even dream of having. Love you guys!
James- Hey mom and dad, I’m really psyched to come back and see y’all. It has been a crazy experience and I just wanted to thank y’all for sending me. I love you guys.
McKinley – hi mom and dad! I can’t wait to see y’all! thank you for sending me on this amazing trip I love you guys so much!! 💗💗💗🫶😁
LC- hey mom and dad!! 😽 Thank y’all so much for sending me, having the best time ever!!! 😁 Also, happy birthday mom!! 🎂🎁Love you hope you have the best day! Love, LC💕🎉🫰🥳💗
Eugenia- hi mom and dad! Thank you so much for sending me on this amazing trip I’m having such a great time. Can’t wait to see you❤️❤️🫰🍚😎✌️
Harlon – Hi Mama and Papa I am having so much fun here thank you so much for sending me on Moondance I am excited to see y’all soon
Wilson – Hi mom and dad, thank you so much for sending me on this trip. It has been so amazing so far. Exited to see you soon though.
Belle- heyyy mom and dad thank you for sending me on this trip!! We’re about to hike up Toubkal!! I miss you guys so much and love y’all so much!! Dad happy late birthday you’re the best!! Can’t wait to see y’all win I get home love y’all!!!! 🎉🎂🥳💗❤️🫶 ps. Hope Reid and Annie are doing awesome I miss them and Ollie and ham got y’all all gifts!!! Love yalll
Ann- Hi mom and dad! I am having the best time, but can’t wait to see y’all! Thank you so much for sending me!😎
Alden- hey mom and dad, they told me to write a thank you note even though I already thanked you in my first note. But I still am really grateful y’all sent me on this trip. Morocco is really cool!
Update from SPM 3B!
July 12, 2026
Hola from España! We have had such an incredible past few days exploring the beautiful northern coast of Spain. After arriving in the charming beach town of Llanes, we jumped right into adventure and quickly settled into the relaxed coastal lifestyle. Between the stunning mountains and crystal-clear ocean every day has brought something new for the group.
Our first full day was packed with excitement as we headed into the Picos de Europa National Park for canyoneering! Students scrambled over rocks, leaped into refreshing pools, and encouraged one another through every challenge. It was amazing to watch everyone step outside of their comfort zones while laughing the entire way down the canyon. That afternoon we traded helmets for surfboards and hit the beach, where instructors taught everyone the basics of catching waves. By the end of the session, so many students were standing up on their boards and celebrating each other’s successes. We wrapped up the evening with a family-style barbecue while watching the Spain vs. Portugal World Cup match, creating an unforgettable atmosphere full of cheering, laughter, great food, and plenty of team spirit for Spain!
Oliver picked up surfing like a natural, popping up on nearly every wave he caught and always heading back out with a huge smile. LC shared that surfing has been her favorite activity so far, and she has done an awesome job balancing challenging herself in the water while also encouraging and connecting with the rest of the group.
The next day we celebrated Belle’s Sweet 16 in true Moondance fashion. The day began with another surf session before we surprised her with pizza, cake, ice cream, funny party accessories, and endless renditions of “Happy Birthday” in both English and Spanish. The celebration continued during our Via Ferrata climb, where the entire group paused high on the mountain to sing once again while soaking in incredible views of the coastline and surrounding peaks. It was a birthday she won’t soon forget.
The Via Ferrata itself was a highlight for everyone. Students climbed ladders built into the cliffs with crossed exposed sections and trusted one another while navigating the route. It was incredible to watch confidence grow with every step. Alden especially impressed everyone by conquering his fear of heights with poise and determination as he tackled the climb from start to finish. Moments like these are what make this trip so special.
Harlan has somehow become our unofficial wildlife whisperer. Everywhere we go, animals seem to appear around him from friendly neighborhood cats and dogs to the rare mountain deer-goats we spotted while hiking high above the valley. His excitement has been contagious, and the group has loved every unexpected wildlife encounter.
Our next adventure brought us into the heart of the Picos de Europa as we began our breathtaking trekking section of the trip with an unforgettable summit hike. The views stretched for miles across the rugged mountains, making every step worth the effort. McKinley couldn’t stop smiling once we reached the top and spent plenty of time capturing the panoramic scenery with photos to remember the experience. Anna and Oliver did an outstanding job helping lead the group down the mountain at the request of our Spanish guides, Alex and Lucia, making sure everyone made it safely back while keeping spirits high along the way.
Eugenia has discovered a newfound love for hiking and has approached every activity on this trip with contagious enthusiasm and excitement. Wilson shared how rewarding it felt to summit our first peak of the trip and is already looking forward to conquering many more mountains before our adventure comes to an end. After the hike, Blake and James decided there was only one proper way to cool off with a cold plunge in the icy mountain river. They embraced the freezing water with smiles and laughter, making for one of the most memorable moments of the day.
Beyond all the adventures, some of the best moments have been the simple ones sharing meals together, wandering the streets of Llanes, watching sunsets over the Atlantic, and seeing friendships grow stronger each day. The group continues to support one another, embrace every challenge with enthusiasm, and make the most of every experience. Spain is full of incredible sights, delicious food, and unforgettable adventures, and we’re loving every minute of it.
Check back in for more updates in a few days, and as always, LITMO!
Sam and Georgia (& Ann)
Hey mom and dad- having so much fun! Love y’all , xo Georgia
Alden- hey mom and dad, thanks for sending me here. It’s really pretty.
James- What’s up fam, I am having a blast, getting into hiking, and meditating. I love it here and miss y’all.
Blake – Hey mom and dad and Ella hope you’re well this has been incredible so far, weathers great, people are awesome, and breathtaking views and experiences no BS. Best Moondance I’ve done. Miss YALL but I’m having a blast so don’t worry about me. Love you all.
Ann- Hey mom and dad! I’m having the best time surfing, hiking, rock climbing, and zipping! Thanks for sending me. Miss y’all! 💯🇪🇸🇲🇦💕🫶
LC- Hey mom and dad!! I’m having so much fun!! Thank y’all so much for sending me here I am having the best time ever! We have gone hiking, rock climbing, zip lining, and surfing, so fun!! Love y’all and Thomas!! 🥳🔥💗😽🫰
Eugenia- Hello! I’m having such a great time and I really like hiking now so maybe I’ll ask aunt Zoe to hike with me lol. Pls take care of mittens honestly super scared now that Leese is in control of her. Love youuu😘🔥🔥🔥💗💗💗
Oliver- Hi mom and dad, I’m having a great time and it’s been so cool. Tell the dogs I say hi and I miss y’all so much have the best time in Colorado. Love y’all!
Wilson- Hi mom and dad, thank you so much for sending me on this trip it’s been really cool so far. I am really looking forward to Morocco even though Spain is fun. Miss you and will be exited to see you after the trip.
Harlon- Hi Mama and Papa thank you so much for sending me I am having so much fun her surfing, hiking and swimming. I am excited for Morocco love y’all!
McKinley – Hi mom and dad! Thank you for this trip I have been having so much fun! I got a lot better at surfing and the hike today was very fun I miss you so much and tell clover I miss her
Safe Arrival!
July 6, 2026
Hello Spain + Morocco Families!
We heard from our leaders this morning that the group has landed safely! The trip is off to a great start, and we cannot wait to hear more stories from their adventure!
Please remember our leaders and students will be unplugged during their trips, but we will be posting trip updates throughout the next week! This will allow you to follow along with the trip. You can also follow us on Instagram, @moondanceadventures, to see more of what we are up to!
-Moondance HQ
