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The majestic Grizzly bear! 🐻 Known for their immense size and strength, Grizzlies are one of the most iconic symbols of the wilderness. Found primarily in the western regions of North America, these magnificent creatures are characterized by their distinctive hump on their shoulders and their fearsome set of sharp claws. Despite their powerful appearance, Grizzly bears are typically peaceful and prefer to avoid human interaction. They primarily feed on vegetation, berries, and fish, and their role as apex predators helps maintain the ecological balance of their habitats. Let's cherish and respect these incredible animals and their natural habitats.
Come on down and feast your senses on the full, unfiltered coastal experience. Feel sand slipping between your toes. Let the wind slap the city out of your lungs and replace it with salt, freedom, and nature.
Collect shells for no purpose whatsoever, but leave them behind, they belong here. Pause to contemplate driftwood that’s travelled farther than most of us ever will - bleached, battered, and full of character.
Brace yourself for a freezing cold ocean as you dip your feet, it makes no promises, offers no sympathy, and delivers instant clarity the moment you step in. It’s refreshing & humbling.
And the best part? No queues. No noise. No influencers.
Just space. Sky. Sea. Sand. Nature. And that rare luxury of feeling like you’ve arrived somewhere before everyone else ruined it.
So come on down and take home salty hair, sandy feet, and a head that’s feeling very relaxed. Everyone should believe in something. I believe I’ll go to the beach ;)
Okay, spruiking finished.
Have a great week all, thanks for any visits & comments.
A bit of a tour inland to the Douglas-Apsley National Park in NE Tasmania, and the waterhole.
Apologies for not getting around to everyone's feeds as much as I would like, I'm operating with one arm in a cast at the moment. Sadly, I can't even hold a camera & press the shutter button. Lucky I am still working my around Tassie with photos. I picked up this new hybrid bike you see .....
Pro tip from a 65-year-old with a shiny new hybrid bike:
When you take it for a maiden voyage on a mountain bush fire trail, don’t overestimate your superhero skills — or the bike’s mountain goat abilities. Those innocent-looking dirt tracks can turn into steep, rough, rock-strewn rollercoasters before you know it. Especially at speed. And you have to go fast hey, that's what downhills are for ;)
What did I learn?
Gravity always wins, wrists are breakable, and the emergency department has uncomfortable chairs after 7 hours waiting for a cast and head trauma checks.
As for my poor new bike … it needs of a full rebuild. I’m pretty sure it is asking for a new less “enthusiastic” owner 😂
Have a great injury-free week out there and thanks for any comments, they are greatly appreciated !
Waterscape 63/100 in 2025
Sa Pa in northern Vietnam is a breathtaking place! The misty mountains, endless rice terraces and cool weather make it feel magical. Trekking through villages, meeting friendly locals, and staying in a homestay were unforgettable experience. A truly peaceful and beautiful escape!
Fields of gold, beneath the sun's embrace,
A tranquil haven, a boundless space.
Amber waves in the gentle breeze,
Whisper secrets to rustling trees.
Gentle meadows, where wildflowers bloom,
Painting the landscape with colors in tune.
A tapestry woven by nature's hand,
In this idyllic haven, we understand.
Beneath the azure sky's vast dome,
Farmsteads stand, a place called home.
Crops swaying in rhythmical rhyme,
A symphony of seasons, an ageless time.
Nature's beauty in every sight,
From dawn's first blush to the tranquil night.
In the fields and farms, life's stories told,
A canvas of wonder, a sight to behold.
Lac Vert is a crystal-clear alpine lake in the Valmasque Valley, Mercantour National Park. Surrounded by rocky cliffs and high peaks, its emerald waters reflect the rugged landscape, offering a peaceful and wild atmosphere.
Le Lac Vert est un lac alpin limpide situé dans la vallée de la Valmasque, au cœur du parc du Mercantour. Entouré de falaises rocheuses et de hauts sommets, il offre une atmosphère paisible et sauvage.
Il Lago Verde è un lago alpino cristallino nella Valle della Valmasque, nel Parco del Mercantour. Circondato da scogliere rocciose e alte vette, trasmette un’atmosfera tranquilla e selvaggia.
In Lyon's rustic countryside, we stride,
On hiking trails, where wonders hide.
Amidst nature's embrace, we roam,
Through fields and forests, we find our home.
The sun above, a golden glow,
Its warmth upon us, a gentle flow.
As rustling leaves, a symphony play,
We wander freely, on this path today.
Through meadows green and wildflowers bright,
We venture forth, in pure delight.
The scent of earth, the fresh air's kiss,
In Lyon's country side, pure bliss.
The winding roads, they lead us far,
To places where the wild things are.
In every step, a story unfolds,
Of nature's beauty, we are beholds.
With each new bend, a discovery,
Of hidden treasures meant for thee.
In Lyon's countryside, we find,
A sanctuary for heart and mind.
So let us hike, hand in hand,
In Lyon's rustic wonderland.
With every step, our spirits rise,
In nature's arms, we harmonize.
A sweeping view of a secluded valley in the Ariège hills, France. Tall golden grasses in the foreground descend toward a winding stream that cuts through the lush green basin below. Forested slopes rise on either side, their dense foliage softened by drifting mist and low clouds. The layered hills stretch into the distance, creating a sense of depth, solitude, and quiet grandeur. This atmospheric scene captures the raw beauty of the Pyrenean foothills, where light, texture, and elevation converge in harmony.
Farmstead's Charm
In the heart of the countryside's embrace,
A farmstead stands with its rustic grace.
Red barns and silos reach for the sky,
Against a backdrop of clouds up high.
Rolling pastures, where cattle roam,
A peaceful haven, a place to call home.
The scent of earth and freshly mowed hay,
Invites us to linger, to stay and sway.
Farmers toil with hands so skilled,
Cultivating the land, dreams fulfilled.
Rows of crops stretch far and wide,
An ode to diligence, side by side.
Golden harvests, a labor's reward,
Bounty of the fields, a gift to hoard.
In the beauties of farms and fields we find,
A connection to nature, intertwined.
During our hiking tour to the picturesque Mountain Roßkopf, we decided to take a well-deserved break and stumbled upon a charming hut that serves as a refuge for mountain rescue operations. Taking respite on a bench nestled on the delightful terrace, my eyes were drawn to a small wooden board adjacent to the seat. It bore a profound inscription from 1 Corinthians 13: "And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love." The presence of this biblical verse evoked a sense of tranquility and touched me somehow, infusing our break with warmth and serenity.
#MountainRoßkopf
#HikingTour
#MountainRescue
#HutLife
#NatureEscape
#SereneViews
#BibleVerse
#FaithHopeLove
#WoodenBoard
#HeartwarmingMoment
The Farm's Symphony
Amidst the fields where the wildflowers grow,
A farm awakens, a vibrant tableau.
The song of tractors and chirping birds,
Compose a symphony, sweet and heard.
Rows of corn and orchards of trees,
Blossom in nature's harmonious ease.
Scents of hay and the earthy ground,
Envelop the senses, peace is found.
Farmers and animals, a life entwined,
Working together, a rhythm defined.
Caring for land and creatures alike,
A bond with nature, in every hike.
Sunsets paint the sky with hues of fire,
As stars emerge, the night's attire.
In the beauties of farms and fields so wide,
A timeless connection, a source of pride.
Lac Vert is a crystal-clear alpine lake in the Valmasque Valley, Mercantour National Park. Surrounded by rocky cliffs and high peaks, its emerald waters reflect the rugged landscape, offering a peaceful and wild atmosphere.
Le Lac Vert est un lac alpin limpide situé dans la vallée de la Valmasque, au cœur du parc du Mercantour. Entouré de falaises rocheuses et de hauts sommets, il offre une atmosphère paisible et sauvage.
Il Lago Verde è un lago alpino cristallino nella Valle della Valmasque, nel Parco del Mercantour. Circondato da scogliere rocciose e alte vette, trasmette un’atmosfera tranquilla e selvaggia.
Lac Vert is a crystal-clear alpine lake in the Valmasque Valley, Mercantour National Park. Surrounded by rocky cliffs and high peaks, its emerald waters reflect the rugged landscape, offering a peaceful and wild atmosphere.
Le Lac Vert est un lac alpin limpide situé dans la vallée de la Valmasque, au cœur du parc du Mercantour. Entouré de falaises rocheuses et de hauts sommets, il offre une atmosphère paisible et sauvage.
Il Lago Verde è un lago alpino cristallino nella Valle della Valmasque, nel Parco del Mercantour. Circondato da scogliere rocciose e alte vette, trasmette un’atmosfera tranquilla e selvaggia.
This photo captures a breathtaking view of Lac de Gaube as seen from the Espumouse waterfalls, nestled in the heart of the French Pyrenees near Cauterets. In the foreground, turquoise water cascades over moss-covered rocks, forming a lively stream surrounded by lush pine trees. The scene opens up to reveal the serene blue lake in the distance, framed by steep, forested mountain slopes and rocky peaks. The sky is bright and scattered with clouds, adding depth and clarity to the alpine atmosphere. Taken in autumn, the image reflects the pristine beauty and tranquility of this iconic hiking route, where water, forest, and mountain converge in perfect harmony.
A winding trail cuts through the golden grasses and rocky terrain of Valmasque Valley, leading the eye toward the jagged peaks of Mercantour National Park. Under a brilliant blue sky, the landscape radiates both serenity and adventure. Scattered boulders and patches of alpine vegetation hint at the ruggedness of the terrain, inviting hikers into the wild heart of the French Alps. This image captures the spirit of exploration in one of France’s most breathtaking natural sanctuaries.
Pas une ombre en vue,
neige vierge sous mes pas,
bleu profond, silence.
No shadow in sight,
virgin snow beneath my steps,
deep blue, silent peace.
Pas une ombre en vue,
neige vierge sous mes pas,
bleu profond, silence.
No shadow in sight,
virgin snow beneath my steps,
deep blue, silent peace.
Lac de la Petite Cayolle – Mercantour National Park, French Alps
Perched at 2,588 meters above sea level, Lac de la Petite Cayolle is a hidden alpine gem nestled in the heart of the Mercantour National Park. This glacial lake, shaped like a teardrop, lies in a dramatic rocky basin surrounded by steep mountain slopes and sparse alpine vegetation. Its crystal-clear waters reflect the ever-changing sky, creating a serene contrast with the rugged terrain.
This small lake lies just beyond Baisse du Basto, in the heart of the Mercantour National Park. Surrounded by jagged rocks and patches of alpine grass, the lake reflects the cloudy sky above, creating a calm and mysterious atmosphere. The rugged terrain and quiet water give the scene a wild, untouched feeling—perfect for hikers seeking solitude and raw beauty in the high mountains.
Échos des sommets,
Glaciers blancs, l'abîme appelle,
Silence de l'air.
Summits whisper low,
White glaciers kiss the deep void,
Silence in the air.
I must confess to an act of photographic neglect on our recent cruise. My camera, poor thing, was relegated to cabin duty while I busied myself with the noble art of doing absolutely nothing, paired with the company of good friends.
This iPhone image is of the so-called 'Secret Waterfalls' in Port Vila, Vanuatu. I don’t wish to cast aspersions on the word 'secret,' but when you’re sharing it with approximately a thousand other adventurers off the Ovation of the Seas, it feels less like uncovering a hidden gem and more like an open house. With excellent natural plumbing.
Still, the cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear pools were pretty impressive and provided a refreshing dip.
Cheers to the simple joys!
Each morning, as sunlight filters through the soft green canopy, a little lizard takes its post on the moringa stalk. With silent stillness and watchful eyes, it waits—blending perfectly with leaf and bark. To others, it’s just part of the tree. But in this quiet corner of the garden, it's the unseen guardian, keeping watch over a world alive with whispers and wings.
This photo was taken at Col de la Cayolle, a high mountain pass in the French Alps. In the foreground, you can see small pine trees and rocky ground. The middle of the image shows a wide valley with golden grass and a small stream winding through it. In the background, steep rocky mountains rise under a partly cloudy sky. The landscape is peaceful and natural, typical of the alpine scenery around Col de la Cayolle.
At 2,326 meters above sea level, the Col de la Cayolle offers a breathtaking blend of grassy meadows, rocky slopes, and jagged peaks. Nestled between the Var and Ubaye valleys, this high-altitude pass in Mercantour National Park reveals a tranquil wilderness sculpted by wind, water, and time. A place where marmots whistle, shadows stretch across stone, and the sky feels close enough to touch.
At Ureddplassen, the day doesn’t end—it melts gently into the night. As the sun slips beneath the horizon, the sky holds onto its last ember of warmth while the aurora sweeps in with silent, shimmering confidence. Here, along Norway’s rugged northern coast, two worlds overlap for just a moment: dusk and darkness, gold and green, calm ocean and cosmic dance.
Fun fact: Ureddplassen is home to one of Norway’s most iconic rest stops, featuring a wave-shaped marble memorial bench dedicated to the WWII submarine HNoMS Uredd.
Glacier en larmes,
Sous le ciel bleu de Vanoise,
La fonte murmure.
Crying glacier,
Beneath Vanoise’s blue skies,
The melt whispers low.
Lac Vert is a crystal-clear alpine lake in the Valmasque Valley, Mercantour National Park. Surrounded by rocky cliffs and high peaks, its emerald waters reflect the rugged landscape, offering a peaceful and wild atmosphere.
Le Lac Vert est un lac alpin limpide situé dans la vallée de la Valmasque, au cœur du parc du Mercantour. Entouré de falaises rocheuses et de hauts sommets, il offre une atmosphère paisible et sauvage.
Il Lago Verde è un lago alpino cristallino nella Valle della Valmasque, nel Parco del Mercantour. Circondato da scogliere rocciose e alte vette, trasmette un’atmosfera tranquilla e selvaggia.
A lone pine stands as a sentinel on a tiny islet, mirrored perfectly in the calm waters of Tinnåa. Mist drifts gently across the forested hills, softening the horizon and creating a dreamlike atmosphere. Captured just north of Notodden in Telemark, Norway, this scene embodies the quiet harmony between land, water, and sky.
Fun Fact
Tinnåa is part of the Telemark watercourse, historically vital for timber floating and hydroelectric power. Today, it offers tranquil landscapes that attract photographers and nature lovers seeking untouched Nordic beauty.
A quiet morning unfolds over the Krickenbeck Lakes as the golden sun rises behind a veil of mist. Framed by an old oak tree and dense riverside greenery, this view captures the serene magic of dawn at one of the most diverse wetland landscapes in the Lower Rhine region.
This moment was taken during a photohike at sunrise, when light, reflection and silence converge. The area is known for its birdlife, reed beds and moorland biodiversity — and this tranquil mood reflects its poetic essence.
📝 Read the full story behind this image in my English blog post:
A speedboat cuts through the calm waters of Patratu Lake – a glimpse of Sarovar Vihar’s vibrant charm, captured in December 2022.
Tucked away just 35 km from Ranchi, Sarovar Vihar—also known as Patratu Lake Resort—is a serene escape where the calm waters of Patratu Dam reflect the hues of the sky and the laughter of travelers. Here, mornings start with mist rising off the lake, and days are spent gliding across the water in motorboats and pedal boats, with the green hills standing guard like silent companions.
In the crisp winter of December 2022, a speedboat raced across the still expanse of Patratu Lake, leaving behind a frothy trail that shimmered under the soft afternoon sun. This moment, frozen in time, captured the essence of Sarovar Vihar—a perfect balance of tranquility and thrill nestled in Jharkhand’s Ramgarh district, just 35 km from Ranchi.
Set against the backdrop of forested hills and the vast Patratu Dam, the resort has long been a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Boating of all kinds—pedal boats, motorboats, and cruise rides—draws crowds year-round. But by May 2025, the absence of the resort’s signature cruise boats, still stationed in Prayagraj after the Mahakumbh festival, has left a noticeable void.
Yet, the spirit of Sarovar Vihar endures. The photo from that December day reminds visitors of the lake’s timeless allure—where even a single speeding boat brings life to the water, echoing joy across the valley.
photo rights reserved by Ben
Matka Canyon lies only half an hour from Skopje, yet here it feels like a place completely detached from the rest of the world. The Treska River shimmers between steep rock walls, while the canyon slowly opens like a natural cathedral of limestone and light. Along the water’s edge, colourful kayaks wait — bright green, orange and blue — ready for anyone who wants to follow the Treska – Kayak Trail. From the terrace, decorated with red flowers and overlooking the calm water, many visitors begin their first encounter with Matka: paddling between high cliffs, surrounded by silence and nature. The canyon grows wider and deeper as you move further in, and somewhere behind a bend lies the mysterious Vrelo Cave, accessible only by boat. This underwater cave is among the deepest in the world, a hidden realm of dark pools and ancient limestone formations hanging like frozen waterfalls from the ceiling. It is precisely this combination — water, stone, colour and silence — that makes Matka Canyon so special. A place where everything feels in perfect balance, as if nature and people meet here with a gentle touch.
A quiet morning at Matka Canyon: colourful kayaks waiting on still water, the Treska sliding between high cliffs, and beyond the bend, the hidden Vrelo Cave — one of the deepest underwater caves in the world.
Matka Canyon ligt op slechts een half uur rijden van Skopje, maar voelt hier als een plek die losstaat van de rest van de wereld. De rivier Treska glinstert tussen de steile rotswanden door, terwijl de canyon zich langzaam opent als een natuurlijke kathedraal van kalksteen en licht. Aan de waterkant liggen de kleurrijke kajaks te wachten — felgroen, oranje, blauw — klaar voor iedereen die de Treska – Kayak Trail wil volgen. Vanaf het terras, versierd met rode bloemen en uitkijkend over het rustige water, begint voor veel bezoekers hun eerste kennismaking met Matka: peddelend tussen hoge kliffen, omringd door stilte en natuur. De canyon wordt breder en dieper naarmate je verder vaart, en ergens achter een bocht ligt de mysterieuze Vrelo Cave, alleen bereikbaar per boot. Deze onderwatergrot behoort tot de diepste ter wereld, een verborgen wereld van donkere bassins en eeuwenoude kalksteenformaties die als versteende watervallen aan het plafond hangen. Het is precies deze combinatie — water, steen, kleur en stilte — die Matka Canyon zo bijzonder maakt. Een plek waar alles in balans voelt, alsof de natuur en de mens elkaar hier zachtjes ontmoeten.
This photo was taken from Baisse du Basto, a high mountain pass in the Mercantour National Park in the French Alps. The foreground is filled with large, jagged rocks, showing the rough and wild terrain typical of this altitude. In the distance, steep mountain slopes rise dramatically, partially covered by mist and clouds. A small patch of blue sky breaks through, adding contrast to the grey tones of the rocks and peaks. The scene feels remote and powerful—a raw glimpse into the alpine wilderness.
Neige fraîche, pas lents,
Les ombres dansent sur la neige,
Le ciel bleu s’embrase.
Crisp snow, steps ascend,
Shadows dance in frozen light,
Sky glows deep and blue.
photo rights reserved by Ben
Matka Canyon is one of the most impressive natural landscapes in North Macedonia. Over thousands of years, the Treska River carved this deep gorge, where steep limestone walls rise almost straight out of the water. Between these towering cliffs it feels as if the world suddenly becomes narrower — and at the same time infinitely larger. Across the water, small kayaks move almost silently through the canyon, carried by the gentle flow of the Treska. It is one of the most beautiful ways to experience Matka: surrounded by rock and silence, with only the rhythm of paddles echoing between the cliffs. Deeper in the heart of the canyon lies the mysterious Vrelo Cave, reachable only by boat. Inside are still pools, hidden chambers, and an underwater depth said to be among the deepest in the world. It is a place that naturally brings silence — as if the canyon invites you to listen to everything concealed beneath the surface. All together, Matka Canyon becomes a landscape where adventure and tranquility meet: paddling through narrow waterways, walking along the cliffs, and discovering how nature has been writing its story here for centuries.
Matka Canyon lies just outside Skopje, where the Treska River winds through steep limestone cliffs. Kayaks glide quietly over the calm water, the sound of paddles echoing between the rocks. Further inside the gorge, the Vrelo Cave awaits — a hidden world of deep pools and silent chambers. It’s a place where nature slows everything down and the canyon tells its own timeless story.
Matka Canyon is één van de indrukwekkendste natuurplekken van Noord-Macedonië. De rivier Treska heeft hier in duizenden jaren een diepe kloof uitgeslepen, waar steile rotswanden bijna recht uit het water omhoog rijzen. Tussen die muren van kalksteen voelt het alsof de wereld plots smaller wordt — en tegelijk oneindig veel groter. Over het water varen kleine kajaks bijna geluidloos door de canyon, gedragen door de rustige stroom van de Treska. Het is een van de mooiste manieren om Matka te ervaren: omringd door rots en stilte, met alleen het ritme van peddels dat door de kloof weerkaatst. Dieper in het hart van de canyon ligt de mysterieuze Vrelo-grot, bereikbaar per boot. Binnen vind je stille waterbassins, verborgen kamers en een onderwaterdiepte waarvan wordt gezegd dat het tot de diepste ter wereld behoort. Het is een plek die even stil maakt — alsof de canyon je uitnodigt om te luisteren naar alles wat onder de oppervlakte verborgen ligt. Alles samen maakt Matka Canyon tot een landschap waarin avontuur en rust samenvallen: varen door smalle watergangen, wandelen langs rotsen en ontdekken hoe natuur hier al eeuwen het verhaal schrijft.
A striking close-up of the Namibian Horned Chameleon, a true master of camouflage blending seamlessly with the arid desert terrain. This unique reptile, found in Namibia’s harsh landscapes, uses its incredible adaptation skills to survive in one of the most extreme environments on Earth.
photo rights reserved by Ben
Devil's Valley lies high in the Caucasus Mountains, near the Jvari Pass. The valley is known for its raw beauty: steep mountains, deep gorges, fast-flowing rivers, and ancient watchtowers. In the past, it was a strategically important area, but also dangerous and difficult to traverse. It earned the nickname “Valley of the Devils” because invaders would often get lost, be ambushed, or simply never return—partly due to the fierce defense by the local population. Few tourists venture here; it feels like a hidden world. Especially outside the summer season, the valley is hard to access. Hikers and off-road adventurers love this kind of terrain, but it’s far from a typical day trip. One of the natural highlights of the area is the Eretos Waterfall. Cascading down a rocky cliff into a narrow gorge, the waterfall is tucked away between forested slopes. The sound of the falling water echoes through the valley, adding to the mysterious atmosphere of the region. It’s a place where nature takes center stage: wild, untouched, and barely marked by human presence. Visiting the waterfall feels like a reward for those willing to explore this rugged landscape.
Devil's Valley lies high in the Caucasus Mountains. The region is dramatic and mountainous, with panoramic views and an untamed character. It lies along the famous Georgian Military Highway, an ancient route that connects Tbilisi with Russia via the Jvari Pass. The landscape displays a mesmerizing contrast between snow-capped peaks and the golden autumn slopes, a characteristic feature of the region in late autumn. The deep blue sky emphasize the grandeur of the Caucasus, making this a truly awe-inspiring sight. Kanitha enjoying a view on the valley, with the impressive Caucasus mountains in the background.
De Devil's Valley ligt in de bergen van de Kaukasus, aan de Jvari-pas. De vallei staat bekend om haar ruige schoonheid: steile bergen, diepe kloven, snelstromende rivieren en eeuwenoude wachttorens. Ooit was dit een strategisch belangrijk gebied, maar ook gevaarlijk en moeilijk begaanbaar. De vallei kreeg de bijnaam “Valley of the Devils”, omdat indringers er vaak verdwaalden, werden aangevallen of simpelweg nooit meer terugkeerden — deels vanwege de lokale bevolking die haar land fel verdedigde.
Toeristen komen hier zelden; het voelt als een verborgen wereld. Vooral buiten het zomerseizoen is de vallei lastig toegankelijk. Wandelaars en offroad-liefhebbers zijn dol op dit soort plekken, maar het is geen standaard dagtrip. Eén van de natuurlijke parels in deze regio is de Eretos-waterval. Deze waterval stort zich tussen de rotsen naar beneden in een smalle kloof, verscholen tussen de beboste hellingen. Het geluid van het vallende water echoot door de vallei en draagt bij aan de mysterieuze sfeer van het gebied. Het is een plek waar de natuur de hoofdrol speelt: wild, ongerept en nauwelijks aangetast door de mens. Een bezoek aan de waterval voelt als een beloning voor wie de moeite neemt om dit ruige landschap te verkennen. De regio is dramatisch en bergachtig, met panoramische uitzichten en een rauw, onaangetast karakter. Ze ligt langs de beroemde Georgian Military Highway, een eeuwenoude route die Tbilisi met Rusland verbindt via de Jvari-pas. Kanitha geniet van het uitzicht op de vallei, met de indrukwekkende Kaukasusbergen op de achtergrond.