Italy - last day!

We loved our time in Tuscany, enjoying the countryside without the stress of city traffic. Looking out over the valley from our hotel we could see olive trees, grape vines and a few cattle. Fresh, clean air and bird song - it doesn’t ge much better.

The woman who served us breakfast couldn’t speak any English which made it very interesting asking for a cup of hot water. Breakfast was good, not quite up to the standard of Caserta, but that would be hard to beat.

David drove down to the hot springs and was treated to a solo swim before people started arriving.  

Outside the farmhouse

When we left the hotel, we drove toward the village of Sovana which is one of a number in the area, known locally because of its Etruscan history. We stopped at an area where we were able to walk up though the bush and explore some of the ancient tombs and Etruscan roads. It is pretty amazing to think just how old the remains are and the ongoing discoveries being made by archeologists Interestingly, the guy who was at the information centre had lived in New Zealand when he was growing up. He spoke fluent Italian, but was then able to change to fluent English. He assured us the Italian is very hard to learn.

Sovana is a very pretty village, most of the buildings have been restored and there are only a few new ones on the edge of the village. The wild flowers are starting to appear and added to the picturesque scenes.

From Sovana we drove down the valley and up to Solano and then on to Pitigliano. Both full of history and Pitigliano is built along the cliff edged which makes impressive viewing as you wind up the road to see the town built on the edge the cliff face. There were a few spots of rain while we were there, but thankfully didn’t come to anything, as it would have made our drive back to Rome more of a challenge.

Sadly, we had to say goodbye to Tuscany and began the two and a half hour drive south. Traffic wasn’t too bad but lots of roadworks. We made it safely to the hotel in Fiumanciano - the Italian Riveria (not!). Managed to repack our bags, find somewhere for dinner, meet up with the Browns and print our boarding passes, in preparation for the start of our return home.

Travelling in Europe is always interesting - both good and bad, but we have had a great time. It will be good to return the rental car safely and rely on someone else to get us places.

Walking ancient paths

Sovana

Early morning - no people!