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Published: October 22nd 2017
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Geo: 42.8837, 11.5353
Yesterday (Thursday) took us to Montalchino, home of some of our favourite red wine, about an hour's drive from Castel del Piano. By the time we had parked up and had a look at the castle, would you believe it, it was time for lunch! This time we both oped for the platter of local cold meats and cheeses with a glass of the famous vino which went down a treat, especially as we were sat outside under a sun umbrella in the Piazza watching the world go by. However, the waiters began to get a bit twitchy at the gathering clouds and dark skies, stopping outdoor service, requesting customers to move indoors to take coffee and the like. A shower followed and at a suitable easing off, we made a dash back to the car.
As we started our return journey via a different route, the rain ceased so decided to stop off at the Abbey of Sant'Antimo en route, reputed to be one of the finest examples of French-Romanesque architecture in Italy dating back to the 12th century. When we slipped into a pew at the rear of the Abbey four monks were chanting prayers which was very moving and atmospheric. Likelihood is that this daily programme of worship has probably remained unchanged for centuries.
Soon on the final leg of the journey, the rain and thunder returned with a vengeance, including sleet for a while. At times it was so heavy that the wipers were struggling to clear the screen, so we pulled into a lay-by until it eased off a little. As we were concerned about the conditions back at the caravan, at a suitable lull, we pressed on through floods of water bringing earth, gravel and other debris down from the hills, but once 'home' all was fine - just a bit damp.
After the storm had well and truly passed, we were once again blessed with a wonderful sunset, followed by the dance of the fireflies in the darkness.
Today (Friday) we decided to stay local needing to catch up on our future bookings, shopping and laundry.
It was our first proper visit to Castel del Piano, which is not huge but has a good range of the essential shops. Needing some fresh bread, we went into a bakery where we were also able to get cappuccino with delicious pastries (we now intend to return for more of the same). David struck up conversation with a lady who spoke very good English on the next table who happened to be German by birth but married to an Italian, and topics included cycling and motor sport. As she was leaving, she invited us to visit her winery, but given that it was 25 miles or so away and our uncertain agenda for the remainder of the day, we politely declined. Friendly or what?!
Well, the washing has all been dried and ironed, so that's done for another week.
We had intend to leave here next Tuesday, but not sure of our destination since Cinque Terre seems to be fully booked, so more unfinished Italian business. Do I feel a plan for a further adventure coming on?
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