June 2 to 5 Umbria

Bewdy – no rain. From L’Aquila we headed towards Rieti but were thwarted by a closed road so detoured to Montereale where we came across a lovely little village market laid out along the narrow cobble stone streets & blocking most of the road. Stocked up on fruit & veg plus Anne bought some shoes. In the gaps between the buildings we could see beautiful forest covered mountains backed by snow-capped peaks – idyllic.

Montereale market

Continued along the mountain roads with multiple hair pin bends & narrow cobblestone streets through the towns until we reached Spoleto. Another quaint town with many arches over roadways & lanes. The Santa Maria Assunta church was stunning & La Rocca, a fortress overlooking the town, was impressive. I then challenged my fear of heights for the 2^nd day running as we walked across Ponte delle Torri (a 70 m high bridge/aqueduct) – my palms are still sweating. Then on to Assisi for the night as the skies opened & the rain bucketed down.

L'Aquila Road

Ponte delle Torri - Spoleto

The rain held off long enough this morning for us to have a good look at Assisi – another amazing town. We first visited Eremo delle Carceri a few k’s out of Assisi which is where St Francis Assisi had his silent sanctuary – built into & around the cliffs within the forest – a beautiful spot. Then to Monte Subasio  the top of the mountain above Assisi – unfortunately the views were largely covered with clouds but the drive was very picturesque. Then to the cathedrals & fortress of Assisi – just great. Then even more rain plus minor flooding on the roads.

Eremo delle Carceri

Assisi basilica

Hooray, the sun is finally out. Off to Ripa, a tiny little walled town in an olive oil & wine area – walked around in 15 mins – good views & very quaint. Then a quick look at Perugia before heading to Todi & then Orvieto. This town has a most impressive cathedral & also a maze of man-made caves runs beneath the city. Originally they were for water wells, quarrying for stone, pigeon coops, storage & security if attacked. Most are now used for storage & as wine cellars. We visited one which was amazing – steep & narrow passages opening to larger rooms & occasional openings right out of the cliff face.

View from Todi

View from Orvieto

Anne in Orvieto

Today we drove to Lake Trasimeno & caught the ferry to Isola Maggiore (a small island on the lake) famous for its lace work which is still done by a handful of ladies. Had a nice walk around the island then drove through the beautiful nearby Tuscan hills to Montepulciano. Planned to walk some more but raining again.