Walking Across Italy

Today was supposed to be one of the most challenging stages of our 12-day journey to Assisi. While the distance was manageable (18 km – 11 miles) the terrain was rated as “very demanding” and the forecast for rain would make it even worse. So we prepared for the worst, and had one of the best days.

First, the weather forecast was very wrong. Instead of rain, we had loads of sunshine, but moderate temperatures, and a strong breeze. The word for breeze in Italian is “venticello”, and today it was cooling and strong. At one point, Stephen and I stood at the top of a hill, spread our arms, and pretend we were flying. (I hear Volare in the background.)

Second, this hike took us around the side of several hills and mountains. As a result, the vistas were spectacular.

Next, we met a lot of other pilgrims walking the St. Frances trail. The most important was a lady from Germany who was going to spend the night at the St. Frances convent (La Forest). While, she only walked with is for a few km, she insisted that we all stop and view one of the oldest chapels in Europe. We never would have stopped if it wasn’t for her, and the visit was such a treat.

At the 12 km mark, we had a wonderful lunch in the hilltop town of Cantalice.

I am not a Coke drinker. I haven’t had one in probably 15 years. But, Juan Pablo reintroduced it to me and now I am hooked. Nothing gives me a burst of energy like this stuff. It has become my favorite lunchtime pick me up.

We finally made it to Poggio Bustone around 5pm. The last mile was straight uphill, like an elevator shaft. When we reached the top, we found ourselves in the middle of a funeral service. We respectfully waited for poor Franco’s coffin to depart before we found our way to our separate b&b’s.

My b&b was excellent. There was a problem with the one I booked, so my hostess asked her nephew if I could use his. It was definitely an upgrade for the original price of 36 Euros. Grazie Sergio.

The last thing I want to tell you, is that after 5 days of hiking, I have developed a ritual. I wash the dirty clothes that I have worn for the day, before going to dinner. Where do I wash? The bathroom sink of course. Then, I let them dry overnight. If they don’t dry, I use the blowdryer. It works pretty well. Buona notte.