Walking Across Italy

Today was one of the longest walks of the entire trip. We walked from Piediluco to Pontuglia, a little town in the hills outside Secelli. In total we walked over 34 km ( about 21 miles) in 7.5 hours. The path was relatively flat because we followed a river from the lake in Piediluco.

The most amazing part of this stage was a dramatic waterfall in Marmore. None of us had ever heard of this waterfall, but we paid the 10 euros and experienced the highest waterfall in Europe. There were two observation areas. One at the top and one at the bottom.

After climbing down about 200 meters, we arrived at the lower observation area which was blanketed in a shower of light mist, emanating from the falls. Many of the italian tourist were wearing protective ponchos, but I enjoyed the cool mist after several hours of walking.

We had a wonderful lunch at a sit-down restaurant that actually brought me a bucket of ice with my Coca-Cola. The italians treat ice like free flights in a frequent flier program, they are never available when you want them.

As the temperature rose and the hike grew longer, it became evident that Stephen really wanted to jump in the river. Well, after hiking for almost 30 km, he did. Juan Pablo and I were pleased with our friend’s spontaneity and commitment to the refreshing waters that had hounded him for miles. However, the 10 octogenarian residents whom Stephen had failed to see in his rush to the water, were not so pleased. I’m sure if they had been 10 years younger, I’m sure they would have wandered down the river to inspect this crazy man.

Water is the basis of life. Today we followed the riverside and enjoyed the calmest lake, the tallest waterfall, and the refreshment the water brings to the human body.