25 km — 26oC sunny with breezes — We saw no new pilgrims today, on their way to Rome.
(By Jim)
With yesterday still fresh in our minds and thighs, today’s trail was less challenging yet just as beautiful.
The coffee vending machine at the hostel was broken and with no services for the three hours I was not a great walking companion for Laurel. Luckily the views were spectacular and she barely noticed my mood until it improved substantially with the cafe doppio that I downed two minutes after arriving in Berceto.
The path for the day began and ended with a stretch along a highway, but traffic was light and shade was provided. The early morning ascent was a rocky path that led to a grassy ridge with see-forever views on both sides. The walk down to Berceto was a groomed trail that was showing its age with rotted fences and benches, however this did not detract from the views that framed the beautiful mountain town.
We had second breakfast, wandered the cobblestones streets of medieval Berceto and then had an early lunch before tackling the slopes of Monte Valoria. Part way up, we branched off the VF, backtracking to Ostello della Cisa, making our day a more manageable 25 km. The hostel was isolated, with no services. After riposo, we walked 2.5 km down the highway to Passo della Cisa for supper and a view of tomorrow’s trail (both of which were good), then back to the hostel for bed.
Sunrise in the Apennines.
The trails were steep and rocky at times.
Beautiful meadows along the top ridge.
Mountain villages still asleep.
Folk art along the way.
Berceto Duomo.
Wow, pretty steep looking hills! Looks like it's very hot in both Italy and Spain; stay cool, you two.
ReplyDeleteYes and yes! (But Spain is even hotter than here!)
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