12 kms — 31o C and humid/sunny — We saw no new pilgrims today, on their way to Rome.
(By Laurel)
It was a good day — a short hike with only one big hill to go up and over, at the top of which we enjoyed wide views of the Mediterranean, blue to the horizon. The biggest challenge was the muggy air causing copious sweat; whether walking or sitting still, I was constantly mopping my brow and splashing with cool water at every communal tap we came upon.
In Massa for the afternoon and evening, we siested at the pleasant Ostello Palazzo Nizza and ate more seafood. Gotta get it where it’s fresh! The hostel is situated on Piazza Mercurio, an attractive square lined with cafes and fruit-laden orange trees.
I can hardly believe it, but we are nearing the end of our through-hike! In just a few days, we’ll be walking into Lucca again, this time from the Northward direction. We’ve deliberately shortened our last few stages, since Sarzana, because it ensures we arrive at our daily destination earlier in the day and thereby avoid walking in the heat of mid-day. Also, though, could it be that we are subconsciously wanting to put off finishing, to slightly extend this experience?
On our way out of Avenza on the VF, we passed by large slabs and blocks of Carrara marble ready for market.
Bottom right photo, above: bits of marble mixed in with other building materials in a wall along an alley.
Top photo: walking toward vineyards on the steep hillside
Bottom photo: more vineyards, with an urban coast, and the Mediterranean behind
Top photo: view from hostel in Massa; a bit of the sea visible
Bottom photos: hostel lounge and our bedroom
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