Saturday May 25, Castiglione del Lago

In "foodie" paradise!

Today has been a rest day and have thoroughly enjoyed it. Very leisurely start, the sun was shining and pleasantly warm. I used the tubs at the camp to do some handwashing and Ian had a few minor repairs. All the bumpy roads we have been on had loosened a couple of screws in a drawer so out with the tool box and the screws were replaced with some longer ones, somehow I think the roads will get worse rather than better for awhile.

It was early afternoon when we set off up the hill (another steep climb) to the old town, and with the hottest temperatures we have had so far, we were both feeling it by the time we got to the old village at the top. What a delightful find, such a beautiful village which is still ringed with medieval walls. From what I have read, this town, because of its location on a promontory has been an important one down through the centuries since first being established in the 900’s with many wars being fought. Today the main street is lined with cafes and bars and lots of foodie shops. Such a pleasure to wander around and see so many products that I have never seen before. A customer in one shop was so helpful as she spoke a bit of English and explained what some of the products were used for. It was just so relaxed as the street wasn’t too busy and everyone was just enjoying wandering around. Walked up to the castle on the point with great views over the surrounding area. And the beautiful Church with its painted frescoes.

Found a nice looking café where we could sit outside in the shade with a glass of wine and ordered a pizza each. Wow, now I know what a real Italian pizza tastes like. The base was crunchy on the outside and chewy in the middle and the topping was really moist. I had mozzarella and gorgonzola with speck (bacon) and Ian had mushrooms and prosciutto. Spoke to the owner later and in his limited English he could tell me that these were Pizza Romano which are superior to Pizza Napoli….guess I have to believe him as they really were excellent.

Back down the hill and by 5 oclock, the rain they had predicted arrived. The lake blew up and had a good downpour. Seem doomed with the weather and the next few days are not looking good. We are heading to Rome but think we will leave it until Wednesday when the forecast is looking much better.

We see these three wheel "trucks" all over Italy,
evidently useful with so many narrow streets!

Really old olive trees in the grounds of the castle.

Views over the surrounding area, a great place
to build a town to be protected.

..and I ate it all!

Inside the cafe, rather lovely.

Beautiful frescoes at the church.