Thursday June 20, Lago di Barrea

Lago di Barrea

What a great spot this has turned out to be and Maria and Roberto are just wonderful hosts. It has been nice to relax after a long drive yesterday. Roberto drove us into the village this morning, and we really enjoyed wandering around the narrow, twisting, steep stone alleys of the old town, dating from pre-Roman times. It was so peaceful, just local people going about their daily chores, Nona’s sitting outside on their steps and chatting with friends, and no tourists. We felt like we were really experiencing a wee corner of the real Italy. And the bird’s eye views we had down the lake were magnificent.

Went into a little shop that was absolutely full of anything you could possibly want, and probably had been there for the past 40 years. Children’s toys, underwear, cleaning products, wool, rolls of fabric amongst the shelves.

We spotted a bar with amazing views, and it seemed perfect to sit and admire with an Aperol Spritzer. Would probably rate it as the best we have had in Italy, and the owner explained that he mixed the Aperol with the best Prosecco and good soda.

Lunch was at a delightful little family run restaurant where we had an antipasto platter with pickled aubergines, artichokes, mozzarella, several cheeses including pecorino and a selection of prosciutto along with fresh bread. Just perfect and finished with a great Italian coffee and the delightful owner brought us a small glass of an orange liquor. A perfect way to finish our visit to Barrea.

Messaged Maria and Roberto arrived 5 minutes later in the van to bring us back to camp…..just so civilised! The shuttle service is included in the price of the camp, €18 a night.

You name it, this shop stocked it!

Great door knocker.

A lovely nona, enjoying the fresh air.

The best Aperol Spritzer's from this guy.
Loved the Route 66 sign!