A drive through the hills
Trip Start
Oct 02, 2010
1
13
24
Trip End
Oct 31, 2010
Greve, Tuscany, Italy
Friday, October 15, 2010
The valleys are filled with green grassy flats with typical mountain streams; the hills covered with olives and the mandatory vineyard. This is the centre of the Chianti Classic region, famous for it’s black rooster, with stories and myths abounding. But I am told, from a wine perspective, strict criteria are in place to be considered for this label.
Today, Sheree and I ventured through a few small and delightful towns, just because we could, and we have developed a real love for the beauty and discoveries of each new place. Each has its unique quality - Montelupo has ceramics, San Casciano in Val di Pesa had hilltop prominence, Impruneta had a circus in town, Castelina in Chianti had a gorgeous castle / church, Greve in Chianti had wine, picturesque surroundings and a wonderful piazza.
Many photos of delightful countryside taken today. But it’s the shops that intrigue us. Imagine being in a little country town or village way out in what Aussies would call ‘the sticks’ and you are presented with the latest designer clothes or highest quality homewares all displayed by a proud business owner. Italians seem to love their quality!
Because it’s the end of the tourist season we haven’t faced any crowds today, a pleasant change, plus the roads and navigation has been easy.
Did we tell you we are loving the Italian food? The bruschetta / pizza for lunch were just delightful. The gelato in late afternoon was great, and the caffe lattes, similar to our flat whites, have just been very smooth on the palate.
Both of us find ourselves slipping into this Italian way of life quite easily. Here I am parking almost anywhere, drifting across the road when I want to, being more conscious of dressing well, and now we’re eating our last meal at… what time is it? 9:30pm. Crazy, I know, but that’s the Italian way of life!
Sadly, we are leaving Tuscany for Venice tomorrow. We have loved our seven days here in paradise, and certainly plan to return, to soak up the atmosphere, the peace and quiet of this region. Ciao!
