Five Kinds of Wonderful - the Cinque Terre

"It really is a sight to behold mountains that are not merely steep but are veritable crags over which birds can hardly fly, so stony as to fail to retain any moisture, but yet covered with vines so thirsty and delicate as to resemble ivy rather than vine.  Here they make wine fit to adorn the table of kings."

The weather forecast was not promising, breakfast, from the terrace overlooking Firenze's rooftops, concurred and the guide said the cruise aspect of the tour may be cancelled. We drove through some torrential rain and arrived at the first town under lighter skies and enough drizzle to need a brolly .... but not for long.  We were blest.  Skies cleared, boat happened, above mentioned local wine was sipped waterside with local pesto pasta while hills were admired and terraces amazed at.  Kind Americans welcomed the solo traveller and a delightful day was had by all.  To think these towns were built in the 1300s!  Just incredible.  A simply stunning day.

  Tomorrow to the Tuscan hills.