Casteluccio

We’ve had quite a challenging day.

Last night Saskia emailed our accommodation near Castelluccio just to remind the owner that we were arriving today. At about 10pm a reply came to say that they had no rooms for us.

There was a cracking thunderstorm overnight and it was pouring when we were packing up. The internet went down just when Saskia was trying to find rooms for us….

She does not speak Italian and most hoteliers do not speak English.

The problem was resolved although we had no idea what the place would be like until we arrived. It is lovely, although there is still no heating. I am looking forward to being warm in the evenings again!

Today we saw more wild orchids and other wild flowers than I could shake a stick at! The orchids are amazing. I took loads of photos.

We arrived at Castellucio during the afternoon. This view shows buildings partly rebuilt and some that are still devastated. High above the town a shepherd guides a flock of sheep, ably assisted by his dogs.

We are staying near Norcia. This town was also devastated by the earthquake. We were booked for dinner at the Restaurant Grotto di Azure but we could not find it despite using Google maps.

We took directions and walked a long way. It is in temporary accommodation and has changed its name!!

The wash hand basin in my bathroom has no plug, so my travel plug will spring into action.