On to Pontassieve

We arrived in Pontassieve today! This beautiful little town has been around since the Middle Ages, but unfortunately almost every structure from that time period was bombed by Allied forces in World War II.

What remains, or has been built since, is so gorgeous. Even the cappuccino is bellissima
(see the hiker in there?)!

We made our way up the hill to stay at Toscani da sempre (“Always Tuscan”) where the chef, Stefano, kept food and drink on everyone’s table except ours, since we have to be up early and didn’t join the many people downstairs who apparently don’t know about curfews, whispering, or even how to close a door quietly (until 2am!!!).

A few of these pictures capture the Arno River, as it flows through Pontassieve to Florence, and offers a little bit for everyone.

Tomorrow’s stage of the hike is rated, “hard” with an ascent over 3k feet, only one spot to stop for “provisions” (don’t we sound rugged?!), and a reminder that this part of the hike is best left to “experienced” hikers.

Let’s ask that well-timed question again, “What could possibly go wrong?”Read more