Day 38: Siena to Ponte d'Arbia

I woke today to a Siena shrouded in a pea soup fog. It had lifted to just above the buildings as I left, but it was still quite thick as I began my walk, and so I was unable to see any of the views as I made my way out of the city. I actually like the fog; it gives me a real sense of closeness to the things in my immediate area. Overall, the day was cooler than it has been, which I enjoyed. The walk itself (27.33 km) was a genuine pleasure as it was up and down the gently rolling hills, through small villages and beside train tracks. I felt a real sense of peace and contentment today as I walked, and it reinforced for me how much walking is my "happy place". Other than the birds and about three bikes, I was on my own right up until I came upon Ponte d'Arbia, where Tammy and Alan arrived as I was having a little rest. We are all at the same accommodation tonight and have just returned from a beer. There is a gentle rain, but all should be gone by tomorrow. I almost forgot; I met a lovely couple from Townsville last night, Ted and Kim. They are travelling around Italy and were the nicest people. It felt so good to speak, so comfortably, with other Australians.Read more