Siena

As some compensation for having to wait until 7.30am for breakfast they did put on quite a spread. Must be the best in Italy so far I’m sure. I did my best but was completely outclassed by a weedy looking guy in a very old Arsenal track suit top who was just going back time and again and loading his plate up each time. I think he must have been sent by his mates to make the sandwiches for everyone’s lunches. The poor girls had no sooner brought another plate of cold meats through than Fred had whipped the lot. As far as I could tell most folk there were in walking groups of some kind. Seemed my age or older and generally carrying a little more holiday weight. Apart from Fred. Maybe he doesn’t get to eat any himself.

Rolled out of the hotel and on my way. Splendid morning for walking and no sign of all those that troubled me a couple of days ago. I suspect that they are now a day behind me, at least, and I would be surprised if any of them caught me up. I average nearly 20 miles a day from now to Rome.

I passed through another pretty hilltop village today. This one called Monteriggioni. Managed to pick up some food before entering the tourist trap so it only cost just over 6€ for much the same as cost over 14€ yesterday. Italy really seems to go in for huge mark ups based on location.

The village was much smaller, and very much quieter than yesterday’s one. Most of the tourists were sitting in restaurants or trying to decide where to eat.

Some cool shade in woods in the afternoon. Doesn’t help the views over the Tuscan landscape but welcome nevertheless.

Staying tonight in Siena. Big place. Lots to see including a fancy tower to climb up and a cathedral that looks amazing. Unfortunately neither of them are exactly geared towards a pilgrim hurrying towards Rome. I was too late tonight to see them and tomorrow they don’t open until 10am and would take some time to see. The tower only takes limited numbers and you get given a time slot. The cathedral has got all sorts of add-ons that “must be seen”. Even if you don’t have time they charge you over 20€ for a comprehensive ticket. At least when I swing past before 8am the outside of both should be fairly quiet.

When I headed out for dinner I could only see fancy restaurants or kebab houses. Was trying to decide which kebab joint to risk when I came upon an Oriental takeaway place called Nui Mix Poke. You choose a size of container, what type of rice, protein, veg, topping, sauce etc. Gave it a try as I didn’t fancy a kebab and couldn’t be bothered with a restaurant. Quite enjoyed it. Cold, which I wasn’t expecting, but worth repeating if the chance arises.Read more