Florence

We left Passignano bright and early - destination Florence.  Well just outside, Harry spotted a campsite in the Alan Rodger's guide, small family affair, have their own vineyards and sell the wine in the shop on site. This is Chianti country - so perfect.  The site has some good facilities including a lovely terraced area where the restaurant and bar overlook the pools which is where we are sitting now writing the blog.    En route, our friend Tom decided to read our co-ordinates in a round about way so we were taken on a scenic route, up and down hill top villages and narrow twisting roads. We later realised that there was a more direct easier route had we only followed the signs!

Our excursion to the city of Florence by bus was, as Harry put it 'typically Italian' and left us needing a caffeine fix when we arrived to settle our nerves. Florence, like Venice was extremely busy with the masses waiting to queue to get in all the museums and galleries. We opted not to follow suit but to wander around the city to enjoy the views and decided to buy a book on Florence to fill in the missing pieces. Armed with our map of the city we visited the main tourist sites and areas off the beaten track. We hope you enjoy the following pictures because it is difficult to express in words the stunning architecture and atmosphere of a city such as Florence.   

Leaving the congested Vias and Piazzas we headed up a steep climb to the Piazzale Michelangelo which offers superb views over Florence and the surrounding area. It also has the second copy of Michelangelo's David. As you can see we came across an artist at work and who can blame him with views such as these.

Much to our surprise we thought we were back in Scotland at Gretna Green. There were multiple wedding parties of Japanese couples (complete with white stretch limousines) all having their photos taken overlooking Florence. 

 
Our time in the Colli Fiorentini hills, on the outskirts of Florence, has been short but memorable. Tomorrow (Friday) we head off to Pisa where we hope to spend time, not only in Pisa, but visit Lucca and the National Park of San Rossore.

So, until next time - Ciao

Kath and Harry xxx