Category: Italy

A bit of meteorological inclemency in the forecast for the next couple of days, and so it’s time to do some more serious sightseeing.

Trapani was ok – Eileen really liked the buildings; I thought it was an ok distraction.

It’s rather nice here. Morning walk was lovely.

Then the main trip out – it’s only 5 miles from where we’re staying.

Very sad to be leaving Palermo but we’re sure we’ll return one day.

And so to the trauma that is car hire. Returned to the airport to pick it up and so far so smooth. Indeed it’s almost brand new, so no quibbles about existing damage this time.

San Vito Lo Capo is what’s meant to be a really trendy resort, and it looks as though it’s mega-busy at peak times. And you pay for everything – parking, loos, beach and so on.

And where we’re staying is terrific (again), with quite nice views ….

Little walk up the hill towards Zingaro later on.

We really do like it here. The food is amazing, and it really helps being right in the centre with all the attractions nearby. And it’s sunny.

The final main attraction was the Royal Palace. Some of it 12th Century but you probably knew that.

And the main attraction (with quite a decent queue)

And a few other shots to finish off Palermo

So there is a gelateria approximately 45 seconds walk from our front door. And according to Eileen, who knows about these things, it is unsurpassed in her experience.

One scoop of lemon, and one of caramel, if you’re interested.

We’re staying right in Quattro Canti (4 corners where the 4 quadrants of the old town meet). It’s normally crazy busy, especially when the cruise ships are in, but first thing in the morning it’s ours.

And Palermo keeps on delivering. Guide book says it is best to visit this tiny church in the morning – opening hours are 10 – 1.00 😂. Worth it.

On the way back passed the church with the yellow dome that we can see from our terrace so popped in.

And the obligatory rooftop walk

Monreale

A short bus ride of about 5 miles into the hills. On a clear day you can see Palermo🌞.

And another amazing cathedral.

And we haven’t yet done the Royal Palace which is meant to be the highlight!

What a great day. We used to think Istanbul was our favourite city; now we’re not so sure.

Started with being able to buy a ticket for the cathedral roof without a queue

And ended up talking to a couple from Ishmir in Turkey over dinner. She is a musician and he was an actor who ended up organising a massive puppet festival in Turkey. But they seemed more interested in what an actuary is!

The apartment is amazing, and I don’t think we’ve ever been closer to major attractions. Most of the main ones are less than a 10 minute walk which means we can come and go frequently.

And the food is simply amazing – the kilos are going to pile up.

The Cathedral (with roof)

and coffee

The Monastery (and roof)

General Palermo

Fun

Love Palermo already. Expected to be manically busy, but it’s got a really nice atmosphere.

So everywhere in the old town is no more than 10 minutes walk.

Acclimatisation – sooo many churches, which are great to dive into when it rains (which it did).

Outside pics to come when it’s sunny!

And the food. Never seen so many restaurants and initial thoughts are they are all extremely good, so looking forward to putting on a few kilos.

Great trip back – all smooth.

Downsides

– messing up Ryanair booking, paying for bags we didn’t use

– someone crunching the car wing mirror which cost

– leaving my wallet at the final place – they’re kindly posting it back

– crazy little car with a 3 gallon petrol tank. Meant had plenty of practice at Italian self service stations.

– midges had plenty of feasts on Eileen, especially at the beginning when it was hot and humid.

Upsides

– the weather – the last week was perfect. Bright sun all day every day, but only mid 20s. And cool nights.

– food, especially the pasta. Who knew????????

– EVERYTHING ELSE. ITALY WAS MAGNIFICENT, AS EXPECTED.

Beautiful countryside, different to Chianti – more magnificent but not as soft.

Pienza, for example, was extremely fine.

San Quirico

(To remind us where we had a fantastic lunch).

Sant’ Antimo

And lots of others. Ended up at Sant’ Angelo in Colle for dinner at Stella’s favourite restaurant – well worth it.

It’s up there. About 25 minutes on mainly a 20% gradient. (Or drive on the main road but not as much fun!)

Worth it when you get there.