2geonomads

Thursday 29th May

After so much driving on previous days we had made a decision to travel the relatively short distance to Lago Trasimeno , taking the minor road via Umbertide, Mercatale and Tuoro. However, before getting on our way over the mountains we stopped at the small town of Niccone to book a table at Locanda di Nonna  Gelsa, a small restaurant recommended by Barry Bower. It was closed when we arrived but an elderly lady’s head appeared from a window above the restaurant and I was able to organise things for Friday evening. I suspect that this may  have been our first contact with ‘Nonna’ but we will no doubt find out in due course.

The drive across the mountain range is very picturesque and we arrive at Passignano on the eastern shore of the lake in time to stop for our obligatory coffee and pastries and the catch the 12.45 ferry over to Isola Maggiore in the middle of the lake.

Barry’s notes had recommended a restaurant De Sauro on the island and we enjoyed a lovely lunch overlooking the lake.

We had ample time to take a leisurely stroll around the island before taking the ferry back to Passignano. Gail was a bit ambivalent about driving round to Castiglione, the main town on the western shore of the lake but I felt that it would be worth the detour.

This made us slighter later than we wanted to be for our return to our villa and we then had to make a choice between returning via the minor road or taking the autostrada. It came to my casting vote and I , with no argument from anyone else, opted for the autostrada.

Approaching Perugia we encountered some VERY heavy traffic and In a criticism of myself I commented that this had probably not been the best option What followed bordered on farce when Gail responded by giving me a verbal barrage and in a very defensive mode told me not to have a go at her. When I pointed out that I was, in fact, merely criticising myself Gail told me that she would appreciate it if I could criticise myself more quietly. By now the Nicholsons in the back were cracking up and even Gail eventually saw the absurdity of the situation.

Arrived back at the villa after a very demanding drive dealing with even more manic Italian drivers than usual and Gail with her eyes closed and her hands clasped together. Obviously visiting so many religious locations is finally having some effect.

I for one am feeling totally shattered so it’s off to bed very early by my standards.

Cheers

The Obese Ferret.