Wednesday 24 March 2010

A Sunday in Tuscany

Sunday was a lovely warm Spring day here in Italy, the perfect day for a lazy afternoon reading in the garden or going for a leisurely walk in the countryside. We didn't do any of these things however, instead we spent the day underground in a damp gloomy cave in Tuscany. This might not be everyone's cup of tea but for people like me who love being covered in mud and getting up close and personal to nature then it's an ideal day out. The excursion, organised by CAI (Club Alpino Italiano), involved a 4 hour tour of caves on the West coast of Tuscany. Here we are all bright eyed and bushy tailed at the start of the tour.


The going was tough as we had to scramble and climb our way through the tight passages and round the underground lakes.





The caves were breathtakingly beautiful and so peaceful and quiet. It felt like we were in another world. We lost our concept of time and space as we followed the tunnels deeper and deeper inside the mountain.



When we came out again I had no idea how long we'd been inside or how far we'd travelled. Here we are at the finish, muddy, exhausted and happy.


The final part of the excursion was a visit to the hot water springs of Saturnia. What better way to relax those tired muscles?


Image from here

On the way home we came across the beautiful town of Pitigliano completely by accident. We didn't know this place existed before but we'll definately be back to explore it better another day.

Image from here




8 comments:

Ellen said...

Wow you are one adventuresome woman! That looks right up my Love's interest! Me, I would be freaked out!!!! And that hill town of Pitigliano looks amazing all lit up.

life and the memoirs said...

What a great way to spend your Sunday, exploring underground, I would feel a little uncomfortable though. I imagine it would have been very dark and damp. Pitigliano looks like a postcard, just the sort of town I'd like to visit one day. Thanks for sharing. Enjoy your day :)

Sara Louise said...

Wow! Impressive way to spend your sunday! That town looks amazing. I hope you go back and take photos for us :-)

Amanda said...

Wow - what an adventure!! It must have been beautiful exploring the caves. The hot springs would have been great too. There's a little award for you over at my blog. Please don't feel obliged to play along, just know that I have passed this award onto you because I enjoy your lovely blog :) Enjoy the end of your week x

sugoandsunshine said...

Wow!! That looks awesome!

Unknown said...

Hi Sarah, I found your blog via Amanda. Congratulations on your award! I am looking forward to following you and seeing your renovations on your house. xx

Sonia / COZY MEMORIES said...

hi Sarah Elizabeth !
congratulations, you won my Monday Giveaway !! You didn't include your email, so please read today's post & you'll find a way to contact me, to send me your names & address. Thanks !
http://cozyhomemaking.blogspot.com/2010/03/monday-winner-monday-questions-answered.html
kind regards,

LindyLouMac said...

Just found you via www.blogexpat.com. Another Brit in Italy to follow and you are not that far away either.
We have even been to Pitigliano! Will be following you with interest, though the caves do not appeal at all.