1st July 2017

1 July 2017

Avenza to Pietrasanta -28kms

Today we set off without Martin, as the problem with his knee was no better. Last night we had dinner together and this morning he was going to consider his options and try and meet up with us later in the walk.

This morning we decided to take the original track which has since been changed. This gave us the chance to avoid some nasty tracks up in the mountains. My knee continues to bother me but should last the course. We are now in the Famous Carrara marble area and we went past numerous marble working factories. It was interesting to see these huge chunks of marble piled up high.

Later on we arrived in Massa, with its beautiful squares and an interesting facade to its Cathedral. In the afternoon we took to the hills and climbed steadily all afternoon. Beautiful views of the towns below and the sea. Being a native of Gibraltar I miss the sea and the views brought back great memories of times on the beach as a youngster.

Our entry into Pietrasanta was though one of its main pedestrian thoroughfares decked out with a canopy of very colourful umbrellas. It is a beautiful city. As we approached our hostel we spotted Martin who had come by train and Giuseppe and Elisa who had arrived earlier. In the afternoon as we were coming back from doing some shopping we saw the wedding of some Italian football star. The crowd obviously was more interested in all the football stars who were attending the wedding rather than in the bride and groom!

Tonight we are sitting outside, being pestered by mosquitoes but enjoying a chat. This is sometimes the best part of the day when we can get together and exchange views and news! Today we have met a new pilgrim, Paula, who is Italian. Tomorrow she will walk with us to Valpromaro, a relatively short walk of some 17kms.