Get your motor runnin' Head out on the highway, Lookin' for adventure And whatever comes our way Yea boys go make it happen Explode into space...Born to be wild
Phil Hanley from Wonthaggi copped a fine in Firenze yesterday for not validating his ticket. He was penalised E 42.
After a wonderful day in Firenze we left the camp for San Pietro on another hot day. The ride quickly started to climb up out of town to approx 500 mtrs. It surprised us as it was steep and narrow, and caution was called for as we navigated through traffic.
Above is the Mugello Race Circuit.
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| Cool drink anyone...like lizards on a rock soaking up the sun |
We start to climb up to 800 mtrs,
views are stunning, heavily
forested hills and mountains. A welcome cafe on the ascent. Steve joins us for an ice cream and coke. We set off again towards the top and at the 45 klm mark we stop and take in the views towards the flat coastal plains towards Bologna.
The ride today was one of our favourites through this region of Tuscany. The rolling hills, fast flowing Fiume Santerno zig zagging on the valley floor as we rode beside it for 30 klm. Breathtaking
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| At the top...all down hill from here |
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| Next stop Kitchen Bench |
Pass through many quarries where marble has been extracted in the past and continues to this day.
On the descent there was a break in the hills of about 500 mtrs where the high speed trains pass through one tunnel, a brief respite and then back into another tunnel on the Firenze - Venice track. Whilst having a brief look we could hear a roar and whoosh it passed under us. Paul sensing an opportunity took this photo.
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| High Speed Train..Trenitalia |
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| Santerno River |
We continue to ride alongside the Santerno River which runs through this valley. People are swimming and sunbathing below, crystal clear waters make it very inviting, as it is an extremely warm day.
We arrive in Firenzuola at the 58 klm mark for lunch. We are enjoying a lazy day in the saddle admiring all that this region has to offer.
Someone has left their arm warmers, I recognize them, these colourful accessories are Martins
The sun was beautiful in the valley and was matched by an appetising lunch with the crew.
Val who joined us in Rome and acknowledged her riding preparation was minimal, is adjusting slowly to the endless miles required each day. Gary Reid(US) is supporting Val along the way.
Firenzuola has an interesting history. In WWII the Gothic Line passed through here which marked the defencive line set by the Germans to halt the allied armies. It was heavily bombarded and thousands died. Two war cemeteries are a reminder of this tragedy.
We stop for our afternoon tea break and mix with the locals
We stop for another break further on in San Clemente, we come across David from Broome playing cards with a local. St Benedict would be impressed with his community participation.
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| David (White) Australia |
Martin soon joins us and after the break we head for our San Pietro and set a cracking pace. We are in a the Hotel Parigi tonight so a welcome relief from camping. Freshen up and prepare for something to eat. This is a small town close to Bologna.
We link up with Calum (Campbell) Brisbane, for something to eat and we decide on an Irish pub. Calum has been conducting Yoga disciplines on tour, he originates from the UK but has had a full life in the military, and as well as his fitness and healthy eating disciplines is fascinating to talk with. Also in great shape for 70+ Rides a mountain bike for the tour and no cleats.
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