When we first got up we were not sure we would be able to ride. It was a bit chilly, the valley was fogged in and it looked like rain. By breakfast though most of the fog had lifted and although it was still chilly, the clouds started to clear and so we were off. Unlike the other days, today we started with a 6 kilometer downhill. That's because Pienza is at the top of a hill so we knew our day had to end with at leas a 6 kilometer uphill.
Way up un top of the hill in this picture you can see Pienza. It is yet another Medieval Town
Our ride itinerary today had us going to Montepulanciano, a walled town that is a bit different that the others we have visited in that we not only rode up to the town but we also walked up and up and further up inside of the town. Like the others it is construction from the 12 or 1300's. I am always amazed that these towns have managed to withstand all that history and the years have thrown at them. There were some things unique about this town including the bell on the tower but we have found that most of them are trying to survive on the tourist industry and the shops and stores are mostly the same from one town to another.
The view from the walls of the town
The bell tower. We did not see it operated but guessed that the man swings around and strikes the bell with whatever is in his hand.
Today was also yet another ride filled with long up hills and fast fun downhills all surrounded by fantastic vistas. We were more than sorry to turn our bikes in and know that we are done for this trip.
Tonight we had a group "last supper" at a restaurant down the street. A delicious 4 course meal. Tomorrow it is off to Rome and the last phase of the trip. I will leave you tonight with some random pictures from the last week.
SL
Relaxing after a ride
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