After four sweltering days at Lake Garda (35 C) it was a pleasure to move into the mountains, but not before enjoying swimming in the lake and visiting nearby attractions.
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| Desenzano dal Garda |
A day trip to Sirmione reveals not only a blue haired million day trippers, but a castle fit for Game of Thrones!
Given my prep for five days walking in the Dolomites (the Italian Alps) was ensuring a zero fitness base then building on that with two months eating and drinking through the USA, it is no surprise to me that day one was a bit of a bitch.
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| Onwards and upwards |
In fact, it was a pretty mild hike with a few sections of uphill and a steep downhill at the end, but otherwise undulating moderately. Hot sun and 28 degrees didn't help, but I've no one to blame by myself for my lazy approach and lack of match fitness.
Subsequently the story gets a lot more interesting, but in the meantime here's photos of the fabulous Dolomites and their surrounds.
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| Made it to the top |
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| You climb and climb, and suddenly! Cows - with bells |
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| Shale and rocky bits |
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| There's always a Refugio for coffee and strudel |
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| And a chapel for a quick prayer |
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| Going somewhere? |
