Day 243 Fri 15 Jun 2007, Calle di Val d’Elsa to Milan, Lombardy

After bidding farewell to the Relais della Rovere, one of the nicest places we’ve stayed in the entire trip, we discover there are two more world heritage sites in the region we haven’t visited. Unfortunately they’re both in the wrong direction but as Kenny says that its only 3hrs to Milan we decide to check them out. First its a trip through the lanes and woods to val d’Orcia and then its on to Pienza where we have time for only the briefest walk through, sufficient to determine its a place we must visit again with a bit more time. We should be describing the countryside but we’re assuming you’ve all seen the films or read the books.

Back on to the autostrada for a long drive north through some quite spectacular mountain scenery, eventually getting to Milan around 7.30 where we’re due to meet Phil from Sydney. We find the new hotel, just outside the city centre and find a nearby winebar for dinner.