San Marino and Venice

Hello everyone

We crossed country through rolling hills and headed north along the eastern coast – a much more relaxed drive compared with further south with wider roads and less erratic driving!

 

We decided to visit San Marino – a tiny republic set high on a hill top with fantastic views over the surrounding area – it covers 24 square miles with a population of just over 30,000. Although it uses the euro currency, it’s not in Europe. From the free car park, a steep walk led us up to the old town which has 3 castles perched atop the hill. There were several small shops selling guns, knives, perfume, leather and designer goods seemingly catering for the noticeable Russian-speaking visitors.

 

From here we continued north to Venice, across the flat terrain of lakes and wetlands – reminiscent of Holland many months ago. We stayed at a campsite at Mestre on the mainland and took the 10 minute bus ride across the causeway to Piazzale Roma where all land transport ceases.

 

Venice is such a beautiful place – around every corner there is a picturesque canal and bridge. The weather was perfect for ambling around – clear blue skies and warm in the sun.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We arrived early in the mornings, so the crowds were bearable around Piazza San Marco, the Basillica and the Ponte di Rialto, but it’s easy to lose the crowds away from the main sights. We spent a couple of days soaking up the atmosphere, enjoying the food and sampling a few of the small local bars.

We then travelled towards Trieste. The weather has changed over the last week – it’s much colder (especially at night) with an autumnal feel, but the skies are still clear and sunny. We left Italy early this morning, had breakfast in Slovenia and are now in Croatia on the wedge-shaped Istrian peninsula. We visited the Roman amphitheatre in Pula, and now camped at Rabac overlooking the Kvarner Gulf and enjoying the view.

Will post again next week - love to all