Trieste is massive - for some reason I pictured it as a sleepy seaside town, no it's a city with heaps of wharf action (many of the large cruise ships are built there). We came in from the hills and slowly dropped down into Trieste. The entry was steep and tessellated with stone walls. This side was the old part and when we got down to the water the buildings were old & well maintained. The main square was surrounded by government buildings that made a grand statement against the brilliant blue water. The main lighthouse was adorned with a copper angel perhaps to care for local sailors in years gone by.

Once we got into Slovenia we were faced with many small towns that almost blended into one another. We looked for a place to stay & eventually found an apartment up in the hillside near between Izolo & Piran just 5 minutes drive to several beaches. We went for a drive & John decided to go down a narrow cobblestoned road against my wishes & we got stuck. The incline was too much for our 'gutsy car' to handle & after a couple of attempts I hopped out to lighten the load & John revved the hell out the car & made it up the hill. It was funny upon reflection but scary at the time. I nearly expired walking up the hill. We went for a swim after tea & the water was lukewarm, like bath, not really refreshing until we got out and the slight breeze cooled our bodies. The beaches have rocky entrances with pebbles leading to the water. Man made steps and ramps allow for easy access into the water. Most of the local beaches are lined with trees and lush grass.

Today was hot a dry 42 degrees in Trieste and high 30s in Slovenia.