This morning's highlight was Doris destroying her bathroom and causing a power outage by using a faulty socket. We were left with no power.
We were able to see St Donato one last time and how quietly it sits at the base of the mountain.
Our next stops were Barrea followed by Pescocostanza. The countryside is amazing, green and fertile valleys and hills topped with old monochrome townships that look like a natural part of the landscape. We would stop in the main piazza where invariably old men would be sitting in the sun talking and meander thru the narrow cobblestone laneways.
Our next destination was Lettopalena, Elisa's place of birth. We arrived at The home of Elisa's aunt Rosa, where we were greeted by Mario, Michele and a tearful Rosa who embraced a similarly tearful Elisa. After introducing everyone,we sat down to enjoy some pizza Napolitana and coffee.
We then went to see the sight of the old township destroyed by the Germans and the old stone archway bridge that links the new to the old.
We were shown the rubble of what used to be nonnetta's house and Poppy's family home which has been overgrown by forest and barely visible.
Finally after a bus drive up the mountain to gain a better view of the new Lettopalena we returned to drop off Rosa, Michele and Mario and say our goodbyes.
Our next stop was up the road, Colledimacine, the township of origin of the Rossi family. The town seemed deserted.Lelio was able to identify the family home and was easily identified as a Rossi by an old woman who identified herself as being his aunt.
We, of course, had to follow her home for a cup of coffee and a chat.
We left and arrived in Fara San Martino where we had arranged accommodation at a B&B. The township is the location for the famous San Martino pasta factory due to its proximity to the source of pure water coming from the maeilla mountains.
We were able to sample the various types of local pasta and regional dishes at the local ristorante by way of an Italian style degustation. It was the best eating experience of our holiday but by the end we couldn't even touch the last course! And all for only EUR 20 a head.
We had trouble walking back to our accommodation after that meal!