I adore my early morning walks here in Italy.
Yes, a bella passeggiata, a nice stroll, is high on my gratitude list for living in Italy. I try to rouse myself early enough these days to get going around seven or seven-thirty whenever possible. In this way, I can dodge the oppressive heat and the intense light of the sun which can be too much for my light green/blue eyes.
We live on the coast of Liguria and we are quite fortunate to have lovely sea views from our balconies. Getting to the beaches and the lively action at the port is a mere 5-10 minute walk downhill. We regularly take a bella passeggiata along the port and shore, but it’s my solitary stroll up into the hills behind our house that feeds my soul. As I hoof it further and further up the hill, the traffic becomes so sparse as to be almost non-existent. My morning stroll becomes a walking meditation, and my spirit and aperture opens up to take in the many little visual vignettes offered to me along the way.
I set myself a photo challenge.
Using only my iPhone camera, I wanted to look deeper into the surroundings of my bella passeggiata. I resolved to not just go for picture postcard beauty but to seek out beauty in the ordinary. I also wanted to capture elements of Italian life with a more pastoral vibe.
I am a lucky, lucky man.
When I climb the hills behind our house and work up a light sweat, I am reminded of something. The best things in life are indeed free!
So, with all that said, I invite you to join me for my bella passeggiata in the following photo essay.
Bella passeggiata – Long Morning Shadows
The early morning sun spills through wrought iron elegance to cast elegant silhouettes.
Spying an Italian Classic
Every time I see one of these, especially with an elderly Italian couple inside, I'm a happy man.
Scooter Centric Living
We're on board with our own light green Vespa. The rush of wind going to and fro is addictive.
Stunning panoramas
I take a pause about a third of the way of the hill to take in this sea view.
A season of robust growth
All along my morning stroll I spy squash families and the people lovingly tending them.
A culinary treasure
Zucchini blossoms are revered by Italians and served stuffed in many delicious ways.
A large olive grove and frantoio
I'm surrounded by hearty olive trees as far as the eye can see. And, a local frantoio (olive press)...
Happy flowers and worn textures
I've yet to see any inhabitants in this weathered and closed up old house, but its still feels magical to me.
Embraced by cypress shadows
I will never tire of the towering cypress trees that line my daily path.
Bountiful bougainvillea
Everywhere I turn I see these brilliant flowers. Liguria is chock full of these beauts.
Peaking through gates and fences
Yes, I snoop, but for textural stories and beauty in decay.
Lying in wait
An olive gathering net takes a long nap in preparation for a busy harvest in late October or early November.
Magnificent pines
At the pinnacle of my journey I stand in admiration of one of Italy's mighty pines. And the views of the sea always leave me speechless.
Such a delight. I love your appreciation for the solo hikes. I’m a fan of them too.
Ciao Bobbi! I’m so please you liked my post. I always feel lighter and brighter when I connect with you! xoxox
I took similar walks in the hills above Firenze. Thanks for sharing and reminding me of simple beauty.
We’re all each other’s inspiration to wake up to the simple beauties of life, aren’t we!
Semplicemente il migliore amico mio, Semplicemente il migliore…
Grazie, caro amico! Vi aspettiamo!
As usual, you have made me appreciate the beauty of the ordinary. Thank you.
Thank, my dear, dear, friend!
Yes, you are a lucky, lucky man. Deservedly.
Ciao Marvin! And you guys deserve to come and share it with us! We’re waiting.
You made my day with these beautiful photos. Takes me back to my trips to Italy and discovering what was around each corner.
Grazie, Susan! Thanks for joining me for my morning excursions!