Another early start, this time to Lake Como via the scenic route. I cannot begin to describe how beautiful this place is but George (Clooney) knew what he was doing when he decided to move here. Instead of going to the town of Como, we decided to drive along the lake to the highest possible point. Every aspect of the drive was breathtaking but when the mountains finally open up and let you see what they have been hiding, it is truly a site to behold! Even Sean was using words like gorgeous and beautiful and that is rare. It was like staring into the perfect photo. Check the photos and you will see for yourself. We pulled into a little town called Bellagio that sits right on the lake. We could not resist having a break, getting something to eat and bask in the magnificence of this place (our table looked straight out at the lake). We took a few photos of the local wildlife and then decided to take a photo of our shoes on the lake's edge. When you look at the photo you will think we are standing on white stones but the water was actually touching our shoes. If you see the duck photos you will see how crystal clear the water is because the duck looks like he is swimming in mid air.
We then decided to follow the road even higher and we are so glad we did. We ended up in the town of Visgnolo. Wow wow wow! They have a fantastic lookout over the river and the mountains so Sean took full advantage with the camera. Lucky for us it was not busy, very few tourists but a lot of cyclists. Needless to say, Sean was in 7th heaven. If you ever have the opportunity to travel to Italy, you must, you must, you must include this in your itinerary.
We eventually dragged ourselves away and headed for Monza to see the legendary racetrack. Again, not disappointed. Not only was it free to walk in, we were able to enter the grand stand and see a few high end cars (Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Porsches, Alfa Romeo, Formula 3's - one was even road registered) fly up and down the racetrack with a handful of other enthusiasts. We then headed to see if there was anything else going on. We saw a bunch of leather clad biker guys and gals milling around so we decided to see what all the fuss was about. You would not believe it, they were scooter owners (Vespas no less). Vintage, modern and some wicked paint jobs. It was so cool to see.
Heading home after a super long day we took the Autostrada and got caught in our first grid locked traffic jam. I don't know how he did it but Sean managed to find an alternative route so we didn't lose much time. We did however lose a bit trying to navigate through the Milan's city centre. The roads were clogged with cars, scooters, bikes, people. It was mayhem and Sean was on extreme high alert. Never ever ever drive in Milan on a late Saturday afternoon/evening. When we finally parked at our hotel, I gave Sean a huge hug and wanted to kiss the pavement in relief.
Tomorrow we are off to see another Giro start (Stage 15) in Valdengo but this time we are going to wait on the roadside. After that we will probably head back into Milan city centre. I am hoping to see Da Vinci's Last Supper.
Just a side note on the shopping district in Milan, Sean mentioned yesterday that it was very understated. When you check into the hotel you are given a map of the shopping district showing the location of every store in the precinct. When you navigate your way over there, there are no giant fashion billboards, no oversized signs directing you into stores, no stands of clothes on the street to entice you in. That's not how it is done here. We walked down Via Della Spiga where the big boys are. The stores are marked with their brand on the building or in the window. The window displays are stylish and elegant. Security guards patrol the road. Cartier, Rollex and Tiffany have their own guard outside their doors as well as inside, the other stores only have a guard inside. There are no prices displayed so if you have to ask, you can't afford it. The same goes for the surrounding streets but not so many guards outside. Also the stores close on Sundays and I think Mondays as that is their rest days so make sure you plan your shopping trip or you will be disappointed.
If you are into high end shopping, this is your mecca. If you want history and landscapes, use Milan as a base.
Ciao.
Lorraine & Sean
Sean here, today was simply awesome, if you do not do Lake Como and Monza when you come to northern Italy, give yourselves a pre-emptive uppercut. The words I was using were gorgeous and beautiful and for those that know me I use superlatives like that rarely. Do yourselves a favor and go north to the Lake Como area and also visit Monza (even if not a racing fan). A driving holiday is simply the best way to see Italy uncut. In fact its the best way to see any country uncut (Scott you would be proud of us). Absolutely no regrets doing a driving tour, go forth the brave, go driving, no fear.
PhotosSean here, today was simply awesome, if you do not do Lake Como and Monza when you come to northern Italy, give yourselves a pre-emptive uppercut. The words I was using were gorgeous and beautiful and for those that know me I use superlatives like that rarely. Do yourselves a favor and go north to the Lake Como area and also visit Monza (even if not a racing fan). A driving holiday is simply the best way to see Italy uncut. In fact its the best way to see any country uncut (Scott you would be proud of us). Absolutely no regrets doing a driving tour, go forth the brave, go driving, no fear.
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