Italy 06

The Jolly Boys outing this year was to Teolo and Bassano del Grappa in the Veneto region of Italy. Day excursions were made to Padua, Venice and Verona so we had a modicum of culture with our walking. Walks were in a hilly area and were quite steep in places, but with extensive views over the Lombardy Plain. The weather was brilliant with wall to wall sunshine every day but one when we had a little light rain. The two hotels were good and Bassano town was picturesque and interesting with its covered bridge and grappa museum. The company as always was excellent and our leader Sally was quiet and a little lost in the strange territory - but never try to grab a taxi from her! Another successful trip and thanks to Pat for organising it for us. I have over 400 photos of the trip and can put them onto a CD for playing through your PC or your DVD player and TV. If anyone wants one, call me on 01747 870 876. Phil


Hotel Rocca Pendice, Teolo		All walks went up

View across the Lombardy Plain		St. John's Chapel with Ramblers

In the Grotto.		Picnic at Monastery Mone della Madonna

Wild figs for afters.		Gawping in Padua Cathedral.

"and what's your name, young lady?"		Gazing at Giotto's Frescos.

Rush hour in Padua.		Back on the green slopes.

First Aid for the wounded rambler.		The Hanging Rock, Rocca Pendice.

Our only drop of rain.		Happy Birthday, Annie.

Rene meets a Sunday cyclist on the trail.		One happy fireman and hydrant.

Our second hotel, the Belvedere in Bassano del Grappa.		Exploring the old town.

Ponte Vecchio - the old wooden bridge at Bassano		By train to Venice

On the Grand Canal by vaporetto.		Our first gondola.

St. Marks Square and the Doges Palace		Lookiong for lunch.

Virginia pursued by the old witch of the woods		Sally seeks a way.

Post walk tea on the bridge.		The Alpini in full cry

The view from the Ponte Vecchio.		Another view, another bridge, Verona.

A quiet beer before lunch.		Posers on the bridge.

Vidge & Ron meet Cleo.		"Wherefore art thou, Juliet?"

Shopping again		The final hill.

At the top of TFH.		Down the easy way.