We have spent the last couple of days trying to decide on a route to France as there are some large mountains between us and there. We had the choice of 2 road tunnels, both equally expensive, a mountain top (tor) route at 1527m / 5010 ft in the snow or about 400km drive round and up Route Napoleon which we travelled in the summer. We were at first leaning toward the drive, but were feeling very uninspired by the potential Italian stops on the way. We would also like to make it to Lake Como which would not have been possible by that route without another quite long detour.
The forecast was for the fog to clear here at Lake Garda by 10am this morning and so we might actually get to see the view. Plus, the biggest planning factor…. we know we have good Wi-fi signal here for the start of the 6 nations, so Kevin was not too keen to move. So, that really made our decision, another day here and then through the Italian lakes and the Mont Blanc tunnel. There seems a great symmetry to crossing our previous path by passing under Mont Blanc on this trip, when going to the top of it (via the Aiguille du Midi) was a highlight of our last trip. So expensive tunnel it is, at least we won’t miss any of the Six Nations 😂🏉
The mist sadly did not burn off by 10am as forecast, though it was a bit clearer and pretty warm outside. We walked up to Garda again and watched the world go by sat outside a café in the sunshine. There were lots of people walking their dogs, cycling, out walking with family or just milling around. It was wonderfully quiet and peaceful though and the sun reflecting on the water was just majestic. Garda is definitely the posh end of where we are stopping, it is all regal looking villas, palaces and castles. Bardolino was quite a bit busier but with lots of large campsites which were all closed. It must be bedlam in the summer, though the crystal clear waters would be great to see in the full sun.
We are now settled back in at the van ready for the rugby to start. Come on England! 🏴🏉🏟
In for a Penney 