Photos

Rome

Siena

Pisa and Viareggio

Bagni di Lucca and Grotto del Vento

Lucca

San Gimignano

Verona

Bergamo

Portovenere and Cinque Terre

Santa Margherita Ligure

Lake Como, Lenno

Paris

Tuscany

Siena

Lake Garda, Bardolino

Amalfi

Sentieri Italiani

Lake Garda

This gorgeous lake in Northern Italy was Ruby's choice of location for her Birthday. Okay, it wasn't really the lake that attaracted her, but Gardaland nearby: Italy's version of Disneyland.  Staying in conveniently located Bardolino we enjoyed the lakeside position that actually has a seaside feel. Being July the lakeshores were filled with both Italian and German tourists. It's very close to the Austrian border so many Austrian and German tourists come to enjoy the warmer weather and diverse activities. This area is proud of its wine and olive oil production. A whole range of hiking and mountain bike paths are available so I explored these to walk through vineyards and into the hills to enjoy Birdseye views of the towns and lake. A highlight for me normally here is the trip to Monte Baldo on the northern end of the lake. Hiking some 2000m high above the lake in the Alps is an amazing experience. I almost missed out as I was struck down for a couple of days with a stomach bug  but thankfully I got over it quickly and the three of us completed a 3 hour hike to the summit of Pozette. 

Ruby's birthday celebrations included a day at Gardaland and a special dinner. She had an amazing day in Gardaland. Thanks to a VIP pass there was no waiting in queues so she was able to run from one ride to the next. It was endless rides and entertainment until we all ran out of puff by 4pm. Flowers, a card and gift were all waiting in the room for Ruby the morning of her birthday and that evening we booked dinner at the hotel. With amazing luck, it coincided with a special evening they had planned that included a rooftop buffet and live entertainment. It actually felt like a party with the gorgeous sunset and wonderful music and food. I ordered a cake for her and to our delight it was an amazing cake with sparklers and candles and all the guests sung 'tanti Auguri a te'. We couldn't ask for more and Ruby was extremely thankful.

Monte Baldo hike

Gardaland