These were two solid days of beauty and mystery, of meeting ancient trees, connecting with beautiful people and trusting in the way.
Hermitage of Cerbaiolo
The hermitage is nestled high up on the cliff like a pigeon’ s nest. It was closed. Totally alone, I took a rest.
I laid down on an ancient stone under an elderberry tree and liked the pattern on the stone. When I made a photo, a face looked toward me. Do you see it? It seemed to me as if St. Francis and St Anthony (both spent time in this place) became present again.
Not only rocks, but also trees became alive during this hike. “You have to love these ancient trees”, Veronique said to me with a heavy French accent, when I could not stop to make photos of theses powerful beings.
The crown of this oak tree was humongous. I could not capture it in the photo.
Rock and tree and roots where so connected that there seemed to be no difference anymore between them.
Moss patched roots reaching down into a ditch.
Beside Serimaris and Mimi, an Iraqi mother and daughter, I connected with two very nice Belgian women. We stayed overnight in the same place – in the Albergo Bar Impetatore. The owner Lorean, who also spoke a bit German, cooked a fantastic Italien meal.
An Italien couple to the left, myself, Lorean and Fabienne.
Thick and healthy mixed forests cover the hills and mountains of the Apennine. For hours and hours, it was a walk in solitude and peace. In Montecasale, I met St. Francis again. It was not only his favorite place , but also a place where St. Anthony of Padua and Bonaventura stayed.
The Franciscan monastery is a little jewel. It has a tiny medieval cloister full with blooming plants.
Cloister
I wanted to stay overnight, but it was only for male pilgrims. It was already after 6 pm and the next town 2 walking hours away. The padre, who only could speak Italien, nevertheless offered me a place to stay in a meeting hall with wooden benches. It looked utterly uncomfortable and I decided to continue my walk down to San Martino. My guidebook told me that there are rooms available, but I could not reach the place, ” No food” the padre told me. ” Aspetta un momenta” he said and disappeared. He came back with a bag of fruit and a cake. When I wanted to give a donation, he did not accept.
This is Sasso Spico, an overhanging vertical rock with a little waterfall. It was a favorite place of St Francis and truly beautiful!
The steep way to San Martino should only have lasted 15 minutes, but it took me an hour. I got lost! Should I go back to Montecasale? Finally, I found the way and continued. My endurance showed fruit- I arrived at a 13th century stone house, perfectly renovated, with charming rooms, wifi and an owner who is Canadian! I even was served dinner! The hot shower was especially good today!
Traude, Thank you for sharing your heart and your experiences. You are so independent and adventurous! I look forward to seeing you in Feb.
Love,
Chris
BTW – you can update your “Simplyjustwalking” Bio now that you having completed the 88 temple pilgrimage in Japan.
I a very happy that you are again walking with me, dear Chris. Looking forward to see you in Baja! Love, Traude