We arrived in Bologna yesterday afternoon, after a short train trip from Venice (2 hours). We managed to navigate the local bus system with the help of a local and shortly after arrived at our B&B which is located in the country side hills overlooking farmland and the city – about 15 minutes drive out of town.
Its absolutely beautiful here. The relaxing surroundings, the peacefulness of the Italian country side… Its just what we needed – a change from staying in city’s.
After a relaxed afternoon of sitting on our balcony overlooking the country side, and having a few refreshing beers… and a nap… it was time for dinner out on the patio where we could watch the sun setting over Bologna.
We selected the local traditional plater and a salad to share for dinner, which was made up of all local produce including; salami, prosciutto, mortadela (which originated here in Bologna), dips and sauces, pickled peppers, pickled onions, pork fat, parmesan, and two types of bread – one a fried flat bread, and the other a small hard bread (resembling a hard flat scone). Our meal was accompanied by a glass or two of wine, and some conversation with the owner.
It really topped of a very relaxing afternoon – it was beautiful sitting outside, eating dinner, watching the sun go down.
Today we have plans to catch the bus into town and look around. Bologna – what we saw briefly of it yesterday – appears to be a lovely city with lots to see, and it has a reputation for amazing local food (Parma – where Parma ham is from, and Modena – where the fine Balsamic is from, are both just up the road).
You can see the rest of our photos from Bologna.
Hi Lucas and Laura – Italy at last.
I must admit I got a bit worried when you hadn’t posted anything for nearly a week, but I can imagine how busy you have been going from one destination to the next and very much controlled by timetables.
I have fond memories of Firenze from a few years ago – an absolutely beautiful city and so much history. The statue of David, The Duomo and not forgetting the Ponto Vecchio where there is a wonderful market. The bridge over the river is almost a continuous streach of jewellery stalls from one side to the other so you better keep a short leash on Laura.
The good thing being is that almost all the sights are within a short stroll of each other, so I hope you get to see some of them. There was a nice hotel close by the Firenze station with rooftop garden which gives great views of the city – great for a meal or simply a drink. I’m sure you will remember the name – Baglioni [same name as my mate Piero from the Bairnsdale Lab]
Good luck, Dad XX