A journey of discovery through the landscapes, art, food, and people of Italy
Day 14: Orvieto
Today we had an optional tour to Orvieto to see the duomo and walk around the town. Bus transportation was provided for anyone that wanted to go, but there was no official tour plan while we were there. Most people went, but a few groups were a bit "churched" out and chose instead to relax in the spa at the wine resort and enjoy the views. Thats the best thing about Rick Steves' tours - there is never an obligation to do anything, you can really make the tour your own. The only thing that is mandatory it to be on the bus when it leaves for the next location. So if you have an alternate site you want to see, or just need a bit of rest, you can always skip any activity. We decided to go to Orvieto, because we just couldn't get enough of these gorgeous churches! It did not disappoint!
After an impromptu tour of the duomo, we wandered about town for a bit. We found a little lunch cafeteria for lunch and visited a museum showcasing artifacts found underground in the city. Then we took Donald's recommendation for some of the best gelato of the trip sitting right on the square facing the duomo! Perfect and relaxing. The sun came out and gave us terrific views of the art on the front of the cathedral, and then we witnessed a wedding party taking photos in front of the church. I can't imagine how lovely it would be to be married in a place with so much beauty and history! We returned to Altarocca in the early afternoon and took a walk to enjoy the vineyards before hiding in our room to avoid the only real rain we had on the entire trip. Perfect day for a lazy afternoon as we geared up for Rome!
