It's a tradition to walk to Santa Croce

In the first couple of days here we had big plans for long walks however the temperature has been 33-35 degrees c. every day (and over 40 in the sun), which wouldn't  be a problem for us except that the humidity is higher than we are used to.

It was a little cooler this morning so we walked a route which we do every year. A steep climb from the village puts you on the track which leads up the the Church of Santa Croce. From there we continued on along the ridge then down into the valley and onto the sealed Missiano road. A climb back up to the village and we were home again. It took about two hours, allowing photo and admiration time. We never tire of the scenery here.

Andiamo, let's  go!

We know where to go because we have done this track many times before. Otherwise you need to follow the oft well-hidden red and white markers.

My blogger friend Janelle introduced me to selfie photos using mirrors.

The caper berries are ripe and have split open. 

Caper bushes grow in the most unlikely places, a favourite being in the cracks in rock walls.

The track to Santa Croce gives some of the best views of Panicale. In this photo you can see our villa, the cream one in the centre, with the garden to the left.

This is modern Panicale which runs down the ridge from the historic centre.

We are heading towards the red roof and cypress trees, but first we have to cross several small ridges.

I love this part of the walk with the old rock retaining walls and the olive groves.

😍

The church and old cemetery are no longer used although the church has been restored.

I have previously mentioned that there are few flowers around. Any that are still blooming are surrounded by butterflies and bees.

Oh dear! It did get hot as we walked.

Now we have descended from the church, walked along the valley road and are climbing again to the village. Note the Santa Croce church and cypress trees right up the top.

A quiet afternoon was called for.