We headed off at 8:30am on our way into Italia, working our way over Simplon Pass in Switzerland.

This was one of the least impressive passes, no snow close up but in the mountains at a distance there was snow. The feature of this pass was a massive eagle made out of stone the size & shape of our bluestone building blocks.

As soon as we crossed the border into Italy the roads deteriorated. The Swiss keep their roads in tip top condition.

The houses we came across on our way to Domodossola, the first major town were made of stone that were stuccoed with concrete. In some remote spots they were ruins with trees growing through the middle.

Along the way we stopped to pick up supplies as we were low & were concerned that the shops would be closed on Sundays as in Germany & Switzerland. We were blown away. This supermarket was bigger than anything we had seen so far. The range of delicatessen products & cheeses & fresh fruit & vegetables were a sight to behold. Needless to say we stocked up well for the next few days, and what did I cook for our first night in Italy - pasta of course with salad & bread.

We made it to Stresa on the banks of Lago Maggiore (Lake Major), & instantly we were confronted with wealth. Major hotels and Villas were overlooking the lake. This lake, that on the map appeared to be as large as Lake Como.

We lucked out & found accommodation in Arona, in a camping ground right on Lago Maggiore. A self sustained cabin right on the water's edge for 5 nights (500 euro all up).