We arrived at il Ciocco Resort late last night, so we didn't get to see much of our hotel. This morning we were taken aback when we walked out on our balcony and saw the beautiful mountains on the horizon and small towns in the valley below us.

After breakfast, we decided to go on a little hike. The Navigator at the hotel recommended a hike that would take us down to the town of Barga. The trail was a narrow, winding path that took us by small vinyards, through little towns, and past old crumbling buildings. We almost got lost a few times, but always found our way back to the right path.

Our original intention was just to go for a hike, so we feel really lucky that our hotel recommended this one! Barga was a very cool town. We loved climbing through the narrow streets, walking past small shops, and hearing piano music drift through open windows and into the street. We made our way up the steep roads to the Duomo, which rested above the town on top of a hill.

The cathedral was originally built in the 9th century, with additions up until the 17th century (and of course, some recent restoration work after an earthquake in the 1930's). Inside were medieval paintings, wood carvings, and a beautifully sculpted pulpit and altar. Outside offered spectacular views of the town and surrounding mountains. (We could even see our hotel on a mountainside in the distance!)

Back in Barga, we stopped for some gelato (duh) and grabbed a ride back up to the hotel. We ate dinner, drank our complimentary bottle of wine, and watched the sun set over the mountains. It was another great day in Italy!