Exploring in the hills

Today was our last day in Abruzzo and we followed the advice of our host Lorenzo and visited Stiffe and the magnificent cave. Lorenzo has different itineraries written out to explore different areas. It was great to have the local knowledge of an area before we visited. The drive to Stiffe was scenic - I just cannot get over the size of the mountain ranges. Driving up and around them makes you feel quite small in comparison. We arrived in Stiffe after about an hour and found the cave quite easily. We met Hugo at the ticket counter and were in time for an 11:30 tour, as you can't enter the cave without a guide. Helmets on, we were ready to go!

There ended up being about 20 people in our group, half Italian and half international guests, so Hugo ran the tour in Italian and English. The cave was beautiful and pleasantly cool inside, as it remains 8-10 degrees all year round. Most people were rugged up in jackets and jeans, but Shannon and I took advantage of the cool air The 700mt section we were allowed to visit, has been planned well for visitors, with raised metal gantries and handrails. Hugo was a terrific guide, stopping to explain things in Italian, then turning to the rest of us and repeating it all in English. The most unique thing about this cave is that there is a river running right through it and three very active waterfalls. Our photos barely do it justice and we were only allowed to take photos in two spots throughout the tour.

We chose a restaurant close by for lunch and again, were not disappointed. For 15 euro each ($25 AUD) we had a pasta course, meat course, sides of hot chips and salad and water and wine! It was a delicious homecooked meal. We rolled out the door and were very quiet on the return trip to our accommodation. We decided to stop at the supermarket to get a few 'bits' and will have a very low key dinner at our accommodation tonight.