Our first hour was on an old rail track  that they had cleaned up and paved for biking and walking.  We had front row seats to harbors, tree lined paths through towns and an occasional tunnel; one was a mile long.  But best of all, it was flat, well used by only bikes and foot traffic and simply divine.  You could almost see the train running along our path.Not having to compete with vehicle traffic, we were able to easily take more pictures. Our first swans this trip.The thought that today’s ride wasn’t going to be so bad as we easily pedaled and took in the sights, evaporated when the path ended abruptly and we immediately began to climb and the climbing was wicked but the downhills were great.The port of Imperia had pretty colored buildings and a real local feel, until you turned around and viewed the multi-million dollar yachts in the harbor.There were bell towers everywhere on today’s ride.Many interesting towns and beaches packed with people. Cars and bikesparked anywhere they could find a spot, some a mile plus away from any access to the beach.  Sometime before noon, the wind started swirling, but mostly in our face, creating the need to bike downhill (our only chance for a pedal break), but the views…..this lighthouse sat high enough on the hill we were climbing, it could probably been seen all the way to the boot.

Stopped for water and met Ruth from Switzerland and Anna from Italy, who invited us to stay with them, but we regrettably already had reservations in a town down the road, Grazie Ruth.

Though we’ve been climbing the foothills of these mountains, finally we got far enough away to get a good shot.  We picked our destination town simply because it fell within the mileage we wanted to do.  Had no idea it would offer so much. Quaint streetsand the Basilica Saint Nicollo; though the outside was totally covered up for renovation the inside was exquisite.Found a wonderful place for dinner, and as much as we enjoyed our shrimp pasta, the owners truly made it special; that and the Lemoncellio after dinner drink!

Passed the 2000 mile mark today; since it seems more like 4000 we’re heading to bed to rest.