Intent on capturing a beautiful sunrise on Christmas Eve, my son Orlando and I got up early for a dog walk in the scenic Montebeni hills. The problem was that when the darkness finally lifted, it was raining and foggy, with zero sutnrise visibility. Still, that didn’t stop us venturing out at half past seven on a six kilometre stroll, soaking up the views and navigating the slippy but picturesque paths through the valleys, vineyards and recently pollarded olive groves. 🫒  🍷 Just wish to...

Christmas holidays in Lucca, Settignano, Grassina (Bagno a Ripoli) and central Florence Giglio Fiorentino ~ the Symbol of Florence, Italy Wandering through town with my iPhone in hand, past festive markets and artisan bakeries like Perbellini in Lucca, filled with pandoros and cantucci, streets sparkling with fairy lights ~ everything feels touched by a quiet, unmistakable magic as the big day draws near. ⭐ Pretty doorway in Settignano. This is a selection of photos showcasing the beautiful...

Montebeni is beautiful on a clear day, bright and peaceful, yet renting old houses often brings storm damage, damp walls, black mould worries, and an endless battle for clean air. Being outdoors can feel healthier than living indoors but on days like this, it's borderline bodacious!