Camper Van Adventure in Italy: Exploring a Seaside Castle and the Leaning Tower of Pisa
Coastal Charm and Castle Explorations
Our Italian camper van tour began near Castiglione della Pescaia, a picturesque town on Italy's west coast. After a night at a nearby campground, we decided to cycle into town, eager to explore its hidden gems. While the folding bikes provided by the campground weren't ideal (requiring a quick pump and lock purchase!), the scenic ride along the water was well worth the effort.
Castiglione della Pescaia exuded charm with its quaint streets and stunning seaside views. Our main objective was the castle perched atop the hill, promising panoramic vistas. The climb was rewarding, revealing the strategic brilliance of its location – perfect for spotting approaching pirates!
Life in a Castle?
The castle grounds held a surprise: private residences! We pondered the realities of modern life within those ancient walls – perhaps the Wi-Fi isn't so bad after all? Intrigued, we made our way back down, our stomachs rumbling with anticipation for an authentic Italian lunch.
A Taste of Italy and Onward to Pisa
Lunch in Castiglione della Pescaia was a culinary delight, a testament to the consistently delicious food we experienced throughout Italy. After a satisfying meal, we returned to the campground to catch up on work before embarking on the next leg of our journey: Pisa!
The drive through the Italian countryside was a feast for the eyes, a beautiful prelude to our arrival at the Pisa campground. This campground was strategically chosen for its proximity to the Leaning Tower, a mere 15-minute walk away.
Passport Predicament and Pricey Starlink
A unique quirk of European RV parks is the practice of holding passports as collateral until payment upon departure. While unusual for us, it's apparently common practice. Another travel challenge we encountered was the exorbitant cost of Starlink's mobile roaming plan, a necessity for our work. The price hike from $200 to $400 for international use was a significant expense.
The Iconic Leaning Tower
The walk to the Leaning Tower was short and filled with captivating street art. The Piazza del Duomo, home to both the cathedral and the tower, was bustling with tourists, a testament to its iconic status. The tower's lean was more dramatic than we anticipated, prompting discussions about its structural integrity and the potential for a viral video should it happen to fall during our visit!
We secured timed-entry tickets (€27 each) and decided to explore the cathedral first. A quick shopping trip for a shoulder-covering wrap was necessary, adding an unexpected fashionable touch to the experience. The cathedral's grandeur was awe-inspiring, with its massive size, intricate details, and priceless artwork.
Camposanto and the Fibonacci Connection
Before our allotted tower time, we visited the Camposanto, the burial place of Pisa's influential figures. A modern robotic lawnmower amidst the ancient grounds provided a humorous juxtaposition. We even spotted Fibonacci's resting place, prompting a brief discussion about the famous Fibonacci sequence.
Conquering the Tower
Finally, it was time to ascend the Leaning Tower. The 257-step climb, while slightly unnerving due to the slope, offered incredible views. The tower's lean was palpable, with a weighted cable nearly touching the wall. Reaching the top was a rewarding experience, despite the slight fear of heights.
Conclusion
Our Italian camper van adventure was filled with unforgettable moments, from exploring a charming coastal town and its castle to marveling at the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. Each experience, from the culinary delights to the historical insights, added to the richness of our journey. Stay tuned for more adventures as we continue our travels!
