Author Archives: Debra Kolkka

Trattoria da Santina revisited

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Santina’s restaurant in San Cassiano is a Bagni di Lucca institution. I have mostly visited in winter and been seated in the cosy room inside. My last visit was on a sunny Sunday and we sat on the terrace.

It was a bit hazy, but the view over the mountains to some of the other villages was lovely.

As usual the food was delicious. We started with bresaola.

Then the famous ravioli.

There was finely sliced roast pork and roast beef with delicious potatoes.

Santina San Cassiano

Who can say no to tiramisu?

…or apple cake.

Now that summer is here, go to Santina and sit on the terrace. Trattoria da Santina is in the Main Street of San Cassiano not far from the church.

 

Ponte Nero

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There is a tiny church beside the SS Brennero at Cocciglia. It is easy to miss as it is below the road, but well worth a visit.

Oratorio di San Rocco was built in 1532.

Ponte Nero crosses the river beside the bridge.

Take the path on the right at the end of the little bridge to Strette di Cocciglia, the narrow rocky part of the river below. Look out for Dragon Regulus who is said to live under the rocks.

I will take you there another day.

Ponte Nero now leads to Canyon Park headquarters, which means lots more people will enjoy this gorgeous place.

 

Art in Vico Pancellorum

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Vico Pancellorum has hosted an art event every year.

The beautiful church at the top of the village makes the perfect venue. The walk up from the bottom is worth the effort for the view alone.

Some of the old doorways and windows along the path would make good art subjects.

There was a large crowd in the church.

It is good to see these lovely old churches open.

There was an excellent choice of art on display.

Thank you Moe for taking the photos so we could share the event.

 

 

 

San Cassiano lights up

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I have to share the beautiful photos by Paul Anthony Davies of the Festa Triennale del SS Crocifisso in San Cassiano.

The church looks stunning at night.

San Cassiano

 

The street in front of the church down to Santina’s restaurant was lit up too.

The interior of the church is magnificent.

What a wonderful event! There are 25 villages that make up Bagni di Lucca. There is always something happening.

Il Ghiottone

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IIl Ghiottone is an unassuming bar and restaurant on the SS Brennero near Cocciglia.

They do a great lunch for just €10.

I had a prosciutto and mozzarella and delicious beans in an excellent tomato sauce.

My friend had a pork chop and a fresh salad.

Bread, water and wine are included.

Look out for the sign beside the road.

…and coming back the other way. I love this building.

Il Ghiottone means The Glutton. I think it is wonderful that there are so many places in Bagni di Lucca where delicious meals are offered at a great price.

 

Home gardens

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I love that Bagni di Lucca residents grow things in tiny patches of land. Little plots grow vegetables and fruit and olive trees. Grape vines form fences. I often see thriving gardens on my walks around the villages.

I was happy to meet Rino Pacini who proudly showed me his growing vegetables.

His front yard is also lovingly tended.

Growng basil in a pot is about all I can manage on my tiny balcony at Ponte a Serraglio.