I love these old photos of the villages of Bagni di Lucca. Sometimes there are big changes, and sometimes not. Here is an old photo of the centre of Riolo.
The road in front of the house in the foreground has been widened to allow cars to get through.
The house now has a pergola in front covered in grape vines.
The path leading up from the piazza looks much the same.
The villages of Bagni di Lucca are all interesting, with their own character.
Late spring seemed like the perfect time for another visit to Riolo.
There is a car park at the bottom of the village and it is a pleasant walk up to the pretty piazza in the centre of town.
There is a fountain where you can get a cool drink of water.
There is a fine collection of interesting doorways and colourful gardens.
Fruit, vegetables and flowers thrive in the hot weather.
There are always great views from the mountain villages.
I met a couple of four legged residents.
On my way out I saw the preparations for next winter…which seems a long way off.
The road to Riolo is one of my least favourite in Bagni di Lucca. It is extremely narrow and winding, with little room to pass if you happen to come across another car. The entrance to the village is also narrow. I suggest parking in the area at the bottom of the village and walking up.
The sign at the entrance to the village suggests a low speed. I think this would be too fast.
The village is a pretty collection of houses, with some lovely decoration, and of course, there are wonderful views from the village. Like all of the villages of Bagni di Lucca Riolo has something different and special to offer visitors.
On the way back to the car I spotted a tiny mouse. The photo is a bit blurry, but the mouse was very small and in a hurry to get away from me.
I have heard that the road to Riolo was badly damaged in the recent heavy rains. I hope everything will be back to normal soon.
Bella Bagni di Lucca 