From Upega to Mendatica to Monte Grosso Pian Latte

Day 20 (September 20, 2020)

Awakening to the rain beating on the tent, we found ourselves near the village of Upega. After a wet breakfast and a short walk, we arrived in Upega. Alex started a conversation with an Italian mountaineer under the pretense of asking where to dispose of batteries (we were actually looking for a ride). He eventually recommended the restaurant next door where we had a hot chocolate (a hot chocolate cream in Italy) to drink and eat.

A short time later, the mountaineer returned to the restaurant and offered us a ride. In his motorhome, we were able to charge all our devices and it was a slightly bumpy ride (Rapha felt very sick). In Mendatica, our very nice driver practically dropped us off at a restaurant. After a hearty Italian Sunday meal, we set off on foot (or in a wheelchair). After observing mating donkeys, passing by bountiful fig and apple trees, and walking through a beautiful forest, we reached Monte Grosso Pian Latte, where the grocery store opened just for us on a Sunday. Once again, we climbed a steep slope and finally set up camp in a southern curve of the road. After a light dinner (the Italian Sunday meal was really heavy), an eventful day had come to an end.