‘I could live here.’
‘So could I.’
We were eating at a local restaurant in Palombaro for our last night – recommended by the locals - one, for great food, and two for internet, but I didn't want internet in fact I was (am) loving not having it!
The short bike ride along over grown lanes of lush green, found us outside a small bar. It wasn't our fault. The restaurant opened at 6 pm, we were in town at 5.40 pm. The young barman spoke good English and talked passionately of his unhappiness in Palombara.
‘It's not a place for the young, it’s okay for you.' He said. I had to bite my tongue, I still consider myself young!
Sigh.
Palombaro is a charming village, with a couple of welcoming cafes, a bar, a mini-market and the restaurant. A magnificent view surrounds one half of the town; elevated veranda's had me itching to climb private stairs to enjoy the view from up high.
‘Do you see the type of farewell evening I’ve organised for you,’ Noel said showing off the rainbow as if he’d arranged it all.
Leonardo thoughtfully nodded, I could already see his mind working.
'Homemade by me.' Leonardo (the chef) proudly explained.
'Homemade by my mother.'
All grown and produced locally; apple with chilli, a variety of cheeses, vegetables, fresh salad with extraordinary flavour, and wonderfully tender lamb.
With another carafe of wine and another of water, we were fully sated in every way.
Noel paid the bill while I bathed in the moonlight, wishing the night wouldn’t end.
We had the 'snacks' to start. Three shared starters, a salad and the main course of lamb with several vegetable dishes, plus the wine.
oh and homemade tiramisu, of course.
And I still don't believe it!
It was a fitting farewell.
Next: Florence!