The attraction to sketch this view at this particular moment were the clouds above the hilltop village of Sommocolonia, just outside Barga. Standing at just over 700 metres above sea level, the village has magnificent views over the valley below. Very few people live permanently in Sommocolonia, there is no bar or shop like so many small villages in Italy but there is a peaceful atmosphere and in the heat of summer it’s good to stroll around and get some cool air.
Here is yesterday’s sketch today! We set off late last night from France, arriving back home at 3.00am this morning. Leaves are now on the trees, blossom in full bloom and the grass has grown by several inches - back to strimming the grass every few weeks now for several months! This old barn in front of our house has loads of character. It would make a great little house but would cost a fortune in Italy to renovate and masses of red tape and form filling. Not worth it so we just enjoy the crumbling walls.
The last rays of sunshine provided inspiration to do this sketch down by the marina in Menton. Tomorrow will be my last sketch of the Italian/French Riviera before I head back home to Tuscany. Rain is forecast for the next few days so expect some atmospheric sketches!
Ventimiglia is the last coastal town in Italy before you cross into France. Its a bustling place, just a normal working town. Being right next to the sea you would imagine it to be geared up for tourists, like the French Cote D'Azur but the Italians don't seem to market themselves, which would bring much needed employment. to the area.
Driving up to the medieval village of Roquebrune from Menton is like driving up to the Hollywood Hills I would imagine - large impressive villas with landscaped gardens, enticing swimming pools and gated driveways. The views from Roquebrune are very beautiful with Monaco in the distance.
The tall palm trees in front of the market hall in Menton mimic the vertical church tower in the old town. The blue azure sky against the apricot and peach buildings are typical of this area.
This iconic 5 star hotel is on the Promenade des Anglais in Nice. Walk across the road and you are on the beach. I liked the huge palm trees that line the promenade contrasting with the clean lines of the hotel.
