Contrasts — blackened trees from a previous forest fire grow in the rainy mist.

Day Seven: Santuario Della Verna to Pieve Santo Stefano — 15km (9.3 miles)

We woke up this morning to a “gully washer,” which in Northwest parlance means a torrential downpour of rain. I couldn’t imagine walking down the steep hill — or even being outside for more than a few minutes– but by 9:00 the rain had settled into a steady drizzle. Several of our group opted to take the van downhill, while the rest (ok, Gary and me) braved the elements and walked the 600m (1800 ft) descent. Those who were driven downhill had the added treat of touring the nearby birthplace of Michelangelo. After the descent I scouted out a track revision for tomorrow and posted the update on my blog and in our Facebook group. Tomorrow’s weather looks to be sunny and mild.

Gary poses by the La Verna statue of the Saint and the dove seller.

Today the paths did double duty as creeks.

Misty, autumnal pathways in the high forests.

Views opened up as we dipped below cloud level.

Soon we saw Pieve Santo Stefano below.

Views toward Caprese Michelangelo and La Rocca.

Pieve Santo Stefano decked out for a festival.

Gary and I pose for a selfie as we arrive — safe, sound and soaked — at our hotel.