May delRe’s photo of our group at dinner. Our hotel was once a prince’s hunting lodge

Day nine: Rieti to Poggio San Lorenzo — 21 km (13 miles)

We walked from Rieti to Ponte Sambuco where we met three Austrian Pilgrims and had lunch. Then the stronger walkers went on to Poggio San Lorenzo while the others returned by van to the hotel (Villa Park Potenziani) where they enjoyed a few more hours in the lovely setting. I’m loving how barriers are coming down in the group and we are starting to really enjoy each other’s company.

We walk along Via Salaria to leave Rieti.

Roman bridge at Ponte Sambuco (third century).

Ornaro in the distance.

Our group in the woods.

Look closely at the sign and you’ll see the group is at the 100km left to Rome marker.