Middle-aged flash packers

I was beginning to think I’d never get to have a swim this trip. It’s been so hot I’ve been dreaming of plunging into an ice cold pool. The one day I could have a swim in a cold mountain lake, I didn’t bring my swim things – grrr!

After an awful journey yesterday I thought S would not want to drive a car ever again so it was a very nice surprise when he decided we should go and check the beach out.

Italian beaches can be hard work. Paying for parking, finding parking, avoiding paying for a bedchair and umbrella for a whole day – these are all substantial irritations in my book. But as usual, S had come up trumps. He’d sussed out a free car park and also a part of the beach at Marotta (our nearest beach)which was natural and free from the dreaded paid beach experience.

Bliss! The beach was pebbly but who cares when you have crocs? I think an Italian would rather be hung, drawn and quartered than be seen in a pair, but they are sooo practical.

I was straight into the sea, and it was just as good as anticipated.

A lazy hour or so was spent lying down, getting hot, going in the sea again- swim, bask, repeat. Then we got hungry so went to the nearest restaurant and had seafood antipasti which was delicious. Are you jealous yet?

The downside of this area is that, in my view, Marotta as a resort is rather unattractive. I don’t want to offend anyone but although the part of the beach we were on was nice, the more built up part of the resort is a mish mash of ugly and charmless buildings.

Anyway, it did the job and I’m expecting a daily swim now even if it’s later in the evening.

Next, a shower and quick rest, then a wander around Mondolfo. Billed as one of Le Marche’s most attractive villages, it has a lot to live up to. I’d say I’ve seen prettier Italian villages – maybe Le Marche is not awash with them, unlike Tuscany or Abruzzo – but it is very pleasant with shady corners and atmospheric rustic buildings. Unlike Marotta, it has oodles of charm and I’m so glad we are staying here.

We haven’t quite decided what we are doing tomorrow but as long as a swim is involved, I’m happy.