There is a long line of evidence that Scottish and Italian is a good mix. There is the cross-over, of course, in my family tree. Still, when you add into the mix Armando Iannucci, Capaldis Peter and Lewis, Tom Conti, Sharleen Spitari, Ronni Ancona and last but not least, Paolo Nutini, a singer-songwriter who has matured into one of the finest songwriters of his generation it is no wonder that I found myself drawn to Barga where Paolo's family emigrated from.
Nestled in the Tuscan mountains and hills. Barga is just another tiny but stunning settlement that carries on regardless of the world's worries far away. There was a rumour that Irn Bru might be available, and there probably is if you don't go during the middle of the day when things shut down or appear empty.
There is little wonder why it is called the most Scottish town in Italy. There is a red telephone box, and the windows of several houses are filled with Scottish saltires. It is said that 40% of the town's residents have a Scottish relative.
Like Tempagnano yesterday, the administrative centre for Barga is Borgo a Mozzano, situated on the Serchio River. It is famous for its Medieval bridge, Ponte della Maddalena or del Diavolo, the Devil's Bridge and was commissioned some tie during the end of the 11th century. Its odd design sees it raised in the middle, presumably to let boats sail under.
The famous story of how it got its name, the Devil's Bridge, is that the townspeople made a pack with the devil to ensure the bridge was completed.
I didn't think I would get to see it as there was so much else to do. Luckily the train passes by it on the way to Barga and you get to see it in all it's glory.
Back in Lucca, I was intrigued by the tower with trees growing out of the top in the middle of the walled city. Better known as the Guinigi Tower, built in the 14th century, it is 148 feet high and has 233 steps to the top, overlooking Lucca and the surrounding area.
If you read about my trip the previous day, you will know I'm not great with heights, but I knew it would be a shame to miss out on the views, so I made a promise to myself to go as far up as comfortable, and then I could always come back down. I made it a good way up and called it a day. The views I did get were stunning, but I would have loved to have said hello to the oak trees at the top.
After a busy day like that, food was called for, and I chose the local dish of Tordelli Lucchesi, large stuffed pasta filled with meat, pine nuts, spices and cheese covered in a meaty ragu-style sauce, and it was honestly one of the best things I have eaten. Every bite was packed with flavour.
My time in this part of Italy ends on Saturday with a Parkrun, my hundredth before I move on to Verona and then start the journey home. Today, a trip on the road to Florence awaits.
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