Spring in Trasimeno

Spring in Trasimeno is just SO magical. The clear blue skies, hot sunshine, a shimmering lake, blossoms of blue and pink followed by ruby red poppies and dazzling yellow broom. Ducklings bob on the lake while gulls playfully swoop overhead.

It's a time for leasurely walks beside the lake. For an Aperitivi sat outside the bar. For a trip on the ferry to Isola Polvese or Isola Maggiore. For a leisurely afternoon sketching in San Feliciano or a wander around one of the many picturesque hilltop towns which look down on the lake.

Suddenly hilltop towns, seemingly deserted during the winter, suddenly come alive. Bars and window boxes are full. There is chatter everywhere.

Late evening the laughter of children playing in the piazza can still be heard.

Suddenly the dreariest tasks become fun.

Sweeping the front steps is now a social occasion as neighbours stop to chat. A trip to the supermarket now includes a cappuccino sat outside in the sunshine where one is never alone for long. Neighbours chat as they hang washing out of the window.

The smoke from log fires now is replaced by the smell of barbecues.

Cats appear from everywhere and spread themselves on window ledges and doorsteps and fishing boats drinking in the skin.

Locals and tourists join together in the late afternoon sunshine waiting to capture what must be one of the best sunsets over the lake.