Soglio

I have almost always had a day visit to Soglio, but have never enjoyed an evening in this very special village, which is perched on a small plateau above the Bergell Valley. My itinerary planning only allowed for one night there, and of course, I might have had a night of storms or rain. As it was, it was an absolutely perfect 24 hours, with virtually no wind, warm but not excessive temperatures and clear skies. So lucky!

The entire trip to Soglio from Zuoz is really memorable. First the blue or turquoise water of Lakes St Moritz, Silvaplana and Sils, and then the seemingly never- ending hairpin bends down into the valley. Once in the valley, you are treated to the prettiest little village, once again with the narrowest streets imagineable for the bus to manoevre through, virtually touching the beautifully decorated houses as it swings round the corners.

At Promotogno, at the bottom  of the hill leading to Soglio, it's time to change to a smaller bus, to negotiate the even tighter corners leading up to Soglio, a car- free paradise.

Stua Grande, my hotel,  was fortunately not far up the hill from the bus terminus. What a gorgeous room I had with a view down the valley towards Italy. 

It doesn't matter in what direction you view Soglio, it is totally captivating, and the mountains around it, many the height of Mount Cook, absolutely breathtaking.

Every aspect of Soglio delights me, from the heavenly garden of Silis, where of course I had to have an Aperol. 

I only just got there in time, as they close the garden bar at 17.00, but it was perfect because I had this peaceful haven all to myself and the thousands of bees and butterflies making the most of the incredible garden. 

Despite the heat making me somewhat weary, I am delighted that I checked out some umbrellas I saw above me, which turned out to be a reataurant with the most breath-taking view imagineable! Even sensational in black and white!

As I ate my delicious mixed salad and local speciality chestnut gnocchi, I was treated to the most sensational sunset. Eating alone is fine with such incredible and ever- changing colours.

Apparently, it was the most perfect evening possible. So lucky! Back on my balcony, the final sunset rays lit up the sky over Italy.

I didn't have to rush to Italy, in fact, I was not in a hurry to be in a town with 37 degrees temperature. It was pretty hot in the hills, but not oppressive. Time to wander, to stop, to savour the moment - a treasure!

I so enjoyed meandering through the tiny streets of lovely old wooden or stone homes. 

Some barns didn't even seem to have any nails! What a clever way to build. 

As I weaved my way through the homes, I found a very small arrow pointing to an exhibition. I could easily have missed it, but I am so pleased I vitied these historic homes with their art exhibits. 

The stairs up to this loft gallery nearly put me off!

As it heated up, I decided to walk amongst the chestnut groves to enjoy the views from high up above the valley, in the very pleasant shade. 

It was gorgeous, and I was alone apart from the farmers working on those incredibly steep slopes.

A visit to the graveyard in Soglio is a must.

What amazing views. I am sure that all who are buried here must have had years enjoying these views I now enjoyed! In general, people here seem to live to a ripe old age - the good life

Plus plenty of exercise thanks to the slopes and many stairs!

What a place! What a marvelous 24 hours!