Castelluccio and medieval festival in August

We had some family friends staying with us during the week of the cooking course, the Duncan's live in Biella and have 3 kids. James is about Charlie's age, Willem is Sam's age, and baby Amy-Joy is 8 months old. They come and stay with us for the week. We head off to Castelluccio, which is famous for an amazing wildflower display in June. The road is torturously windy and long. Surprisingly Charlie doesn't get sick, but our friend, Federica does and has to head home early. Casteluccio is also prime lentil country and so incredibly remote.

The last of some of the wildflowers in August

Buying lentils from an old lady

Norcia for dinner

During the week, we're also lucky enough to be able to experience the Medieval festival of Monte Castello di Vibio. The photos below tell the story, enough said.

Medieval festival starts with a falcon demonstration

Then a parade of traditional dress by the townsfolk

Then a four course roving dinner with each course served in different parts of Montecastello di Vibio

The boys waiting patiently for dinner

Thank God there's wine to fill the empty belly while we wait

Nice face Sammy

Amy Joy, always happy

Excellent drumming action

Shane happily heads off to the Vuelta in Spain