Hiding in the Rosemary Bush

I can't grow Rosemary. Kim and I have tried for years. It just doesn't happen on our little plot of land. We have friends and family who have no problem (you know who you are). Well here in southern Italy, the plant is as common as alder and salal at home. It's planted everywhere as greenery, and it grows like a weed. 

Olive groves and wildflowers

Our timing to visit Puglia in May is perfect for catching the enormous bloom of spring flowers. We've deduced that locals consider "weeding" to be sacreligious until the weeds have withered and browned. It takes a bit of time to get used to: the roadways, gardens, and every bare spot of land is covered in weeds. But the upside is a constant colourful treat to the eye.

Poppies are everywhere in early May

Our villa rental in southern Puglia, near Lecce

The garden path at Villa Diana. Cats seem to like Dave

Dinner beside the vineyard, Villa Diana

Local stone, the preferred building material for everything, is so soft, it can be cut with a handsaw.

Cactus and Yucca are also common here

I'm the first person in the pool this year. Here I'm gathering my courage. Although the days are sunny and warm, the water is not up to temperature yet.

We reached the farthest point south on the heel of Italy last week. The drive from our villa took almost two hours to navigate the south eastern coastline which is rugged and steep, lined with stunted pine forests, terraced olive groves and white-washed estate homes. Rounding the bend, it changes to miles of sand beaches, lined with summer resorts but still asleep for winter; Italy does not holiday until July. I wanted to go for a swim but the mediterranean water is still too cold.

DM

Far off in the distance is the coast of Africa.