Thunderstorms are predicted, but it manages only to sprinkle in Locarno. To head home, I have decided to take the Centovalli Express train, a very unique train that runs from Locarno in Switzerland to Domodossola.
The ride has a startling beginning, in a tunnel outside Locarno with none of the natural beauty promised by the trip.
But then the scenery begins.
It is indeed a beautiful ride through remote terrain.
We come across a well-maintained farm in a small meadow.
This traditional stone hut still stands after decades, maybe after a century.
I spot villages perched on the mountainsides. It is hard to imagine living in such a difficult terrain.
Finally we arrive in Domodossola. I am happy to be here as I have always been curious about the town with a name that rolls off the tongue.
Medieval building and monuments fill the historic center.
I treat myself to a lunch of local salume and beer.
An interesting sculpture stands in front of the train station. I can’t make out what’s meant by the rather unformed rear end.
The Italian train system has substituted buses for trains in the route from Domodossola to Stresa. I wait in the parking lot under the hot sun for the bus to appear. Despite the cloudy sky, it is indeed hot, steamy and sticky.
Near Stresa stands another quarry. Not exactly Carrara, but interesting to see how the stone is removed from the mountainside.
As the bus drives along Lago Maggiore, I snap this photo from the window.
I’m hoping the weather holds out so I can enjoy visiting the lake tomorrow before heading home.