Thursday 23rd June - The World's on Fire!!

I was up really early, before 6 along with everyone else, trying to beat the heat of the day... And failing!! 
Anyway, before 640 am I was walking out through the Roman gate and out of Sienna 

Initially along Tarmac roads, then gravel tracks across country with fortunately well placed water fountains every so often, so was able to keep up my water balance!! 
After a couple of hours, I stopped at the last bar of the day... Coffee and brioche, and headed out again into the red hot countryside, very little shade to be gotten, the sun high in the sky and beating down on all the pilgrims mercilessly!! 

More people had joined in Sienna, so although not busy, was interesting to see pilgrims strung out in front and behind, 'enjoying' their first day on the pilgrim road, a real baptism of fire!! 

One village had built a little Sosta, for pilgrims to rest and refresh... 

Which I did just after I'd sang Happy Birthday to my favourite (and only!) Grand daughter - Chloe!!, whilst under the shade of a tree!! 

I kept soothing on through the midday sun, along the burning track

coming across a lovely seat at the side of the road.... It felt a little like me!!

Anyway, I managed to cajole another thirsty first day pilgrim into our rest stop of the day Ponte D'arbia, and a big welcoming hostel... Where it's still hot inside, and likely to remain so overnight ... With the next few days remaining in the mid 30's... I'll just have to get used to it (and some last few big days ahead!!) I'll have to get up even earlier!!