Dimora Marchesi di Sellano

There doesn't seem to be any real organization for visitors here. Signs point to a camper area that doesn't exist, and one even appears to indicate a dump station. We tried asking at the town hall and local police on Saturday morning whether we could stay overnight in a camper, but nobody answered. The town felt deserted. Google Maps showed a rest area near Lake Vigi, and the signs there seemed to confirm it. Once we arrived, though, we found it was a public area where forest rangers fine people for parking on the grass and the Carabinieri fine campers who stay overnight on public land. There's also a swimming ban, but no sign marking it. Apart from the new bridge, there isn't much of a tourist attraction, so this town feels less interesting than many others nearby.

We saw the new Tibetan bridge, which is due to open soon and connects Sellano with Montesanto. This mountain town is surrounded by woods and still has its city walls, with a breathtaking view. Its medieval buildings and renovated churches are fascinating. One of Italy's most beautiful villages.

The earthquake's marks are still hard to miss, and the village is so quiet it could be straight out of a Western. Still, strolling around is a pleasure, and you can feel the desire to start again. The open bar is a sign of that.

Some buildings are still badly damaged from the 2016 earthquake, unfortunately. But the scenery and hospitality are unbeatable, and it's worth coming, especially on a nice day.