So JM spent days planning in minute detail a 20-day bike touring extravaganza through the splendid sites of Slovenia…sublime, verdant vistas and aquamarine waters…in search of mysterious, translucent, cave-dwelling critters (i.e. the Olm), gastronomic curiosities, and the local variation on the hop-malt-yeast-water fusion (i.e. Laško). So much to achieve in so little time.

However, we were forced to reconsider as we checked the forecast while in transit at Abu Dhabi…forecasts of rain; proper rain of vast and heavy measure, and of undesirable (for the purposes of cycling) quality. It made the testing 24-hour flight from a chilly Melbourne winter to the so-called northern hemisphere summer somewhat absurd. So a rapid reimagining of holiday plans was set in motion so as to redeem our search for warmer weather (later described by an AirBnB host as our quest for “hunting the sun”).

Nevertheless, our first stop in Bassano del Grappa was the perfect place to collect our thoughts and recharge our batteries despite the soggy conditions. Not having mobile connectivity made contacting our AirBnB host a challenge, but we thought the best solution would result from taking an afternoon Aperol Spritz/Negroni in the town piazza. An excellent option, as a workaround emerged and we met our host and settled into her spectacular apartment, fitted out with a most impressive selection of light fittings and three very fat cats. Cats so fat I hear they’re scheduled to attend Matthew Guy’s next campaign launch. Guffaw. Lols.

Cut to the next 24 hours – those of rambling walks in and about the gorgeous old part of the town. So many exquisite doors (and door fittings), stone walls, nooks, crannies, lovely hanging plants proudly cascading over balconies and vines creeping over buildings to create a medieval urban jungle…made all the more enjoyable sans cars. Suddenly, feeling peckish, we stumbled upon an Enoteca to provide a delicious assortment of cheese and olives, washed down with local ales and proseccos…