On a hillside in Riomaggiore

This clawfoot tub on the top terrace of our Airbnb has been taunting me. Actually, it’s been an invitation. It took a few days to muster the courage, but I finally decided I would bathe in the this beautiful scenery. Uninhibited. We were in a fairly remote area after all. Unless there was a drone or a helicopter or a hiker who’d lost the trail, I was pretty certain I’d have privacy even though I could see vast expanses of sea and hillside.

It was delightful. It felt freeing. The air was just cool enough that I could see steam rising from the water in the tub. The sun was beginning its descent in the sky so there were shadows and golden light dancing around. I did hear voices in the distance at one point (did I mention the nearby hiking trail?) but Scott scouted out the area and determined that I was screened from view. It was absolutely delightful looking out over the sea while submerged in a warm, cozy tub.

The next day, the vineyard owners showed up to prune the vines. Vines that surrounded the tub where I’d sat the evening before. They literally worked a foot from where that lovely tub sits. My outdoor bathing experience would be a once and done. It was too risky to try again. I laughed, but was also deeply grateful that they hadn’t been on property the day before and that I took the opportunity when I did. My take away: seize the opportunity when it presents itself. There may never be the perfect time. Assess the risk and go for it. We may not have another chance.