To Bologna via Parma ......

Some weeks ago we booked online to go to the Teatro Communale in Bologna to see Verdi's Il Trovatore.  There is no direct route from Barga to Bologna, the train route lies either to the north via Parma, or to the south via Prato (next stop to Florence).  We decided to go by the north route and return by the south.  The weather forecast was for snow, but, apart from being very cold, the weather didn't affect our plans...

A wintery day waiting for the train at Barga station

The trip up the Garfagnana valley provides wonderful mountain views - including this one of Monte Ucello 

Not all Italian trains are as posh and new as these ones which now run on the line up our valley - seen here at the station at Aulla

You know you're in Parma when you see a shop like this - all the Parma ham and parmeggiano you could want!

... though other shops are available ... 

Lunch at a busy restaurant we know in Parma - the ham is special!