Interlaken, Switzerland

I managed to get some pictures before the rain pounded into the hillsides. I set off from the Hostel I was staying in relatively early in the morning, as they'd keep shoving extreme(ly expensive) activities in your face. 

This was definitely hiking country. I wandered up a couple of comparatively tiny hills, and, caked in sweat, took in some spectacular views - only wish I'd had a pair of binoculars. It was also a shame that none of the ski-lifts near me were operating.

Another thing I wished I could've done was to go up Jungfraujoch aka the 'top of Europe'. Apparently used in one of the James Bond films. The pictures I saw of this looked stunning. Here's one I've just stolen

 

Unfortunately the weather was not permitting, until I was once again on my way, as is Sod's law.

Here's a sample of what I did manage to see..

 

 

The lake was a natural turqoise colour and incredibly still. The only movement was the occasional boat that seemed to slide along it's glassy surface, leaving behind a trail like that of a lazy brushstroke.

Sitting amongst the trees was very therapeutic, the only interruption being the odd, distant car, and of course the rain.

 

Venice

Despite the crowds, and there were a lot of crowds, this was a worthy stop. I stayed on the outskirts of Venice in a funky campsite, in a kind of lightweight cabin, for 1 night. 

It turned out one day walking around the centre was plenty of time. It is a fun place to get lost (and you will get lost) but you never stay lost for too long. 

Luckily it was pretty easy to escape the crowds and the expensive restaurants / stalls simply by walking around a couple of corners. 

 

Slovenia

Absolutely beautiful country, though admittedly much nicer when the weather is tame. 

To start with, a few pictures of Tolmin, near where Metalcamp was. Not going to post too many pictures of the festival, as most of them came out too blurry.

The festival was great, I managed 4 and a half of the 5 days - the constant pounding of rain every night had taken its toll on my cheap-o tent, and I woke up with a growing puddle everyday. There wasn't the novelty of being the only Englishman here, which was a little disappointing, but then it was a much bigger festival than the one in Portugal (20k instead of 1.5).

Then there are a few of the centre of Ljubljana, with the dragon bridge and views from the castle.

          

And a few of and around Bled..