One of the many things I enjoy about Italy is the flowers. Italians love flowers, and not just in gardens: they grow them in every available corner. Particularly in the mountains, the displays can be spectacular.

Bormio

Red geraniums are a favorite. Bergamo, June

Even shop windows can be decorated with flowers. Varenna, April

And lakes. Varenna

And roads. Tuscany, July

and views. Tuscany, July

and doorways

and entire houses

The secret is to have an army of dedicated little old ladies to take care of them!Bergamo

The determined balcony gardener can even find room for a garden gnome.Chiavenna, August