11/20/16, 8:00 AM: We're sleepy and a bit chilly as we wait for all the participants to arrive, but happy because the day on the Tibetan bridge promises to be interesting.
We are at Rifugio Campogrosso, located in the municipality of Recoaro Terme (VI): it takes about an hour and a half to reach from Verona Porta Nuova.
Gradually, the group grows larger and louder (maybe the coffee is starting to kick in ;-)).
When we finally head towards the Tibetan Bridge there are about forty of us: young people from Verona, Vicenza, and their provinces; some already know each other while others introduce themselves as we walk.
The sun refuses to shine over this lively and cheerful group, but luck seems to be on our side and the weather remains steady.
Everyone enjoys, each in their own way, this break from daily stress and the chaotic city background noise.
We walk breathing deeply and observing the surrounding landscape, stopping occasionally to take photos of the panorama, our friends, to exchange jokes, advice, and share experiences.
It's nice to notice how at first everyone seems a bit disoriented and introverted, and then gradually each person finds in sharing common passions a way to tell their story and listen to others: this is the philosophy that Instameets aim to pursue, this is the spirit they want to convey.
After about half an hour of downhill walking, we reach the Tibetan Bridge.
The structure was built to replace the section of the King's Road that connects Pian delle Fugazze, the Pasubio Military Shrine and Passo Campogrosso, whose collapse following a landslide had interrupted one of the most beloved hiking loops of the Little Dolomites.
We read all the recommendations and with caution and curiosity, one by one, we gather courage and take our first steps on that slightly swaying bridge.
The bravest move quickly, taking selfies, photographing the panorama, teasing the friends still hesitating on the other side.
While waiting for the last ones, we take advantage of the break to drink, have a snack, chat, and photograph other views.
The walk continues until the path intersects with the road leading to the ossuary: some decide to visit it while others continue to the refuge a little further on to enjoy a good beer and a delicious slice of homemade cake.
The autumn landscape truly takes your breath away (perhaps also due to the rather steep climb!): evergreens alternate with reddish trees or those painted a bright yellow, creating magnificent color contrasts.
We're almost at the finish and hunger is making itself felt: finally, around the last bend, we spot the refuge and quicken our pace.
Unfortunately, we weren't able to arrange with the owners to have lunch all together, but we still find a way to enjoy each other's company.