The Full Via Francigena

Make your own way to the first hotel at the lake at the foot of the St Bernard Pass (in Saint-Rhemy-en-Bosses), on the border with Switzerland. Located high in the Swiss Alps, the area is rich in history. The hospice here was a shelter founded by Augustinian monks in the Middle Ages, and their hospitality towards pilgrims is legendary. The St Bernard dog was bred by the monks, initially to carry loads and later as an avalanche search dog.

Before setting out this morning, make time to visit the Hospice Museum. From the San Bernardo Pass you cross into Italy and commence your walk towards Etroubles along the official Via Francigena route. You'll pass through mountain villages and enjoy evocative views. Some sections today are a bit steep, but alternative options are available. Overnight in Etroubles, a lovely village which was once the winter quarters of Roman soldiers.

Today’s walk promises a deep experience along the mountains, crossing meadows and pinewoods, where pilgrim’s worshipped relics of St Ursus and St Gratus (now the patron saints of the Aosta valley). You’ll pass ruins and ancient chapels and follow the stream “Ru Neuf”. It’s possible to skip the last descent of the day by taking a bus through the village of Gignod. Overnight in Aosta, the largest town in the valley and full of Roman monuments and modern services.
Available from 1 April (48 day trip): arrive Aosta and make your own way to the joining hotel.

The Via Francigena winds through castles and vineyards today. You’ll pass the ancient castle of Quart, with its chapel dedicated to the local saint, Emerico. Along the way you will see semi-spherical engravings made in the rock by prehistoric people whose purpose today is unknown. This afternoon you’ll arrive in Nus, your destination for the day, where you can relax and sample the local wine.

Today you will follow the Rus, ancient aqueducts which are still used to water the crops on the mountainsides of the Valle d'Aosta. As you walk between vineyards we recommend stopping at the Crotta de Vegneron at Chambave. This wine collective celebrates and produces the greatest wines of the region. The walk continues to Saint Vincent, where you will stay overnight.

From Saint Vincent you will continue along the left side of the valley and pass the ruins of the castle Saint Germain with its Mezzogiorno tower, once a formidable defence tower built between the 11th-12th century by the De Mongioveto family. From here you will walk on a short section of the ancient Strada Delle Gallie, before the route winds up the side of the mountain to Verres. If you enjoy castles we recommend taking a detour and visiting Issogne. Overnight in Verres.

During today's walk you'll feel as though you've stepped back in time. In Arnad feel just like a medieval pilgrim as you walk through the nave of San Martino Church, before crossing the ancient Enchallod bridge. You'll even walk on a perfectly preserved Roman road where you can look for the tracks of Roman carriages. If you prefer more recent history you can visit the fort at Bard. This afternoon you'll arrive at Pont Saint Martin, where you can relax and enjoy the stunning views from town.

The alpine scenery of previous days gives way to the gentle hills of Piedmont. Today's walk to Ivrea will lead you through charming villages and beautiful natural sections. Arriving in Ivrea you will be delighted by the old town centre with its impressive castle and the tall tower of Santo Stefano. Be sure to take a walk through the open-air museum of modern architecture. We also recommend trying the local Novecento cake, a delicious chocolate cake whose recipe is closely guarded by the local pastry makers.

Today's walk follows the Dora Baltea River and along the way you'll discover some of the hidden jewels of the Via Francigena. At Piverone you'll walk through the arch of the clock tower to enter its old centre, then soon after you'll pass the ruins of a small, roofless church at Gesiun. Finally you'll arrive in Viverone where you can end the day admiring the sunset along the banks of the lake.

Today you will walk along quiet, country roads as you head towards Santhia. A highlight today will be Roppolo Castle which offers splendid views over Lake Viverone. Along the way you will pass many cellars where you can stop and sample some regional wines. The hills gradually become flatter as you continue towards Santhia, today's destination. Check into your hotel and step out to enjoy the tasty local cuisine, ending your meal on a high note with a glass of white herbal liqueur.

You will start today by crossing the Vercelli plain, walking alongside the characteristic rice fields. If you travel before the end of May you'll be lucky enough to see these fields flooded, and you'll be enchanted by the shades of colour reflected in the water. The flooded rice fields are a unique landscape, but at any time of year the fields are buzzing with bird life. On arrival in Vercelli be sure to sample the local rice which is used in so many excellent dishes, from risotto to savoury pies and even desserts.

This morning you will need to take a short train from Vercelli to Robbio (takes approx 15 minutes, ticket bought locally). You can enjoy the scenery of the Sesia River from the train window. From Robbio, the countryside of the Lomellina will lead you towards Mortara over grassy sheep-tracks and along wide dirt trails. Along the way you can admire the facade of the San Valeriano Monastery and the small Romanesque church of San Pietro, which once offered hospitality and comfort to pilgrims. If you appreciate local delicacies, be sure to sample the IGP goose salami on Mortara. Overnight in Mortara.

Today you will journey through woods, fields of growing crops and charming, small towns. We recommend stopping to visit the Abbey of Saint Albino, which you will find just outside Mortara. The abbey was frequented by ancient pilgrims, and you too can stand in prayer and meditation in front of its mosaic-decorated altar. Continue walking to Garlasco where you will stay overnight.

Today's walk is a particularly scenic one, as you continue through countryside scattered with woods and farmhouses en route to the Ticino Valley Natural Park. You can stop for a rest in the shade of the thick woods or sunbathe on the beaches and meadows on the river bank. Don't stay too long as a jewel of the Via Francigena, Pavia, awaits your arrival. Pavia has a splendid old town centre full of artistic treasures that are just waiting to be discovered. Why not celebrate your arrival with a slice of the local Torta Paradiso cake or an aperitivo at Piazza Vittoria.

The trail today will take you across the flood plains of the basso Pavese, with its typical flood terraces which reach as far as Santa Cristina. Sigeric stopped here on his way to Rome, at an abbey which is now unfortunately destroyed. Further along you'll come to the little church of San Giacomo, with its beautiful facade. If you are lucky and find it open, don't miss the lovely frescoes inside. Continue through the countryside to Belgioioso. Return to Pavia by train for overnight (trip is approx 25 minutes, EUR2.20 payable locally).

This morning you'll transfer to Orio Litta (included) to start walking. You'll soon arrive at the Transitum Padi (Porto Di Corte Sant'Andrea), also known as the ford of Sigerico. As for pilgrims before you, an expert boatman will ferry you across the Po River, where you will arrive in Emilia Romagna, renowned for its food, wine and hospitality. Following provincial roads and cycle paths you will arrive at today's destination, Piacenza. Here you can sample the famous Piacenza charcuterie and wash it down with a glass of Gutturnio wine. The town's splendid basilica is well worth a visit, with its the Romanesque interiors and 17th century frescoes.

Today's walk is a long one so it is best to head off early. You will start along the Via Emilia and follow a series of country roads towards Fiorenzuola, a town rich in history, with churches and buildings that are worth a visit. You can admire the facade of the San Fiorenzo church as well as the oratory of Caravaggio.
It is possible to shorten the walking by taking brief stretches by public transport (payable locally).

Today's quiet and mostly flat stage will take you to Fidenza, where the walk will end in the beautiful Piazza del Duomo. Along the way don't miss a chance to visit the Cistercian Abbey of Chiaravalle della Colomba near Alseno, where you can stand in the silence of the cloisters or admire the carved wooded interiors of the church. In May and June it is famous for the "Flower Festival of Corpus Domini", when beautiful flowers carpet the centre aisle of the basilica. Continue to Fidenza. The town's Roman origins can be seen near the Piazza Garibaldi and its cathedral is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture.

The day starts with a section that takes you up and over the Parma Hills and will show you many monuments of historical importance, including the Pieve di Cabriolo. The Pieve is dedicated to the Archbishop of Canterbury, Thomas Becket, and has a mysterious history that links it to the knights of the Templar. The walk continues leading you alongside the ruins of Costamezzana Castle, dominated by its circular tower which still climbs among the trees. In the afternoon you'll arrive at Medesano, then transfer to your hotel in Sant'Andrea Bagni.

The day starts with a short transfer that will take you back to Medesano; from there, continuing among the Parma hills, you will cross the river Taro to arrive at Fornovo, where we recommend a visit of the cathedral, to admire the alarming bas-reliefs of its facade. Continue to Bardone, where you will sleep in a characteristic B&B
Note: Accommodation options on the Apennines section of the via Francigena are limited and at times we may need to organise transfers off the trail to stay in alternative towns. It is possible to shorten the day by starting the walk in Fornovo di Taro (4hrs, 11km/6.8mi)

Today's walk is demanding but the beautiful views and villages you pass will reward your efforts. You will tackle a climb that brings you to Casola Castle, before continuing up and down through conifer woods en route to Cassio. From Cassio you will follow a stone path which has been used by pilgrims for hundreds of years. You will then follow a country road to Berceto, a little 'stone jewel' where you can restore yourself with local mushrooms and pattona, a regional cake made from chestnut flour.

Another climb awaits you this morning as you head towards the Cisa Pass. At first you'll walk along mule tracks, then country roads and finally along asphalted roads. The last part of today's walk has stunning panoramic views over the Lunigiana to Mount Valdoria. Finally you'll climb up again towards the Pass before descending to Previde, a beautiful hamlet surrounded by natural beauty. In the afternoon there is a transfer to Pontremoli and your accommodation, your base for 2 nights. In Pontremoli you can enjoy a relaxing evening stroll among the alleyways of the old town centre.

This morning there is a transfer back to Previde to continue your walk. Today's walk is short with some surprises in store. Leaving Previde you will walk along long sections of path surrounded by nature, through characteristic villages such as Groppadalosio with its medieval bridge, and Casalina which is a charming town full of small, stone houses. The walk ends with a descent to Pontremoli, a town known for its bridges and stele statues.

Your walk today will take you through a mix of green countryside and small medieval villages. Along the way you can admire the tower-houses of Ponticello, the ancient hospice of San Jacopo at Filattiera and the ancient Pieve di Sorano, which has been home to the stele statues of Celtic warriors for centuries. Continue to Mocrone where you stay overnight.

From Mocrone you'll head to Filetto and Villafranca, a beautiful medieval village, where you can climb the hill above the walled village of Malgrate and its castle, or look through the trees of the ruins of the old castle of Malnido, residence of the Malaspina family. From Villafranca you will continue towards Aulla, crossing a thick forest and walking along sections of an ancient Roman road, towards Terrarossa castle. The last section of the walk is over old railway tracks which have now been transformed into a cycle path. Today's destination, Aulla, has many interesting sites. If ancient history interests you be sure to visit the Abbey of San Caprasio and its museum with archaeological finds from the medieval period. You can walk along the ancient walls of Brunella Fortress, a typical example of Renaissance military architecture, and through the old town centre. If you're hungry there is nothing better than the tasty local focaccia, best enjoyed warm and served with charcuterie and cheeses. Overnight in Aulla.

The first section of today's walk is over demanding but rewarding paths, and it's here that you will catch your first glimpse of the sea. Along the way you will again pass through green countryside and medieval villages. Today you'll be able to visit the ruins of the La Brina Castle, while at Sarzana you will be amazed by the Baroque interior of the Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral. You can also admire the Gothic facade of the Pieve di Sant'Andrea, the oldest building in the town. This afternoon you can get lost in the old town centre as you wander through the alleyways which lead into the main squares. You can enjoy dinner in one of these squares, and for dessert you should try the "torta scema" and ask a local to explain the meaning behind its name. Overnight in Sarzana.

The walk today will be mostly along flat paths, following in the footsteps of the ancient pilgrims who walked from the Roman port of Luni towards Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Luni has a fascinating archaeological area which is well worth a visit. The archaeological area includes an ancient Roman amphitheatre and a museum which houses a splendid mosaic dedicated to the God Neptune. Continuing along paths with stunning views of both the sea and the Apuan Alps, you'll finally arrive in Massa where you will stay overnight.
Option to short today's walk to 18km/11.2mi using the public bus.

Today's walk takes you up to the Aghinolfi Castle and on to Pietrasanta. Pietrasanta has a splendid old centre with many art galleries and shops, and you should visit the Duomo and admire its marble columns and frescoed vaults before continuing your walk. When you finally arrive in Camaiore with its old town centre and ancient Badia di San Pietro, you can try the local rice-based chocolate cake to reward your day's efforts. Overnight in Camaiore.
Option to short today's walk to 20km/12.5mi using the public bus.

Today you will continue walking over rolling hills on your way to Lucca. Descend to the valley of the Contesola creek and cross the Serchio River at Ponte San Pietro to reach Lucca. You'll enter Lucca through the city walls and find yourself surrounded by the historic town centre, where many attractions await you. You can admire the decorated facade of San Frediano, browse the small shops in the circular piazza where you can buy local biscuits, or conquer the Guinigi tower and enjoy the views. Overnight in Lucca.
Option to short today's walk to 23km/14.3mi using the public bus.

This morning you’re free to explore the wonderful town of Lucca. You can visit the Cathedral of San Martino, home to the famous Holy Face 'Volto Santo' of Lucca, a venerated wooden crucifix that may have been carved by Nicodemus. It features in the town's Holy Cross celebrations held in September. This afternoon you will take the train to San Miniato-Fucecchio (via Pisa or Empoli, takes approx 1.5-2 hours) where you will be picked up and taken to your accommodation in San Miniato Alto.

Today you follow a paved road across the spectacular countryside which is typical of the Val d'Elsa region. Following in the footsteps of Archbishop Sigeric, you will pass two “Submansiones” (Sigeric’s “stopping places”), Pieve di Coiano and Pieve a Chianni. Continue to Gambassi Terme, where you stay overnight.

The walk today will lead you through wonderful landscapes of the Via Francigena. En route to San Gimignano you will pass the Sanctuary in Pancole and the tiny villages of Collemuccioli and Pieve di Cellole. On arrival in San Gimignano we recommend exploring the town on foot to appreciate its charming medieval atmosphere and perhaps enjoy a 'Vin Santo' aperitivo.

Today the Via Francigena will lead you up and down through the Tuscan hills. It’s a picturesque walk crossing vineyards, olive groves, fields and woods as you head towards Gracciano. Along the way you can make a detour to discover the fascinating Abbey of Santa Maria a Conero, dating from the 11th century. Continue to your hotel in Colle Val d'Elsa. (additional 5km/3.1mi)

Today you will cross Pieve a Elsa, which was once a large, ancient parish frequented by pilgrims. You can also visit the ancient Etruscan Thermae (hot pools) of Caldane. Later in the day you will reach Strove and its beautiful Romanesque Church. From here you'll continue via the medieval village of Abbadia a Isola before reaching Monteriggioni, whose famed crown of towers you'll see as you approach. You can spend the afternoon exploring this fascinating town.
(If leaving from Colle Val d'Elsa 5km shorter)
Note: The usual accommodation is approx 1.6km from the walled village of Monteriggioni. It's possible to stay within the walls - on request (must be at time of booking) and a supplement will apply.

Leaving Monteriggioni you will walk on dirt roads along the Montagnola Senese, the main hilly area of the district. You will pass the ancient medieval suburb of Cerbaia which currently appears to be abandoned. Walking through woods you will reach the Castle of Chiocciola and ascend to Poggio di Riciano. From here you will start your descent, walking along the river of Pian del Lago. The Renai forest will give way to the beautiful medieval city of Siena, which you’ll enter via the Porta Camollia. Overnight in Siena, which you can explore this evening.

Continue along the Via Francigena through beautiful Tuscan countryside. You’ll spend the day walking alongside cultivated meadows, with colours that change from greens to yellows to ochres depending on the season. You’ll pass through the medieval village of Cuna, just a few hundred metres before you enter the town of Monteroni d’Arbia, with its famous watermill. The last part of the walk leads you to the fortified hamlet of Lucignano d’Arbia, along its characteristic cypress tree- lined entrance.

Today's walk is through a series of rolling hills and wheat-cultivated fields in the heart of the "Crete Senesi", a region named for its clay crags that never cease to amaze the passerby. This area has distinctive grey coloured soil which makes the scenery look like you're on the moon. Today's destination is the walled town of Buonconvento, rightly considered to be one of the most beautiful villages in Italy.

Today's walk will take you to towards San Quirico, over dirt roads and some asphalt ones - though these will be compensated for by the beautiful views of the Val d'Orcia, among hills tinted with charming shades and scattered with vineyards and cypress trees. In San Quirico you will stand enchanted before the gate of the Collegiata church with its various architectural styles, before enjoying a rest among the green hedges of the 16th century classic Italian garden, Horti Leonini.

Today you continue your journey across the Val d’Orcia. Just beyond San Quirico you will enter a timeless world visiting Vignoni Alto, and you can enjoy an invigorating rest in the thermal waters of Bagno Vignoni, with its pool in the middle of the main square. Another highlight today is your destination Castiglione, in the heart of the Val d’Orcia. On the main square, Piazza il Vecchietta, named after the Castiglione-born artist, you’ll find the splendid Palazzo del Comune and several medieval buildings.

Passing ancient towns and after a stretch of hills you'll arrive at an agriturismo, where you'll stay tonight. Located in the hills and amongst olive groves, you'll be in typical Tuscan countryside.
If the agriturismo is not available, you will walk as above then on arrival at the agriturismo, transfer to Radicofani for your overnight stay in an apartment, with dinner in a nearby restaurant. Radicofani has many attractions including an imposing fortress dominating the entire valley and the Pieve di San Pietro, a jewel dating from the 13th century.

The day starts with a short transfer from the agriturismo to the main square in Radicofani. Leaving Radicofani on foot, you'll follow the old Via Cassia, surrounded by hills and Mount Amiata. From Ponte a Rigo you walk through the Paglia valley as far as Ponte Gregoriano, before tackling the last short climb towards Acquapendente. If you'd prefer a longer walk, you can take the variant route from Ponte a Rigo, over the hills and via Proceno, which offers beautiful views of the Paglia valley below. Overnight in Acquapendente.

Today you'll walk across a plain to reach the village of San Lorenzo Nuovo, which is located on the edge of the ancient crater, before continuing on a gradual descent to Bolsena. Bolsena is a charming old town on the banks of the beautiful lake of volcanic origin and is known for the miracle of Corpus Domini.

Today you will walk from Bolsena, following along the crest of the hills surrounding the eastern part of the lake. You'll walk along parts of the ancient Roman Via Cassia. This afternoon you will arrive in Montefiascone, a lovely village in a prominent location with great panoramic views over the lake, the surrounding plain and the Cimini Mountains. The Fortress of the Popes in Montefiascone is well-worth a visit. Overnight in Montefiascone.

The route to Viterbo today is along the plain that divides the Bolsena Lake from the Cimini Mountains. You'll be able to see the outline of the hills as you walk, as they border the whole territory. There are no residental areas along the route today but there are some old drinking fountains. When you arrive in Viterbo this afternoon you can take some time to visit the charming old town.

The medieval walls, the seven entrances to the old town, the churches and the aristocratic palaces of Viterbo are must-sees before setting out today. There are no villages along today's route, as you walk through the countryside and forests and pass an Etruscan underground tomb. Reach the gates of Vetralla, where you can visit the ruins of the Pieve of Saint Marie di Forcassi, a typical example of the architecture of the area. Dinner and overnight in Vetralla.

The walk today is quite long so we recommend leaving early. From Vetralla you'll walk along the volcano side of a crater which was once occupied by Lake Vico. You'll continue through Etruscan countryside until you reach the tiny village of Capranica. From here you descend to a tuff gorge, following the stream. This track is very striking, but can be difficult in places depending on the water level. Finally you'll arrive in Sutri where you can enjoy a nice dinner.

The first section of the walk today takes you across fields until you reach the picturesque village of Monterosi and the Monte Gelato waterfalls. You can stop for a rest here or even swim on a warm day. Continue walking along a panoramic trail that leads to Campagnano di Roma.
It is possible to shorten the walk with a morning transfer to Monterosi (must be pre-arranged).

Today you'll walk through the Roman countryside, walking on mainly flat dirt roads or country trails. There are a few hills towards the end of the day. Continue to La Giustiniana where you will stay overnight.
Option to shorten using public transport from La Storta to La Giustiana.

After breakfast you will set off on the final leg of your pilgrimage. You can choose to reach Rome either by public transport or on foot. Part of the walk today is through the Insugherata park, a beautiful natural reserve a short distance from the bustling city. As you approach the 'Eternal City' you can stop for a triumphant photograph at the Monte Mario Belvedere. From here you'll catch your first glimpse of the dome of St Peter's Basilica. You'll then make your final descent to reach the Piazza San Pietro, your ending point and that of many pilgrims through the centuries.

The trip concludes in Rome this morning, with arrangements ending after breakfast.
With much to do and see in Rome, it is well worth extending your stay so you can explore the city. We can book extra nights, please ask for our rates.