3
moderate

Traveller Rating

 

Activities
  • self guided walk
Accommodation
  • 6 nights hotels/agriturismo/B&B's
Meals
  • 6 Breakfasts

7 Days£785GBP

View Inclusions

Overview

Trip Code: SW3

Trip highlights

  • Following in the footsteps of pilgrims from centuries ago
  • Sampling delicious local cuisine and wine
  • Assisi, Spello and Spoleto: ancient towns rich in history
  • Staying in comfortable, welcoming and charming B&Bs and agriturismo

During the Middle Ages St Francis of Assisi traversed the ridges and valleys of the Apennines, looking for God’s signs in nature and talking to people about peace, humility and brotherhood. Walking along the trail through Umbria, “the green heart of Italy” from Assisi to Spoleto you will be able to feel the presence of St Francis as you delve into the magnificent countryside, walking through forests, fields, vineyards and olive groves, with always a medieval town on a hill in sight. The villages you visit on the way have maintained their own identity and it seems that time has stood still. The highlights are endless, from beginning on the steps of the cathedral in Assisi, to absorbing the unique culture, sampling delectable cuisine, and ascending to viewpoints where breathtaking landscapes sweep below. Enjoy the hospitality of local hotels and agriturismo and delight in the achievement of walking along one of the most picturesque sections of the St Francis Way.

Countries:

Italy

Starting Point:

Assisi

Finishing Point:

Spoleto

Itinerary

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On arrival in Assisi, make your way to the joining hotel. Check in is from mid afternoon. The remainder of the day is free to explore this magical town with its many outstanding churches, palaces, and ancient buildings: the Basilica of St Francis with crypt, the Church of Santa Chiara, the Cathedral of San Rufino and the Minerva Temple built in Roman times.

Meals:  Nil

A challenging but spectacular walk today from the steps of the cathedral in Assisi to the enchanting town of Spello. A trail leads you up the slopes of Monte Subasio to the astonishing hermitage called “Eremo delle Carceri”. If you prefer, you can take a taxi to avoid a good part of the climb here (own expense). This magnificent monastery was one of the places where Francis regularly retreated for prayer. The trail continues through an oak forest to the 9th century abbey of San Benedetto. A long descent takes you to the medieval walled town of Spello. Distance: approx 16km/9.9mi Ascent 835m/2740ft Descent 1005m/3297ft or 12km/7.5mi: +215m/705ft -354m/1161ft

Meals:  B

Before setting out today, take some time to visit the beautiful, pink stoned medieval town of Spello. Today, a leisurely walk through olive groves and vineyards takes you to the vibrant town of Foligno from where you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. If you prefer a longer morning hike, you can choose a lovely circular route that takes you through Collepino village then onto Foligno where you stay overnight. Distance: approx 7km/4.4mi Ascent 70m/230ft Descent 120m/394ft or 21km/13mi: + - 546m/1790ft

Meals:  B

A short transfer by car takes you to Uppello, where the walk begins. After a steep climb you pass the 11th century Rocca di Scandolaro castle. Continue along oak forests and olive groves to Trevi, another remarkable town well worth visiting. Walking along a medieval aqueduct you finally reach Bovara di Trevi, where you spend the night in an agriturismo with swimming pool. Distance 14km/8.7mi: +593m/1945ft -580m/1903ft

Meals:  B

From Bovara di Trevi to Campello Alto you follow the official “Via Francescana”, the original path walked by St Francis, with beautiful views of the valley of Spoleto. On your way you can see the majestic high walls of the convent of Pissignano and the convent Padri Barnabiti in Campello, where the meditative atmosphere will lift your spirits. After passing Lenano, you reach the tiny medieval village of Poreta, where you stay tonight. Poreta is dominated by its castle, which is a short walk from the village. Distance 12km/7.5mi: +461m/1412ft -541m/1775ft

Meals:  B

Today’s walk will start on a narrow trail that leads you to the hamlet of Santa Maria di Reggiano. The old monastery contains beautiful 12th and 14th century frescoes. Pass by the hamlet of Eggi and, following the old dismantled railway line, you reach Spoleto. Alternatively you can make a detour for a longer but spectacular entry into the city, passing high above the Tessino stream on the medieval aqueduct that bridges the valley. From here enjoy superb views of the city and its surroundings. Distance 13km/8mi:+448m/1470ft -454m/1489ft

Meals:  B

Trip concludes after breakfast, or you can continue on the next stage to Rieti.

Meals:  B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.

Inclusions

What's included

  • 6 breakfasts: Breakfasts are usually continental inclusive of breads, tea, coffee & juices.
  • 6 nights in 3 star family run hotels and agriturismos on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
  • Transfer to Uppello on day 4
  • Digital information pack including smartphone app with maps and a route book per room booked.
  • Luggage transfer (max 1 piece, max weight 20kg and max size 65 x 50 x 40 cm per person). Supplement applies for excess
  • Emergency hotline

  • Travel to Assisi and from Spoleto
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • Travel insurance - mandatory
  • Guide – this is a self-guided walking holiday
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
  • Entrance fees (museums, galleries etc.)
  • Transfers not listed as included
  • Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage
  • Excess luggage
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Hotel tax - allow EUR2-4 per day - payable directly to each hotel

Suitability

moderate

3

MODERATE – GRADE 3 This is a moderate grade walk along paths that are well defined and clearly marked. The whole itinerary is mainly on paths and gravel roads (strade bianche), and some sections on asphalted road. You should be able to walk for up to 14.5km per day although there are some options to shorten walks. The walks may in part be during hot sun on stony tracks. The classic Umbrian landscape of rolling hills (although sometimes steep and long), olive groves and vineyards, are traversed each walking day. A good level of fitness is required and prior experience is advisable. As with all of our trips it is important that you are well prepared. We suggest that you undertake regular exercise – swimming, cycling, and jogging, three to four times a week for three months prior to your departure.

Departure dates

Daily from 1 Apr to 31 Oct (except Friday)

Priceper person from

£785GBP

Options & Supplements*
  • Discount for triple share rooms (pp)GBP£-46
  • Single supplementGBP£170
  • Solo traveller supplementGBP£340
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews

Why travel with us

Personal Experience

We've been walking and cycling the planet for over four decades and are passionate about delivering exceptional service. Combined, we’ve travelled to virtually every corner of Europe, and are eager to share the many benefits of travelling on foot or by bike.

Great Value & Quality

Our well priced trips offer great value for money. Included in your package are comprehensive route notes, maps & guide books along with bag transfers and locally run accommodation. We take the stress out of organising your holiday.

Self-Guided Specialists

We have been operating active self guided holidays since 1973. We handle all the necessary logistics so that you can relax and explore your destination at your own pace. Many of our tours depart daily, giving you even greater flexibility.