Sale
6 Days
From
From IntroductoryTo Challenging
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. During this section of the Way of St Francis 'camino' route, follow the paths St Francis covered during his frequent pilgrimages. Discover traces of his passage, such as Franciscan hermitages, chapels and crosses as you walk through the typical landscape of Umbria; shady forests, orchards, olive groves and fields of wheat and barley. Apart from the spiritual side of the walk, there are numerous drawcards along the way such as Gubbio and Assisi, two ancient towns full of history, and the many small, authentic medieval villages that dot the undulating hills. Following a well signposted trail, there will be opportunities to sample great local cheese, salami, truffles and wines and stay in characterful, specially chosen hotels and agriturismi as you make your way to Assisi set on the western slopes of Mt Subasio and birthplace of St Francis.
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Italy
Città di Castello
Assisi
23kg of CO2-e PP per day
(92kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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Day 1
Arrive Città di Castello
Arrive in Città di Castello, Umbria’s northern-most town and the largest town in the Tiber valley. Be sure to arrive early to have enough time to explore and discover this charming city, which will surprise you with its many artistic treasures including the Palazzo del Podestà overlooking other palazzi on Piazza Matteotti and the Cathedral of San Florido, which gathers together a multitude of architectural styles. Don't miss the view of the Umbrian hills from the top of the Civic Tower, before celebrating the first day of your trip with a dish of white truffle, a prized local delicacy, and perhaps a glass of Montefalco Sagrantino wine amidst monuments dating back to Roman times.
Meals: Nil
Day 2
Transfer to Campanile and walk to Pietralunga (5hrs)
After a short transfer* you walk through a shady wooded area to Pietralunga, a rural village at 566m altitude. The old town, with its steep narrow streets, the church of Madonna dei Rimedi and Pieve di Urbino are worth a visit. *You can be dropped off at two different spots, either Campanile or a further 4.6km along the route reducing the kms to 10.4km/6.5mi. Distance 15km/9.3mi Ascent +614m/2014ft, Descent -655m/2149ft, Surf/Unsurf 29/71%
Meals: B,D
Day 3
Walk to Mocaiana and transfer to Gubbio (5hrs)
From Pietralunga the trail leads you through a scenic landscape passing the monasteries of San Pietro and San Benedetto. The abbey of San Benedetto, dating from the XII century, was once an important reference point for pilgrims. The final stretch from Mocaiana to Gubbio is by taxi, please call the carrier at least 1 hour before your arrival at Mocaiana so they will be there to meet you. *Time permitting, Gubbio is worth an extensive visit - it is a beautifully preserved medieval town, with impressive buildings and churches. Be sure to learn of St Francis' time here, making a deal with a wolf which had terrorised the town and converting many people as a result. The wolf's remains are said to be in the Church of St Francis "della Pace" just outside town. Many traditional festivities are still honoured in Gubbio today. Distance 18km/11mi Ascent +547m/1794ft, Descent -712m/2336ft, Surf/Unsurf 32/68% *You can add an extra night here if you wish - please ask for our rates (must be added at time of booking.)
Meals: B
Day 4
Continue to Valfabbrica (7hrs)
Today is a long walk, so after an earlyish breakfast, catch the bus* to the start of the walk. You will walk along the hills which separate Gubbio from Valfabbrica. It is possible to shorten the walk (towards the end) by taking a transfer (of about 2km). The trail offers breathtaking views to Mt Sibillini, and as you walk you will appreciate why St Francis so loved the Umbrian countryside. Continue through a beautiful valley on the “Sentiero Francescano” to Valfabbrica, a quiet town which was an important fortress in the Middle Ages. The towers and part of the walls are well preserved. Dinner is included tonight. Distance 23km/14mi, Ascent +336m/1102ft, Descent -336m/1102ft, Surf/Unsurf 28/72% *Buses are not very frequent, so prepare to depart by approx 8am. Check timetable.
Day 5
Final day to Assisi (4hrs)
This morning you can enjoy breakfast (own expense) at one of the local bars before setting off. It's another day of delightful countryside along Umbrian hills, walking from Valfabbrica. Assisi appears during the middle of the walk from a wonderful panoramic viewpoint over the edge of the hills. At the end of the hills you can enjoy the surrounding landscape with woods, fields, country houses and parish churches, all overlooked by the dramatic Apennine peaks above. A shorter walking day, you'll have time to explore hilltop Assisi, birthplace of St Francis and spiritual home of the Franciscan religious order. There are many points of interest to discover including outstanding churches, palaces, artwork and ancient buildings: the Basilica of St Francis and crypt, the Church of Santa Chiara, the Cathedral of San Rufino and the Minerva Temple built in Roman times. Then take time out in a small piazza to absorb the atmosphere of this charming town. Distance 13km/8mi Ascent +578m/1896ft Descent -498m/1634ft, Surf/Unsurf 57/43%
Day 6
Trip concludes
The trip concludes after breakfast, stay an extra night (ask for our rates) or continue on the next stage to Spoleto.
What's included
What's not included
GRADE 3 - Along paths that are well defined and clearly marked. There are some stages on alternate days which are more demanding in mountainous terrain and ascents are up to just over 600m. 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 23km per day in sometimes hot sun on stony tracks. The classic Umbrian landscape of hills (sometimes steep), olive groves and forests, 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.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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Personal Experience
We've been exploring the world on foot for over five decades, and our passion for walking runs deep. Having hiked nearly every corner of Europe, we take pride in sharing the joy, freedom and perspective that only travelling on foot can bring, all with the exceptional service and care our travellers know us for.
Great Value & Quality
Our trips offer excellent value for money, with everything you need for a seamless walking holiday. Each package includes detailed route notes, maps and navigation app, luggage transfers, and comfortable locally run accommodation. We take care of the planning, so you can simply enjoy the walk.
Self-Guided Specialists
We've been operating self-guided active holidays since 1973, taking care of every detail so you can relax and explore at your own pace. With many walking and hiking tours departing daily, you'll enjoy the freedom and flexibility to travel when it suits you.
self guided walk
hotel
8Days
Moderate to Challenging
hotel, b&b
Moderate
5Days