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3
moderate
Activities
  • self guided walk
Accommodation
  • 6 nights agriturismo/B&B's
Meals
  • 6 Breakfasts

7 Days£830GBP

View Inclusions

Overview

Trip Code: SW4

Trip highlights

  • Following in the footsteps of pilgrims
  • Discovering the wild slopes of the Apennine mountains and picturesque Piediluco Lake
  • Visiting Medieval hilltop villages and towns each with their unique atmosphere
  • 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. On this section of the St Francis Way, uncover some of the hidden gems of Umbria, from the picturesque Piediluco lake, which has inspired artists and poets, to the rugged peaks of the Apennine mountains. It is easy to appreciate why these natural sights held such spiritual significance for St Francis as he walked through the forests and mountains. Medieval hilltop villages and towns are another highlight and are a delight to explore at the end of the walking day. The local cuisine, from the black truffles of Spoleto to the salami and wine produced along the trail, will make the walking effort worthwhile. Reaching Rieti, and the surrounding Valle Santa (or Holy Valley), the influence of St Francis continues to make its mark.

Countries:

Italy

Starting Point:

Spoleto

Finishing Point:

Rieti

Itinerary

Expand all | Collapse all

Arrive in Spoleto, check in at your hotel and begin to explore this town by visiting the Roman theatre, let the simple beauty of the San Salvatore Basilica enchant you, or celebrate the beginning of your journey with a nice dinner: the local pride is the black truffle, to be enjoyed on a bruschetta or powdered on an omelette.

Meals:  Nil

Today’s walk is quite challenging but well worth the effort. You will walk on well trodden paths along a panoramic trail, passing an ancient water mill and the Franciscan Convent of Monteluco, immersed in the shady Umbrian woods to your accommodation in Ceselli. The restaurant here is closed, you will be driven to and from a restaurant in a nearby village for dinner (not included). Distance 15km/9.3mi Ascent +646m/2119ft, Descent -775m/2542ft

Meals:  B

The route today takes you along the Nera river and through several enchanting hamlets, from Ferentillo (famous for its mummies) to Arrone, surrounded by ancient stone walls and surmounted by an imposing castle. It's a really beautiful day's walk, accompanied by views of the mountain peaks surrounding the cultivated fields. Distance 15km/9.3mi Ascent +169m/554ft, Descent -209m/686ft

Meals:  B

There are several surprises along the trail of rare beauty today: from the typical hamlets of the Valnerina Valley to the Marmore waterfall, among the highest in Europe and within a lovely natural park. And finally, the Piediluco Lake, a source of inspiration for many artists and poets. Overnight in Piediluco. Distance 13km/8mi Ascent +328m/1076ft, Descent -185m/607ft

Meals:  B

Another great panoramic walk though woods and along secondary roads. Among the great views you can enjoy the hamlet of Lambro, with its medieval houses perched on a hill, and the rugged peaks of the Apennine Mountains. Overnight in Poggio Bustone. Distance 19km/12mi Ascent +890m/2920ft, Descent -549m/1801ft

Meals:  B

Your final day's walk takes you to the north of Lazio. Along the way you'll find the village of Cantalice, developed vertically on the side of a hill, and the Sanctuary “della Foresta”, where you can immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere and admire the beautiful frescoes. In the afternoon, transfer to Rieti. Please call the carrier at least 1 hour before your arrival at Santuario della Foresta so they will be there to meet you. Distance 12km/7.5mi Ascent +395m/1296ft, Descent -594m/1949ft

Meals:  B

Your trip concludes after breakfast, or you can continue on the final stage to Rome.

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 hotels, B&Bs or agriturismo on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
  • Digital information pack including smartphone app with maps and route book
  • Luggage transfer (max 1 piece, max weight 20kg and max size 70 x 40 x 30 cm per person). Supplement applies for excess
  • Private transfer from Santuario Santa Maria della Foresta to Rieti on day 6
  • Transfer to and from a local restaurant on Day 2 (meal not included)
  • Emergency hotline
  • St Francis Way pilgrim passport

  • Travel to Spoleto and from Rieti
  • 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
  • Transfers not listed as included
  • Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage
  • Entrance fees (museums, galleries etc)
  • Excess luggage
  • Hotel tax - allow EUR5-10 total pp, payable directly to the hotel
  • Items of a personal nature

Suitability

moderate

3

GRADE 3 - 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 19km 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

Notes

H
High Season
DN1
High season is from 12 Jun to 16 Sep. Supplement applies to high season departures.

Priceper person from

£830GBP

Options & Supplements*
  • Single supplementGBP£160
  • Solo traveller supplementGBP£460
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews

Why travel with us

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.