Follow in the footsteps of St Francis, the patron saint of ecology, on one of five self guided walks through eastern Tuscany and northern Umbria, the 'green heart of Italy'. On this scenic section of the St Francis Way, you’ll discover medieval hilltop towns as you traverse the ridges and valleys of the wild Apennines and soak up landscapes that have inspired artists and poets over the centuries. Highlights of this 7 day trip include the handpicked B&Bs and agriturismos you stay in, local wine and regional cuisine including salami and black truffles in Spoleto.
Starting in the Swiss Alps and ending in Rome, the Via Francigena cuts through some of Italy's prettiest regions. This section of the historic pilgrim route takes in Fidenza, with its famous cathedral, the Apennine’s ancient woods and valleys, the Parma hills and well-preserved medieval villages whose old towns you can happily get lost in. A highlight of this affordable 7 day walk is the climb to the top of Mount Valoria for unparalleled views over the Lombardy and Lunigiania plains.
The Piedmont region of Italy is home to two of the world’s best red wines: Barolo and Barbaresco. These famous reds come from the Nebbiolo grape, a native variety of northwestern Italy. Piedmont is also famous for its white truffles, cheeses, pastries and chocolates, making this 8 day trip a food and wine lover’s dream. As you follow quiet footpaths through hazelnut forests and picturesque vineyards, you’ll also get to devour mouth watering landscapes of rolling hills sprinkled with medieval villages and castles.
The heel of Italy’s ‘boot’ is fast becoming Italy’s new hotspot, thanks to its friendly locals, ancient olive trees, delicious produce and idyllic coastal landscapes. Follow ancient footpaths through endless orchards and olive groves and trails overlooking the sea on this great value 8 day trip. Gain some insight into the rich history of the region by visiting Messapian villages, fortresses, Roman masterpieces and Baroque architecture in Lecce.
Every year millions of people flock to the Amalfi Coast to enjoy this stretch of UNESCO-listed Mediterranean coastline. Get away from the crowds using a network of footpaths and mule tracks in the cliffs that connect the precariously perched villages. Enjoy exploring medieval towns, ruins, caves, nature reserves and following the ‘Footpath of the Gods’ trail on this romantic 6 day trip.
The Gran Paradiso National Park was founded in 1922 by King Vittorio Emanuele III, a nature lover who transformed his grandfather’s game reserve into the country’s first national park to protect certain species from poachers. Consequently, encounters with animals like ibex and chamois are a daily occurrence. On this 7 day guided walk, you’ll be treated to unparalleled views of Mont Blanc, Monte Rosa and the Matterhorn ranges from high passes and lookouts and experience staying in charismatic mountain huts.
The Upper Lys Valley, also known as the Gressoney Valley, is a small pocket of Aosta which has for centuries been home to the Walser Germanic people. Their enduring traditions can still be found in the typical wood & stone houses, the cuisine and the unique dialect. Highlights include views of western Europe's 2nd highest peak Monte Rosa (4634m) and stunning glaciers, crossing alpeggi where cows and sheep spend the summer, staying at the terrific Alpenzu Hut and enjoying regional cheeses including Fontina and Tomme de Gressoney.