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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.
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17kg of CO2-e PP per day
(101kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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Day 1
Arrive Spoleto
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
Day 2
Challenging but panoramic walk to Ceselli (6hrs)
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
Day 3
Walk to Arrone with its impressive castle (5hrs)
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
Day 4
Walk through the Valnerina valley to Piediluco Lake (5hrs)
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
Day 5
Enjoy views of the Apennine mountains as you walk to Poggio Bustone (7hrs)
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
Day 6
Walk to Santuario della Foresta and transfer to Rieti (4hrs)
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
Day 7
Trip concludes
Your trip concludes after breakfast, or you can continue on the final stage to Rome.
What's included
What's not included
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.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.
Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.
With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love.
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