24 Trips to Explore in 2024See the List
Home > Italy > Walking1 > Via Francigena: Aosta to Ivrea
Duration
7 days
Activities
  • self guided walk
Accommodation
  • 6 nights in 3 star hotels and agriturismo / B&B's
Meals
  • 1 Dinner
  • 6 Breakfasts

Price

$1050USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: FR9

Trip highlights

  • Walking through the alpine landscapes of the Aosta Valley
  • Passing castles, woods and stone villages set high in the mountains
  • Experiencing the first section of the route on the Via Francigena in Italy
  • Staying in warm, comfortable family-run hotels and delighting in their friendly hospitality

From Canterbury in England to Rome in Italy, the 1900km "Francigena Way" dates back to the 11th century when pilgrims travelled across Europe on foot to visit the site of Martyrdom of St Peter and St Paul in Rome. With the modernisation of Europe and the shifting of borders the route became obsolete, until a recent revival of the pilgrimage making it one of the most exciting pilgrimage trails in Europe today. From Aosta the pilgrimage route takes you through ancient villages of Roman origins, vineyards, orchards and castles. The trail winds through countryside, woods and small towns and will end on the banks of the Dora Baltea river. Along the way you are also sure to enjoy the local traditions and foods, while staying in comfortable, family-run accommodation.

Trip Grading

moderate

More info about grading system

Share trip:
Google+ Email

Traveller Rating

 

Itinerary

Expand all | Collapse all

On arrival in Aosta, the largest town in the valley and full of Roman monuments and modern services, make your way to the joining hotel. The remainder of the day is free to explore the sights and prepare for your walk tomorrow.

Meals:  Nil

The Via Francigena winds through castles and vineyards today. You'll pass the ancient castle of Quart, with its chapel dedicated to the local saint, Emerico. Along the way you will see semi-spherical engravings made in the rock by prehistoric people whose purpose today is unknown. This afternoon you'll arrive in Nus, your destination for the day, where you can relax and sample the local wine.

Meals:  B

Today you will follow the Rus, ancient aqueducts which are still used to water the crops on the mountainsides of the Valle d'Aosta. As you walk between vineyards we recommend stopping at the Crotta de Vegneron at Chambave. This wine collective celebrates and produces the greatest wines of the region. The walk continues to Saint Vincent, where you will stay overnight.

Meals:  B

From Saint Vincent you will continue along the left side of the valley and pass the ruins of the castle Saint Germain with its Mezzogiorno tower, once a formidable defence tower built between the 11th-12th century by the De Mongioveto family. From here you will walk on a short section of the ancient Strada Delle Gallie, before the route winds up the side of the mountain to Verres. If you enjoy castles we recommend taking a detour and visiting Issogne. Overnight in Verres.

Meals:  B

During today's walk you'll feel as though you've stepped back in time. In Arnad feel just like a medieval pilgrim as you walk through the nave of San Martino Church, before crossing the ancient Enchallod bridge. You'll even walk on a perfectly preserved Roman road where you can look for the tracks of Roman carriages. If you prefer more recent history you can visit the fort at Bard. This afternoon you'll arrive at Pont Saint Martin, where you can relax and enjoy the stunning views from town.

Meals:  B,D

The alpine scenery of previous days gives way to the gentle hills of Piedmont. Today's walk to Ivrea will lead you through charming villages and beautiful natural sections. Arriving in Ivrea you will be delighted by the old town centre with its impressive castle and the tall tower of Santo Stefano. Be sure to take a walk through the open-air museum of modern architecture. We also recommend trying the local Novecento cake, a delicious chocolate cake whose recipe is closely guarded by the local pastry makers.

Meals:  B

The trip concludes this morning after breakfast. Please ask for our rates if you want to stay an extra night, or you can continue along the Francigena Way to Pavia.

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, 1 dinner: Breakfasts are usually continental inclusive of breads, tea, coffee & juices. Dinner will consist of 3 courses, usually starting with a salad or pasta dish, followed by either a chicken, red meat or fish dish with seasonal vegetables & finishing with a dessert of fruit or cakes
  • 6 nights in 3 star hotels and agriturismo / B&B's on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
  • Digital information pack including smartphone app with maps plus a guidebook (one per booking)
  • Luggage transfer (max 1 piece, max weight 20kg and max size 60 x 50 x 40 cm per person). Supplement applies for excess
  • Credenziale - the pilgrim passport
  • Emergency hotline and SMS alert

  • Travel to Aosta and from Ivrea
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • Entrance fees
  • Guide – this is a self-guided walking holiday
  • Excess luggage
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
  • Travel insurance
  • Tourist Tax - allow EUR1-2 per day - payable directly to the hotel
  • Items of a personal nature

Grading

moderate  

MODERATE – GRADE 3 This is a moderate grade walk along paths that are well defined and clearly marked. You should be an experienced walker and be able to walk for up to 8 hours a day (although most days are between 4-5 hours) in hot sun on dusty and stony tracks. There are some steep descents and small ascents and the terrain is mountainous. A good level of fitness is required. 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. The walking times are calculated from town centre to town centre and may vary depending on the accommodations booked.

Departure dates

Daily from 1 Apr to 31 Oct

Notes

Note:
July and August departures may require a transfer from Nus at the end of the walking day to Aosta (ie 2 nights in Aosta) and a return transfer the following day - a supplement will apply if required

Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

$1050USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Single supplementUSD$290
  • Solo traveller supplementUSD$520
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews

Why travel with us

Making Europe Affordable

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.  

Self-Guided Specialists

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.

Our Wide Range

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. 

Videos

Walking Italy's Via Francigena | Italian Camino | UTracks

Similar trips

Pilgrim walking into St Peters in Rome at the end of the Via Francigena | Tim Charody
Italy

Via Francigena: Orvieto to Rome

Activities:
self guided walk
Accommodation:
hotel, b&b
From:
$1440 USD
Duration:

10Days

Grading:

Moderate

 
14 Reviews
Sweeping views of historic Florence from the Santa Maria Cathedral | Sue Badyari
Italy

Via Degli Dei: Bologna to Florence

Activities:
self guided walk
Accommodation:
hotel, agriturismo
From:
$1150 USD
Duration:

8Days

Grading:

Moderate to Challenging

 
8 Reviews
Walkers take in the typical Tuscan landscape on the Via Francigena | Tim Charody
Italy

Via Francigena: Best of Tuscany

Activities:
self guided walk
Accommodation:
hotel, b&b
From:
$1290 USD
Duration:

9Days

Grading:

Moderate

 
26 Reviews
A typical village on the Via Francigena between Siena and Rome
Italy

Cycle the Via Francigena - Siena to Rome

Activities:
self guided cycle
Accommodation:
hotel, b&b
From:
$2190 USD
Duration:

9Days

Grading:

Moderate

 
2 Reviews

Get Social

World Expeditions Travel Group

World Expeditions Australian Walking Holidays Tasmanian Expeditions Adventure South Great Canadian Trails Utracks Huma Challenge World Expeditions Schools Walkers' Britain Sherpa Van Trail Journeys Blue Moutains Adventures Company Larapinta Trail Walk Australian Cycle Tours Great Walks of New Zealand North America Active Adventure Travel West
atas
  World Expeditions hold an Air Travel Organisers Licence (ATOL) no. 4491 issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to www.atol.org.uk/atolcertificate.
© Copyright 2024 by UTracks Pty Ltd
Join Newsletter
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ADS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Adventures South"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Adventure South</div>
Adventure South NZ is unrivalled in their geographic coverage, originality and overall quality of adventures holidays in New Zealand. Choose from walking, cycling, winter or multi-activity holidays, on either the North or South Island.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/AWH.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Walking Holidays"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Walking Holidays</div>
Australian Walking Holidays specialises in small group guided walking adventures. Since 1982 we have been guiding small groups of travellers on Australia's finest walks across our tropical, coastal or red centre landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GCT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Canadian Trails"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Canadian Trails</div>
Great Canadian Trails specialises in active holidays in Canada. With both guided and supported self-guided options available, our unique itineraries draw upon some of Canada's most inspiring parks, trails and landscapes from coast to coast.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/HUM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Humac Challenge"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Huma Charity Challenge</div>
Huma enables those with adventurous spirits to challenge themselves and make a difference for a cause close to their heart. Travel, fundraise and meet life-long friends on one of Huma's meaningful and unique challenges around the world.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TAS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Tasmania Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Tasmanian Expeditions</div>
Tasmanian Expeditions is the most experienced operator of treks and adventure travel holidays in Tasmania. We own and operate the most comprehensive range of adventure holidays available across Tasmania's varied landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/UTX-new.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Utracks"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>UTracks</div>
UTracks are the active European holiday specialists. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2-star or 4-star, small groups or self guided, land, river or sea – UTracks can help you to explore Europe exactly the way you want.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WYA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions Schools"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions Schools</div>
World Expeditions Schools is our specialist division dedicated to organising tailor made overseas school group adventures. Specialists in Service Learning projects, choose from more destinations than any other school group provider.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/YOM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Yomads"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Yomads</div>
Yomads offers adventures for the 20s and 30s on six continents. Designed as a way to bring young and likeminded travellers together, Yomads caters to those interested in lightly structured and active trips that allow freedom to roam and explore.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ACT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Cycle Tours"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Cycle Tours</div>
Australian Cycle Tours specialises in high quality self guided and guided cycling experiences in a selection of the most beautiful regions in Australia.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WEX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions</div>
The pioneers of original, worldwide adventure travel holidays since 1975
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TJX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Trail Journeys"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Trail Journeys</div>
Self-guided cycling experts on New Zealand's Otago Rail Trail and more
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/BMAC.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Blue Mountains Adventure Company"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Blue Mountains Adventure Company</div>
The original Blue Mountains canyoning, hiking, climbing and abseiling experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GWNZ.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Walks of New Zealand"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Walks of New Zealand</div>
Explore New Zealand's most spectacular wilderness regions with the self-guided hiking experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/NAA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="North America Active"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>North America Active</div>
USA Canada hiking & cycling tour specialists, choose from self-guided or guided trips