Self-guided pilgrimage
9 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2+
Moderate plus
Flights
available
16.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App
The Francigena Way is an historical pilgrimage; a road which once led from Canterbury to Rome and which has been walked by tens of thousands of pilgrims. This self-guided walking trip begins in the beautiful city of Orvieto which boasts arguably the most beautiful cathedral in Italy. From here walk through Tuscia Laziale, an agricultural region of fields and olive groves dotted with volcanic lakes. Following the ancient Via Cassia, pass through beautiful villages such as Montefiascone, the fortified city of Viterbo, the Etruscan necropolis and the Roman amphitheatre of Sutri and the small medieval churches of Vetrallla and Campagnano. The path continues, through thick forests of oaks and past ruined abbeys and control towers, and ends in Rome; the 'Eternal City'.
The walking routes on this programme follow official paths, with some sections along quiet roads. On these routes there are places where the path crosses a stream (or dry streambed). You will often NOT find bridges, since these are streams which you can walk across with your boots on or by using stepping stones.
Arrive in the hilltop town of Orvieto in the heart of the Umbrian countryside. Explore its impressive 14th century cathedral and fascinating labyrinth of caves and underground tunnels that were created almost 3000 years ago.
You stay at Selected hotels.
Hotels, Umbria and Lazio
7 nights in hotels and 2 nights in B&Bs, all rooms en suite. We use variety of different styles of good hotels with many of them family-run properties.
All prices are based on 2 persons sharing, so if there is an odd number of people travelling in your party or you are travelling alone, there will be a compulsory supplement for a single room for the tour duration. For a solo traveller there is an additional charge to cover transfer costs.
Additional Accommodation
We can book additional accommodation in Orvieto or Rome (subject to availability). Please notify us at the time of booking and we will provide up-to-date prices.
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
After a short transfer, leave the valley surrounding Orvieto and head through oak woods and open fields towards Bolsena and its spectacular volcanic lake and Monaldeschi castle.
With views over Lake Bolsena, follow the ancient Roman road, Via Cassia, towards medieval Montefiascone. Discover the town's intricate archways, cobbled alleyways and artisan shops and try some of the Est! Est! Est! wine that is produced here.
It's scenic walking through fertile vineyards and hazelnut orchards, with cypress and olive trees dotting the landscape, to Bagnaccio. The hot thermal springs of the ancient baths here have always been a stop off point for weary pilgrims. You overnight in the medieval walled town of Viterbo, renowned for its Gothic papal palace.
Pass through shady woods and past 8th-9th century Etruscan remains on your way to Vetralla, a small medieval town with superb panoramic views. Dinner tonight is included.
Head through lush fields to the Towers of Orlando, the remains of an ancient monastery. Continue to Capranica, with its picturesque old town perched on tufa rock high over the valley. From here, walk through the verdant valley to Sutri, famous for its Roman amphitheatre and Etruscan Necropolis.
Walk through the Treja Valley, past small waterfalls including the evocative Cascate di Monte Gelato, to Campagnano di Roma in the Veio Natural Park.
Start out across a patchwork of meadows - if you're lucky, you will spot wild horses! - to the pretty town of Formello. Then it's on to La Giustiana, the last stop before Rome!
Follow the Via Francigena through the Natural Reserve of Insugherata. At Monte Mario, begin the unforgettable descent towards Rome and finally, St Peter's Square.
Your trip ends in Rome after breakfast. If you would like to add extra nights in this fantastic city, please speak to your sales consultant at the time of booking.
These tour prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £268.
We can book your flights, protected by ATOL and ABTA. Please ask at time of enquiry.
If you choose a flight inclusive package with us, you will fly into Rome Flumicino airport, with onward rail included. We can also provide transfers from the station to your hotel, please contact us for details and prices.
We hold an ATOL License and are fully ABTA bonded, so you can book your flights with us in confidence. We can book most airlines and will advise you of your most convenient airport and flight options.
Flight prices vary massively and change quickly. At Headwater we will sell you your flights at the same price you can buy them yourself. We simply add £35 per person to cover your flight protection, to learn more please click here.
Subject to availability and dependent on service provider, please ask at time of enquiry and book early to avoid disappointment.
Self-guided pilgrimage
9 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2+
Moderate plus
Flights
available
16.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App
