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Walking the Undiscovered Trails of Assisi

0044 1606 720199

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  • Holiday code
    W10UM
  • Holiday type
    Self-guided walking
  • Duration
    10 nights
  • Accommodation
    hotel-to-hotel
    and
  • Activity level
  • Call usfor dates and prices
  • Departure months
    JFMAMJJASOND
  • What your holiday price includes
  • 10 nights hotel-to-hotel accommodation in a mix of and hotels
  • All continental breakfasts and 4 evening meals
  • Headwater Wine Collection Service
  • Comprehensive route directions
  • Standard transfers at the start/end of the trip (if booking inclusive flights)
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Optional Upgrades
  • City break add-ons in Rome
  • Suitable for
  • Solo travellers
  • Couples
  • Excellent choice for
  • Food lovers, wine lovers, flora & fauna, bird spotting opportunities, art & history, swimming opportunities, high peaks

Italy: Umbria

Walking the Undiscovered Trails of Assisi

This trip is currently unavailable. Please call us on 0044 1606 720199 for further details.

  • Discover Italy's 'Green Heart': deep lush forests, hidden hermitages, endless olive groves and the flora and fauna of the Monte Subasio Natural Park
  • World-famous Assisi, the jewel in the Umbrian crown; Spello, one of Italy's best preserved towns; Trevi and Spoleto, hilltop towns completing a daisy-chain of medieval marvels
  • Exceptionally friendly hotels - two with swimming pools - including a converted 17th-century palazzo and a luxury 'farm resort'
  • Superb regional cuisine: freshly prepared pastas, highly prized black truffles, the finest of olive oils, famous Sagrantino wines

This 10-night linear trip is a great mix of wonderfully scenic walking and historic hilltop towns. The walks follow a mix of paths and trails, partly on the St Francis Way, partly on the 'Sentiero degli Ulivi', the Olive Grove Trail. Along the way, you explore the upper slopes of the 'bald mountain' Monte Subasio with stunning mountains vistas. You can discover the secluded hermitages of St Francis, pass the great Abbey at Sassovivo and wander the ruins of Campello Alto.

The walking is beautifully unhurried, retracing in part the trail St Francis took on his final visit to Assisi in 1226. It's a rural route brimming with rare flora and fauna, passing through olive groves dating back to Roman times. Stroll along pilgrimage trails through centuries-old forest and sacred woodland that has for years been tended and cared for by the Franciscan monks.

You stay in beautiful medieval towns: Assisi 'the town of St Francis' with its UNESCO-listed basilica; pretty Spello, which lies on the other side of Mount Subasio from Assisi; Trevi, standing on its hill overlooking the plains of Campello; Poreta, a tiny village with a restored hilltop castle and church, and finishing in Spoleto - the town of the amphitheatre and aqueduct.

The hotels we've chosen for this self guided trip are special too. From Renaissance-style palaces in Assisi and Trevi to a chic renovated farmhouse in Poreta. Food of the region is rustic, often called 'cucina povera'. The most typical pasta dish is Stongozzi, served with black truffles or a spicy tomato sauce, followed by simple grilled local meats and then a slice of pecorino cheese washed down with some superb wines. Sagrantino di Montefalco or red from Torgiano are just a sample. For a picnic lunch why not try the Umbrian staple, the porchetta sandwich - roast pig stuffed with herbs



We're here to help

If you have any questions about this holiday call our sales team on 0044 1606 720199, use our live webchat or email sales@headwater.com

Walking information

The paths you follow are generally waymarked and well maintained. As there are frequent ascents and descents, you need to be reasonably fit and confident. Walking boots are essential and walking poles are recommended (but only if you already use them).




We're here to help

If you've any questions about this holiday call our sales team on 0044 1606 720199 , or email sales@headwater.com

Day 1: Arrive in Assisi

Arrive at your hotel, where you'll stay for three nights.
You stay at the Hotel Fontebella Palace (breakfast included)

Day 2: Valfabbrica to Assisi 14km/9mi/4hr

A short transfer to pick up the Via San Francesco pilgrims' trail. Stroll through peaceful oak and pine woods and enjoy superb views as you approach the ancient town of Assisi. Call in at the San Croce chapel with its three-arched Ponte dei Galli, finishing off on a manicured trail through a 1,000-year-old forest to the majestic Basilica di San Francesco.
You stay at the Hotel Fontebella Palace (breakfast included)

Day 3: At Assisi

Visit the basilica with its magnificent C13 Giotto frescoes and the commanding hilltop castle. Amble up Via San Francesco to the beautiful Piazza del Comune to visit the well-preserved temple of Minerva.
You stay at the Hotel Fontebella Palace (breakfast included)

Day 4: Assisi to Spello 16km/10mi/5.5hr

Climb up Monte Subasio to the Hermitage of Asissi. Traversing a trail along the mountain you get unforgettable views of the Vale of Spoleto, before heading down into delightful Spello and your hotel for two nights.
You stay at the Albergo La Bastiglia (breakfast and evening meal)

Day 5: At Spello

Pink-stoned Spello is a well-preserved Roman town, with beautiful town walls, ruins of the old theatre and amphitheatre and thermal baths. Visit the church of Santa Maria Maggiore with its outstanding frescoes by Pinturicchio, the town's art gallery, annexed to the church, and the Palazzo Comunale Vecchio (Old Town Hall). Or perhaps take the train to Perugia the region's capital.
You stay at the Albergo La Bastiglia (breakfast and evening meal)

Day 6: Spello/Sassovivo to Trevi 16km/10mi/5hr

A short transfer this morning - Then follow the Sentiero degli Ulivi - the Olive Grove Trail - that connects Spoleto to Assisi. Spend time at the beautifully-restored cloistered Abbey of Santa Croce di Sassovivo and continue through woodland and olive groves to the hilltop village of Roviglieto - the highest settlement on the trail at 700m. Descend to Trevi for a picture-postcard view of this Roman gem on the slopes of Monte Serano. You'll stay here for two nights.
You stay at the Hotel Antica Dimora (breakfast included)

Day 7: At Trevi

Explore this old theatre town with remnants of the Mura Romana (Roman Wall) and Mura Medieval (Medieval Wall) still encircling the town. The Teatro Clitunno is still one of the town's most important gathering places. Visit the Olive Oil Museum, housed in an ex-convent, and stroll around the main square, home to the 14th century Palazzo Comunale.
You stay at the Hotel Antica Dimora (breakfast included)

Day 8: Trevi to Poreta 15km/9.5mi/4.5hr

On the shared Olive Trail and Francesco Way, amble along to the hillside church of Madonna di San Arcangelo. Pass the secretive Eremo Francescano (Convento Pissignano) and explore the ruins of 10th century Castello di Campello Alto. Then meander down to Poreta and your hotel for the next two nights, where dinner is included in the converted stables.
You stay at the Borgo della Marmotta (breakfast and evening meal included)

Day 9: At Poreta

Borgo della Marmotta is a perfect place to unwind for a day or two. Relax on a lounger by the pool with a good book, soak up the sun in the hotel gardens, or pamper yourself with one of the wellness sessions. Or follow small country roads down to the village of Campello sul Clitunno and visit the Roman Springs and temple of Clitunno.
You stay at the Borgo della Marmotta (breakfast and evening meal included)

Day 10: Poreta to Spoleto 15km/9.5mi/4.5hr

Pass through the typically Umbrian villages of Santa Maria Reggiano, Bazzano and Eggi. From Eggi, the St Francis Way leads you along back lanes to the bustling town of Spoleto. Or take the old Olive Trail high up onto the former railway line that used to run from Spoleto to Norcia. Cross the 60m-high Cortaccione Viaduct for a superb view back over your week's walking.
You stay at the Hotel Charleston (breakfast included)

Day 11: Leave Spoleto


Where you stay

During your holiday you stay at the following hotels. If you'd like to extend your time at any of these or, if you'd like to enhance your stay with an upgraded room, just let us know at the time of booking.

To find out more call our sales team on 0044 1606 720199, use our live webchat or email sales@headwater.com


Find out more on the hotel website.
Read customer reviews on Tripadvisor.

Hotel Fontebella Palace, Assisi

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Hotel Fontebella features a period, Renaissance style throughout the establishment and enjoys an exquisite view of a beautiful Umbrian valley. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout. Hot tubs and sauna available. You can choose different kinds of views, over the Umbrian Valley or over Assisi city centre.

Buffet breakfast is served in the Sala degli Archi, decorated with beautiful brick arches, perfectly preserved throughout the centuries. On site you will find Restaurant Il Frantoio, which is mentioned in the Michelin guide. It has over 300 wines in its cellar and specialises in truffle dishes and homemade pasta.


Room upgrades: Superior room with valley view.
Superior rooms offer more space and a view of the Umbrian Valley.

Extra nights: Please contact us for details.


Find out more on the hotel website.
Read customer reviews on Tripadvisor.

Albergo La Bastiglia Hotel, Spello

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The La Bastiglia Hotel boasts a beautiful setting at the foot of Mount Subasio, the enchanted mountain of Saint Francis. Originally an ancient mill the hotel has been lovingly restored and transformed into an unforgettable place to stay. There are 33 rooms divided into three categories, many overlooking the typical Umbrian landscape of cypress trees and olive groves. The restaurant serves a mix of ancient recipes and modern creations using the freshest ingredients. On display inside the hotel there is a collection of ceramics, antique furniture and important paintings from the private collection of Schifano and Norberto.


Room upgrades: Deluxe Room or Junior Suite
Deluxe rooms are larger with a balcony and bathroom with a bath. The Junior Suite includes a Jacuzzi in the bedroom and a panoramic terrace with solarium.

Extra nights: Please contact us for details.


Find out more on the hotel website.
Read customer reviews on Tripadvisor.

Hotel Antica Dimora , Trevi

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The Antica Dimora alla Rocca is housed in 4 different historic buildings which date back to 1650, built by an aristocrat for his eldest son. The buildings have been restored and renovated to a high standard. The decor keeps with the elegance and architecture of 17th century, the rooms feel grand and luxurious with frescoed ceilings and all have air con and minibar.

The hotel offers a large buffet breakfast which in good weather can be taken on the terrace. The hotel has a small pool and terrace where you can catch the late sun in the afternoon.


Room upgrades: Deluxe Room.


Find out more on the hotel website.
Read customer reviews on Tripadvisor.

Borgo della Marmotta, Poreta

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Borgo della Marmotta is not just a hotel. Borgo means 'town' in Italian and this wonderful location is more like a mini town than a hotel. In fact, the hotel has been built by restoring the buildings that were left unoccupied from a 17th century village. Located next to the tiny hamlet of Poreta, the restoration has breathed new life into the tiny village restoring the Granary, the Square, the stables, the mill and the great outdoor courts. To create a luxurious, relaxing retreat in the beautiful Umbrian countryside.

Today the hotel offers lovely airy rooms, a swimming pool, nice grounds and a terrace with wonderful views. The hotel's restaurant offers an a la carte menu showcasing regional cuisine.


Room upgrades: Superior Room or Suite.


Find out more on the hotel website.
Read customer reviews on Tripadvisor.

Hotel Charleston, Spoleto

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Completely renovated in 2011, Hotel Charleston is set in a 17th century building in Spoleto's historical centre, next to the Modern and Contemporary Arts Museum. Its elegant, individually-decorated rooms feature a modern design. Wi-Fi is free in all public areas. Rooms are individually decorated, and come with exposed wooden beams on the ceilings. Each is equipped with a minibar, and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. A buffet breakfast is available each morning, and is served out on the terrace in warm weather.


Room upgrades: Junior Suite.
Junior suites are spacious and elegant with seating area, parquet floors and exposed wood beams.

Extra nights: Please contact us for details.

Extending your stay

If you'd like to extend your trip with extra nights at the start or end, or if you'd like to arrange a stop off point en-route, then we recommend the following hotels.


Find out more on the hotel website.
Read customer reviews on Tripadvisor.

Hotel Astoria Garden, Rome

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The 3 star Hotel Astoria Garden has a most unusual feature: an internal garden complete with banana and orange trees! Centrally located near the main railway station, but in a quiet residential street, this is a really good base from which to explore. There are 34 rooms, all air-conditioned and recently refurbished. They have telephone, television, and ensuite bathrooms.

Travel

Call now to speak to our specialist team at 0044 1606 720199 or email us at sales@headwater.com for enquiries or to book your trip.

Reviews

Here at Headwater we thrive on feedback and pride ourselves on our excellent customer service. Below is a small selection of reviews we've received from our satisfied customers.


20/02/2024

This was my first booking with Headwater. Initially my experience of booking was quite negative as I was given incorrect and confusing information at the start being promised things the company could not honour. I was then passed onto another consultant without explanation who initially made things worse. Once passed onto the manager Stephanie Johnson, she was superb in sorting out all the issues and I felt very happing about booking the trip.


26/10/2023

Very helpful and knowledgeable lady assisting me. No pressure and responded as promised. So far so good.


Karen Bancroft, 28/05/2023

Efficient service, very helpful


Diane Hall, 26/05/2023

Excellent telephone response. Answered all questions in an informative and warm manor. We have changed our original holiday plans and this was easily rectified. The email response was prompt and precise making me feel confident that our holiday will be equally efficiently organised. I have not holidayed before with headwater but recall friends speaking highly of the service. All in all we are both looking forward to our cycling holiday in September knowing that we can relax and let headwater are organising things for us.

Dates and prices

You can be confident that our pricing includes all the standard requirements of your holiday and many additional extras. Always ensure that you are comparing like for like when booking your holiday.

This 10 night self-guided walking holiday includes:

Hotel-to-hotel accommodation in a mix of and hotels

All continental breakfasts and 4 evening meals

Headwater Wine Collection Service

Comprehensive route directions provided prior to departure

Standard transfers at the start/end of the trip (if booking inclusive flights)

Luggage transfers between hotels


How to book:

To book this holidays speak to our sales team on 0044 1606 720199 or click on the appropriate 'book now' or 'check availability' button below.

To book this holiday call our sales team on 0044 1606 720199 or click on the appropriate 'Book now' or 'check availability' button below.

Please call for prices

We do not currently have departure dates and prices available on-line. The season may have ended for this tour, or we are still in the process of adding these details to our website. Please contact us for further details.

Holiday details

Solo travellers
Please call for details and prices

Children
Please contact us for child prices.

Holiday type
Self-guided walking Managed locally by Headwater appointed agent.

Departures

Meals
All continental breakfasts and 4 evening meals

Tailor-made travel

Tour only
Transfers can be arranged at a supplement from Foligno train station at 17:15, and back to Spoleto train station at 10:30.

How to book

To book this holidays speak to our sales team on 0044 1606 720199 or click on the appropriate 'book now' button above.

If you need further information before you book simply complete our Holiday Enquiry Form and a member of our sales team will get back to you.

To book this holiday call our sales team on 0044 1606 720199 or click on the appropriate 'Book now' or 'Check availability' button below.

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