Make your own way to the first hotel in Florence. Once you have checked in you are at leisure to explore this beautiful city and breathe the Renaissance air. There is much to see and do including the Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, the statue of David, the San Lorenzo Market and Piazzale Michelangelo for a panoramic view at sunset! It is also home to the world’s largest Franciscan church, the Basilica di Santa Croce, which marks the starting point of the St Francis Way. If you'd like to spend some time in Florence before your walk (highly recommended) we can assist with pre-tour accommodation - please ask for our rates.

Meals:  Nil

After a short transfer to Pontassieve you will start walking towards La Consuma pass. It's quite a long walk which runs from the bottom of the valley to the top of the mountains at the pass, with great views over the Sieve valley, mostly in the shade of the forest. Along the way you'll pass by Ferrano castle, built from local stone and dating from the early 19th century. At the end of the walk a short transfer (call to arrange prior) will take you from Consuma to your accommodation in the hamlet of Caiano. Dinner is included this evening. The region offers a rich assortment of IGP, DOP and Slow Food designated local products including chestnut flour, wine, olive oil, cured meats, soft and hard cheeses. Walking: 17.5km/10.9mi, +1000m/3280ft, -300m/984ft

Meals:  B,D

A morning transfer will take you back to Consuma to continue your walk. From the pass you descend easily to the base of Casentino valley. Most of today's itinerary runs inside the woods, with an optional detour to the village of Castel Castagnaio. You also have the option of an alternative route with great panoramic views over the Casentino valley,. Today's destination is the beautiful hamlet of Stia. Situated at the foot of Mt Falterona and at the confluence of the Arno river (near its source) with the Staggia torrent, Stia has been an important centre for the manufacture of wrought iron since the 12th century. We recommend trying the traditional local dish of potato tortello, made here and elsewhere in the Casentino region. Walking: 14.7km/9.5mi, +475m/1558ft, -1070m/3510ft

Meals:  B

Today is a quite demanding walk in terms of difference of altitude. Starting from the bottom of the valley, you'll reach the top of the Apennines before descending to Camaldoli monastery. Walking through the Casentino's rural landscape, you'll reach the fascinating Eremo di Camaldoli (hermitage), dating from the XI century - a must stop! Overnight in Camaldoli. Walking: 16km/10mi, +1098m/3600ft, -800m/2625ft

Meals:  B

Today is a relatively short but demanding walk, again for the difference in altitude, from the monastery of Camaldoli to the top of mountain edge and down to the village of Badia Prataglia. The path is mostly through forests. There is an alternative route you can follow which is approx 6km/3.75mi longer but more interesting in terms of landscape, with spectacular views of the southern Casentino valley, its villages and the surrounding mountains. Walking: 8km/5mi, +550m/1804ft, -550m/1804ft or 13.5km/8.4mi, +800/2625ft, -800/2625ft.

Meals:  B

Today’s walk leads through the forests to the hamlet of Frassineta, from where you can enjoy panoramic views of Vallesanta, La Verna mountain and the Apennine ridge. Overnight rifugio with shared facilities, surrounded by oak and beech woods on the slopes of Mount Penna. Walking: 10km/6.25mi, +500m/1640ft, -700m/2296ft or 14.5km/9mi, +900m/2953ft, -900m/2953ft

Meals:  B,D

Today's destination is Chiusi della Verna. Head for the hotel and check in. If you arrive early enough, you can visit La Verna Franciscan Sanctuary in the afternoon. The Sanctuary is open daily year round from 6:30am to 7:30pm (and 10:00pm in summer). NOTE: To enter the Sanctuary, you need to cover your chest and arms and wear trousers / knee-length skirt (ie wear sleeves, no shorts). Walking: 9km/5.6mi, +790m/2590ft, -570m/1807ft

Meals:  B,L,D

Today's walk takes you along the edge of the Catenaia “Alps” between the Arno and Tiber valleys. Throughout the day you'll enjoy the many panoramic points overlooking the Casentino and Valtiberina valley. Overnight in a cosy hotel well located in the village of Caprese Michelangelo in the high Tiber Valley. The town is the birthplace of Renaissance artist Michelangelo and the Michelangelo museum is worth a visit. Distance 13km/8mi, Ascent +456m/1496ft, Descent -820m/2690ft

Meals:  B

Today is the longest stage of the trip and we suggest setting off early. After the sights at the 13th-century church of St John the Baptist, where Michelangelo was baptised, walk on paths and dirt roads along the Valtiberina valley enjoying breath-taking views. You walk through the countryside surrounding Anghiari and cross castle topped hills, ancient parish churches and medieval villages and hamlets. The landscape is beautiful and the vast views are amazing; looking west is the imposing Alpe di Poti mountain chain, to the north the Alpe di Catenaia, to the south the flat plain of the Tiber river and east are the Alpe della Luna. On arrival in Anghiari you can explore this amazing medieval hamlet and we recommend having a drink in “Giardini del Vicario” at Piazza del Popolo, a lovely cafè-wine bar with a wonderful view over the valley. Own dinner arrangements. Distance: 20km/12.5mi, +672m/2204ft, -907m/2975ft An extra night can be added here - must be requested at the time of booking. Please ask for our rates.

Meals:  B

A short morning transfer will take you to Sansepolcro then today’s walk is along the valley, following the course of the Tiber River between the two most important towns of Valtiberina (the Upper Tiber valley). Leaving the centre of Sansepolcro you can immerse yourself in the rich countryside walking among corn, wheat and tobacco fields, pastures and country houses. Named one of Italy's prettiest villages, medieval Citerna has typical lanes, stone buildings, encircling walls, and city gates. Once part of the territory of the Etruscans, evidence of a Roman presence can also be found. Distance 16km/10mi, Ascent +322m/1056ft, Descent -170m/558ft

Meals:  B,D

Following the Tiber river, the route crosses one of most cultivated valleys in Italy (Valtiberina), where the most important crop is tobacco used for the production of Tuscan cigars. Today’s walk is at times completely flat and runs along country roads or paths parallel to the river; fields and pastures alternate with preserved bank vegetation with by poplars and willows. In this area it is easy to see many birds of prey or water birds such as Kestrel, Montagu’s Harrier, Grey Heron, Little Egret, Night-Heron and Moorhen. Overnight in the historic town of Città di Castello, Umbria’s northern-most town and the largest town in the Tiber valley. Its many artistic treasures will surprise you, including the Palazzo del Podestà overlooking other palazzi on Piazza Matteotti and the Cathedral of San Florido. Don't miss the views from the top of the Civic Tower and perhaps dine on white truffles, a prized local delicacy, and perhaps a glass of Montefalco Sagrantino amidst monuments dating from Roman times. Distance 16 or 20km/10 or 12.5mi, Ascent +705m, Descent -903m

Meals:  B

After a short transfer* you walk through a shady wooded area to Pietralunga, a rural village at 566m altitude. The old town, with its steep narrow streets, the church of Madonna dei Rimedi and Pieve di Urbino are worth a visit. *You can be dropped off at two different spots and thus choose between a short or longer walk today. Distance 15km/9.3mi, Ascent +614m, Descent -655m

Meals:  B,D

From Pietralunga the trail leads you through a scenic landscape passing the monasteries of San Pietro and San Benedetto. The abbey of San Benedetto, dating from the XII century, was once an important reference point for pilgrims. The final stretch from Ponte San Giorgio to Gubbio is by taxi. Gubbio is worth an extensive visit - it is a beautifully preserved medieval town, with impressive buildings and churches. Be sure to learn of St Francis' time here, making a deal with a wolf which had terrorised the town and converting many people as a result. The wolf's remains are said to be in the Church of St Francis "della Pace" just outside town. Distance 18km/11mi, Ascent +547m, Descent -712m Time permitting, Gubbio is worth an extended visit - it is a beautifully preserved medieval town, with impressive buildings and churches. Be sure to learn of St Francis' time here, making a deal with a wolf which had terrorised the town and converting many people as a result. The wolf's remains are said to be in the Church of St Francis of the Peace just outside the town. Many traditional festivities are still honoured in Gubbio today. You can add an extra night here if you wish - please ask for our rates (must be added at time of booking.)

Meals:  B

Today is a long walk, so after breakfast, catch the bus to the start of the walk. You will walk along the hills which separate Gubbio from Valfabbrica. It is possible to shorten the walk by taking a transfer (of about 2km). The trail offers breathtaking views to Mt Sibillini, and as you walk you will appreciate why St Francis so loved the Umbrian countryside. Continue through a beautiful valley on the “Sentiero Francescano” to Valfabbrica, a quiet town which was an important fortress in the Middle Ages. The towers and part of the walls are well preserved. Dinner is included tonight. Distance 23km/14mi, Ascent +336m/1102ft, Descent -336m/1102ft

Meals:  B,D

This morning you can enjoy breakfast at one of the local bars (not included, own expense) before setting off. It's another day of delightful countryside along Umbrian hills. Assisi appears during the middle of the walk from a wonderful panoramic viewpoint over the edge of the hills. At the end of the hills you can enjoy the surrounding landscape with woods, fields, country houses and parish churches, all overlooked by the dramatic Apennine peaks above. It's a shorter walking day so you'll have time to explore hilltop Assisi, birthplace of St Francis and spiritual home of the Franciscan religious order. There are many points of interest to discover including outstanding churches, palaces, artwork and ancient buildings: the Basilica of St Francis and crypt, the Church of Santa Chiara, the Cathedral of San Rufino and the Minerva Temple built in Roman times. Then take time out in a small piazza to absorb the atmosphere of this charming town. Distance 13km/8mi Ascent +578m/1896ft Descent -498m/1634ft An extra night can be added here - please ask for our rates (must be requested at time of booking).

Meals:  Nil

A challenging but spectacular walk today from the steps of the cathedral in Assisi to the enchanting town of Spello. A trail leads you up the slopes of Monte Subasio to the astonishing hermitage called “Eremo delle Carceri”. If you prefer, you can take a taxi to avoid a good part of the climb here (own expense). This magnificent monastery was one of the places where Francis regularly retreated for prayer. The trail continues through an oak forest to the 9th century abbey of San Benedetto. A long descent takes you to the medieval walled town of Spello. Distance: approx 16km/9.9mi Ascent 835m/2740ft Descent 1005m/3297ft or shorten with a taxi to 12km/7.5mi: +215m/705ft -354m/1161ft

Meals:  B

Before setting out today, take some time to visit the beautiful, pink stoned medieval town of Spello. Today, a leisurely walk through olive groves and vineyards takes you to the vibrant town of Foligno from where you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. If you prefer a longer morning hike, you can choose a lovely circular route that takes you through Collepino village then onto Foligno where you stay overnight. Distance: approx 7km/4.4mi Ascent 70m/230ft Descent 120m/394ft or 21km/13mi: + - 546m/1790ft

Meals:  B

A short transfer by car takes you to Uppello, where today's walk begins. After a steep climb you pass the 11th century Rocca di Scandolaro castle. Continue along oak forests and olive groves to Trevi, another remarkable town well worth visiting. Walking along a medieval aqueduct you finally reach Bovara di Trevi, where you spend the night in an agriturismo with swimming pool. Distance 14km/8.7mi: +593m/1945ft -580m/1903ft

Meals:  B

From Bovara di Trevi to Campello Alto you follow the official “Via Francescana”, the original path walked by St Francis, with beautiful views of the valley of Spoleto. On your way you can see the majestic high walls of the convent of Pissignano and the convent Padri Barnabiti in Campello, where the meditative atmosphere will lift your spirits. After passing Lenano, you reach the tiny medieval village of Poreta, where you stay tonight. Poreta is dominated by its castle, which is a short walk from the village. Distance 12km/7.5mi: +461m/1412ft -541m/1775ft

Meals:  B

Today’s walk will start on a narrow trail that leads you to the hamlet of Santa Maria di Reggiano. The old monastery contains beautiful 12th and 14th century frescoes. Pass by the hamlet of Eggi and, following the old dismantled railway line, you reach Spoleto. Alternatively you can make a detour for a longer but spectacular entry into the city, passing high above the Tessino stream on the medieval aqueduct that bridges the valley. From here enjoy superb views of the city and its surroundings. Distance 13km/8mi:+448m/1470ft -454m/1489ft

Meals:  B

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. 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

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

Meals:  B

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

Meals:  B

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

Meals:  B

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. Distance 12km/7.5mi, Ascent +395m/1296ft, Descent -594m/1949ft

Meals:  B

A bus this morning takes you to Maglianello Basso, the starting point of today's walk. Set off on foot among rows of linden trees, fields and streams along the ancient Via Salaria, which used to connect Rome to the Adriatic Sea. On your way there is a Roman bridge dating from the 4th century BC. Your destination is the pretty village of Poggio San Lorenzo. Overnight agriturismo. Dinner is available a la carte and will need to be paid for locally (not included in the price) Distance: 18km/11.25mi, +459m/1506ft -360m/1050ft.

Meals:  B

Today you will walk from Poggio San Lorenzo to Poggio Moiano. Along the way you can see traces of the rich historical past of the region, including a Roman amphitheatre and the Sanctuary of Santa Vittoria. Your destination for today is the ancient hamlet of Poggio Moiano. Overnight agriturismo with dinner. Distance: 10km/6.2mi, +- 470m/1542ft

Meals:  B,D

The walk takes you along secondary roads and dirt paths, among olive groves and oak forests, to the town of Nerola. Guarded by an imposing 10th century castle, Nerola was an outpost of the Papal State in the 1860s because the valley below the town was part of the Kingdom of Italy. In 1867 Garibaldi's failed attempt to conquer Rome began with the seizure of Nerola. Overnight agriturismo with dinner. Distance: 14km/8.7mi, +431m/1414ft, -515m/1690ft

Meals:  B,D

Another great panoramic stage, taking you from Nerola to Palombara Sabina, with impressive views to the hills of Sabina. A little detour takes you to the village of Moricone, with another interesting castle that was built for defensive purposes. Own dinner arrangements this evening. Distance: 22km/13.75mi, +775m/2543ft, -845m/2772ft

Meals:  B

Today you'll be immersed in the rich nature of the Sabina area. At the end of your walk you have a special treat, Monterotondo, a city with an important historical heritage. Located on a hill, it dominates the river Tevere valley and is surrounded by vineyards that produce great wines. Distance: 18km/11.25mi, +375m/1230ft, -578m/1896ft

Meals:  B

A shorter walk on an asphalt road will take you from Monterotondo to Cesarina. From here you can take a bus to the subway station that takes you to the Eternal City of Rome, the destination of thousands of pilgrims throughout the centuries. Distance: 12.5km/7.8mi, +251m/823ft, -317m/1040ft

Meals:  B

The trip concludes after breakfast. There’s much to see and do in Rome, if you’d like to add any extra nights please ask for our rates.

Meals:  B