St Francis Way: Spoleto to Rieti

Spoleto Amphitheatre, Umbria, Italy

The rolling landscapes of Umbria are a feature of the St Francis Way camino route

Walking through old growth forest on the St Francis Way

Spoleto

Spoleto Amphitheatre, Umbria, Italy

The rolling landscapes of Umbria are a feature of the St Francis Way camino route

Walking through old growth forest on the St Francis Way

Spoleto

moderate

Activities

self guided walk

Accommodation

6 nights agriturismo/B&B's

Meals

6 Breakfasts

7 Days£780GBP

View Inclusions

Overview

Trip Code: SW4

Trip highlights

Following in the footsteps of pilgrims
Discovering the wild slopes of the Apennine mountains and picturesque Piediluco Lake
Visiting Medieval hilltop villages and towns each with their unique atmosphere
Staying in comfortable, welcoming and charming B&Bs and agriturismo

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.

Countries:

Italy

Starting Point:

Spoleto

Finishing Point:

Rieti

Itinerary

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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. 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

Meals: B

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

Meals: B

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

Meals: B

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

Meals: B

Day 7
Trip concludes

Your trip concludes after breakfast, or you can continue on the final stage to Rome.

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: Breakfasts are usually continental inclusive of breads, tea, coffee & juices.
6 nights in 3 star hotels, B&Bs or agriturismo on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
Digital information pack including smartphone app with maps and route book
Luggage transfer (max 1 piece, max weight 20kg and max size 60 x 50 x 40 cm per person). Supplement applies for excess
Private transfer from Santuario Santa Maria della Foresta to Rieti on day 6
Transfer to and from a local restaurant on Day 2 (meal not included)
Emergency hotline

What's not included

Travel to Spoleto and from Rieti
Meals not listed as included, drinks
Travel insurance - mandatory
Guide – this is a self-guided walking holiday
A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
Transfers not listed as included
Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage
Entrance fees (museums, galleries etc)
Excess luggage
Hotel tax - allow EUR5-10 total pp, payable directly to the hotel
Items of a personal nature

Suitability

moderate

MODERATE – GRADE 3 This is a moderate grade walk 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.

Departure dates

Daily from 1 Apr to 31 Oct

Notes

High Season

DN1

High season is from 12 Jun to 17 Sep. Supplement applies to high season departures.

Priceper person from

£780GBP

Options & Supplements*

Discount for triple share rooms (pp)GBP£-69
Single supplementGBP£160
Solo traveller supplementGBP£430

*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews

Why travel with us

Personal Experience

We've been walking and cycling the planet for over four decades and are passionate about delivering exceptional service. Combined, we’ve travelled to virtually every corner of Europe, and are eager to share the many benefits of travelling on foot or by bike.

Great Value & Quality

Our well priced trips offer great value for money. Included in your package are comprehensive route notes, maps & guide books along with bag transfers and locally run accommodation. We take the stress out of organising your holiday.

Self-Guided Specialists

We have been operating active self guided holidays since 1973. We handle all the necessary logistics so that you can relax and explore your destination at your own pace. Many of our tours depart daily, giving you even greater flexibility.