800 years ago, St Francis of Assisi decided to embrace poverty, living an itinerant life close to nature and animals, to bring joy into people’s lives. Through the magnificent countryside of forests, fields, vineyards and olive groves, often with a medieval hilltop town in sight. The villages on the way have maintained their own identity, and you can easily believe you have travelled back in time.
The region of Umbria is famous worldwide for its heavenly cuisine. The trail is mainly along the Strade Bianche, a white gravel road meandering through the hills. You walk forest paths and follow cart tracks through fields. Some tarmac roads around the villages and towns are unavoidable. Sections of the route pass through hilly terrain, so be prepared to climb an occasional height – rewarded by waterfalls and incredible views.
(Still undecided as to which Camino route is right for you? Browse our full selection of Camino Walking Trips.)
Price Includes
Price
Single Supplement
£330
Arrive in Spoleto and check into your hotel. Wander to the Roman theatre and find enchantment at the San Salvatore Basilica. Mark the beginning of your journey with a fine dinner. The local gourmet pride is the black truffle, which you can enjoy sprinkled on bruschetta or a simple fresh omelette.
Today’s walk starts with a somewhat challenging climb. Views reward you when roaming this well-trodden and panoramic path, past an ancient water mill and the Franciscan Convent of Monteluco, to be immersed in the timelesss Umbrian woods.
You walk along the Nera river through enchanting hamlets such as Ferentillo (famous for its mummies) and on to Arrone, surrounded by ancient stone walls and surmounted by an imposing castle. This is a stunning route, with views of the mountain peaks surrounding the cultivated fields like a crown.
The typical hamlets of the Valnerina Valley, which you pass through on today’s walk, are of rare beauty. You’re immersed in a lovely natural park, with the Marmore waterfall, one of the highest in Europe, and the Pediluco Lake, which has long been a source of awe and inspiration for artists and poets.
Another great panoramic walk though woods and 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 Appennine Mountains.
Your final walk takes you north of Lazio, towards your final destination. Along the way, you pass the village of Cantalice clinging to the hillside, then immerse yourself in the peaceful woods of Sanctuary Della Foresta, where you can admire its beautiful frescoes before the transfer to Rieti. A short taxi transfer from Santuario Santa Maria Della Foresta to your accommodation in Rieti is included in your trip.
Our services end after breakfast unless you have booked another trip or airport transfers with us.
Apart from the fantastic natural surroundings and religious places along the “Franciscan path,” you can also visit towns and villages of great history and culture, plus many opportunities to enjoy traditional recipes from the local cuisine.
Food lovers will enjoy all the traditional flavours of the Umbrian kitchen. Local dishes are based on simple ingredients like extra virgin olive oil and grains, fresh pasta topped with meat sauces, and the Umbrian classic tortiglione, sweet sugared almond pastries twisted into snake-like shapes. You’ll find many traditional recipes handed down through the generations and more modern interpretations of classic Umbrian cuisine.
Hotel Charleston – Spoleto
Located in the historical centre, this hotel has newly refurbished rooms with wooden beam ceiling. Free Wi-Fi, minibar, satellite TV.
Casa Vacanze Il Ruscello – Ceselli
This lodging is an ideal choice for lovers of tranquillity. Surrounded by a vast garden with a pool, Il Ruscello offers both rooms and apartments: they all are simply decorated but spacious. The restaurant offers a varied menu, with homebaked desserts.
Casa Vacanze La Loggia sul Nera – Arrone
The lodging is right in the medieval heart of town. It features a mixture of small apartments and rooms, all set in a historical 19th Century building with views over the Nerina valley. Common spaces and decorated with the original period furniture. Bedrooms are comfortable and fresh with a retrò flavour.
Hotel Ristorante Miralago – Piediluco
This modern looking hotel faces Piediluco Lake. Apart from a magnificent view, you will enjoy its simple, functional and clean rooms. The hotel features a swimming pool, terrace, tv room. Big breakfast and friendly staff.
B&B San Francesco – Poggio Bustone
Located right in the town centre, this small lodging has a cosy, family atmosphere. The interior has been refurbished recently but the building still preserves a pleasant, rustic feel. Great breakfasts are served here – and the owner has a wine shop just around the corner. Very handy!
Hotel Cavour – Rieti
A four-star hotel with a view on Rieti town centre and River Velino. Rooms are spacious and decorated with modern and colourful motifs. It has satellite TV, Wi-Fi & gym.
