The historic path continues from Spoleto to Rieti, through the magnificent countryside of forests, fields, vineyards and olive groves with always a hilltop medieval town in sight. The villages on the way have maintained their own identity and you could easily believe you have travelled back in time.
This part of Italy – Umbria – is famous worldwide for its heavenly cuisine. The Via Francescana trail is mostly along the so-called Strade Bianche, gravel roads that meander 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.
Price Includes
Price Excludes
Single Supplement
£415
Apart from amazing natural and religious places along the “Franciscan path” you visit towns and villages of great history and culture, plus lots of opportunities to enjoy the many traditional recipes from the local cuisine.
Food lovers will enjoy all the traditional flavours of the Umbrian kitchen. Local dishes 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.
Arrive in Spoleto and check in at the hotel. Take a wander to the Roman theatre, and find enchantment at the San Salvatore Basilica. You can mark the beginning of your journey with a fine dinner – the local gourmet pride is the black truffle, which you can enjoy sprinkled on a bruschetta, or a simple fresh omelette.
Today’s walk has a fairly challenging climb, but it is definitely worth it: you walk on well-beaten paths along an extremely panoramic itinerary, passing an ancient water mill and the Franciscan Convent of Monteluco, immersed in the shady Umbrian woods.
Today you walk 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. A really beautiful itinerary, accompanied by the view of the mountain peaks surrounding the cultivated fields like a crown.
Today’s walk holds several surprises of rare beauty: from the typical hamlets of the Valnerina Valley to the Marmore waterfall, among the highest in Europe and immersed in a lovely natural park. And finally, the Pediluco Lake, 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 in the North of Lazio, towards your final destination: along your way you find the village of Cantalice, developing 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 before heading to Rieti via transfer. The short transfer from Santuario Santa Maria Della Foresta to your accommodation in Rieti is included.
Our services end after breakfast, unless you have booked another service with us.
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.
