Cycle the Full Via Francigena - Aosta to Rome

Make your own way to Aosta, a Roman valley town surrounded by the Alps. Here you can contemplate the history of the region in the silence of the cloisters of Sant'Orso, or visit the impressive Roman theatre. We recommend taking an afternoon stroll through the alleyways of the town centre, admiring the high mountain peaks visible over the house roofs.

This morning a transfer will take you to the jagged peaks of the St Bernard Pass, the gateway to the Via Francigena. It was here that Saint Bernard built the first pilgrims' hospice and is where your descent back to Aosta starts. Today's ride is an exhilarating downhill cycle, taking you along a panoramic route with breathtaking views. You will cycle through orchards and woods, and through enchanting villages such as Saint-Rhémy-en-Bosses and Etroubles. Ascent: 103m/338ft, descent: 1270m/4167ft Trail: surf/unsurf% 97/3 Note: For early season departures the Pass will likely not be open (usually opens from late June) and the location of your transfer will be dependent on road conditions. This will also affect the day's cycle distance.

Today you continue cycling across the Aosta valley, following a cycle path that runs along the river Dora. En route you will pass castles and vineyards including the enchanting Saint Germain castle, with its imposing tower which once served as a defence tower for the De Mongioveto family who dominated the valley. From here you continue cycling to Verres, enjoying breathtaking views on the way. Verres is a small town and is home to an impressive hilltop manor and a rock fortress that was built around 1390 by Ibleto di Challant. Ascent: 230m/755ft, descent: 450m/1476ft Trail: surf/unsurf% 93/7

Today you enter the region of Piedmont and the alpine scenery will give way to gentle hills. As you make your way towards Roppolo the ascents will become less and less challenging. The cycle route alternates through forest trails and typical towns such as Ivrea, with its quaint old town centre and the tall tower of Santo Stefano. As you continue you will notice the imposing Serra Moraine of Ivrea, the largest geological formation of this kind in Europe, before arriving into the village of Roppolo. Here a cozy, family-run bed and breakfast awaits you. You can visit the castle of Roppolo, the perfect place to admire a panoramic view of the village. Note at times we use accommodation in nearby Viverone. Ascent: 370m/1214ft, descent: 480m/1575ft Trail: surf/unsurf% 85/15

The route today will take you past rice fields. If you are travelling during April or May the fields are flooded, which creates an interesting landscape. The cycling is easy and enjoyable. You will detour from the Via Francigena to visit the Bosca della Participanza (the Wood of Community), whose name originates from the fact that the locals of this area take care of the wood together. If you appreciate local dishes, be sure to sample the traditional peasant dish known as Panissa. Today's destination, Vercelli, is one the oldest urban sites in northern Italy - historians believe it was founded around the year 600BC. Ascent: 35m/115ft, descent: 205m/672ft Trail: surf/unsurf% 63/37

Today you will cross the fertile plains of the Po river valley, leaving behind Vercelli, the vast rice fields and the Piedmont region. As you reach the Ticino river you will enter the Lombardy region, and the town of Vigevano. During the Renaissance period Ludovico Sforza, the Duke of Milan, ruled this land and it's said he commissioned Leonardo da Vinci to design Vigevano's beautiful central square. This afternoon you can mingle with the locals as you soak in the splendour at one of the outdoor terraces on this famed square. The ride today is flat and relaxing, giving you ample time to explore this picturesque town. Ascent: 40m/131ft, descent: 62m/203ft Trail: surf/unsurf% 61/39

Today you will follow the Ticino river, one of the most important rivers in Italy, enjoying the beauty of the green and wild nature of the river bank. If the weather is good you may even wish to sunbathe on the beaches or meadows near the river. If you're lucky you may also see squirrels running through the trees. Later you will leave the river to visit the Certosa di Pavia, a beautiful monastic complex built in the 14th century. Continue to Pavia, one of the pearls of the Via Francigena. We recommend ending your day with a visit to its delightful historical centre, where you can enjoy an aperitivo in Piazza della Vittoria. Ascent: 53m/174ft, descent: 45m/148ft Trail: surf/unsurf% 61/39

Today you will travel through the flood plains of the basso Pavese, with its typical flood terraces. Cycle along the Po river until you arrive in Piacenza, where you enter the Emilia Romagna region. This land is famous for its hospitality, fabulous food and wine. Here you can taste the renowned charcuterie and wash it down with a glass of Gutturnio wine. Be sure to pass through the Porta del Paradiso to discover the Romanesque interiors of the Basilica. Ascent: 116m/380ft, descent: 119m/390ft Trail: surf/unsurf% 70/30

The route towards Parma, whilst long, is quiet and flat. Along the way we suggest visiting the Cistercian abbey of Chiaravalle della Colomba, where you can admire the carved wooden interiors of the church or stand in thought for a few minutes in the silence of the cloisters. The cycle continues among the Parma hills until you arrive at today's destination, Parma. A foodie delight, Parma boasts the largest number of PDO and PGI gastronomic products, and is the perfect place to indulge in the many local delicacies. Ascent: 62m/203ft, descent: 311m/1020ft Trail: surf/unsurf% 91/9 You can add an extra night in Parma (extra cost) to rest and explore the city - must be requested at time of booking.

The cycle today is quite demanding, but is also rich in beauty. Along the way you will pass the villages of Bardone and Terenzo, with their ancient churches. From here an ascent leads to Cassio, where a brief descent tricks you into believing that you have reached your final destination. With one last ascent you reach Berceto, a little “stone jewel”, where you can restore yourself with local mushrooms and pattona, a typical cake made from chestnut flour. Ascent: 1068m/3504ft, descent: 322m/1056ft Trail: surf/unsurf% 98/2

Today you will make your way into Tuscany, and the surprises along the way make your efforts worthwhile. An exciting descent from the Cisa Pass brings you to Pontremoli, known as the town of bridges and for its mysterious Stele Statues. Here you can enjoy a relaxing walk through the alleyways of the old town centre. Continue to Aulla, where you can set your bike down for the day and visit the Abbey of San Caprasio, which contains archaeological finds from the medieval period. Don't miss a walk along the ancient walls of the Fortezza della Brunella before making your way through the old town centre. If you're hungry, there is nothing better than the tasty local focaccia, best enjoyed while still warm and accompanied by charcuterie and cheeses. Ascent: 370m/1214ft, descent: 1115m/3658ft Trail: surf/unsurf% 98/2

Leaving Aulla you will cycle along demanding but gratifying paths. Today you will catch your first glimpse of the sea, as you cycle through the countryside and charming medieval villages. Arriving in Sarzana you will be amazed by the Baroque interior of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and can admire the Gothic facade of the Pieve di Sant’Andrea, the oldest building in the town. The route continues along flat paths which follow in the footsteps of the ancient pilgrims who walked from the Roman port of Luni to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. The day ends in the town of Massa, located just a few kilometres from the sea of Verisilia. Here you can visit the 15th century Malaspina Castle and admire the views over the town. Ascent: 716m/2359ft, descent: 770m/2526ft Trail: surf/unsurf% 97/3

Today you will follow a lovely coastal cycle path, which leads you from Marina di Massa towards Pietrasanta. Before browsing the art galleries and shops of Pietrasanta we recommend a visit of the town’s Duomo and a walk amongst its marble columns and frescoed vaults. From Camaiore you continue up and over the Tuscan hills surrounding Lucca. Enter Lucca through its city walls, and in the afternoon you can immerse yourself in the old town centre, browsing the little shops of the circular piazza where you can buy spelt and locally-made biscuits. You can also conquer the Guinigi Tower and admire the town from up high in its hanging garden. Ascent: 380m/1247ft, descent: 356m/1168ft Trail: surf/unsurf% 93/7

An easy and flat cycle today will lead you from the walls of Lucca to the old town centre of Altopascio. On the way you will pass through the Badia di Pozzeveri, where ancient pilgrims once stopped to rest and pray. Don't miss your chance to sample the local bread here - it's a real delicacy! The route leads you across the wild land of the Cerbaie, before you cross the river Arno and continue to San Miniato. Here the Seminary which gives its name to the main square will amaze you with its distinctive frescoed facade. San Miniato is a hidden gem of Tuscany and a stroll through town is highly recommended. Tonight you can marvel at the Seminary while perhaps eating a risotto dusted with white truffle, the pride of the local area. Ascent: 228m/748ft, descent: 122m/368ft Trail: surf/unsurf% 87/13

A demanding but unique section awaits you today. From San Miniato you descend to the bottom of Val d’Elsa and then later ascend towards Gambassi Terme, where you will be able to cross the threshold of the Pieve di Chianni, where the Arcibishop Sigeric slept on his way to Rome. Continuing your journey, pedal across splendid natural scenery to San Gimignano, one of the best known and most beautiful towns along the Via Francigena. As you head towards San Gimignano, its unmistakable famous towers will come into view. You can admire the view of the medieval town and its surrounding valleys from the top of Torre Grossa, and if you have energy to spare you can venture up the steps of the Rocca di Montestaffoli and enjoy more spectacular views. Ascent: 640m/2100ft, descent: 476m/1562ft Trail: surf/unsurf% 98/2

From San Gimignano you continue, up and down, through the Tuscan hills to Colle Val d’Elsa, a timeless Tuscan village with a charming old town centre and narrow alleyways winding through its stone walls. The route continues through one of the most beautiful sections of the Via Francigena: a meditative route where you'll find yourself immersed in the silence of the Pieve di Strove, with its Romanesque interiors. You can also stand in the peace and quiet of the splendid Abbadia at Isola and its imposing Abbey. Along the way don't miss a chance to stroll along the wall of the breath-taking castle of Monteriggioni, which once defended the Republic of Siena. Later you will arrive in Siena, cycling on dirt roads and via the ancient medieval hamlet of Cerbaia en route. If you want to celebrate your arrival in Siena, try a plate of pici all’aglione in the illuminated Piazza del Campo. And don’t forget to sample the panforte! Ascent: 505m/1657ft, descent: 470m/1542ft Trail: surf/unsurf% 62/38

The cycle today over the Crests of the Val d’Arbia offers unforgettable views. Start the day riding along the typical dirt roads of Siena, pedaling as far as the fortified village of Lucignano, with its fine church. At the gates of Monteroni d’Arbia you can admire the impressive Grancia di Cuna, a fortified farm which held the reserves of wheat for the Republic of Siena. From Lucignano continue through the Valle dell’Ombrone to the well preserved 14th century village of Buonconvento, the most important centre in the Val d'Arbia. Cross the gate of the walls and enter its fine town centre, discovering why its name translates to “happy fortunate place”, before getting back on your bike and cycling to San Quirico over a mix of dirt and asphalted roads. The final section includes beautiful views of the Val D’Orcia, and the route is scattered with vineyards and cypress trees. Arriving in San Quirico you will be enchanted by the gate of the Collegiata. This evening you can enjoy a rest among the hedges of the Horti Leonini, a 16th century classic Italian garden. Ascent: 650m/2132ft, descent: 490m/1608ft Trail: surf/unsurf% 55/45

Today your journey continues with fabulous views of the Val D’Orcia. Just beyond San Quirico you will enter a timeless world, visiting Vignoni Alto. You can also enjoy a reinvigorating dip in the thermal waters of Bagno Vignoni. Test your strength with a short but demanding section to Radicofani. Stick it out, because the views from the Radicofani Fortress will reward your efforts. You can also visit the Pieve di San Pietro, a little jewel dating from the 13th century, and take an evening walk in the old town centre, admiring the magic of the illuminated Fortress. *dependent on availability tonight is either at an agriturismo out of town or in an apartment in town. Ascent: 650m/2132ft, descent: 455m/1493ft Trail: surf/unsurf% 89/11

From Radicofani you will head towards one of the most exciting sections of the Via Francigena, leaving the Fortress behind you and travelling along the old Via Cassia, surrounded by scenery of infinite hills dominated by Monte Amiata. You can visit the Romanesque crypt beneath the Basilica del Santo Sepolcro, walking among decorated capitals and arches where, according to tradition/legend, some stones bathed in the blood of Christ have been kept. Your journey continues gently as Lake Bolsena comes into view. From here you descend into a volcanic crater and continue along dirt tracks. The landscape alternates between thick woods and meadows scattered with olive trees, as you head towards Bolsena. If you are curious to see proof of the miracle of the Corpus Domini, for which Bolsena is famous, visit the Cappella del Miracolo, where marble slabs stained by the blood pouring from a Host in the 13th century are kept. Or if you are more interested in the typical cuisine, try some local delicacies including Sbroscia, a typical soup made from lake fish and tomatoes. Ascent: 620m/2034ft, descent: 610m/2000ft Trail: surf/unsurf% 70/30

Today you will cycle through woods and olive groves, on a route that will offer constant views of the lake. Cross an area famous for the production of extra virgin olive oil, which we recommend sampling on a piece of fragrant local bread. Arrive in Montefiascone, where the climb up to the Rocca is not to be missed for panoramic views. On descent from the Rocca, you can go into a typical wine bar and taste a glass of wine from the famous Est!Est!!Est!!! region of Montefiascone. If you want to spoil yourself a little more, enjoy a pleasant break at the spas of Bagnaccio and recharge your batteries in its thermal waters, before cycling towards Viterbo, your destination for today. In honour of the history of the Via Francigena, do not miss visiting the picturesque pilgrims' quarter, before admiring the splendid Palazzo dei Papi and enjoying the silence of the Longobard cloisters of Santa Maria Nuova. End the day on a sweet note by celebrating your journey with the delicious local frittellacce. Ascent: 545m/1788ft, descent: 420m/1378ft Trail: surf/unsurf% 53/47

From Viterbo the journey continues towards Vetralla. This is Etrurian territory, stomping ground of the ancient Etruscans, who left their mark in tomb cities throughout the region. Just outside Vetralla there are some fascinating necropoli. Continue pedaling through the Lazio countryside before arriving in Sutri, a small town rich in attractions. The Roman amphitheatre, dug from the tufa, is not to be missed. Here you can sit on the terraces or even walk onto the stage. As you leave the amphitheatre remember to sign the visitors’ register as it is very important to the custodian, and if he is there he will invite you to do so. Afterwards you can proceed to the church of Santa Maria del Partro, where the tufa walls are decorated with beautiful frescoes. Be sure to look for the group of pilgrims among the images, who are depicted in prayer with their sticks in their hand. Continue to your overnight stay which is situated in the countryside approximately 4km south east of Sutri. Dinner is included tonight if staying at the agriturismo. Ascent: 420m/788ft, descent: 510m/1673ft Trail: surf/unsurf% 73/27

From Sutri you will cycle towards Campagnano and then Formello. During today's ride you will pass the Mount Gelato waterfalls, where you can stop for an invigorating dip (weather permitting). Continuing along the panoramic road of the Veio Nature Park will bring you to the gates of Campagnano. Here you can rest in the Venturi Park, home to a 300 year old Yew tree which the locals call the “Tree of Death". But don’t worry, you can sit in its shade without any danger! Continue through the Veio Nature Park, with its woody hills, before entering the enchanting Valle del Sorbo. Along the way you can admire the sanctuary of the Madonna del Sorbo before later arriving in Formello, with its medieval buildings. Ascent: 534m/1758ft, descent: 590m/1936ft Trail: surf/unsurf% 58/42

Today marks the last cycle of your trip, with just 34km between you and the Eternal City. This morning you will continue across the countryside of Lazio, which you would never guess lies so close to a metropolis. You will need to cross a brief section of trafficked roads to reach the cycle path of River Tevere, an enchanting slow path which leads to the gates of Vatican City. Your Via Francigena will end in St Peter's Square. Don't forget to take a triumphant photo in front of the Basilica before celebrating the end of your journey! Tonight you can sample some delicious local food - we recommend the spring lamb (in season), pecorino romano cheese, and perhaps a delicious maritozzo with cream. Ascent: 155m/508ft, descent: 280m/919ft Trail: surf/unsurf% 96/4

Arrangements conclude after breakfast. Extra nights can be arranged in Rome on request.