Overview
Lace up your boots and hike the Via Francigena, the legendary pilgrim trail that has connected northern Europe and Rome since the Middle Ages. From Siena to Rome, we follow the most beautiful sections of this historic route through spectacular settings, including the Tuscan hilltop village of San Quirico d’Orcia and the handsome walled town of Viterbo, once the seat of the popes. We’ll follow trails along serene Lago di Bolsena, taste wines from renowned vineyards, explore the peaceful Etruscan ruins at Sutri, and finish with a flourish as we walk right into St. Peter’s Square. The delightful cuisines of Tuscany and Lazio and deep Chianti and Brunello wines keep us well-fueled as we enjoy a journey that is both an experience of the senses and of the heart.
The trip was so thoughtfully designed and executed—I could not have asked for more. I've dreamed of walking this route for years, so my expectations were high, but Wilderness Travel easily exceeded them. Well done!
— Linda N., Newport Beach, CA
Days 1-4
Siena / Buonconvento / San Quirico d’Orcia / Lago di Bolsena / Montefiascone
From Siena, we hike a classic Tuscan landscape past avenues of tall cypress to the walled town of Buonconvento, one of the piu belli borghi d’Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy), with an overnight in charming San Quirico d’Orcia. Our trail crosses a section of cobbled Roman road as we head above deep blue Lago di Bolsena to the citadel town of Montefiascone, with its papal fortress. Sampling regional dishes, from ribollita (Tuscan bread soup) to gnocchi alla romana, adds to our pleasures en route.
Siena / Buonconvento / San Quirico d’Orcia / Lago di Bolsena / Montefiascone - Days 1-4
Relais Palazzo del Capitano
Days 1 to 2 (2 nights), San Quirico d’Orcia, ItalyThis small hotel, a beautifully restored 15th century building with old world charm, is a nice surprise in the heart of the unspoiled village of San Quirico. Guest rooms are decorated in Tuscan style, with wooden beamed ceilings, antiques, and terracotta floors. Relax at the end of the day in the walled garden of olive trees, grape arbors, and fruit trees, then head out for dinner at one of the town’s many restaurants or at Al Vecchio Forno, the hotel’s own restaurant, renowned for its superb Tuscan specialties.
Hotel Royal
Days 3 to 4 (2 nights), Bolsena, ItalyAs the oldest hotel in Bolsena, Hotel Royal has set the standard with a simple yet elegant property on the shores of Lake Bolsena. Guest rooms are comfortable and there’s a lovely pool that also has free Wi-Fi access, so you can have a drink in hand and let family and friends know how much fun you’re having.
Days 5-8
Viterbo / Sutri / Monterosi
Our hike towards medieval Viterbo ends at the thermal springs at Terme del Bagnaccio, set among green hills (bring your swimsuit for a post-hike dip). In Sutri, we visit a Roman amphitheater carved out of tufa rock, and we’ll explore Monterosi, once a major stop on the pilgrim trail, and the small village of Isola Farnese, perched on a rock outcrop. This tiny village has a rich history—a member of the Farnese family became Pope Paul III.
Viterbo / Sutri / Monterosi - Days 5-8
Mini Palace Hotel
Day 5 (1 night), Viterbo, ItalyThe Mini Palace Hotel is located within close proximity to the historic center of Viterbo, the old “City of Popes”. It offers 40 pleasant guest rooms, some with balconies, and each with private bathrooms. The hotel has a spacious lounge and common area with classic décor, a vibrant bar, and a sunlit terrace. The restaurant features a full breakfast buffet, which can also be enjoyed outside on the terrace.
Casa di Accoglienza Oasi di Pace
Day 6 (1 night), Sutri, ItalyOriginally a nunnery, this lovely converted hotel has 20 rooms and is still managed by the Franciscan Sisters. Colorful rose bushes frame a peaceful garden, perfect for relaxing after an exhilarating day.
Country Relais I Due Laghi
Day 7 (1 night), Anguillara Sabazia, ItalySituated on green pastures and set between the two lakes of Bracciano and Martignano, the cozy country house of I Due Laghi was transformed into a charming hotel and restaurant. Surrounding by 130 acres of organic farmland, each guest room is decorated a little differently so it feels more like staying in a friend or relative’s home rather than a hotel. Be sure to stroll through the gardens and pastures alongside cows, horses, and goats!
Castello della Castelluccia
Day 8 (1 night), Rome, ItalyBuilt between the 10th and 13th centuries by the Cancellieri family on the site of ancient Roman ruins, Castello della Castelluccia brings to life the wonderful and historical side of this lovely property. Iron gates welcome you to the ancient stone structure of the hotel and each of the 23 rooms reveals ornate interiors including fantastic wall murals and arched ceilings with open beams, and offers views of the beautiful landscaped grounds.
Relais Castrum Boccea
Day 8 (1 night), Rome, ItalyThe Relais Castrum Boccea is a romantic castle-turned-hotel nestled in the Roman countryside. The property has a lovely garden area with fountains and gazebos and guest rooms spread across several charming buildings. The rooms all have flat screen TVs and spacious bathrooms. If you’re looking to rest your feet after a day’s hike, kick back in the garden or on the deck—the perfect place for enjoying the view with a glass of vino in hand.
Regal Park Hotel
Day 8 (1 night), Rome, ItalyThe Regal Park Hotel is a 4-star hotel on the outskirts of Rome with expansive gardens and panoramic views of parks and nature reserves. The guest rooms are decorated with crisp linens, wood floors, and modern artwork. The hotel has a restaurant with a full breakfast buffet, as well as an indoor bar, a scenic terrace, and a covered patio—a great place for a glass of champagne or a morning cappuccino.
Days 9-10
Rome
From our hotel in the countryside, we hike right into Rome, pausing for a panorama of the Eternal City from Monte Mario, a hill just above the city. The last steps of our pilgrimage lead us to Bernini’s masterpiece, St. Peter’s Square, flanked by the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica. Leaving our pilgrim staffs by the door, we enter the revered sanctuary of the Basilica. Depart on Day 10.
Rome - Days 9-10
Residenza Paolo VI
Day 9 (1 night), Rome, ItalyFormerly part of an ancient monastery, this 35-room boutique hotel feels like a private haven in busy Rome. Offering comfortable guest rooms in a fantastic location, it could not be closer to the Vatican—literally. It's just a few steps from St. Peter's Square, and you can enjoy marvelous views of St. Peter's Basilica—and possibly the Pope's Sunday noon address—right from the rooftop terrace.
Palazzo Cardinal Sesi
Day 9 (1 night), Rome, ItalyThis beautiful palace, originally built in the 15th century, was purchased by Cardinal Pierdonato Cesi who renovated it into an antiques and art museum. The Generalate of the Salvatorians later converted it to the sophisticated hotel that it is today. Each of its 30 guest rooms is tastefully decorated with classic Italian designs, tile floors, and cherry wood furnishings. Guests can unwind with a cocktail in the ambient courtyard or in the library lounge. A breakfast buffet is offered in the stately old Refectory where monks once ate.
Italy's Pilgrim Trail
Highlights
Highlights
Details
A mix of moderate walks and hikes, some steep trails, 4-7 hours a day, van support (for luggage or if you wish to skip a day’s hike)
