Start in Siena, one of the most beautiful towns along the Francigena. Famous for its palio, spend the day walking through its paved streets, looking for coats-of-arms on the walls of the contradas, or climbing the Torre del Mangia to enjoy a unique view over the roofs of the town. Visit the duomo or witness a contrada festival before sitting down at a table in Piazza del Campo. Enjoy a plate of pici all’aglione whilst admiring the illuminated Palazzo Pubblico.

The Crests of the Val d’Arbia offer unforgettable views, resting on the hills on the horizon. Travel along the typical dirt roads of Siena as far as the fortified village of Lucignano, with its fine Church. At the gates of Monteroni d’Arbia, admire the impressive Grancia di Cuna – a fortified farm which stored reserves of wheat, destined for Siena.

From Lucignano continue your journey through the Valle dell’Ombrone to Buonconvento. Crossing the gate of the walls and entering the old town centre of the village, discover why its name means “happy fortunate place”. Jump on your bicycle towards San Quirico over dirt and asphalt roads, alongside beautiful views of Val D’Orcia, scattered with vineyards and cypress trees. Arriving at the gates of the Collegiata in San Quirico, stand enchanted and try to recognise the various architectural styles, before enjoying a rest among the green hedges of the Horti Leonini, a fifteenth century garden.

650m ascent, 490m descent

Continue across the fabulous views of the Val D’Orcia: just beyond San Quirico and enter a timeless world visiting Vignoni Alto enjoying a reinvigorating rest in the thermal waters of Bagno Vignoni.

Test your strength with a short but demanding leg taking you as far as Radicofani: stick it out, because admiring the view from the Radicofani fortress will be worth your efforts. Visit the Pieve di San Pietro, a jewel dating back to the thirteenth century, and take an evening walk in the old town centre, admiring the magic of the illuminated Fortress.

650/650m ascent, 455/650m descent

From Radicofani travel towards one of the most exciting sections of the Via Francigena. Leave the fortress behind you, journeying along the old Via Cassia, surrounded by scenery of infinite hills dominated by Monte Amiata. Walk in silence in the Romanesque crypt beneath the Basilica del Santo Sepolcro, to where stones bathed in the blood of Christ are supposed to have been kept.

A gentle approach to the first views of Lake Bolsena, from here descend into a volcanic crater and continue along dirt tracks, alternating thick woods with meadows scattered with olive trees, to Bolsena. If you are curious to see proof of the miracle of the Corpus Domini, some marble slabs stained by the blood pouring from a Host in the thirteen century are stored in the Cappella del Miracolo. Or taste the products offered by the lake, such as the Sbroscia – a typical soup made from lake fish and tomatoes.

620/840m ascent, 610/610m descent

Continue through woods and olive groves, with constant views of the lake. Cross an area famous for extra virgin olive oil, tasting it on a piece of fragrant local bread before arriving in Montefiascone. Climb up to the Rocca for boundless views. Go to a typical wine bar to taste a glass of Est!Est!!Est!!! – even better here because it is km zero.

Spoil yourself at Bagnaccio, recharging your batteries in its thermal water spas before arriving in Viterbo, the end point. In honour of the trip, visit the picturesque pilgrim’s quarter, before admiring the splendid Palazzo dei Papi and enjoying the silence of the Longobard cloisters of Santa Maria Nuova. End on a sweet note, celebrating with delicious local frittellacce!

545m ascent, 420m descent

Continue towards Vetralla, a town in the heart of the ancient Etrurian territory, and through green countryside to Sutri – a small town rich in attractions. From the Roman amphitheatre to the church of Santa Maria del Parto, the tufo walls are decorated in well preserved frescoes. Look for the group of pilgrims among the images, depicted in prayer with their sticks in their hand.

420m ascent, 510m descent

Onwards to Campagnano and the Formello. Flank the Mount Gelato Waterfalls and stop for a reinvigorating dip. A panoramic road of the Veio Nature Park brings you to the gates of Campagnano to rest in Venturi Park. This is the home of a three-hundred year old Yew tree, named the “Tree of Death” – but don’t worry, you can relax in its shade without issue! Enter the enchanting Valle del Sorbo, admiring the sanctuary of the Madonna del Sorbo and later at Formello, admiring its medieval buildings.

534m ascent, 590m descent

Back on the saddle for the last leg to the Eternal City, along the countryside of Lazio, crossing a brief section of the metropolis to reach the cycle path of River Tevere. This enchanting path leads you to the gates of the Vatican City, where you will end your journey in St.Peter’s Square.

Don’t forget to take triumphant photographs in front of the Basilica, before celebrating with spring lamb, pecorino romano cheese, and perhaps a delicious maritozzo with cream… you earned it!

155m ascent, 280m descent

The trip ends after breakfast, unless you have booked extra nights or other optional services with us.