Cycle the Via Francigena - Siena to Rome

Welcome to Siena, one of Italy's most enchanting towns. Spend your first day strolling through its cobblestone streets, discovering the unique coats-of-arms adorning the walls of the contradas. Don't miss the chance to climb the Torre del Mangia for a breathtaking view of the town. A visit to the stunning Duomo is a must, where you'll be amazed by its striking black and white columns. If you're lucky, you might even catch a local festival. End your day with a delicious dinner in Piazza del Campo, overlooking the illuminated Palazzo Pubblico.

Get ready for a day of cycling through the beautiful Val d'Arbia, offering unforgettable views. You'll start your journey along the typical dirt roads of Siena, pedaling towards the fortified village of Lucignano. At the gates of Monteroni d'Arbia, you'll get to admire the impressive Grancia di Cuna, a fortified farm that once stored wheat for the republic of Siena. Continue through the Valle dell'Ombrone to the well-preserved 14th-century village of Buonconvento before reaching San Quirico. Here, you'll be enchanted by the gate of the Collegiata and can enjoy a restful evening in the Horti Leonini, a classic Italian garden.

Today, you'll continue your journey with stunning views of the Val D'Orcia. Just beyond San Quirico, you'll enter a timeless world, visiting Vignoni Alto. Take the opportunity to rejuvenate with a dip in the thermal waters of Bagno Vignoni. The day's ride will test your strength with a short but demanding section leading to Radicofani. The effort will be worth it when you admire the view from the Radicofani Fortress. Don't miss the chance to visit the Pieve di San Pietro, a 13th-century gem, and take an evening stroll in the old town center, under the magic of the illuminated Fortress.

From Radicofani, you'll head towards one of the most exciting sections of the Via Francigena, leaving the Fortress behind and traveling along the old Via Cassia. You'll be surrounded by scenery of infinite hills dominated by Monte Amiata. Explore the Romanesque crypt beneath the Basilica del Santo Sepolcro, where, according to tradition, stones bathed in the blood of Christ are kept. Your journey continues gently as Lake Bolsena comes into view. From here, you descend into a volcanic crater and continue along dirt tracks, heading towards Bolsena. End your day with a visit to the Cappella del Miracolo or indulge in some local delicacies.

Today, you'll cycle through woods and olive groves, with constant views of the lake. You'll cross an area famous for the production of extra virgin olive oil. Arrive in Montefiascone, where the climb up to the Rocca offers panoramic views. On descent from the Rocca, you can taste a glass of wine from the famous Est!Est!!Est!!! region of Montefiascone. If you want to spoil yourself a little more, you can enjoy a break at the spas of Bagnaccio and recharge in its thermal waters, before cycling towards Viterbo. In Viterbo, don't miss visiting the picturesque pilgrims' quarter, the splendid Palazzo dei Papi, and the silence of the Longobard cloisters of Santa Maria Nuova.

From Viterbo, the journey continues towards Vetralla, an area rich in Etruscan history. Just outside Vetralla, you'll find 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. Afterwards, proceed to the church of Santa Maria del Parto, where the tufa walls are decorated with beautiful frescoes.

From Sutri, you'll cycle towards Campagnano and on to Formello. During today's ride, you'll 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'. Continue through the Veio Nature Park, with its woody hills, before entering the enchanting Valle del Sorbo. You can admire the sanctuary of the Madonna del Sorbo before later arriving in Formello, with its medieval buildings.

Today marks the last cycle of the trip, with just 34km between you and the Eternal City. This morning, you'll continue across the countryside of Lazio, which you would never guess lies so close to a metropolis. You'll need to cross a brief section of trafficked roads to reach the cycle path of River Tevere, an enchanting slow path which will lead you to the gates of Vatican City. Your cycling journey ends in St Peter's Square. Don't forget to take a triumphant photo in front of the Basilica to celebrate the end of your journey! Tonight, you can sample some delicious local food in Rome.

Your unforgettable cycling tour concludes after breakfast. If you wish to extend your stay in Rome, additional nights can be arranged. This is the perfect opportunity to further explore the city's rich history, culture, and cuisine.