Cycle the Via Francigena - Siena to Rome
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 9-day cycling tour that will take you through the heart of Italy, from the charming town of Siena to the Eternal City of Rome. This multi-day tour is designed for those who love to explore the world on two wheels, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. You'll pedal through picturesque landscapes, visit medieval villages, marvel at ancient monuments, and sample delicious local cuisine. Along the way, you'll have the chance to visit iconic attractions such as the Duomo in Siena, the thermal waters of Bagno Vignoni, and the Vatican City in Rome. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, this tour promises an adventure you'll never forget.
Included
8 breakfasts, 2 dinners
8 nights in charming B&Bs and 3 star hotels (hotel taxes extra, payable locally - allow €10)
hotel: 8 night(s);
Digital information pack including route notes and maps per room booked, plus app to download and navigate the route
Hybrid 21 speed rental bike with smartphone holder, panniers, helmet, lock and repair kit (e-bike available on request - supplement applies)
Pilgrim passport
Emergency hotline
During the trip you will be provided with a 21 speed hybrid bike. You will also receive a pannier to carry your gear for the day, along with a helmet, bike computer, phone holder, lock and repair kit.
Alternatively, if you have chosen an e-bike, for this trip we use Univega Trekking Bosch E-Bikes with an aluminum hydroformed frame, Continental Sport Contact II tyres, 28 inch double wall wheels, Shimano Deore, 10 speed and hydraulic disk brakes. The battery motor is Bosch Performance CX with Bosch 500wh battery. The bike weighs around 21 kgs. Fittings as per the hybrid bikes.
In the case of a puncture the assumption is that you can repair. You will be given a puncture repair kit, to fix the issue.
Luggage transfer from day 2 to day 8 (max 1 piece, max weight 20kg and max size 60 x 50 x 40 cm per person). Supplement applies for excess
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Siena
- Siena - Arrival day
- More
- Siena Cathedral
- More
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.
Day 2 – Day 2: Siena to San Quirico
- Siena
- More
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.
Day 3 – Day 3: San Quirico to Radicofani
Day 3: San Quirico to Radicofani
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.
Day 4 – Day 4: Radicofani to Bolsena
Day 4: Radicofani to Bolsena
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.
Day 5 – Day 5: Bolsena to Viterbo
Day 5: Bolsena to Viterbo
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.
Day 6 – Day 6: Viterbo to Sutri
Day 6: Viterbo to Sutri
- Roman Forum
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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.
Day 7 – Day 7: Sutri to Formello
Day 7: Sutri to Formello
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.
Day 8 – Day 8: Formello to Rome
Day 8: Formello to Rome
- Palatine Hill
- More
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.
Day 9 – Day 9: Departure from Rome
Day 9: Departure from 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.
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