La Via Francigena
An Exclusive & Unforgettable journey from Lucca to Rome
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- A thorough daily itinerary
- Details for exact accommodations
- What to expect
- Travel planning tips
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The Route, dirt and paved roads following in the footsteps of ancient pilgrims, was first documented in 990 by Sigeric, Archbishop of Canterbury, in his diary describing the places he passed through as he returned to Canterbury. The roads that Sigeric followed became known as the Via Francigena (the road from France) or “Via Romea” (the road to Rome) and for centuries was used by merchants, clergyman, soldiers, and pilgrims traveling back and forth from the north of Europe to Rome and Jerusalem, carrying ideas as well as money and produce. These people traveled on foot or on mules and horses, and rarely by cart because the conditions of the road varied continually. The road was built and maintained by the local nobles. Because it was not constructed with the idea of connecting places of great importance and distance like the Roman roads, it was a series of local paths and trails of various widths and various materials, which linked mountain passes, bridges, ferry boats and villages.
Tour Essence
- Tuscany and Lazio are among Italy’s most seen regions: with our itinerary, you’ll discover a secret side: closer to nature and little forgotten artistic masterpieces
- Experience traveling on a mix of paved and unpaved roads: away from cars and trucks, you’ll be able to focus on the sound of your turning wheels and the rhythm of your body
- Discover the spirituality of the pilgrimage: no matter what you believe, a route walked by millions of people in more than a thousand years, is loaded with a special kind of spiritual energy
- Gain a sense of adventure created by country roads across a pristine landscape for which there is no equal
- Follow expert guides that know better than anyone off-road cycling and the Via Francigena
- Several stops to enjoy ancient spas along the way
- Ride on the basalt of ancient Via Cassia, 2000 years old roman road
What to Expect
Terrain
Rolling to mixed terrainStart Location
Lucca, ItalyEnd Location
Rome, ItalyMileage
Total: 301 miles
Once you have a trip confirmed, we will feed you a steady diet of additional pre-departure information that includes: How to train, prepare, pack and all the wonderful, inspirational and practical things you want and need to know before you go! Our Travel Advisors will be available to help plan your pre- and post-tour travel.
- 3 cultural visits with local guides
- Van support
- Expert, bilingual guides
- 2 tastings of local specialties
- Group shuttle at the end of the tour
What’s Included
- Use of a gravel bike
- Ciclismo Classico jersey and water bottle
- Two water bottle holders
- Garmin Edge GPS
- Handlebar bag
- Tire pump
- Combination bike lock
- Choice of pedals
Pedal Options
- Flat pedals
- Half-toe pedals (without straps)
What’s Not Included
- Helmet
- Optional: clipless pedals with shoes
- Optional: your own saddle
- 7 dinners, 9 breakfasts, 3 lunches
- All accommodations
The Route, dirt and paved roads following in the footsteps of ancient pilgrims, was first documented in 990 by Sigeric, Archbishop of Canterbury, in his diary describing the places he passed through as he returned to Canterbury. The roads that Sigeric followed became known as the Via Francigena (the road from France) or “Via Romea” (the road to Rome) and for centuries was used by merchants, clergyman, soldiers, and pilgrims traveling back and forth from the north of Europe to Rome and Jerusalem, carrying ideas as well as money and produce. These people traveled on foot or on mules and horses, and rarely by cart because the conditions of the road varied continually. The road was built and maintained by the local nobles. Because it was not constructed with the idea of connecting places of great importance and distance like the Roman roads, it was a series of local paths and trails of various widths and various materials, which linked mountain passes, bridges, ferry boats and villages.
2023
Start Location
Lucca, ItalyFly Into
FlorenceEnd Location
Rome, ItalyFly Out Of
RomeLucca
Meals Provided
Lunch, DinnerAverage Mileage
10 milesRiding Terrain
Rolling with paved and dirt pathsMeals Provided
Lunch, DinnerAccommodations
Hotel San Luca Palace
Situated in the beautiful historic center, the 4-star San Luca Palace Hotel has set the standard among luxury hotels in the town of Lucca. Set in a historic building dating back to 1540, the hotel boasts 26 luxurious and beautifully furnished rooms.
San Miniato
Meals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAverage Mileage
35 milesRiding Terrain
Rolling with a hilly end of day on mixed terrainMeals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAccommodations
Hotel Miravalle
Set in a restored medieval palace, 4-star Hotel Miravalle is conveniently located in front of the Cathedral of San Miniato. Walking through the hotel is like exploring a museum, with more than 150 masterpieces spread throughout. Every room offers beautiful views of the Tuscan Hills or to the monuments of San Miniato.
San Gimignano
Meals Provided
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAverage Mileage
34 milesRiding Terrain
Hilly on mixed terrainMeals Provided
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodations
Hotel La Cisterna
Housed in an elegant, 14th century building, Hotel La Cisterna is set in the heart of San Gimignano. Most rooms offer views of the Piazza della Cisterna (town square) or of the beautiful Tuscan countryside. Each is furnished in a Florentine style.
Siena
Meals Provided
BreakfastAverage Mileage
31 milesRiding Terrain
Hilly on mixed terrainMeals Provided
BreakfastAccommodations
Villa del Sole
Villa del Sole Siena is a newly renovated Boutique Hotel in the heart of the mediaval town of Siena. This small and stylish contemporary hotel has sweeping views of both the city and the countryside. The friendly and helpful reception staff are on hand for advice. The pleasant panoramic terrace at the back of the hotel and gazebo at the front have views of the countryside and historic centre and are ideal for a relaxing break.
Bagno Vignoni
Meals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAverage Mileage
38 milesRiding Terrain
Hilly on mixed terrainMeals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAccommodations
Albergo le Terme
Set in a 15th century building, Le Terme Spa & Resort is located in the beating heart of the village of Bagno Vignoni. The hotel overlooks the famous Piazza delle fonti, a large thermal bath from the Etruscan era.
Proceno
Meals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAverage Mileage
51 milesRiding Terrain
Hilly on mixed terrainMeals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAccommodations
Castello di Proceno
The Castello di Proceno is a serene 12th century fortress with wonderful rooms featuring beautiful art, history, and antique furniture. Visitors will enjoy the park with its outdoor summer restaurant and its elegant wine bar.
Viterbo
Meals Provided
Breakfast, LunchAverage Mileage
34 milesRiding Terrain
HillyMeals Provided
Breakfast, LunchAccommodations
Salus Terme
Hotel Salus Terme is a beautiful spa hotel that is located in Viterbo in Italy. The property has an excellent location that is only a short distance outside of the center of the city. The hotel features natural hot springs, four outdoor swimming pools, an indoor pool, and two spa tubs. A sauna and a fitness center are available on the property, too.
Formello
Meals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAverage Mileage
47.5 milesRiding Terrain
Hilly with mixed terrainMeals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAccommodations
Antica Pietrara
The Antica Pietrara B&B is located inside an ancient quarry, where the splendid rock that frames the farmhouse gives an exotic atmosphere to the environment. Guests will enjoy the swimming pool carved into the volcanic rock, surrounded by nature.
Il Vaticano e Roma
Meals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAverage Mileage
21 milesRiding Terrain
Hilly with mixed terrainMeals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAccommodations
Hotel Isa Design
The 4 star Isa Design Hotel Rome is located in the heart of the city, in a 19th century historical building, and at a few steps away from Vatican City, St. Angelo Castle and St. Peter’s Basilica. The convenient location combined with the singularity of the interiors and high standard service will grant you a perfect stay in the Eternal City.
