View of the Albornoz Fortress in Spoleto Via Francigena
View of the Albornoz Fortress in Spoleto Via Francigena

St.Francis Way: Stage 5, Spoleto to Rieti

Level
2
Distance
74 km
Duration
7 days | 6 nights
period
Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct
price from
€ 648
CO2 footprint
103 Kg/person
  1. Italy
  2.  | 
  3. Self-Guided
  4.  | 
  5. Tourcode ITSW360

The historic path from Spoleto to Rieti takes you on the footsteps of St. Francis, the man that 800 years ago decided to embrace poverty, living in close contact with the animals and leading an errant life, trying to bring joy in other people’s lives.

You will be able to feel his presence as you wander through the magnificent countryside, walking  through forests, fields, vineyards and olive groves, with always a medieval town on a hill in sight: the villages you visit on the way have maintained their own identity and it looks like the time has stood still.

Last, but not least, this part of Italy is worldwide known for the endless variety of the local food, that will put your taste buds in heaven.

The Via Francescana is mostly on so called Strade Bianche, gravel roads that meander through the hills. Further you walk along forest paths and cart tracks through fields. In near villages and towns tarmac roads are unavoidable. Because the route passes through hilly terrain, you must consider that you will climb an occasional height.

Highlights

  • Visit Spoleto, Arrone: ancient towns rich in history;
  • Gather in the silence of the ancient abbeys;
  • Follow in the footsteps of Francis ancient Franciscan path, surrounded by idyllic landscape;
  • Walk in the silence and nature just steps from the Pediluco Lake.

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive in Spoleto

Arrive in Spoleto

Arrive in Spoleto, check in at the hotel and then you’ll be able to recite your favorite poem in the Roman theatre, let the simple beauty of the San Salvatore Basilica enchant you, or celebrate the beginning of your journey with a nice dinner: the local pride is the black truffle, to be enjoyed on a bruschetta, or powdered on an omelette.

Day 2

From Spoleto to Ceselli, 15 km

From Spoleto to Ceselli, 15 km

Today’s walk is quite challenging, but it is definitely worth it: you walk on well beaten paths along an extremely panoramic itinerary, passing an ancient water mill and the Franciscan Convent of Monteluco, immersed in the shady Umbrian woods. 

Distance: 15 km

Elevation gain: +646/-775 m

Day 3

From Ceselli to Arrone, 15 km

From Ceselli to Arrone, 15 km

Today you walk along the Nera river and through several enchanting hamlets: from Ferentillo (famous for its mummies!) to Arrone, surrounded by ancient stone walls and surmounted by an imposing castle. A really beautiful itinerary, accompanied by the view of the mountain peaks surrounding the cultivated fields like a crown. 

Distance: 15 km

Elevation gain: +169/-209 m

Day 4

From Arrone to Pediluco, 13 km

From Arrone to Pediluco, 13 km

Today’s walk holds several surprises of rare beauty:  from the typical hamlets of the Valnerina Valley to the Marmore waterfall, among the highest in Europe and immersed in a lovely natural park. And finally, the Pediluco Lake, source of awe and inspiration for artists and poets. 

Distance: 13 km

Elevation gain: +328/-185 m

Day 5

Walk from Pediluco to Poggio Bustone, 19 km

Walk from Pediluco to Poggio Bustone, 19 km

Another great panoramic walk though woods and secondary roads: among the great views you can enjoy the hamlet of Labro, with its medieval houses perched on a hill, and the rugged peaks of the Appennine Mountains. 

Distance: 19 km

Elevation gain: +890/-549 m

Day 6

Walk from Poggio Bustone to Rieti, 12 km

Walk from Poggio Bustone to Rieti, 12 km

Your final walk takes you in the North of Lazio, towards your final destination: along your way you find the village of Cantalice, developing vertically on the side of a hill, and the Sanctuary “della Foresta”, where you can 

immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere and admire the beautiful frescoes before heading to Rieti via transfer.

Distance: 12 km

Elevation gain: +395/-594 m

Day 7

Arrivederci Rieti!

Arrivederci Rieti!

Our services end after breakfast, unless you have booked another service with us. 

Details

Is this for me?


This section of the Cammino di Francesco retains all the charm that distinguishes this itinerary: you follow in the footsteps of Francis through the lands he inhabited, across vibrant countryside, to be savored with all your senses

Choose this stretch if you wish to visit the splendid Spoleto and then arrive in Rieti, the capital of the fascinating Sabina region in Lazio. Along your path lie the Cascata delle Marmore, the Valnerina, Lake Piediluco, and other natural wonders.

It's a journey that requires a certain level of physical preparation – it's not particularly demanding in terms of elevation, but walking several kilometers each day can be challenging for those who haven't experienced a walking journey before.

Included


What is included

  • 6 Nights in double room in **/*** hotels , B&B and agriturismi with breakfast
  • luggage transportation from hotel to hotel
  • transfer Santuario Santa Maria della Foresta-Rieti
  • maps and detailed description of the itinerary in digital form, app
  • Pilgrim Passport
  • Medical and luggage travel insurance
  • 24h phone assistance

What is not included 

  • Transfers to the starting location and from the arriving location of the tour
  • lunches and dinners, if not otherwise stated
  • visits and entrance fees - tips
  • personal expense
  • possible sojourn taxes
  • everything that is not mentioned in the "What is included" section.

Optional Services

These services can be added to the ones included in the base price of the tour:

  • Single room supplement
  • cancellation insurance
  • Transfers to reach the starting location or to leave the arriving location of the tour, which will be quoted on request
  • official camino guidebook, shipped to the first hotel
  • travel documentation in printed form (maps and detailed description of the itinerary), shipped to the first hotel

Accommodation


Hotel Charleston - Spoleto

Located in the historical town centre of Spoleto, this hotel features newly refurbished rooms with wooden beam celing. Free Wi-Fi, minibar, satellite TV. The breakfast is OK and personnel is kind and friendly

Casa Vacanze Il Ruscello - Ceselli

This structure is an ideal choice for anyone looking for quiet and tranquillity. Surrounded by a vast garden with a pool, Il Ruscello offers both rooms and apartments: they all are simply decorated but spacious.

Casa Vacanze Residence Fiocchi - Arrone

An old farmhouse, totally restored, right in the heart of the Nera river nature park, the house is located underneath the lovely medieval village of Arrone, in the Valnerina (the Nera valley), between the famous Marmore waterfalls and the lake of Piediluco, not far from Spoleto, easy to reach from every place. The Residence lies in a quiet place, it has 18 apartments of different kinds, each one of them was carefully furnished following the Franciscan style.They all have a kitchen, a private bath with hairdryer, colour TV, wifi connection, telephone, porch or balcony, a large garden, swimming pool and car park.

Hotel Ristorante Miralago - Piediluco

This modern looking hotel faces Piediluco Lake. Apart from a magnificent view, you will enjoy its simple, but functional and clean rooms. The hotel features a swimming pool, terrace, tv room. Big breakfast, friendly personnel.

B&B San Francesco - Poggio Bustone

Located right in the town centre, this small structure has its familiar and cozy atmosphere. The interior has been refurbished recently but the building preserves its pleasnt rustic feel. Rich breakfast, moreover the same ownership has a wine shop just around the corner

Hotel Cavour - Rieti

A four star hotel with a view on Rieti town centre and river Velino. Rooms are spacious enough and decorated with modern and colourful motifs, confortable baths. Various comfort services are available, such as satellite TV, Wi-Fi, gym.

When to travel


The climate in Central Italy is generally very mild with differences depending on the geography of the region, from coasts and valleys to the continental areas.The warmest months are generally July and August, with temperatures ranging from 23°C up to 30°C; the valleys can often see higher temperatures and 38°C to 40° C is not uncommon.While June and September offer both nice warm weather. Of course, there are always exceptions or dry spells that cause a few days to get really hot.Spring (April and May) and Autumn (October and November) are dry, with sunny days but the chances of rain are high.The weather can change very quickly and you must be prepared for rain, mist, wind, fog (and even hail or snow at higher elevations) –especially in spring and autumn. 

What to bring


Clothing and other items
You will need your regular walking/cycling gear, including some sort of reflective garment. For the evenings, smart outdoor style trousers (or shorts) are invaluable, as are quick-dry t-shirts. These can be washed easily and will dry overnight and still look good for sightseeing or having a drink in town.

Take as little as possible to avoid potentially lugging a heavy suitcase up three flights of stairs at the end of the day. Please be aware that laundromats (“Laverie”) are not common in rural areas, so plan to do handwashing of small items.

Lightweight walking shoes/ trainers
For wearing around towns & villages. They can also be a back-up pair.

Socks & underwear
Take only good quality socks with quick-dry and insulating qualities. Road test them before you go on the trip. Take a suitable quantity of underwear as washing facilities are limited.

Warm jacket, hat, gloves
Bring a fleece, Polartec or warm layers for the evenings especially in spring or autumn; be sure it is totally suitable for your needs.
A fleece jacket which blocks the wind (Wind-stopper) is the most preferable. In the summer months a lightweight jacket is suitable for evenings.
If you are cycling/walking in mountainous or coastal areas, even in the height of summer, the weather can change very quickly and unexpectedly and you should be prepared for fog, mist, rain, snow or hail at any time. Always take an extra layer with you, as well as a warm hat and gloves.

Waterproof jacket & trousers
If you are caught in heavy rain, with good waterproof clothing you should remain dry. Remember that most garments will lose their properties over time. Few will remain waterproof for more than five years and many deteriorate in three years or less. We recommend a rain jacket with a good hood and collar and waterproof or thermal walking/cycling trousers or tights.

Dress code
In general, you should wear suitable clothing when entering a church (in many places, it is considered unacceptable to go inside wearing shorts or a tank-top). We suggest that women carry a shawl to cover up bear shoulders or low-cut tops. It also comes in handy when your shoulders get sunburned!

It is considered inappropriate for men to go without a shirt / T-shirt (other than at the beach).

Trekking poles (adjustable)
Highly recommended. A pair works best, depending on what you are comfortable with. If you suffer from back or knee pain this should be considered essential. Remember to practise walking with your pole(s) on different types of terrain in the months preceding your trip.

Walking boots
The importance of good footwear cannot be stressed enough. Your boots should be sturdy and of good enough quality to handle all types of terrain. Lightweight boots, (cordura/leather boots) which have Gore-Tex or sympatex water-proofing are most suitable for this trip. They should provide good ankle protection and be well broken in. Waxing leather boots regularly prolongs their life.

Walking tops & trousers
We recommend walking trousers and shorts and quick-dry wicking t-shirts. These can be washed easily and will dry overnight and still look good for sightseeing or having a drink in town. Wicking T-shirts are fast drying, keep moisture away from your skin and are available at outdoor stores. You should also bring one pair of loose-fitting trousers to wear in cities and for evenings out, etc. Shorts or zip-off trousers are useful in warmer weather.

Practical info

How to arrive


On arrival, you can reach Spoleto by train.
On departure, you can take a train from Rieti.

Mobile App


Use the SloWays APP for iOS and Android smart phones in combination with the written documentation provided.

The App has the detailed tracks and maps that you can use offline and without roaming. Thanks to the phone’s internal GPS, you can check your exact position on the map, so you always know exactly where you are. It also helps you self-navigate you way while travelling. More information on how to use the App inside the roadbook documents.

The navigation features include:

  • Offline navigation. Mobile data not required after initial download
  • Accurate GPS tracks
  • Autorotation of the maps
  • Daily route summary and elevation chart
  • Panorama of the track and at street level
  • Alarm and vibration that alerts you in case you go off track.
  • Emergency SMS button with position coordinates
  • Possibility to record and take georeferenced photos of problems on route alerting fellow travelers
  • Hotel information
  • Points of interest along the way
  • Historical background

Wanderlust Nominee Best Specialist Tour Operator 2023
Wanderlust
Nominee Best Specialist Tour Operator 2023
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Touroperating
S-Cape Countryside Travels srl
Borgo Allegri 16R
50122 Firenze FI
P. IVA 05227330486

 
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Touroperating S-Cape Countryside Travels srl Borgo Allegri 16R 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
VAT Nr 05227330486

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