Footsteps Of St Francis

Day 1
A transfer is included from Foligno train station for those who wish to take advantage of this. We will collect you and and take you (25 mins) to your hotel in Spello, arriving time for dinner.

Day 2
The shorter, lower route takes you through lush Umbrian countryside - with its distinctive dark green cypresses and silver- coloured olive trees whilst the longer, more challenging route takes you via the sacred 'Eremo delle Carceri' - St Francis' famous hermitage where he used to pray and talk to the birds. Walking time 4hr, distance 11km/7mi or walking time 5hr, distance 16km/10mi.

Day 3
A full day to explore the ancient town of Assisi. The Basilica, and its magnificent 13th century Giotto frescoes is a must before ambling up Via San Francesco to the beautiful Piazza del Comune to visit the well preserved temple of Minerva.

Day 4
Today's route skirts the mediaeval centre of Assisi - option to visit the Rocca Maggiore, Assisi's well preserved castle offering excellent views over the Valle Umbra - before heading out along the unspoiled Francescan trail, tracing backwards St Francis' steps on his last journey to the town. You'll pass the north side of Monte Subasio through gentle hillsides and green valleys dotted with isolated farms, monasteries and watchtowers before winding down to Satriano, in the heart of the Monte Subasio natural park, and home for the next two nights. Walking time 4.5hrs, distance 16.5km/10mi.

Day 5
At an altitude of 800m above sea level, the views from your hotel afford a fabulous 360 degree panorama of the luxuriant natural park and surrounding Apennine Mountains. You've literally hundreds of forest trails on your doorstep.

Day 6
You'll set off this morning along pine scented forest trails before winding slightly uphill along the Marchetto River. You'll continue along former drover's tracks, passing meadows carpeted with colourful flowers - orchids, edelweiss and wild tulips - enjoying lovely gorge views. You cross the gorge via the Ponte del Marchetto, or Wolves Bridge - if you're 'lucky' you may catch the rare sight of a wolf! You'll enjoy pure luxury for the next 2 nights on the Silve di Armenzano estate. Walking time 4.5hr, distance 14km/9mi.

Day 7
You almost feel as though you have the world to yourself as you explore the wonderfully wild surroundings of this 230-hectare estate! There are over 20kms of well-marked walking paths and trails winding around St Francis' 'magical' Subasio Mountain and surrounding valleys. Have a swim in the new deck-level saltwater pool, and perhaps end the day with a relaxing sauna or afternoon tea in the exquisite tea-room. A guided tour of the estate can be organised through the hotel with photography stations for local wildlife.

Day 8
Today's route follows the lower eastern slopes of Monte Subasio, passing through the restored hamlet of San Giovanni. Then up to the Rifugio di Madonna della Spella for panoramic views on the open pastureland before descending through oak and centuries-old olive groves to finish in charming Spello, one of the finest preserved mediaeval towns in the region. Walking time 4.5hr, distance 14km/9mi.

Day 9
End Spello. The tour ends here after breakfast. A transfer back to Foligno train station is included for those who wish.