Walki th to ng the pilgrims’ pa VIA FRANCIGENA DESTINATION GUIDE Disclaimer VIA FRANCIGENA The information in this Destination Guide has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However, it is subject to change and WALKING THE PILGRIMS’ PATH TO ROME does not form part of the contract between the client and RAW Travel.

Contact Us RAW Travel Office Our Melbourne HQ (Victoria, Australia) can be contacted Monday to The Via Francigena is a 1000-year-old route since the 4th century and Friday from 9am to 5pm on +61 3 5976 3763. If there is a genuine pilgrimage route that extends around we welcome you to undertake this special emergency outside of these hours, call +61 (0) 478 649 848. 2000km from the English city of journey in their footsteps. all the way to Rome. Its name is a nod to the fact that it travels through France, but I would love to help you plan your trip. during its history the route was also known I am committed to providing the ultimate as the Via Romea (way to Rome) for the city in customer service and an unforgettable where it ends. pilgrimage on this ancient path, the Via Francigena. If you walked the entire route it would take you 4 months. Few people have time to tackle the whole thing in one go. We focus on itineraries Sue that take you through the heart of the Via Francigena, on a journey that is spiritual, cultural and historical. You will walk through UNESCO listed towns and villages immersed in the most beautiful Italian landscapes.

Our itineraries are divided into manageable sections of between 13km and 25km a day. They offer glorious walking and continuously changing vistas: open fields, forest trails, vineyards, undulating meadows. Via Francigena Destination Expert [email protected] The Via Francigena is a lot quieter than the Phone: (03) 5976 3763 Spanish Camino, so you’ll need brush up on your Italian and prepare for more of an rawtravel.com/destinations/via-francigena adventurous, but equally rewarding journey. Christians, clergymen, plebeians, emperors and sovereigns have been walking this Copyright © May 2019 by RAW Travel.

PAGE 2 rawtravel.com/destinations/via-francigena PAGE 3 ENGLAND CANTERBURY

NETHERLANDS VIA FRANCIGENA: QUICK LOOK

• Also known as: Italian Camino, Via Romea

• Best time to go: April to June; September to October

BELGIUM • Highlights : Charming medieval towns, spectacular Italian countryside, traditional food and wine.

GERMANY • Difficulty: 4-5 – Moderate with some challenging sections. We have graded each RAW Travel trip from 1 (introductory) to 10 (tough). See p48 for more information.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE WALKING THE VIA FRANCIGENA 3 History: Immerse yourself in the artistic, 3 Seasonal attractions: Enjoy wildflowers VIA FRANCIGENA cultural and religious heritage of one of in spring, sunflowers in summer and olive PILGRIM ROUTE the world's oldest pilgrimage routes. and grape harvesting in autumn. 3 Gastronomic delights: Discover 3 Reflection and self-discovery: Live more exceptional Italian coffee; savour a picnic mindfully through daily walking and the lunch of Italian cheeses on a vine-shaded simple rituals of pilgrim life. bench, all washed down with a good bottle FRANCE 3 Art and architecture: Explore ancient of local wine. aqueducts, cathedrals and fortified castle 3 : Walk through spectacular walls plus famous art collections SWITZERLAND AUSTRIA landscapes and explore hilltop in galleries, duomos and museums. UNESCO villages. GREAT ST BERNARD PASS ITALY SANTHIÀ VENICE

FIDENZA CISA PASS LUCIGNANO SAN QUIRICO CORSICA

ROME

SARDINIA PAGE 4 rawtravel.com/destinations/via-francigena PAGE 5 BOOKING THROUGH RAW SECTION 1: TRAVEL MADE THE INSPIRATION PAGE 9 WHOLE EVENT HASSLE FREE, WITH SEAMLESS LUGGAGE TRANSFERS AND THE ABILITY TO ENJOY EACH MOMENT. SECTION 2: – Lisa Joseph (NSW) TRAVEL ESSENTIALS PAGE 21

SECTION 3: ON THE TRAIL PAGE 33

SECTION 4: RAW TRAVEL PAGE 41

PAGE 6 rawtravel.com/destinations/via-francigena I ESPECIALLY LIKED THE SECTION 1: SIMPLICITY OF THE DAILY INSPIRATION ROUTINE OF WALKING AND LEAVING BEHIND OUTSIDE CARES. WALKING Route description 10 OFFERED ME THE CHANCE History of this walk 10 Why experience the Via Francigena TO SLOW DOWN FROM with RAW Travel? 11 MY EVERYDAY LIFE Is this trip right for me? 13 BACK HOME. What’s it like underfoot? 13 pilgrimage routes 14 – Margaret Borucinski (NSW) Self-guided walking 17

RAW Travel Insights (Blogs) 17

Books to read before you go 17

Responsible travel 18

Extending your trip 18

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ROUTE DESCRIPTION spray painted on walls or even as stickers on In 1994, the Via Francigena became one of the Australian operator that has the contacts to trees. Keep your eye out for these signs to Council of Europe’s designated Cultural Routes. book beautiful and unique accommodation RAW Travel Trip Grading: keep you on track. along the trail. 4–5 (Moderate to Challenging) Though it fell out of fashion compared with the Walk distances on these routes range between Spanish route, fragments of the Via Francigena Why people choose us… The itineraries we offer are amongst the most 13km and 25km on undulating terrain, so the survived, and in 2009 the Italian government popular of the Via Francigena route. They are • RAW Travel is Australia’s leading international time spent walking can vary from 4 to 7 hours launched a project to reinstate the whole much less busy than the sister Caminos in walking operator. We make all your depending on your walking pace. The benefit Italian leg of the route. Spain and France (see p14–15). The trail from arrangements from our office on Victoria’s of a self-guided holiday is that you can take it Lucca to Siena and then on to Buonconvento Mornington Peninsula. at your own pace. See p17 for more info. To do this they used travel diaries, and varies from stretches of flat walking to gently in particular the records of an illustrious • We have a dedicated team who have first- undulating hills, with the occasional steep pilgrim Sigeric the Serious, to reconstruct the section. The route is not particularly strenuous HISTORY OF THIS WALK hand knowledge of all our walks, so when ancient route. In AD990, after being ordained you call us you will speak to an expert. and we try to alternate one long walking day In medieval times the Via Francigena ran from by Pope John XV, with a shorter day to give you a break and Canterbury in the UK through France and the abbot returned home and noted the • We have walked all the routes, so you can allow time to explore the fabulous towns that Switzerland to the Eternal City. A pilgrimage route he walked and the ‘mansiones’ where he rely on us for local knowledge, insights you will stay in. to Rome – resting place of saints Peter and rested. The diary of Sigeric is still considered and support. Paul – used to be just as popular as going to the most authoritative source. The trail is mostly wide and well maintained; . Anyone who made • All you carry is your daypack. We pre-book however, there are some sections where the pilgrimage to Rome could have their The only part that cannot be completed on your accommodation, meals (as outlined in the trail narrows to a single track. There sins wiped clean. If pilgrims were especially foot is the , which medieval the itinerary) and luggage transfers. are some short sections of road walking or devoted, they could also continue the pilgrims crossed by boat (and modern pilgrims walking alongside the road. Usually there is pilgrimage through southern Italy and onward on the Dover-to- ferry). • You will stay in authentic, quality local little traffic on these roads but please take to . accommodation with friendly hosts. care at all times. Many pilgrims see it as an alternative or The increasing use of the Via Francigena follow-up to Spain’s better known Camino • Our in-house travel agent can book your The route is well marked and together with as a trade route led to the unprecedented de Santiago. flights and pre/post-travel arrangements. our route notes, map and special app, you development of towns along the way, so should have no trouble finding your way. The much so that the name changed to Via traditional markers of the Via Francigena are WHY EXPERIENCE THE VIA FRANCIGENA Romea, no longer defining the origin but now typically combinations of yellow, red and white WITH RAW TRAVEL? the destination. and often feature the symbol of a pilgrim. They RAW Travel has operated active walking can appear on road signs, stone road markers, trips since 2002. We are one of the most experienced operators you can choose. We enjoy providing a friendly, personal service where you’re treated as an individual. We pride ourselves on our staff’s intimate knowledge of the walking routes: we really do ‘know because we go’ and have created walks that show you the best of the area.

When you book a trip with us you will deal with people who’ve done the walk and can answer your many questions about travelling there. As well as speaking to someone in the same time zone as you, you can come along to our free information nights on the Camino routes and join us on our ‘walk and talk’ sessions.

We provide detailed information and notes for your walk that will help your trip go smoothly. You deal with a reputable and experienced

PAGE 10 rawtravel.com/destinations/via-francigena PAGE 11 VIA FRANCIGENA THE MOST AMAZING IS THIS THE RIGHT TRIP FOR ME? accurately judge whether you can cope with the demands of any given trip. EXPERIENCE I HAVE EVER When considering booking a trip it is important that you look at the descriptions in Practise hiking in an environment with the DONE: THE PEOPLE, THE this Destination Guide about accommodation, same equipment that you will take on your food and level of physical difficulty to ensure Italian walk. Your training should prepare you VIEWS AND THE WHOLE that the trip matches your expectations. to walk several hours a day with ascents and Particularly with the physical difficulty rating, descents. It is important to train on terrain it’s vital to select a trip that is realistic for your that is similar to that which you will encounter EXPERIENCE WILL STAY ability. Read through this Destination Guide on your chosen route. See also Getting Fit for and the specific trip itineraries on our this Walk (p22). WITH ME FOR THE REST website before booking. • Read more: How to prepare your mind Physical grading and body for a long-distance walk OF MY LIFE. Walking the Via Francigena is a rewarding physical challenge. We have graded our walks – Kathy Mercer (NSW) WHAT’S IT LIKE UNDERFOOT? on this route 4–5 (Moderate to Challenging). We have used several criteria to assess the Underfoot you will experience a variety of difficulty of our walks, including the number terrain including paved, cobblestone, gravel, of hours walking required each day, terrain and dirt paths, some with loose rocks and/ and conditions underfoot, weather, gradient, or tree roots. You will even come across altitude, signage and facilities along the remnants of original thought to trail. To prepare for walks of this grading, be over 1200 years old. we recommend completing 2 to 3 walks per week (15km+), increasing distances while On the Via Francigena, walking poles are carrying an 8kg pack; some hill/stair walking useful but not essential. They are good for is also recommended. balance and taking weight off your knees on descents. There are a couple of sections that These gradings are intended as a guide and are tougher than others with more inclines, will depend on your individual experience, but generally, the level of walking is moderate. fitness level and mental attitude. See p48 for more information.

Plan and prepare Any long-distance walk deserves respect, time and planning on how to best undertake it. You should prepare for this walk with regular training before you go and let your body adjust to walking comparable distances, day in day out. On most days you will walk between 13km and 25km (4 to 7 hours).

While we often see amazing improvements in people’s fitness with a program of regular training before a trip, you have to be realistic about whether you can commit to regular training with your current lifestyle. If you feel you are unable to commit to doing the training needed to achieve the level of fitness required then you should consider another trip that is less demanding. This is the only way to

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CAMINO DE SANTIAGO PILGRIMAGE ROUTES We also offer Camino de Santiago pilgrimage walks. There are thousands of kilometres of Camino trails across Spain, Portugal and France. See our website for a full list of trips and itineraries.

Camino Francés Portuguese Coastal Camino Le Puy Camino Camino de Finisterre Camino Primitivo (The French Way) A stunning walk from Lisbon A walk through the most A lovely extension to the edge The oldest route to Santiago Spain’s epic pilgrimage trail to Santiago beautiful medieval villages of the world! de Compostela, first taken in in France the 9th century • Also known as: Way of St James; • Starts: Lisbon (Portugal) • Also known as: The Way; Spanish Camino; • Also known as: Finisterre Way • Also known as: Original Way • Ends: Santiago (Spain) El Camino de Santiago Via Podiensis • Starts: Santiago (Spain) • Starts: Lugo (Spain) • Also known as: Caminho da Costa; • Starts : St Jean Pied de Port (France) • Starts : Le Puy-en-Velay The Friendly Camino • Ends: Finisterre (Spain) • Ends: Santiago (Spain) (France) • Ends: Santiago (Spain) • Easily confused with: Camino Portugués • Total distance: 90km • Total distance: 107km • Ends : St Jean Pied de Port • Total distance: 790km (Portuguese Way) (France) • Time required: 3–4 days • Time required: 12 days • Daily distances: 20–30km (5 to 8 hours) • Total distance: 620km • Total distance: 730km • Best time to go: April– • Best time to go: • Time required (full length): 40 days • Daily distances: 20–30km (5 to 9 hours) October April–October • Daily distances: 20–30km • Best time to go: April–June; • Time required (full length): 35 days (5 to 9 hours) • Difficulty*: Moderate • Difficulty *: Moderate September–October (from Lugo) • Best time to go: May–September • Time required (full length): • Highlights : Spectacularly • Difficulty *: 4–6 Moderate to Challenging beautiful route with quiet • Highlights: Steeped in • Difficulty *: 4–5 Moderate to Challenging 40 days woodland paths past medieval pilgrimage history; • Highlights : Timeless villages, vibrant cities, • Best time to go: • Highlights : Vibrant cities, amazing coastal Galician horreos and one of the most beautiful medieval towns and some of the best April–October views, untouched natural beauty remote moors, finishing at and challenging routes. cathedrals in Europe. and seafood. • Difficulty *: 5–6 Moderate the water’s edge. to Challenging (challenging in first 2 weeks) • Highlights : Picturesque fairytale villages, medieval abbeys, vineyards and famous places.

*DIFFICULTY We have graded each RAW Travel trip from 1 (introductory) to 10 (tough). See RAW Travel Trip Gradings (pp48–49) for more information.

PAGE 14 rawtravel.com/destinations/via-francigena PAGE 15 VIA FRANCIGENA WE RELAXED AND SELF-GUIDED WALKING BOOKS TO READ BEFORE YOU GO ENJOYED THE WALK Travelling self-guided allows you to walk Like a Tramp, Like a Pilgrim: from place to place progressing from one On Foot, Across Europe AND THE STRIKINGLY accommodation to the next in your own time. to Rome You walk without a guide, following our trail by Harry Bucknall BEAUTIFUL SCENERY notes and area maps. Harry walks through England,France, Switzerland Luggage transfers are included on all and Italy weaving a historical ALONG THE WAY. trekking days, meaning you will only trek with tapestry liberally coloured a daypack. with tales of angels and saints, emperors and kings and war and revolution. THANKS, RAW TRAVEL The great part about self-guided travel is that He uncovers a little known route that leads you can choose your own travel dates (subject him through vineyards and villages, towns and FOR ALL THE WORK to accommodation availability) and your travel cities and over rivers and mountains to the companions: bring along your private group heart of the Eternal City, ’s Basilica. AND BRILLIANT of family or friends to enjoy a self-guided adventure with you. The Italian Camino by Maggie Ramsay PLANNING, AND FOR The Via Francigena route is along well-defined trails and for the most part is well signed, so Told with humour and a TAKING ME OUT OF you won’t need advanced orienteering skills wide-eyed enjoyment of the but you should be comfortable reading a map, scenery, the artworks, the MY COMFORT ZONE. referring to route notes and independently people of Italy and the many navigating your way along a trail. We do startling surprises along the – Daniela Clarke (VIC) include access to a map app that you can Via Francigena, this takes you download to help you find your way. To on a journey that is entertaining, informative benefit from this tool, you will need to bring and very different. your mobile phone and have a local sim or The Art of Pilgrimage: international roaming phone plan. You need The Seeker’s Guide to Making access to wifi to download the maps but once Travel Sacred downloaded you can use them offline as long by Phil Cousineau as you have GPS on your phone. While not specifically focused on the Via Francigena, this RAW TRAVEL INSIGHTS (BLOGS) book shows that every journey Written by our Destination Experts, our can be sacred, soulful, and RAW Insights are great background reading. transformative if it is undertaken with a desire Here’s a taste: for spiritual risk and renewal.

Top 10 tips for preventing blisters Return To Glow: A Pilgrimage of Transformation in Italy Are there cheap business class fares? by Chandi Wyant An inspiring tale of a woman Travel apps you will actually use! who having gone through Via Francigena: Walking Gambassi Terme to a divorce and suffered a San Gimignano serious illness, turns to the Via Francigena pilgrimage in I lost my heart in...Lucca, Italy! the hope to revive her passion to embrace life. Solo travelers particularly will admire her lone journey from the St Bernard Pass to Rome.

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RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL At RAW Travel we believe in responsible The home of the world’s most famous leaning travel, which means a lot more that staying tower, Pisa has enough charm and attractions safe and respecting the local culture and to warrant a day or two visit. Its ‘Field of customs in the country you are visiting. You Miracles’ square is one of the most beautiful are responsible for making this trip the best it in Italy combining green manicured lawns and can be – read all your notes we send you, use the gorgeous Pisan-Romanesque Duomo and the guidebook, learn some Italian phrases, Baptistry. Stroll along the Arno River to Ponte make sure you are comfortable with self- di Mezzo then down the popular Stretta guided walking, do the right pre-trip training, with its boutiques, cafes and bars. read our blog posts, buy the right gear, wear in your boots, practice walking with poles – Siena and make sure you are prepared to enjoy Situated along three ridges at the southern your adventure. The more prepared you are, end of the Chianti hills, Siena is another the more you will enjoy this walk. UNESCO city not to be missed. The town explodes with excitement during the famous Palio horse race run several times over EXTENDING YOUR TRIP summer in Piazza del Campo. The striking Get the most out of your trip to Italy with a Duomo is jam-packed with artworks by city break. We can take the guesswork out of Bernini, Michelangelo and Donatello and is the bewildering range of hotels and activities only one of many fascinating sites to explore on offer and ensure that you make the most during your visit. of your time. Connect with locals and find the best places to eat, rather than getting lost and feeling overwhelmed about where to start! We can design a city break to your requirements (conditions apply).

Rome Italy’s hot-blooded capital is one of the world’s most romantic and inspiring cities. Ancient icons such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Pantheon recall the city’s golden age, and few cities can rival Rome’s astonishing artistic heritage. Idling around picturesque streets, whiling away hours at streetside cafes, people- watching on pretty piazzas – these are all an integral part of the Roman experience.

Florence The capital of Italy’s Tuscany region is home to many masterpieces of Renaissance art and architecture, and the entire city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Balmy temperatures, al fresco eating and drinking, and a busy open-air arts and concert season make this one of Italy’s most vibrant summer destinations.

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When to walk 22

Getting fit for this walk 22

Accommodation style 23

Meals 23

Maps 25

Health 25

Visas 27

Smart Traveller 27

Travel insurance 27

What to pack 27

Specialist gear recommended for this walk 27

Other items to pack 29

How to book your RAW Travel trip 30

Participation conditions 30

RAW Traveller’s Code 31

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WHEN TO WALK Moderate activities such as walking pose ACCOMMODATION STYLE Dinner little health risk but before starting any new Spring (April – May) and autumn (September On the Via Francigena we use a variety of When Italians go out for dinner, they go all exercise program we recommend that you – October) offer exceptional times to walk in accommodation from well located 3-star out and usually order 4 to 5 courses over see your doctor for a check-up, particularly if Italy. Wild flowers in spring (think red poppies) hotels in the cities, to family run B&Bs and a period of 2 to 4 hours. You will find that you have a medical condition, are aged over and the harvest of grapes (September) and agriturismos (farms) in the country and smaller most ristorantes and trattorias will not open 40 years, are overweight or haven’t exercised olives (October) are big draw-cards to the towns. All accommodation will have private until 7.30pm as it is custom in Italy to eat in a long time. See ‘Is this the right trip for region. Summer can also be a nice time to bathrooms but in true European style, some late. Courses usually consist of an anti-pasto me?’ on p13. visit; June still offers pleasant weather without may have a showerhead over a bath rather (appetiser), primo (first course),secondo (second course), and dolce (dessert). the oppressive heat, but you need to be • Find out more: than a traditional shower. prepared for hotter temperatures in July Getting Walking Fit for the Camino: All accommodations are situated on or near Foods to try and August. Also keep in mind that August is How to prepare for your multi-day trek. European holiday season and the main cities the Via Francigena. • Cured meats such as prosciutto and salami can get very crowded with tourists. • Hand-made gnocchi MEALS • Olive oil from the new harvest (Oct–Nov) GETTING FIT FOR THIS WALK On our Via Francigena trips, daily breakfasts • Cinghiale (wild boar) Walking is one of the most natural things to are included (and the occasional lunch and do, so you may feel that you are already in dinner – see individual trip itineraries). We • Home-made spinach and ricotta ravioli good enough shape. However, you will be GETTING WALKING FIT will advise you where you can buy your lunch • Fagiolli (super tasty beans) walking for many hours over successive days FOR THE CAMINO each day or you can always pack a picnic giving • Gelato, gelato, gelato! carrying a daypack, which is likely very different How to prepare for your multi-day trek you the freedom to stop whenever you wish. to your current walking schedule. Dinner is usually not included as our guests often prefer the freedom to eat on their own Restaurant opening hours We recommend that you undertake a training schedule and budget. We encourage you to From 12.30 to 14.30 for lunch and 19.30 to program according to your level of fitness make the most of the opportunity to sample 22.30 for dinner. In larger cities, they may be for at least 3 months leading up to your the dishes and specialties of the regions that open for longer. departure. Regular exercise prior to the trip Spain | Portugal | France you walk through. There is nothing like a good will allow you to build your fitness steadily so day’s walking to enhance your appreciation of Wine that you will enjoy and complete the trip with a well-cooked meal, and it sets you up for the It is very common in Italy to enjoy wine at a smile and energy left over. next day ahead. lunch and dinner and you will find that even the house vino is particularly good. Some Breakfast popular labels include Chianti, Vernaccia and Breakfast is usually served between 7/8am and EST! EST!! EST!!! 10am, and sometimes in smaller B&Bs you will be asked what time suits you. The breakfasts Special dietary requirements provided by your accommodation will vary While most dietary requests can be catered from a simple coffee and pastry to a more for if we are notified in advance, we may not extensive offering of eggs, cold meats, cheeses, be able to accommodate all needs, so please fruit, yoghurt and cereal. speak with your Destination Expert as early as possible. Lunch Some days you will be able to purchase your lunch in villages along the way at bakeries, bars, pizzerias or cafes. On other days you will need to pack some picnic supplies to take with you. Pizzerias and some bakeries sell pizza by the slice and this makes for a cheap, tasty meal. Bars will often have a selection of panini, pastries and gelati.

PAGE 22 rawtravel.com/destinations/via-francigena PAGE 23 VIA FRANCIGENA FROM THE VERY MAPS If you have any medical conditions you should consult your doctor to assess your FIRST CONTACT, RAW We will provide you with comprehensive suitability of participating in your selected trip daily route maps to complement the detailed before booking. You also need to declare, route notes. In addition to this we will provide TRAVEL STAFF WERE for assessment, any pre-existing medical you with access to an app that allows you to conditions to your travel insurance provider. PROFESSIONAL AND download a map of each of the route sections that you can use offline as long as your phone It is essential that all guests have INFORMATIVE AND THEY has GPS. comprehensive travel insurance. PROVIDED A WEALTH HEALTH First-aid supplies No vaccinations are compulsory; however, We recommend that you carry first-aid tetanus is recommended. Please see supplies for common ailments as well as any OF INFORMATION BEFORE your doctor for up-to-date information on personal medical requirements. Your first-aid supplies should include (but not be limited to): THE TRIP STARTED. recommended vaccinations. Although there are no specific health • Band-aids, bandages and dressings – Phillip & Beth Harris, ACT requirements for this trip, to participate • Blister pads for your feet and zinc tape fully in an active travel experience you need • Antiseptic for cuts and scrapes to be in good physical health. Read the trip itineraries on the website thoroughly and • High factor sunscreen, lip balm then realistically self-assess your physical • Headache tablets ability to complete the trip as described. Our Destination Experts are available to answer • Antihistamine tablets any questions you have to help you choose We recommend using zinc oxide tape/ the most suitable trip for you. moleskin to cover ‘hot spots’ on your feet to stop potential blisters developing.

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Preventing blisters 4. Use hiking wool — a fine wool that wraps Blister treatment Please contact your insurance provider to The key to preventing blisters and avoiding around your toes and prevents them Broken blisters that are leaking fluid should ensure your policy covers you for your specific unnecessary pain is to eliminate friction. rubbing together; many of our clients be disinfected and bandaged. Small blisters needs. Carry a copy of your policy and your Different things work for different people, but swear by it! that are not painful should be left alone insurer’s 24-hour contact details. one thing’s for sure: blisters can be prevented because the best protection against infection with a little bit of effort. The best strategy is to 5. Put cornflour or talcum powder in your is the blister’s own skin. These will heal by Any advice given here is a general guide only. be keep an awareness of your how your feet socks to keep your feet dry. themselves and will be reabsorbed in a few Please research and purchase a policy best are feeling and recognise if there is discomfort days. If you do have blisters, shower in the suited to your needs and circumstances. 6. Keep your toenails short. or a ‘hot spot’ developing. Take off your boots evening to allow your feet to be fully dry when • Find out more: 10 things you need to and see if a sore spot is developing before it you dress them and set off in the morning. 7. Invest in good socks. Use moisture- know about travel insurance turns into a blister. wicking socks and consider double-layers. Experiment with the thickness of your VISAS Here’s a range of blister prevention strategies WHAT TO PACK socks, and change them whenever your different clients have found work for them. Australian citizens visiting Italy do not need feet get wet. Your main luggage is transported for you on There are no hard and fast rules here, what a visa for stays under 90 days. All travellers the trip, so you carry only a daypack. Your trip works for one person may not work for must have a minimum of 6 months validity 8. Apply tape (such as Fixomull) or dressings cost includes daily transfer of one piece of another person as feet are very individual! (after their date of return into Australia) on to reduce friction. It can be difficult to luggage per person on walking days. Pack as Why not test a few out on your training walks their passport. As requirements often change perfect the technique and can be time lightly as possible and keep the weight of your and see if they are effective for you. without notice, it is the client’s responsibility to consuming, so you’ll need to practise. main bag to under 15kg. Keep in mind that check for updated information on visas prior you may have to carry your luggage upstairs 1. Buy comfortable, well-fitting walking boots. to travel. 9. Always carry blister pads in your daypack. in some accommodations. Because of limited The cushioned gel pad immediately 2. Condition your feet by walking, gradually space available in the vehicle please avoid reduces pain and promotes fast healing. www.visalink.com.au building intensity, pace and distance. taking hard, bulky suitcases. You can even use them to prevent blisters. Remember to moisturise your feet with a SMART TRAVELLER You will need to bring a good daypack when good quality foot cream after showering. 10. See a podiatrist if you think the way you Be informed. Be prepared. Stay smart while out walking to carry a few clothing layers, walk might predispose you to blisters. 3. Adjust your laces during your walk so that you are travelling. Smartraveller is provided by lunch/snacks and personal effects. We You might need orthotics. your shoes fit perfectly. Foot swelling and the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs recommend carrying 2 litres of water. different temperatures and terrain will and Trade. It provides up-to-date travel advice Please be aware that laundromats are affect the fit of your boots. for Australians travelling overseas. You can not common in rural areas, so plan to do subscribe to receive free updates, including handwashing of small items if required. about widespread health or security issues.

www.smartraveller.gov.au SPECIALIST GEAR RECOMMENDED FOR THIS WALK TRAVEL INSURANCE Waterproof walking boots or shoes If you are travelling on any trip with RAW Waterproof walking boots or shoes (not Travel you will require comprehensive sneakers) with a good tread and ankle support travel insurance. We sell Cover-More travel are recommended for this walk. Make sure insurance and you can easily get a quote over your footwear is well worn in and comfortable. the phone. No one plans for anything to go We also recommend hiking socks with at least wrong, but if it does we want to make sure one spare pair, as you will find these minimise that you have adequate cover. the chance of getting blisters (see p26).

We highly recommend you purchase cover • Find out more: What boots should I buy as soon as you start booking your travel and how do I look after them? arrangements, and include cancellation cover. Your travel insurance also must include emergency evacuation and medical cover.

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Trekking poles Personal items Trekking poles will give you extra stability, • Blister kit, rehydration salts, mosquito especially when you are tired. We definitely repellent, sunscreen and first-aid kit including recommend them if you have – or have had any personal medications. – any issues at all with sore knees, ankles or • Toiletries hips. They can also be used as a deterrent to stray dogs who can sometimes be a nuisance. • Water bottle(s) or hydration pack (2+ litres recommended) • Find out more: Do I need trekking poles • Hat and high UV sunglasses and which ones should I buy? • Comfortable daypack with rain cover Mobile phone • Waterproof bags for rain protection On self-guided trips you should always carry while walking a fully charged mobile phone. At times, you will be walking in remote areas so it is good Clothing to know that you have the ability to call for • Several pairs of walking socks help should you need it. Mobile coverage is fairly consistent though there may be the odd • T-shirts (lightweight quick drying fabric) place where it cannot be relied upon. Global • Long-sleeved trekking shirts roaming charges can be expensive so pre- • Shorts/lightweight trousers paid cards such as Travel Sim are a good idea: www.travelsim.net.au • Warm fleece, sweater, thermals, hat, gloves (during winter, spring and autumn) You will also need a mobile phone to • Waterproof and breathable rain jacket and access the app from which you can over trousers download your maps. • Spare pair of trainers OTHER ITEMS TO PACK • Swimwear (in warmer months) Travel documents • Lightweight wrap to throw around your • Passport (with photocopies or scanned back- shoulders when entering a church up copy) Keep in mind that churches usually have a • Copy of travel insurance policy and 24-hour strict dress code and expect you to cover your contact number shoulders and knees. Please be respectful and • Airline and other ticket(s) wear the appropriate clothing. • Credit card and spending money in cash (Euros) • Guidebooks, phrasebooks

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HOW TO BOOK YOUR RAW TRAVEL TRIP When you submit your booking form, you are RAW TRAVELLER’S CODE accommodate diverse desires, travel goals, committing to an itinerary and travel dates. personalities, and physical abilities of all Before making a booking, please read this By paying your deposit and completing When arrangements are confirmed, non- group members. Destination Guide thoroughly to make sure your booking forms with us, you signal refundable deposits are paid to suppliers that the Via Francigena is the right walking trip your agreement to the following RAW to secure these bookings. Any changes ✔ RAW Travel leaders may be required to for you. We have compiled lots of important Traveller’s Code: to the itinerary and/or travel dates after improvise and exercise good faith, use information about accommodation, food, discretion and/or make decisions based arrangements have been confirmed will incur ✔ I have chosen a trip that suits my abilities, fitness required, weather and what to expect upon group consensus. These decisions additional charges. level of fitness, and state of health. so that you can make an informed decision. may not always please each individual, but On our website you’ll also find detailed are intended to satisfy the larger desires of itineraries and other important information. PARTICIPATION CONDITIONS ✔ I do not have any physical conditions or disabilities that are a hazard to me or other the group. To travel with RAW Travel you must accept A deposit of AUD$500 per person is due at RAW travellers. the Booking Conditions (online at the ✔ I understand that RAW Travel reserves the time of booking and balance of payment is time of booking), which include the following the right to refuse participation during a required 8 weeks prior to travel. All quotes are ✔ I have a valid passport and all necessary ‘participation conditions’: visas and vaccinations required for travel. tour to anyone whose health or behaviour subject to availability at the time of booking could impede the welfare or enjoyment of and valid for 30 days. Please contact your When booking on one of our trips the applicant ✔ I will read the RAW travel pre-trip materials fellow guests. An individual may be asked Destination Expert for your personalised understands that RAW Travel operates about clothing, medical requirements, and to leave a trip if the leader feels that the booking link. adventure holidays worldwide. In developing culture-specific etiquette. person’s continuing participation may prove countries, the standards of accommodation, detrimental to the individual or the group. transport, safety, hygiene, telecommunication ✔ I will respect the laws and customs of facilities, level of infrastructure development countries visited. ✔ I understand travelling off the beaten track and medical facilities are not equivalent to means access to medical facilities and those familiar to the applicant’s usual living ✔ I will follow environmental guidelines and evacuation services may be limited. arrangements, or would find on a conventional regulations while on the trip in accordance holiday. This type of trip inherently involves with the RAW Travel leader’s direction. ✔ I understand the weather is out of RAW a higher level of personal risk, which the Travel’s control. applicant agrees to fully assume. The applicant ✔ I will respect the rights and privacy of other ✔  acknowledges that travel on a RAW Travel trip trip members. I will always wear a helmet when riding bikes. requires a degree of flexibility, and understands ✔ I will drink alcohol responsibly. that the trip’s route, accommodation and ✔ I understand that travel within a group modes of transport are subject to change invariably involves compromise to without prior notice due to local circumstances. Should RAW Travel deem it advisable to amend an itinerary for any reason, it may do so by shortening, varying or re-routing any trip. These changes are binding and additional expenses will be charged to the applicant if the reason for any major alteration is outside RAW Travel’s control.

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Getting to and from the start of your walk 34

Catching trains in Italy 34

How much water to carry 35

Snacks 35

Pilgrim passport and testimonium 35

Signs and waymarkers 35

Luggage transfers 35

Language 37

Mobile, Wi-Fi and internet coverage 37

Electricity 37

Money 37

Safety on the Via Francigena 38

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GETTING TO AND FROM THE START OF Buying your ticket SNACKS YOUR WALK Please note that often tickets are not Light, high energy food like trail mix, protein You will need to make your own way to the available for purchase until about 3 to bars and dark chocolate are good for snacks. meeting point hotel, details of which will be 6 months prior to travel. It can be beneficial Often you can find small fruit stands in local given to you in your pre-departure documents. to pre-purchase tickets for long distance villages to sample the seasonal fruit on offer. All starting and end points can be accessed by routes (eg, Rome to Florence) in advance as If you have specific dietary requirements or the regional train network. the price can increase the closer you get to certain snacks that you prefer, we suggest you departure. However, this is not necessary bring some from home. Taxis in Italy for regional trains as the price is set and it is very convenient to just purchase your tickets The official taxis are white with an illuminated on arrival at the train station on the day PILGRIM PASSPORT AND TESTIMONIUM taxi sign on the roof. All taxis are fitted with a of departure. meter: at the end of the journey, the left hand You will be provided with a Pilgrims side of the meter will display the fare due passport which documents the stages of Important: When you conduct a search including any surcharges for Sundays, public the Via Francigena that you travel along. on the Trenitalia website, you will need to holidays and night time rides. The right hand You can get the passport stamped at your enter the Italian name for the city eg, Firenze side of the meter will show the radio taxi call, accommodation, tourist offices, churches (Florence) and Roma (Rome) and select the baggage supplements and finally the total and some restaurants and bars. This is a nice station most convenient to your location. amount to be paid. Taxi drivers are obliged memento for each pilgrim. Please note that to switch the meter on at the start of the you are only able to receive a testimonium Purchasing your tickets at the (certificate) from the Vatican if you walk the journey; check that it is running as you depart train station for your destination. last 100km into Rome. Purchasing your tickets at a train station is an easy process. Some larger stations have There are always plenty of taxis at the airport, SIGNS AND WAYMARKERS but when in the city you may have to phone staffed ticket counters; however, the self- service machines are quick and easy to use. The Italian section of the Via Francigena is for one as it can be difficult to find one HOW MUCH WATER TO CARRY available that will stop for you on the street. Select the English flag and follow the steps fairly well signed but you will need to keep an to buy your tickets. You must remember to Dehydration is the biggest risk when eye out for the different signs that mark the Private transfers can be arranged upon request. validate your ticket at one of the machines undertaking physical activity. It is vital to be way. We will provide you with detailed maps (usually on or near the platforms), before aware of your fluid intake and to constantly and comprehensive walk notes to help you boarding the train. For more information on along your way. In addition to this, we will also CATCHING TRAINS IN ITALY drink water throughout the day, even when purchasing tickets and travelling by train in you do not feel thirsty. It is recommended to provide access to an app that allows you to Trenitalia is the Italian train network. You can Italy, Seat 61 is a good resource. carry between 1.5 and 2 litres of water on your download a map of each section of the walk. check schedules and book tickets on their walk, more in hot weather. Always ensure you website: www.trenitalia.com have enough to get to your next destination as LUGGAGE TRANSFERS there may not always be a water fountain you can refill at. Your main luggage will be transferred to your next accommodation on all walking days. It Tap water is safe to drink although sometimes will be picked up from your accommodation has a chlorinated taste. Often in cities and each morning, so you’ll need to have it villages you will see water fountains with packed and ready by 9am. When you check running water. These drinking fountains are in to your accommodation each day, ask safe to drink from. In the mountains there are where you should leave your luggage in the many natural springs where villagers prefer morning. Your luggage will be delivered by to get their drinking water (although it is not 4pm each day. Please clearly mark ALL of checked by the health authorities). In general your luggage to avoid delays, mix ups or you can rely on springs if the water runs loss. If you are unable to walk on a given freely and abundantly from a pipe but your day, you can ask the person in charge of the body may not be used to the higher mineral luggage transport if you can transfer with the content. Drinking spring water is at your own luggage. However, please note that this is not risk. Please note that a sign reading “non- always possible and sometimes you will have potabile” means “do not drink”. to pay a small fee locally. Occasionally the

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vehicle is not suitable for transferring people smaller accommodations it can sometimes or they do not have insurance to provide be intermittent or slow. this service. To call Italy, you need to dial +39 prior to the You are limited to one medium-sized suitcase phone number. To call within Italy, dial 0039 per person. Additional luggage may incur before the area code and the phone number. extra fees. Keep in mind that you may have All landline area codes start with a ‘0’ while to carry your luggage upstairs at some mobile phone numbers start with a ‘3’. accommodations so it is best to keep your luggage weight to under 15kg. We highly recommend that you download to your mobile the following free apps, which are more cost effective than standard Australian LANGUAGE mobile phone carrier charges. Italy is a surprisingly formal society. Greet people in shops, restaurants and bars with a www.whatsapp.com ‘buon giorno’ (good morning) or ‘buonasera’ www.skype.com/en (good evening); for friends, kiss both cheeks www.viber.com/en and say ‘come sta’ (how are you). ELECTRICITY Useful Italian phrases In Italy, 2-pin round plugs are used. The Good morning Buon giorno standard voltage is 220V and the frequency Goodbye Ciao is 50 Hz. How are you? Come sta? I only speak a little So soltanto un ’ di MONEY Italian italiano The official currency of Italy is the euro, Do you speak Parla inglese? abbreviated to €. At the time of writing, English? the exchange rate was: AUD$1= €0.65. A Yes Si lot of Italy is still largely cash-based. Most No No bancomats (Italian ATMs) let you get money out without a fee. Please Per favore Thank you Grazie Tipping You’re welcome Prego When eating out in Italy, there is sometimes Excuse me Mi scusi a charge called a coperto, which should be clearly stated somewhere on the menu. It usually ranges from 1–3 euros per person. It is MOBILE, WI-FI AND INTERNET not a tip, but a cover charge to offset the price COVERAGE of bread, oil, salt and anything else you might Mobile coverage is fairly consistent though be using. The servizio is a tip, so there is no there may be the odd place where it need to leave anything more if you have been cannot be relied upon. Global roaming charged this fee. It is usually only used for charges are very expensive and pre-paid groups of 8 or more. If there is no coperto or cards such as Travel Sim are a good idea: servizio, then it’s up to you how much you tip. www.travelsim.net.au Some phone Tips are not expected but appreciated. operators such as Optus offer low-cost travel A guideline in restaurants is 5–10% of the bill. packs – check with your operator for deals Tips are normally left on the table or given and coverage. Free Wi-fi is available in most to the waiter directly in cash, they are never of the accommodations we book but in added to a credit card payment.

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Spending money Emergency funds experience. We do recommend that if of your chair, and wearing a money belt will Every traveller is different and therefore Ensure you have access to additional travelling alone you carry trekking poles or reduce any chance that your valuables should spending money requirements will vary. funds to be used if unforeseen incidents a walking stick in the off chance that you go missing. Some travellers may drink more than others or circumstances outside our control (e.g. encounter some nuisance dogs. while other travellers like to purchase more a natural disaster) necessitate a change to Health souvenirs than most. Please consider your your planned route. This is a rare occurrence Hunting We recommend that you carry a basic own spending habits when it comes to but we recommend being prepared. Some Hunting is quite common throughout Italy. first-aid kit along with any medications or allowing for drinks, shopping, souvenirs and comprehensive travel insurance companies The season usually starts mid-September but epi-pens if you have specific allergies. Also other personal expenses. will make payments on your behalf in an the official start date varies each year. More make sure you have emergency contact emergency. Some more basic covers require often than not, you will only hear shots in the numbers in your phone or in an easy to reach Cash & ATMs you to pre-pay yourself then make a claim. Do distance; however, if you hear shooting near place when you go out walking each day. In There are a large number of ATM cash points your research before you travel. you, please make your presence obvious to the event of any medical emergency, please that accept Visa and MasterCard at towns and the hunters. Wearing brighter clothing through ensure you make immediate contact with your forest sections is a good precaution. Please travel insurance provider on their 24-hour cities along the Via Francigena; however, some SAFETY ON THE VIA FRANCIGENA smaller towns will not have these facilities so chat with your Destination Expert if you have assistance number. we recommend that you take out enough Overall the Via Francigena is very safe. any questions or concerns. cash in the bigger cities to last throughout Learning some Italian phrases will help you get If you are travelling on the Via Francigena your walk. Credit cards are accepted in major the most out of your trip and feel confident Dogs and you can no longer walk due to injury, you restaurants and shops. about interacting with locals. In rural areas you may encounter dogs. can contact our bilingual local representative Do not panic and continue to walk past the who will assist you in arranging transport and Let your bank know in advance that you Solo travellers often undertake the Via dog, waving a stick or your trekking poles if medical services. are travelling overseas and will be making Francigena alone. While we recommend necessary. If the dog persists in bothering purchases and cash withdrawals so that that you take care in being aware of your you, a more aggressive approach could be your account is not locked due to suspicious surroundings and execute common sense required in the form of pretending to or, in activity. Also confirm your daily withdrawal and caution, walking the Via Francigena extreme cases, actually throwing stones to limit, and applicable fees. on your own can be a very rewarding deter the dog.

Fire precautions Local laws in Europe governing tourism facilities differ from those in Australia or your home country and not all the accommodation that we use may have a fire exit, fire extinguishers or smoke alarms.

Traffic and driving If you come from Australia, please note that drivers in Europe drive on the opposite side of the road from what you are used to. If you are cycling, make sure you cycle on the correct side and look both ways before crossing any road.

Petty theft While travelling there is always the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in bigger tourist cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and only on main, well- lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back

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About RAW Travel 42

Our people 42

Our commitment 43

Expert, friendly service 43

Giving back & treading lightly 44

Free resources to help you plan your trip 44

Destination websites with unrivalled information 45

RAW Adventures News 45

Follow us on Facebook 45

Free travel information nights 45

‘Walk and talk’ days 46

Book your flights with us 46

Travel insurance 46

City breaks 46

RAW Travel Trip Gradings 48

PAGE 40 rawtravel.com/destinations/via-francigena PAGE 41 SECTION 4: RAW TRAVEL VIA FRANCIGENA

ABOUT RAW TRAVEL ride. The spirit of RAW Travel remains the same – creating inspiring active journeys that Why book your trip with RAW Travel? RAW Travel specialises in iconic walks offer genuine interaction with the people and worldwide. We are a small family owned Our trips are flexible and tailored to you! cultures we visit, backed by a personal but operator on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula expert service. that is highly regarded for great value, • We listen to our walkers; we’ll plan an itinerary to suit your needs and ability. outstanding customer service and reviews, Come and visit us at our beachside location experienced tour guides, and excellent in the coastal town of Mornington. Make an • We operate our own trips. accommodation and food. appointment with one of our Destination Experts and afterwards browse the many • We have staff dedicated to each destination: We provide a friendly, personal and trusted shops, cafes, beaches or nearby vineyards of you get first-hand advice from people who service. We pride ourselves on the intimate the Mornington Peninsula. know the walks. knowledge we have of our chosen walking destinations, which allows us to create • We have our own staff in-country, so help is exciting journeys for our clients while taking OUR PEOPLE never far away should you need it. meticulous care of all the details. We have an experienced, dedicated passionate team in our Mornington Head • We offer authentic travel with 18 years’ We offer walks for complete beginners Office, as well as expert guides and support experience. through to demanding treks that will satisfy staff on the ground in Europe, Japan and and thrill even veteran adventurers. Australia. Our staff have many things in common, including a passion for walking, Over the years, we have organised countless OUR COMMITMENT EXPERT, FRIENDLY SERVICE trips to far flung corners of the globe and a love of adventure travel in beautiful and introduced many thousands of happy historic locations, and the ability to go above We won’t cut corners or ever intentionally We’re a specialist company and we enjoy travellers to their first long distance walk or and beyond to make our clients’ travel dreams compromise the quality of your trip. We don’t providing a friendly, personal service where become a reality. want to run thousands of trips every year you’re treated as an individual – no call – because the quality of your experience is centres here! much more important than quantity to us. We’re still small enough to care about our travellers as individuals and we want to stay that way! At RAW Travel we don’t just We know that people desire a certain level of comfort along with their adventure, so great plan your travel, we take our accommodation and discovering delicious clients on a journey. From local food is a hallmark of our trips. RAW owns and operates its own adventures, your research and ideas we with our own staff on the ground in many destinations so we are able to keep control work with you to plan your over the quality of our trips at the same time dream travel experience. as we offer you reassurance and support. We take notice of the feedback you give us and We consider your fitness your opinions do matter. levels, your achievements, As a primarily ‘direct to customer’ company we avoid the commissions and overheads your motivations and then associated with the traditional travel distribution network. We charge fair prices together we map out but still provide great advice before you go, every step of the journey. experienced leaders who love their groups, good quality accommodation and solid value for your money.

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Our Destination Experts deliver a level of FREE RESOURCES TO HELP YOU PLAN DESTINATION WEBSITES WITH FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK advice and experience that comes from being YOUR TRIP UNRIVALLED INFORMATION We love connecting with like-minded travellers 100% focused on our chosen walks, rather We’ve got inspirational brochures, essential on social media and we’d like you to be part of than hundreds of different trips, as is often Visit our destination websites for unrivalled preparation guides, comprehensive destination our RAW community. We regularly share tips the case with bigger companies. We pride expert information and insights. You’ll find guides, weekly blog posts and more! and resources, as well as photos and stories ourselves on our intimate knowledge of our photo galleries, route information, resources, from other travellers and our staff. Like and chosen walking destinations and we really do trail history and lots more! follow us, and be sure to give us a shout out to “know because we go”. rawtravel.com say hello. We really enjoy reading comments Our staff take these walks each year and from our community of travellers! share their insider insights with you to caminodesantiago.com.au GETTING WALKING FIT help create exciting journeys where you FOR THE CAMINO kumanokodo.com.au can experience the best of your chosen How to prepare for your multi-day trek GETTING WALKING FIT FOR HIKING IN JAPAN www.facebook.com/rawtravel/ destination, while being reassured that all the details are taken care of. Help is never How to prepare for your multi-day trek montblanctreks.com.au far away should you need it from our locally greatoceanwalk.info FREE TRAVEL INFORMATION NIGHTS based staff and suppliers. Spain | Portugal | France We love meeting our clients face-to-face and RAW ADVENTURES NEWS getting to know them. Twice a year we travel GIVING BACK & TREADING LIGHTLY around Australia and New Zealand to talk It’s easy to stay up-to-date on all things Our trips have helped raise over $A18 million about a selection of our iconic walks. If you RAW with our free monthly e-news. in funds for 40+ charities in Australia and have ever wanted to experience an iconic walk It’s bursting with traveller’s stories and overseas through our charity challenges. We with RAW Travel then you will want to attend information about new trips and insights. are proud to have been part of so many great GETTING WALKING FIT one of these events. We guarantee you’ll be FOR THE EUROPEAN If you’re not already a subscriber, it’s easy inspired by trip insights, videos and stunning fundraising initiatives that have substantially How to prepare for your multi-day trek GETTING WALKING FIT to register. impacted and improved people’s lives. images from our Destination Experts. FOR NEPAL How to prepare for your multi-day trek Find out more: rawtravel.com In today’s world travelling lightly is no longer Find out more: Raw Travel Events just an admirable sentiment but a necessity. Tour du Mont Blanc | Italian Dolomites | Swiss Alps We always look for ways to improve our impact on the ground by monitoring our group’s environmental and cultural impacts. At RAW, we have achieved advanced eco-certification on our Great Ocean Walk and have always been committed to ‘grass roots’ tourism. GETTING WALKING FIT FOR In particular we favour small local suppliers to THE COAST TO COAST PATH ensure the benefits of travel are distributed How to prepare for your multi-day trek GETTING WALKING FIT FOR equally and to the people who need it the THE GREAT OCEAN WALK most. We also donate to KIVA micro-lending How to prepare for your multi-day trek throughout the world and encourage you to also look at this commendable scheme.

So, rest assured, your travel with us will leave a positive, lasting impact on you and the places you visit.

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‘WALK AND TALK’ DAYS Any advice given here is a general guide only. Please research and purchase a policy best We love to walk and we love to talk! During suited to your needs and circumstances. the year, we regularly offer opportunities (in Victoria) to walk with our Destination Find out more: 10 things you need to know Experts and ask questions about your chosen about travel insurance destination, pre-departure preparation and gear. We limit these walks to between 20 and 25 people (depending on the location). The CITY BREAKS pace in generally relaxed so there is plenty of Get the most from your time in Europe with time to chat. one of our city breaks. Our city breaks offer the chance to explore and get an insider view Find out more: RAW Travel Events with locals, try cultural activities and stay in unique and well located hotels. They take the BOOK YOUR FLIGHTS WITH US guesswork out of the bewildering range of hotels and activities on offer in the big cities RAW Travel is a Business Class and Premium and ensure that you can make the most of Economy Flights Specialist. We will find you your limited time. Connect with locals and find the best deals and make sure you arrive the best places to eat instead of spending well-rested to start your walk. Our in-house your time getting lost or feeling overwhelmed travel agents take the stress out of planning about where to start! all the travel arrangements around your walk. They can book your international flights, give Find out more: RAW Travel City Breaks you advice about land transfers to the start of your walk, organise the perfect city break, and more! For a personalised service that you won’t find on online booking sites, along with specific destination knowledge you won’t necessarily find with your own travel agent, contact our Flights Department today at the RAW Travel office on (03) 5976 3763 or email [email protected]

Find out more: RAW Travel Flights

TRAVEL INSURANCE If you are travelling on any trip with RAW Travel you will require comprehensive travel insurance. We sell Cover-More travel insurance and you can easily get a quote over the phone. No one plans for anything to go wrong, but if it does we want to make sure that you have adequate cover.

We highly recommend you purchase cover as soon as you start booking your travel arrangements, and include cancellation cover. Your travel insurance also must include emergency evacuation and medical cover.

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Introductory Moderate Challenging Strenuous Tough Grade 1–2 Grade 3–4 Grade 5–6 Grade 7–8 Grade 9–10 Fitness/ Basic fitness level Good health and Good base Good aerobic High level of RAW TRAVEL TRIP GRADINGS experience required. a reasonable level of fitness; conditioning fitness and required standard of experience recommended, experience RAW Travel offers a range of multi-day TRIP GRADINGS fitness. walking in remote along with trekking in high walks for complete beginners through to areas. experience mountains and Camino de Santiago Routes demanding treks that will satisfy and thrill walking in remote areas. even veteran adventurers. We have graded Portuguese Coastal Camino | mountains and on longer each RAW Travel trip from 1 (introductory) 4–5 Moderate to Challenging duration walks. to 10 (tough). Spanish Route | 4–6 Moderate to Challenging Overview Relatively easy Walking that Longer duration More demanding Long days; Our grading system is intended to differentiate Le Puy Route (France) | 5–6 Challenging walking on well- is generally walks where walking with a continually only the walks that RAW Travel offers, so formed paths moderate but conditions fairly consistent demanding; they won’t necessarily match another travel Italy’s Via Francigena with no difficult with some underfoot will be level of effort long ascents company’s assessment of their trips. terrain. Generally more strenuous fair to uneven required. and descents; Via Francigena | 4–5 Moderate to Challenging flat or undulating sections. Regular with potential for steep gradients. We have used several criteria to assess the with no long ascending and slippery or rocky Potential for difficulty of each walk we offer, including the Japan uphill sections. descending may surfaces. extreme variation number of hours walking required each day, Nakasendo Way | 4–6 Moderate to Challenging be required. in weather at terrain and conditions underfoot, weather, higher altitudes. gradient, altitude, signage and facilities – Kumano Kodo | 6–7 Challenging to Strenuous Daily hours/ Short hikes; 2 to 4 to 7 hours 5 to 8 hours 6 to 8+ hours / 7 to 10 hours / basic accommodation and food in remote km 6 hours walking / walking / up to hiking / 25km up to 30km up to 30km areas will contribute to a walk being graded European Alps up to 15km 20km per day. per day. per day. per day. Swiss Alps | 6–7 Challenging to Strenuous more difficult. Keep in mind that if a walk is per day. graded moderate, it doesn’t mean you will Compacted Fairly even Variable terrain. Usually High pass never feel tired. Tour Du Mont Blanc | 7 Strenuous Terrain and path quality trail. Fairly even surfaces. mountainous crossings in Our multi-day walks require a suitable Italian Dolomites | 7 Strenuous surfaces. Well terrain. May remote areas. level of physical preparation. More detail signposted, well- include high is provided in our essential free guides to Nepal maintained trail. pass crossings in getting walking fit, which are available for Annapurna Trails | remote areas. each of our destinations. 6–7 Challenging to Strenuous Max altitude Below 1000m 1500m 2500m 4000m 5500m Everest Monasteries Trek | Facilities Comfortable Comfortable Generally Overnighting Basic WALKING & HIKING 6–7 Challenging to Strenuous accommodation accommodation comfortable in basic accommodation, and good food. and good food. accommodation accommodation/ limited variety Walking and hiking are mainly leisure activities Upper Mustang | 7–8 Strenuous and good food; mountain of food, limited that involve well-made trails and roads, often occasionally refugios. Food recourse to on purpose made paths, such as pilgrimage Everest Base Camp | 8 Strenuous more basic choices limited medical facilities. trails and low mountain trails. conditions. and often more England basic. TREKKING Coast to Coast Path | Preparation 1 to 2 walks per 1 to 2 walks per 2 to 3 walks per 2 to 3 walks 2 to 4 walks 6–7 Challenging to Strenuous Trekking refers to long continuous point-to- required week (10km week (15km week, increasing per week at per week at each) each) distances while a reasonable a reasonable point journeys on foot in areas where there Australia carrying an 8kg pace and longer pace, and longer is usually no other transport. Trekking is not Great Ocean Walk | 3–4 Moderate pack; some distances with distances with an mountaineering; it is walking for a number of hill walking an 8kg pack; 8kg pack; must days on often rudimentary trails in challenging Yoga Hiking Adventures stairs, or heavy regular hill / include long environments, which are likely hilly or Japan | 4–6 Moderate to Challenging sand walking mountain walking duration hikes on mountainous. Nepal, the Himalayas, Pakistan recommended. or stairs, heavy steep hills and in and South America are good examples of Portuguese Coastal Camino | 3–4 Moderate sand walking is mountains. trekking countries. necessary. Nepal | 6–7 Challenging to Strenuous

PAGE 48 PAGE 49 CAMINO De SANTIAGO KUMANO KODO

Spain’s epic pilgrimage trail Hiking ancient paths in traditional Japan

PORTUGUESE COASTAL CAMINO EUROPEAN ALPS

A stunning walk from Porto The breathtaking Tour Du Mont Blanc, to Santiago de Compostela Italian Dolomites & Swiss Alps

GREAT OCEAN WALK COAST TO COAST

A walk of wild and wonderful discovery Wild England – Moors, Fells, Dales and Tarns

YOGA & HIKING TRIPS NEPAL

Renew your spirit Himalayan trekking with a difference

LE PUY CAMINO NAKASENDO WAY Australia’s most innovative and inspiring walking company 1300 208 245 | [email protected] | www.rawtravel.com | Walk through the most beautiful Walking in the heart of old Japan

medieval villages of France We donate 10% of our profits Our trips are 100% to give back to the planet at carbon neutral. no additional cost to you.