Cycle the Via Francigena ‑ Siena to Rome

cycle the via francigena ‑ siena to rome

A UTracks active holiday is all about exploring Europe your way. It’s about walking or cycling the incredible trails of Europe and becoming completing immersed in your travel experience. Since we began in 2006, UTracks has been the leader in active European holidays. Our itineraries have always been creative, rewarding, and very affordable. With over 450 active trips across the continent, UTracks offers unique opportunities explore europe your way to discover an untrodden Europe that spans postcard‑perfect landscapes, centuries‑old cultures, rural lifestyles and tempting gastronomic delights. You can choose to set your own pace on a flexible self guided journey or enjoy the benefits of an experienced local guide on a small group tour. We cater to all fitness abilities with our honest graded system that defines our trips from introductory to challenging. Plus we offer exceptional value with many inclusions on all our trips, allowing you more freedom to enjoy the natural and cultural wonders of Europe. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2‑star or 4‑star, small group or self guided, land, river or sea – UTracks helps you explore Europe exactly the way you want.

TRIP COST TRIP NAME: CYCLE THE VIA FRANCIGENA Joining Siena from : $2700 ‑ SIENA TO ROME Siena Trip Concludes: Rome TRIP CODE: VF3 All prices are per person TRIP DURATION: 9 DAYS Viterbo OPTIONS & GRADE: MODERATE ‑ 3 Rome SUPPLEMENTS Italy H - high season surcharge: $41 ACTIVITY: 7 DAY SELF GUIDED CYCLE

Electric bike ACCOMMODATION: 8 NIGHTS IN 3 STAR supplement: $240 HOTELS AND B&BS single supplement: $560 DATE DETAILS: DAILY FROM 1 APR TO 31 OCT single traveller surcharge: $620 highlights As the trip price is based on twinshare, Exploring the renowned cities of Siena and Rome a single supplement is payable if you are not sharing with a friend / Admiring the sunset over Lake Bolsena family member ‑ or a single traveller Walking barefoot on the Via Cassia in Montefiascone and visiting the Rocca for great views supplement if you are travelling solo*. Discovering the thermal pool in Bagno Vignoni, the amphitheatre of Sutri, and the pilgrim district Please refer to the price options for costs or ask our office for details. in Viterbo Note regarding single rooms ‑ The single supplement guarantees the privacy of your own room, however, rooms can at times be small and in the trip some places may not enjoy the same As you cycle this section of the Via Francigena you will feel like you’re cycling in a postcard. Each facilities as double/twin rooms. day you will marvel at the passing scenery ‑ from the vineyards and rolling hills of Tuscany, to the *The single traveller surcharge is only available on trips deemed suitable fascinating villages of Umbria, to the beauty of Lake Bolsena, and finally the magnificent Eternal City for solo travellers. It is usually more of Rome. Beginning in the historic town of Siena you will cross the Val d’Arbia and the Val d’Orcia, expensive than the single supplement due to the extra cost for luggage both icons of the Tuscan landscape. You will continue to Bagno Vignoni, with its enormous thermal transfers and organisation. pool in the centre of the square, and Radicofani, whose fortress dominates southern Tuscany. As IMPORTANT NOTES you make your way towards Rome you will be amazed by the beauty of Lake Bolsena, and charmed by the ancient paving stones of the Via Cassia, still intact after 2000 years. You will be enchanted H - High Season DN1 - High season is 1 Apr to by the medieval center of Viterbo, which has an entire district dedicated to the pilgrim. You will 30 Jun and 24 Aug to 31 Oct cycle to the ancient Etruscan roads and to the Roman amphitheatre of Sutri. The last cycle day and a supplement applies. brings you along a beautiful cycle path straight into the heart of Rome, to your final destination of St. Peter’s Square. You will also be able to appreciate the true Italian flavours, sampling delicacies of the vineyards of the Brunello di Montalcino, the cheese produced in the zones of the cacio di Pienza, and the famed extra‑virgin olive oil produced between Bolsena and Montefiascone.

itinerary at a glance Day 1 Arrive Siena Day 2 Cycle to San Quirico d’Orcia past vineyards and fortified towns (54km/33.5mi) Day 3 Enjoy fabulous views of the Val D’Orcia enroute to Radicofani (37km or 42km/23 or 26mi) Day 4 Cycle along the old Via Cassia to Lake Bolsena (55km/34mi) Day 5 Continue through woods and olive groves to Viterbo (33km/20.5mi) Day 6 Cycle to Sutri and its Roman amphitheatre (38km/23.5mi) Day 7 Continue to Formello past the Mount Gelato Waterfalls & the Veio Nature Park (34km/21mi) Day 8 Final stage across the countryside of Lazio to Rome (34km/21mi) Day 9 Trip concludes in Rome

detailed itinerary DAY 1 Arrive Siena Make your own way to the first hotel in Siena. Siena is one of the most beautiful towns along the Francigena. You will be able to spend the day walking through its paved streets, looking for coats-of-arms on the walls of the contradas, or climbing the Torre del Mangia to enjoy a unique view over the town. A visit to the Duomo is not to be missed and you will marvel at its black and white columns. If you are lucky you will be able to witness a festival in one of the contradas, and see the work of the skilled flag-throwers, before sitting down at a table in Piazza del Campo to enjoy a plate of pici all’aglione for dinner, admiring the illuminated Palazzo Pubblico square. meals: NIL DAY 2 Cycle to San Quirico d’Orcia past vineyards and fortified towns (54km/33.5mi) The cycle today over the Crests of the Val d’Arbia offers unforgettable views. You will start the day cycling along the typical dirt roads of Siena, pedaling as far as the fortified village of Lucignano, with its fine Church. At the gates of Monteroni d’Arbia you can admire the impressive Grancia di Cuna, a fortified farm which held the reserves of wheat for the republic of Siena. From Lucignano continue through the Valle dell’Ombrone to the well preserved 14th century village of Buonconvento, the most important centre in the Val d’Arbia. You will cross the gate of the walls and enter the fine town centre, discovering why its name translates to “happy fortunate place”, before getting back on your bike and cycling to San Quirico over a mix of dirt and asphalted roads. The final section includes beautiful views of the Val D’Orcia, and the route is scattered with vineyards and cypress trees. Arriving in San Quirico you will be enchanted by the gate of the Collegiata. This evening you can enjoy a rest among the hedges of the Horti Leonini, a 16th century classic Italian garden. Ascent 650m/2132ft, descent 490m/1608ft meals: B

DAY 3 Enjoy fabulous views of the Val D’Orcia enroute to Radicofani (37km or 42km/23 or 26mi) Today your journey continues with fabulous views of the Val D’Orcia. Just beyond San Quirico you will enter a timeless world, visiting Vignoni Alto. You can also enjoy a reinvigorating dip in the thermal waters of Bagno Vignoni. You will test your strength with a short but demanding section which will take you to Radicofani. Stick it out, because when you admire the view from the Radicofani Fortress, tired but satisfied, you will be thankful for your efforts. You can also visit the Pieve di San Pietro, a little jewel dating from the 13th century, and take an evening walk in the old town centre, admiring the magic of the illuminated Fortress. Ascent 650m/2132ft or 650m/2132ft, descent 455m/1493ft or 650m/2132ft meals: B,D DAY 4 Cycle along the old Via Cassia to Lake Bolsena (55km/34mi) From Radicofani you will head towards one of the most exciting sections of the Via Francigena, leaving the Fortress behind you and travelling along the old Via Cassia, surrounded by scenery of infinite hills dominated by Monte Amiata. You can walk in silence in the Romanesque crypt beneath the Basilica del Santo Sepolcro, among decorated capitals and arches where, according to tradition, some stones bathed in the blood of Christ have been kept. Your journey will continue gently as Lake Bolsena starts to come into view. From here you descend into a volcanic crater and continue along dirt tracks. Your surrounds will alternate between thick woods and meadows scattered with olive trees, as you head towards Bolsena. If you are curious to see proof of the miracle of the Corpus Domini, for which Bolsena is famous, visit the Cappella del Miracolo where some marble slabs stained by the blood pouring from a Host in the 13th century are kept. If, instead, you are more interested in the typical cuisine you can try some local delicacies, including the Sbroscia, a typical soup made from lake fish and tomatoes. Ascent 620m/2034ft or 840m/2756ft, descent 610m/2000ft or 610m/2000ft meals: B DAY 5 Continue through woods and olive groves to Viterbo (33km/20.5mi) Today you will cycle through woods and olive groves, on a route that will offer constant views of the lake. You will cross an area famous for the production of extra virgin olive oil, which we recommend you sample on a piece of fragrant local bread. Arrive in Montefiascone, where the climb up to the Rocca is not to be missed for panoramic views. On descent from the Rocca, you can go into a typical wine bar and taste a glass of wine from the famous Est!Est!!Est!!! region of Montefiascone. If you want to spoil yourself a little more, you can enjoy a pleasant break at the spas of Bagnaccio, recharging your batteries in its thermal waters, before cycling towards Viterbo, your destination for today. In honour of the history of the Via Francigena, do not miss visiting the picturesque pilgrim’s quarter, before admiring the splendid Palazzo dei Papi and enjoying the silence of the Longobard cloisters of Santa Maria Nuova. End the day on a sweet note by celebrating your journey with the delicious local frittellacce. Ascent 545m/1788ft, descent 420m/1378ft meals: B

DAY 6 Cycle to Sutri and its Roman amphitheatre (38km/23.5mi) From Viterbo the journey continues towards Vetralla, a town located in the heart of the ancient Etrurian territory. Continue pedaling through the Lazio countryside before arriving in Sutri, a small town that is rich in attractions. The Roman amphitheatre, dug from the tufa, is not to be missed. Here you can sit on the terraces or even walk onto the stage. As you leave the amphitheatre remember to sign the visitors’ register as it is very important to the custodian, and if he is there he will invite you to do so. After this, you can proceed to the church of Santa Maria del Partro, where the tufa walls are decorated with beautiful frescoes. Be sure to look for the group of pilgrims among the images, who are depicted in prayer with their sticks in their hand. Ascent 420m/788ft, descent 510m/1673ft meals: B,D DAY 7 Continue to Formello past the Mount Gelato Waterfalls & the Veio Nature Park (34km/21mi) From Sutri you will cycle towards Campagnano and then Formello. During today’s ride you will pass the Mount Gelato Waterfalls, where you can stop for a reinvigorating dip (weather permitting). Continuing along the panoramic road of the Veio Nature Park will bring you to the gates of Campagnano. Here you can rest in the Venturi Park, home to a three-hundred year old Yew tree which the locals call the “Tree of Death”. But don’t worry, you can sit in its shade without any danger! Continue through the Veio Nature Park, with its woody hills, before entering the enchanting Valle del Sorbo. Along the way you will be able to admire the sanctuary of the Madonna del Sorbo and you will later arrive in Formello, with its medieval buildings. Ascent 534m/1759ft, descent 590m/1936ft meals: B DAY 8 Final stage across the countryside of Lazio to Rome (34km/21mi) Today marks the last cycle of the trip, with just 34km between you and the Eternal City. This morning you will continue across the countryside of Lazio, which you would never guess lies so close to a metropolis. You will need to cross a brief section of trafficked roads to reach the cycle path of River Tevere, an enchanting slow path which will lead you to the gates of Vatican City. Your cycling journey will end in St Peter’s Square. Don’t forget to take a triumphant photograph in front of the Basilica, before celebrating the end of your journey. Tonight you can sample some delicious local food - we recommend the spring lamb (in season), pecorino romano cheese, and perhaps a delicious maritozzo with cream. Ascent 155m/509ft, descent 280m/919ft meals: B DAY 9 Trip concludes in Rome Arrangements conclude after breakfast. Extra nights can be arranged in Rome. meals: B

inclusions 8 breakfasts, 2 dinners 8 nights in charming B&Bs and 3 star hotels (hotel taxes extra, payable locally ‑ allow €10) Information pack including route notes and maps per room booked, plus app to download and navigate the route Luggage transfer from day 2 to day 8 (max 1 piece per person) Emergency hotline Hybrid 21 speed rental bike with front bag map holder, odometer, pannier, lock, repair kit and helmet bike theft insurance pilgrim passport

items not included Travel to Siena and from Rome Lunches and dinner daily (except dinner on day 3 and 6) and all beverages Entrance fees to museums, parks and archaeological sites Items of a personal nature Tour guide – this is a self guided trip Travel insurance Hotel taxes (allow €14) getting there BY CAR Driving routes can be accessed via the following websites: www.viamichelin. com BY TRAIN There are regular trains to Siena from points throughout Italy. For timetables see the Trenitalia website at www.trenitalia.com/en/index.html. If you would like assistance with any of your train ticket bookings, please speak with your UTracks consultant or travel agent. BY AIR The nearest airport is Pisa. For longhaul flights the closest airport is Milan or Rome. If travelling from Milan, take the train from the airport (Malpensa) to Milano Centrale, the main station in Milan. From here you take the train to Siena. There are hourly trains taking approx. 2 hour and 45 minutes. From Pisa Airport, take a train to the main station in Pisa, then another train to Siena. trip grading - moderate This trip involves 7 days cycling with daily distances between 33 to 55km/20.5 to 34mi. The cycle route is mainly along well‑asphalted country and secondary roads. As you approach larger towns you will cycle on roads with more traffic. The accent is on keeping a relaxed pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. You will need a good level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure. *For safety reasons we insist that helmets be included as a compulsory item on your equipment list.

equipment provided Hybrid Bike During the trip you will be provided with a 21 speed hybrid bike. You will also receive a pannier to carry your gear for the day, along with a helmet, bike computer, map holder, lock and repair kit. E-Bike An electric bike is available on request. A supplement applies, see below. Electric bikes, or e-bikes, are designed to make cycling easier. The pedaling ‘boost’ provided by an e-bike opens up more options, allowing people of different fitness levels to cycle together or for cyclists to take on routes they may otherwise consider too tough for their current fitness capabilities. Please note that e-bikes are heavier than normal bikes and given the higher speed possible, should only be ridden by confident cyclists. For this trip we use TRD E-Bikes with an aluminum hydroformed frame, Schwalbe Marathon tyres, 28 inch double wall wheels, Shimano Alivio 9 speed and hydraulic disk brakes. The battery motor is Active Torque 250 W. 36v with speed sensor and an upper speed limit of 25km per hour. The bike weighs around 21 kgs. You will also receive a pannier to carry your gear for the day, along with a helmet, map holder, lock and repair kit.

dietary requirements Provided we are advised in advance of your departure we are able to cater for vegetarian diets and can assist with medically recommended diets (allergies and intolerances). Please ensure you discuss your requirements with us well in advance (at least 1 month prior to your trip) to determine whether we can cater to such dietary requirements on your chosen adventure. Please note that options are likely to be limited in very remote locations or alternatives may be more expensive or unavailable. There may be times when those with special requirements may need to provide their own food. We are unable to guarantee a peanut‑free or allergen‑free trip, and therefore, we strongly encourage that travellers with life‑threatening or severe allergies take all necessary medical precautions to prepare for the possibility of exposure. Passengers must travel with all necessary medications for food allergies and be capable of self‑administering these medications.

a note on our self guided adventures Self guided walking or cycling requires individuals to use problem solving skills, be adaptable and have a keen eye. On self guided cycling tours it is expected that you will know how to repair punctures and make minor adjustments to gears, handlebars and seats. For anything more serious, our local partner will be able to assist. It is recommended that you are comfortable map reading, referring to route notes and that you have a good sense of direction (or are willing to work on improving this!) Sometimes route finding, losing your way, finding it again and asking the locals for help is all part of the adventure. If you’ve never been on a self guided trip, after the first couple of days you will get the hang of it as the vast majority of our first time travellers attest. Please be assured that our written material issued to you for route finding is updated regularly and we provide a 7day service hotline in the event of any problems. Using directions and maps can be more difficult for solo travellers as often two heads are better than one when it comes to finding your way. There is a certain level of the unknown that comes with self guided trips, however with a methodical approach potential problems will be averted. The freedom of a self guided trip is something that, once experienced, is sought time and time again.

joining instructions On confirmation of your booking you will receive details of the joining instructions. Around three weeks prior to your departure you will receive your final documents, which will include a copy of your hotel list and all necessary documentation for your tour.

fast facts COUNTRIES VISITED Italy VISAS Visas not required for citizens of Australia, Canada, USA and New Zealand for up to 90 days in a period of 180 days for all Schengen countries (see www. schengenvisainfo.com/schengen‑visa‑countries‑list/ for countries part of the Schengen). Please ensure your passport is stamped on arrival in the Schengen area. For all other nationalities and for longer stays in countries covered by the Schengen Agreement (Australian New Zealand, Canadian and US passport holders), please contact the relevant embassy. Stays of longer than 90 days in the Schengen area require a long stay visa for the country you are spending most time in. However long stay visas are unlikely to be issued unless there is a valid reason (eg. studying in country). Unfortunately we cannot assist in obtaining visas for long stays due to individual country visa requirements. CLIMATE The trip runs between April and October during the European Spring, Summer &Autumn. At this time the weather conditions are usually ideal for cycling. Summer temperatures can be hotand it is recommended that you plan your cycling to exclude the middle of the day. If you decide to travelover the summer months you will need to be prepared to start early, and carry plenty of water. MIN GROUP SIZE 1 MOBILITY REQUIREMENT This trip is not suitable for people with limited mobility.

SPECIALIST GEAR REQUIRED Wet weather gear, sunscreen, bike helmet and sunhat. (A comprehensive gear list is included in the pre‑departure information provided on booking). how to book Booking a UTracks holiday is simple. You can book online, via our secure payment facility, at your own convenience. Alternatively, fill out our booking form ‑ which can be found at the back of our brochure, on our website or we can email you a copy ‑ then scan/email, fax or post the form to your nearest UTracks or World Expeditions office, or travel agent, with the relevant deposit by cheque or credit card (note: surcharges may apply for credit card payments if full payment is made). UTracks has access to competitive airfares to Europe. Contact us, or your travel agent, for assistance with your travel arrangements including flights, travel insurance & additional accommodation.

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slide shows UTracks invites you to attend our inspiring adventure travel slide shows. These special evenings are designed to inform and entertain and are hosted by our most experienced and passionate adventure travellers. Ask our staff for a slide show schedule or register on our website – www.utracks.com. Shows can fill early so it is important to register your attendance so we know to save a seat, or two! e-newsletter To keep up to date with our new and exciting adventure opportunities, special promotions and adventure news, subscribe to our monthly e‑newsletter! You can do this on line through our website, www.utracks. com or contact our office.

IMPORTANT NOTE THESE TRIP NOTES REPRESENT THE MOST CURRENT INFORMATION AVAILABLE FOR THIS ITINERARY,AND SUPERSEDE ANY INFORMATION DETAILED IN THE CURRENT BROCHURE, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE ITINERARY AND PRICE.

talk to us If you require any further assistance regarding this trip or any other adventure, please contact your nearest UTRACKS or World Expeditions office.

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