Way of St Francis: The Italian Camino
Description
Long before he was recognized as the patron saint of ecology, St. Francis walked the quiet mountain paths, ancient forests, and hidden stone caves of Umbria, seeking a deeper communion with the wild world around him.
While traditional guidebooks track The Way of St. Francis over 500 kilometers from Florence to Rome, this journey listens to a different rhythm. For us, the true heart of the trail leads to Assisi—the birthplace, sanctuary, and final resting place of St. Francis himself.
Over 7 soul-nourishing days, we will journey from the tranquil waters of Piediluco to the sacred hilltops of Assisi. Along the way, our path winds through medieval hilltop villages perched above fertile sun-drenched valleys, sacred groves, cascading waterfalls, and ancient castles.
More than just a trek, this is an invitation to slow down, disconnect from the noise, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Italian culture and raw natural wonder.
GETTING THERE
Let's meet in Piediluco on the 23rd June 2027.
Step 1: Rome to Terni
From Roma Termini, take a direct train to Terni (approx. 45 minutes; ~AUD $15). Tickets can be booked in advance via Trenitalia.
Step 2: Terni to Piediluco
From Terni station, take a taxi to Piediluco (approx. 20 minutes; ~AUD $40).
Return / Onward Travel:
Assisi train station offers convenient connections back to Rome or other major destinations.
What’s Included?
Accomodation
Luggage transportation
7 day curated itinerary
Daily yoga/chi gung/breathwork/meditation
Deep Ecology excercises to help deepen your experience of nature
Experience the streets of Spoleto during their annual arts festival
What’s not Included?
Flights to & from Italy
Transport to Piediluco
Main meals
Itinerary
Day 1: Piediluco
Our journey begins in the timeless medieval village of Piediluco, nestled quietly along the shores of its glassy lake. Leaving the village behind, we wind through ancient woodland trails hugging the water’s edge before arriving at the crown jewel of the day: the breathtaking summit of Marmore Falls (Cascata delle Marmore). Cascading down a dramatic 160-meter descent into the lush valley below, these falls are an incredible wonder of antiquity. Originally engineered by the Romans in 271 BC to drain the wetlands of Rieti, this cascading masterpiece has roared through the valley for over two millennia—offering a powerful, humbling welcome to the path ahead. Hiking distance: 11km Elevation: -165m
Day 2: Arrone - Castles, Hilltop Villages & Pristine Rivers
Leaving Marmore Falls, the trail follows a gentle, scenic ribbon beside the Nera River. As you walk beneath the shade of the valley canopy, medieval hilltop villages and stone castles peer down from the surrounding crests, offering a glimpse into Umbria's rich medieval past. Upon arriving in the charming village of Arrone, celebrate your effort with a refreshing swim in a pristine river pool—the ultimate way to unwind and soak in the serene beauty of the countryside. Hiking distance: 5km Eelvation: 30m
Day 3: Ferentillo and the Twin Watchtowers
The path from Arrone to Ferentillo offers another gentle, picturesque walk. It largely follows the Nera River, winding through the beautiful Valnerina valley. You'll encounter charming hamlets with more views of ancient castles, with Ferentillo itself notable for its unique "Museum of Mummies" and two commanding fortresses. Hiking distance: 6.6km Elevation: 50m
Day 4: Monteluco and the Sacred Woods
Bidding farewell to the quiet village of Ferentillo, our path leads upward through a dramatic, narrow valley framed by towering mountain peaks. Ascending through dense woodland, we enter the mystical forest of Monteluco—a sanctuary so cherished that ancient Romans protected it under the Lex Spoletina, one of history's earliest forest conservation laws. Here, among ancient trees and moss-covered stones, St. Francis retreated to the silence of natural caves for prayer and reflection. After soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of these sacred woods, we descend into the magnificent hill town of Spoleto, where cobblestone alleyways, grand medieval architecture, and delicious local Umbrian cuisine await our evening stay. Hiking distance: 7 km Eelvation: -500m
Day 5: Spoleto - Ancient Paths, Modern Footsteps
As we emerge from the sacred quiet of Monteluco’s trails, we walk straight into Spoleto—one of Umbria’s most majestic hill towns, famous for its grand Roman aqueduct, soaring fortress, and sun-drenched stone piazzas. To make our arrival even more magical, our stay coincides with the legendary Festival dei Due Mondi (Festival of Two Worlds). Founded in 1958, this world-renowned annual arts festival transforms Spoleto's ancient streets, historic theaters, and open-air plazas into a vibrant, living stage. After days of peaceful walking, spend your evening immersed in world-class music, theater, and local culture before dining under the stars. Hiking distance: N/A Staying overnight
Day 6: Assisi, the Sanctuary on the Slopes of Mt Subasio
As the valley flattens between Spoleto and Assisi, the trail transitions from quiet mountain forests to busier, modern roadways and developed commercial plains. To preserve the authentic, soul-nourishing spirit of your pilgrimage, we skip this built-up 36km stretch via a comfortable private transfer, driving directly to the foot of Assisi. By leapfrogging the highway noise and concrete, we step out right where the magic returns—placing you directly on the pristine, historic trails of Mount Subasio and the pristine heart of Umbria. After arriving in Assisi, we ascend the forested slopes of Mount Subasio into the oak woods where St. Francis retreated for silent contemplation. Tucked dramatically into a steep gorge, the Eremo delle Carceri remains one of Italy's most profoundly atmospheric sanctuaries. Wander through the ancient stone monastery built over tiny natural caves, stand beside the gnarled holm oak where Francis spoke to the birds, and experience the stillness that inspired a spiritual movement. Hiking distance: 5km Elevation: 360km
Day 7: Celebration of Divine Union
Passing through the medieval cobblestone roads of Assisi, we step out of the sun and into the profound, sublime silence of the Basilica of Saint Francis. Resting beneath magnificent centuries-old frescoes, this sacred sanctuary offers a quiet space to sit, absorb the essence of your journey, and let the quiet awe settle in. Afterwards, gather with your fellow trekkers to celebrate your completion—sharing stories, local wine, and a well-earned feast as the sun sets over Umbria.
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