dossier

Footsteps of St. Francis Walk

FOOTSTEPS OF ST. FRANCIS WALK  |  WHERE YOU STAY

La Bastiglia  ****
Spello,  Days 1+8

The Hotel La Bastiglia is mentioned in many important hotel guides, well known for it's gastronomic cuisine and beautiful setting at the foot of Mount Subasio, the enchanted mountain of Saint Francis. Originally an ancient mill the hotel has been lovingly restored and transformed into an unforgettable place to stay. There are 33 rooms divided into three categories, many overlooking the typical Umbrian landscape of cypress trees and olive groves. The restaurant, serves a mix of ancient recipes and modern creations using the freshest ingredients. On display inside the hotel there is a collection of ceramics, antique furniture and important paintings from the private collection of Schifano and Norberto.

Further details on the hotel website.

Day 1  Arrive in Spello

We met you at Foligno train station and take you (20 mins) to your hotel in time for dinner .

Day 2  Spello to Assisi  11km/7mi/4hr or 16km/10mi/5hr

The shorter, lower route takes you through lush Umbrian countryside - with its distinctive dark green cypresses and silver-colored olive trees while the longer, more challenging route takes you via the sacred 'Eremo delle Carceri' - St Francis' famous hermitage where he used to pray and talk to the birds.

Hotel La Terrazza**, Assisi, Days 2 & 3

Hotel la Terrazza, nestled in an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity among the olive groves of Assisi’s hills, is located only 800 meters from the historical centre of the city.

With Assisi as its splendid backdrop, the hotel has 40 rooms with en-suite bathrooms, mini-bar, color TV and air-conditioning.

Further details on the hotel website.

Day 3  At Assisi

A full day to explore the ancient town of Assisi.  The Basilica, and its magnificent C13 Giotto frescoes is a must before ambling up Via San Francesco to the beautiful Piazza del Comune to visit the well preserved temple of Minerva.

Day 4  Assisi to Satriano 16.5km/10mi/4.5hr

Today's route skirts the medieval center of Assisi - option to visit the Rocca Maggiore, Assisi's well preserved castle offering excellent views over the Valle Umbra - before heading out along the unspoiled Francescan trail, tracing backwards St Francis' steps on his last journey to the town.  You'll pass the north side of Monte Subasio through gentle hillsides and green valleys dotted with isolated farms, monasteries and watchtowers before winding down to Satriano, in the heart of the Monte Subasio natural park, and home for the next 2 nights.

La Tavola dei Cavalieri AAAA
Satriano, Days 4+5

La Tavola dei Cavalieri is a fully restored mediaeval hamlet situated in 18 hectares of completely uncontaminated Umbrian countryside, close to Assisi. The 'Borgo' is found at 800m above sea level, and looks out across the lush green valley and dense woodland as far as La Rocca - the ancient fortress of Assisi. The surrounding territory is that of the Natural Park of Monte Subasio. The hotel accommodation is made up of 12 comfortable double rooms, each with ensuite facilities and furnished in a traditional style with wooden beams, terracotta and wrought iron furniture. The hotel is also a working organic farm and they cultivate their own crops, as well as rearing their own animals. Most of these ingredients are served in the hotel restaurant. The area is the perfect place for peace and relaxation or long country walks in the surrounding forests.

Further details on the hotel website.

Day 5  At Satriano

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

Day 6  Satriano to Le Silve  14km/9mi/4.5hr

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

Le Silve  ****
Armenzano, Days 6+7

Built on a natural terrace, in the foothills of the Mount Subasio natural park the hotel 'Le Silve' offers you a truly unforgettable stay in a cozy and serene atmosphere. Situated among the green elds and peaceful surrounding woodlands that are inhabited solely by deer, wild boar, horses and other wild animals. You can walk freely around the 230 hectares of private estate discovering the hotels' 3 swimming pools, including saltwater pool, tennis courts, table tennis and a whole network of waymarked trails for you to follow.

Further details on the hotel website.

Day 7  At Le Silve

You almost feel as though you have the world to yourself as you explore the wonderfully wild surroundings of this 560 acre estate! There are over 12mi/20kms of well marked walking paths and trails winding around St Francis’ “magical” Subasio Mountain and surrounding valleys. Have a swim in the new deck-level saltwater pool, and perhaps end the day with a relaxing sauna or afternoon tea in the exquisite tea-room. A guided tour of the estate can be organized through the hotel with photography stations for local wildlife

Day 8  Le Silve to Spello 14km/9mi/4.5hr

Today’s route follows the lower eastern slopes of Monte Subasio, passing through the restored hamlet of San Giovanni. Then up to the Rifugio di Madonna della Spella for panoramic views on the open pastureland before descending through oak and centuries-old olive groves to finish in charming Spello, one of the finest preserved medieval towns in the region

Day 9  Leave Spello

WALKING DETAILS

The paths you follow are generally waymarked and well maintained, taking you through mostly shaded woodland. As there are frequest ascents and descents, you need to be reasonably fit and confident. Poles would be helpful but not essential.

For extra nights we recommend Perugia or Rome.