cycle the full via francigena ‑ aosta to rome
A UTracks holiday is all about exploring Europe ‑ your way. It’s about U + the walking tracks and
cycling trails you want to discover. Since we began in 2006, UTracks has quickly become known
as the leaders in active European holidays. Our itineraries are creative ‑ and very affordable. Set
your own pace on a flexible self guided trip or enjoy the benefits
of an experienced local guide on a guided tour. Together with our
sister company Sherpa Expeditions, we offer over 400 active tours
across the continent and it’s many exotic islands. There’s an active
holiday idea everyone including families, culinary enthusiasts, history buffs, experienced alpine walkers
or those that just want to see Europe differently. The physical demands range from introductory
to challenging ‑ with all offering unique opportunities to discover the ‘untrodden’ Europe, spanning
postcard landscapes, centuries‑old cultures, rural lifestyles and tempting culinary delights. Compare
the price and you will see that we offer exceptional value active programs that are virtually all‑inclusive,
giving you more time to enjoy the natural and cultural wonders you’ve come to experience. Whether
you prefer cycling or walking, 2‑star or 4‑star, small groups or self guided, land, river or sea –
UTracks can help you to explore Europe exactly the way you want.
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explore europe your way
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TRIP COST
Joining Aosta :$4999
Trip Concludes: Rome
All prices are per person
TRIP NAME:CYCLE THE FULL VIA FRANCIGENA
‑ AOSTA TO ROME
TRIP CODE:VFF
TRIP DURATION:24 DAYS
OPTIONS & GRADE:MODERATE ‑ 3
SUPPLEMENTS
single supplement:$1050
single traveller
surcharge:$1790
As the trip price is based on twinshare,
a single supplement is payable if a
single room is required ‑ or a single
traveller supplement if you are travelling
solo*. Please refer to the price options
for costs or ask our office for details.
Note regarding single rooms ‑ The
single supplement guarantees the
privacy of your own room, however,
rooms can at times be small and in
some places may not enjoy the same
facilities as double/twin rooms.
*The single traveller surcharge is only
available on trips deemed suitable
for solo travellers. It is usually more
expensive than the single supplement
due to the extra cost for luggage
transfers and organisation.
ACTIVITY:SELF GUIDED CYCLE
St Bernard
Pass
Italy
Pavia
Parma
Siena
Rome
ACCOMMODATION:23 NIGHTS IN 3 STAR
HOTELS AND B&BS
DATE DETAILS:
DAILY FROM 1 APR TO 31 OCT
highlights
Cycling the full Via Francigena from the Gran Saint Bernard pass on the Swiss‑Italian border to
the eternal city of Rome
Discovering Piedmont’s unique landscape with its fairytale‑like castles and vineyards
Delighting in the local delicacies and visiting the foodie‑haven of Parma
Enjoying stunning views of hilltop villages, open valleys, cypress woods and olive groves in Tuscany
Exploring the historic ruins and villages along the way
the trip
The Via Francigena is far more than just a pilgrim trail. Those with more time can discover the full
route, cycling this exhilarating and moderately graded bike ride from the Alps to the Eternal City
of Rome. Starting from the Gran San Bernard pass on the Swiss‑Italian border, you will discover a
huge array of spectacular scenery and impressive towns. The route will take you through the vast
and fertile Po River plain, across the fast flowing Dorea Baltea river, through stone walled country
lanes as you exit the Aosta Valley, over the hills and vineyards of Tuscany, through beautiful Umbrian
countryside, down to Lake Bolsena, and finally along ancient Etruscan roads to the impressive city
of Rome and St. Peter’s Square. You will discover historic and culturally rich towns of Vercelli, Pavia,
Parma, Lucca, San Gimignano, Siena, Viterbo and Sutri, just to name a few. On the way, take time
out of the cycle day to visit imposing castles, churches, roman ruins, hilltop towns and vineyards.
A trip to Italy would not be complete without delighting in the local food, and this trip does not
disappoint. You will eat and drink your way through the best of Northern Italian cuisine, visit the
gastronomic heaven of Parma, sample the wines and olive oils of Tuscany and indulge in cheese
produced in the zones of the cacio di Pienza.­
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cycle the full via francigena ‑ aosta to rome
itinerary at a glance
Day 1
Arrive Aosta
Day 2
Transfer to Saint Bernard Pass and ride to Aosta (40km / 25mi)
Day 3
Cycle along the river Dora past castles to Verres (50km / 31mi)
Day 4
33.5mi)
Enter Piedmont and cycle via Santo Stefano to the village of Roppolo (54km /
Day 5
Continue past rice fields to Vercelli (41km / 25.5mi)
Day 6
Enter the Lombardy region and the town of Vigevano (40km / 25mi)
Day 7
Cycle along the Ticino river to Pavia (42km / 26mi)
Day 8
Cycle along the river Po to Piacenza in the Emilia Romagna (75km / 46.5mi)
Day 9
A flat stage to Italy’s gastronomic capital, Parma (62km / 38.5mi)
Day 10
A demanding cycle to Berceto past ancient churches (51km / 31.5mi)
Day 11
Continue to Aulla, crossing the Appennines (53km / 33mi)
Day 12
/ 30mi)
Cycle through green countryside and medieval villages en route to Massa (48km
Day 13
Cycle along the sea, then over Tuscan hills to Lucca (52km / 32.5mi)
Day 14
Cross the river Arno to San Miniato (46km / 28.5mi)
Day 15
/ 25.5mi)
Continue through splendid scenery to the famous town of San Gimignano (41km
Day 16
Cycle the Tuscan hills and through charming ancient towns to Siena (50km / 31mi)
Day 17
Cycle to San Quirico d’Quirico past vineyards and fortified towns (54km / 33.5mi)
Day 18
Enjoy fabulous views of the Val D’Orcia en route to Radicofani (37km / 23mi)
Day 19
Cycle along the old Via Cassia to Lake Bolsena (55km / 33.5mi)
Day 20
Continue through woods and olive groves to Viterbo (33km / 20.5mi)
Day 21
Cycle to Sutri and its Roman ampitheatre (38km / 23.5mi)
Day 22
Continue to Formello past the Mount Gelato Waterfalls & the Veio Nature Park
(34km / 21mi)
Day 23
Final stage across the countryside of Lazio to Rome (34km / 21mi)
Day 24
Trip concludes in Rome
detailed itinerary
DAY 1Arrive Aosta
Make your own way to Aosta, a Roman valley town surrounded by the Alps. Here you
can contemplate the history of the region in the silence of the cloisters of Sant’Orso, or
visit the impressive Roman theatre. We recommend taking an afternoon stroll through
the alleyways of the town centre, admiring the high mountain peaks visible over the
house roofs.
meals: NIL
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cycle the full via francigena ‑ aosta to rome
DAY 2Transfer to Saint Bernard Pass and ride to Aosta (40km / 25mi)
This morning a transfer will take you to the jagged peaks of the Saint Bernard Pass,
the gateway to the Via Francigena. It was here that Saint Bernard built the first
pilgrims hospice and is where you start your descent back to Aosta. Today’s ride is an
exhilarating downhill cycle, taking you along a panoramic route with breathtaking views.
You will cycle through orchards and woods, and through enchanting villages such as
Saint Rhemy and Etroubles.
Distance: 40km / 25mi, ascent 103m / 338ft, descent 1270m / 4167ft
meals: B
DAY 3Cycle along the river Dora past castles to Verres (50km / 31mi)
Today you continue cycling across the valley, following a cycle path that runs along the
river Dora. En route you will pass castles and vineyards. You will discover the enchanting
Saint Germain castle, with its imposing tower which once served as a defence tower for
the De Mongioveto family who dominated the valley. From here you continue cycling
to Verres, enjoying breathtaking views on the way. Verres is a small town with just 2700
inhabitants. The town is home to an impressive hilltop manor and the rock fortress was
built around 1390 by Ibleto di Challant.
Distance: 50km / 31mi, ascent 230m / 755ft, descent 450m / 1476ft
meals: B
DAY 4Enter Piedmont and cycle via Santo Stefano to the village of Roppolo (54km / 33.5mi)
Today you will enter Piedmont and the alpine scenery will give way to gentle hills. As
you make your way towards Roppolo the ascents will become less and less challenging.
The cycle route today alternates through forest trails and passing through typical towns
such as Ivrea, with its quaint old town centre and the tall tower of Santo Stefano. As you
continue you will notice the imposing Serra of Ivrea, the biggest European drift, before
arriving into the village of Roppolo. Here a cozy, family-run bed and breakfast awaits
you. You can visit the castle of Roppolo, the perfect place to admire a panoramic view
of the village.
Distance: 54km / 33.5mi, ascent 370m / 1214ft, descent 480m / 1575ft
meals: B
DAY 5Continue past rice fields to Vercelli (41km / 25.5mi)
The route today will take you past rice fields. If you are travelling during April or May
the fields are flooded at this time, which creates a landscape of great fascination. The
cycling today is easy and enjoyable. You will detour from the Via Francigena to visit
the Bosca della Participanza (the Wood of Community), whose name originates from
the fact that the locals of this area take care of the wood together. If you appreciate
local dishes, be sure to sample the traditional peasant dish known as Panissa. Your
destination for today, Vercelli, is one the oldest urban sites in Northern Italy. Historians
believe it was founded around the year 600BC.
Distance: 41km / 25.5mi, ascent 35m / 115ft, decent 205m / 672ft
meals: B
DAY 6Enter the Lombardy region and the town of Vigevano (40km / 25mi)
Today you will cross the fertile plains of the Po river valley, leaving behind Vercelli, the
vast rice fields and the Piedmont region. As you reach the Ticino river you will enter
the Lombardy region and the town of Vigevano. During the Renaissance period Duque
Ludovico Sforza ruled this land and it’s said that he commissioned Leonardo da Vinci
to design Vigevano’s beautiful central square. This afternoon you can mingle with the
locals as you soak in the splendour at one of the outdoor terraces on this famed square.
The ride today is flat and relaxing, giving you ample time to explore this picturesque
town.
Distance: 40km / 25mi, ascent 40m / 131ft, descent 62m / 203ft
meals: B
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cycle the full via francigena ‑ aosta to rome
DAY 7Cycle along the Ticino river to Pavia (42km / 26mi)
Today you will follow the Ticino river, one of the most important rivers in Italy, enjoying
the beauty of the green and wild nature of the river bank. If the weather is good you
may even wish to sunbathe on the beaches or meadows near the river. If you’re lucky
you may also see squirrels running through the trees. Later you will leave the river to
visit the Certosa di Pavia, a beautiful monastic complex built in the 14th century. You
will the continue on the Pavia, one of the pearls of the Via Francigena. We recommend
ending your day with a visit to the delightful historical centre, where you can enjoy an
aperitif in Piazza della Vittoria.
Distance: 42km / 26mi, ascent 53m / 174ft, descent 45m / 148ft
meals: B
DAY 8Cycle along the river Po to Piacenza in the Emilia Romagna (75km / 46.5mi)
Today you will travel through the flood plains of the basso Pavese, with its typical flood
terraces. You will cycle along the river Po until you arrive in Piacenza, where you enter
the Emilia Romagna region. This land is famous for its great hospitality and its fabulous
food and wine. Here you will be able to taste the renowned charcuterie and wash it
down with a glass of Gutturnio wine. Be sure to pass through the Porta del Paradiso to
discover the Romanesque interiors of the Basilica.
Distance: 75km / 46.5mi, ascent 116m / 380ft, descent 119m / 390ft
meals: B
DAY 9A flat stage to Italy’s gastronomic capital, Parma (62km / 38.5mi)
The route towards Parma is a quiet and flat one. Along the way we suggest visiting
the Cistercian abbey of Chiaravalle della Colomba, where you can admire the carved
wooden interiors of the church or stand in thought for a few minutes in the silence of
the cloisters. The cycle then continues among the Parma hills until you arrive in your
final destination. Parma is a foodie delight - it boasts the largest number of PDO and
PGI gastronomic products. It’s the perfect place to indulge in the many local delicacies.
Distance: 62km / 38.5mi, ascent 62m / 203ft, descent 311m / 1020ft
meals: B
DAY 10A demanding cycle to Berceto past ancient churches (51km / 31.5mi)
The cycle today is quite demanding, but is also rich in beauty. Along the way you will
pass the villages of Bardone and Terenzo, with their ancient churches. From here an
ascent will lead you to Cassio, where a brief descent tricks you in to believing that you
have reached your final destination. Whilst you are almost there, there is one last ascent
towards Berceto. The village of Berceto is a little “stone jewel”, where you can restore
yourself with local mushrooms and pattona, a typical cake made from chestnut flour.
Distance: 51km / 31.5mi, ascent 1068m / 3504ft, descent 322m / 1056ft
meals: B
DAY 11Continue to Aulla, crossing the Appennines (53km / 33mi)
Today you will make your way into Tuscany. This cycle is the longest of the trip, but the
surprises along the way definitely make all your efforts worthwhile. An exciting descent
from the Cisa Pass brings you to Pontremoli, known as the town of bridges and with its
mysterious Stele Statues. Here you can enjoy a relaxing walk through the alleyways of
the old town centre. Later you continue to Aulla, where you can set your bicycle down
for the day and visit the Abbey of San Caprasio, which contains archaeological finds
from the medieval period. Don’t miss a walk along the ancient walls of the Fortezza della
Brunella before making your way on foot through the old town centre. And if you are
hungry, there is nothing better than the tasty local focaccias, which are best enjoyed still
warm and accompanied by charcuterie and cheeses.
Distance: 53km / 33mi, ascent 370m / 1214ft, descent 1115m / 3658ft
meals: B
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cycle the full via francigena ‑ aosta to rome
DAY 12Cycle through green countryside and medieval villages en route to Massa (48km / 30mi)
As you leave Aulla you will cycle along demanding by gratifying paths. Today you will
catch your first glimpse of the sea, as you cycle through green countryside and charming
medieval villages. Arriving in Sarzana you will be amazed by the Baroque interior of the
Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. You can also admire the Gothic facade of the Pieve
di Sant’Andrea, the oldest building in the town. Your journey for today continues along
flat paths which follow in the footsteps of the ancient pilgrims who used to walk from
the Roman port of Luni to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. The day ends in the town
of Massa, located just a few kilometres far from the sea of Verisilia. Here you can visit
the 15th century Malaspina Castle and admire the view over the town.
Distance: 48km / 30mi, ascent 716m / 2359ft, descent 770m / 2526ft
meals: B
DAY 13Cycle along the sea, then over Tuscan hills to Lucca (52km / 32.5mi)
Today you will follow a lovely coastal cycle path, which leads you from Marina di Massa
towards Pietrasanta. Before browsing the art galleries and shops of Pietrasanta we
recommend a visit of the town’s Duomo and a walk amongst its marble columns and
frescoed vaults. From Camaiore you continue up and over the Tuscan hills surrounding
Lucca. Arriving in Lucca you will enter through its city walls. This afternoon you can
immerse yourself in its old town centre, browsing the little shops of the circular piazza
where you can buy spelt and locally-made biscuits. You can also conquer the Guinigi
Tower and admire the town from up high in its hanging garden.
Distance: 52km / 32.5mi, ascent 380m / 1247ft, descent 356m / 1168ft
meals: B
DAY 14Cross the river Arno to San Miniato (46km / 28.5mi)
An easy and flat cycle today will lead you from the walls of Lucca to the old town centre
of Altopascio. On the way you will pass through the Badia di Pozzeveri, where ancient
pilgrims once stopped to rest and pray. Don’t miss your chance to sample the local
bread here - it’s a real delicacy! The route then continues across the wild land of the
Cerbaie, before crossing the river Arno and heading on towards San Miniato. Here the
Seminary which gives its name to the main square will amaze you with its distinctive
frescoed facade. San Miniato is a hidden gem of Tuscany and a stroll through town is
highly recommended. Tonight you can marvel at the Seminary while perhaps eating a
risotto dusted with the typical white truffle, the pride of the local area.
Distance: 46km / 28.5mi, ascent 228m / 748ft, descent 122m / 368ft
meals: B
DAY 15Continue through splendid scenery to the famous town of San Gimignano (41km /
25.5mi)
A demanding but unique section awaits you today. From San Miniato you descend to
the bottom of Val d’Elsa and then later ascend again towards Gambassi Terme, where
you will be able to cross the threshold of the Pieve di Chianni. Pieve di Chianni is
where the Arcibishop Sigeric slept on his way to Rome. You then continue your journey,
pedalling across splendid natural scenery to San Gimignano, one of the most beautiful
towns along the Via Francigena. As you head towards San Gimignano, its unmistakable
famous towers will come into view. You can admire the view of the medieval town and
its surrounding valleys from the top of Torre Grossa. If you have energy to spare this
afternoon you can even venture up the steps of the Rocca di Montestaffoli, where a
spectacular view can be enjoyed.
Distance: 41km / 25.5mi, ascent 640m / 2100ft, descent 476m / 1562ft
meals: B
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cycle the full via francigena ‑ aosta to rome
DAY 16Cycle the Tuscan hills and through charming ancient towns to Siena (50km / 31mi)
Leaving from San Gimignano you continue, up and down, through the Tuscan hills to
Colle Val d’Elsa, a timeless Tuscan village with a charming old town centre and narrow
alleyways winding through its stone walls. The route then continues through one of
the most beautiful sections of the Via Francigena: a meditative route where you’ll find
yourself immersed in the silence of the Pieve di Strove, with its Romanesque interiors.
You can also stand in the quietness of the splendid Abbadia at Isola and its imposing
Abbey. Along the way don’t miss a chance to stroll along the wall of the breath-taking
castle of Monteriggioni, which once defended the Repubblica of Siena. Later you will
arrive in Siena, cycling through dirt roads and the ancient medieval hamlet of Cerbaia
en route. If you want to celebrate your arrival in Siena, try a plate of pici all’aglione in the
illuminated Piazza del Campo. And don’t forget to sample the panforte!
Distance: 50km / 31mi, ascent 505m / 1657ft, descent 470m / 1542ft
meals: B
DAY 17Cycle to San Quirico d’Quirico 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 will be
able to admire the impressive Grancia di Cuna, a fortified farm which held the reserves
of wheat which were once destined to the republic of Siena. From Lucignano you will
continue your journey through the Valle dell’Ombrone to Buonconvento. You will cross
the gate of the walls and enter the fine old town centre of the village, discovering why
its name translates to “happy fortunate place”, before jumping again on your bicycle
and continuing towards San Quirico over a mix of dirt and asphalted roads. The final
section of today 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 green hedges of the
Horti Leonini, a fifteenth century garden.
Distance: 54km / 33.5mi, ascent 650m / 2132ft, descent 490m / 1608ft
meals: B
DAY 18Enjoy fabulous views of the Val D’Orcia en route to Radicofani (37km / 23mi)
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 will also be able to enjoy
a reinvigorating dip in the thermal waters of Bagno Vignoni. Today you will test your
strength with a short but demanding section which will take you as far as 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 will also be able to visit the Pieve di
San Pietro, a little jewel dating back to the thirteenth century, and take an evening walk
in the old town centre, admiring the magic of the illuminated Fortress.
Distance: 37km / 23mi, ascent 650m / 2133ft, descent 450m / 1476ft
meals: B
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cycle the full via francigena ‑ aosta to rome
DAY 19Cycle along the old Via Cassia to Lake Bolsena (55km / 33.5mi)
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 will be able
to 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 are supposed to have been kept. Your journey will continue
gently as Lake Bolsena starts to come into view. From here you will descend into a
volcanic crater and you will continue along dirt tracks. Your surrounds will alternate
between thick woods and meadows scattered with olive trees, as you continue 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 thirteen century are kept. If, instead, you are
more interested in the typical cuisine you can taste the local delicacies, including the
Sbroscia, a typical soup made from lake fish and tomatoes.
Distance: 55km / 33.5mi, ascent 846m / 2775ft, descent 610m / 2001ft
meals: B
DAY 20Continue 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. When you
arrive in Montefiascone, a climp up to the Rocca, where you will be enchanted before
a boundless views, is not to be missed. After descending 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 will be able to 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. And to end the day on a sweet note, celebrate your journey with
the delicious local frittellacce.
Distance: 33km / 20.5mi, ascent 545m / 1788ft, descent 420m / 1378ft
meals: B
DAY 21Cycle to Sutri and its Roman ampitheatre (38km / 23.5mi)
From Viterbo the journey continues towards Vetralla,a town located in the heart of the
ancient Etrurian territory. Later you continue pedaling through the green countryside
of Lazio before arriving in Sutri, a small town that is rich in attractions. The Roman
amphitheatre, completely dug out from the tufo, is a sight 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 tufo 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.
Distance: 38km / 23.5mi, ascent 420m / 1378ft, descent 51m / 167ft
meals: B
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cycle the full via francigena ‑ aosta to rome
DAY 22Continue to Formello past the Mount Gelato Waterfalls & the Veio Nature Park (34km /
21mi)
From Sutri you will cycle towards Campagnano and the Formello. During the journey
today you will pass the Mount Gelato Waterfalls, where you can stop for a reinvigorating
dip. A cycle 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! You will 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.
Distance: 34km / 21mi, ascent 536m / 1758ft, descent 590m / 1936ft
meals: B
DAY 23Final 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, pecorino romano cheese, and perhaps a delicious maritozzo with cream.
Distance: 34km / 21mi, ascent 155m / 508ft, descent 280m / 919ft
meals: B
DAY 24Trip concludes in Rome
Arrangements conclude after breakfast. Extra nights can be arranged in Rome.
meals: B
inclusions
3 breakfasts
2
3 nights in charming B&Bs and 3 star hotels (hotel taxes extra, payable locally ‑ allow €25)
2
Information pack including route notes, maps & road book per room booked
Luggage transfer from day 3 to day 23
Transfer on day 2 from Aosta to Saint Bernard Pass
Emergency hotline
Hybrid 21 speed rental bike with front bag map holder, odometer, pannier, lock, repair kit and
helmet
items not included
Travel to Aosta and from Rome
Lunches and dinner daily 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 €25)
getting there
BY CARDriving routes can be accessed via the following websites: www.viamichelin.
com
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cycle the full via francigena ‑ aosta to rome
BY TRAINThere are frequent services from Turin and Milan. From Turin the journey takes
approximately 2 hours, and from Milan it takes around 3 hours. When coming
from either Milan or Turin you will need to change trains in Chivasso. To view
timetables and make bookings go to www.trenitalia.com or www.raileurope.
com.
BY AIRIf you are travelling from your home country the best airport to fly to is Milan.
You can also arrive from Turin airport. From the airport you will need to follow
the train or bus instructions to continue on to Aosta.
BY BUSIt is possible to arrive in Aosta by bus from either Milan, Turin or Chamonix. Bus
timetables can be viewed on http://www.savda.it/.
trip grading - moderate
This trip involves 8 days cycling with daily distances between 33 to 75km / 20.5 to 46.5mi. 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.
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
guide book. On check in you will receive all the necessary documentation for your tour. This will include:
hotel vouchers
route notes
maps
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fast facts
COUNTRIES VISITEDItaly
VISASVisas 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.
CLIMATEEven in the alpine regions, Italian summers can be hot. From late June to
September, highs of 35 degrees Celsius / 95 degrees Fahrenheit do occur. If
you decide to cycle over the summer months you will need to be prepared to
start early, and carry plenty of water. It is also possible to have snow storms at
this time particularly on the higher points in the Alps. For this trip you should be
prepared for all seasons. Summer is also a time where afternoon thunderstorms
can occur. Spring and autumn are the nicest times of year. Specifically, April to
early June and September to October are the most pleasant months to cycle
throughout most of Italy. Average daytime highs are around 20‑25 degrees
Celsius / 68‑77 degrees Fahrenheit.
MIN GROUP SIZE1
SPECIALIST GEAR REQUIREDWet 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.
follow us
https://www.facebook.com/UTracks
https://www.instagram.com/utrackstravel/
https://twitter.com/UTracks_Travel
There’s even more tips and ideas on our blog at http://www.utracks.com/discover
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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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AUSTRALIA
UTracks
Level 5, 71 York St
Sydney NSW 2000
T: (02) 8270 8488
F: (02) 8270 8489
Toll free: 1300 303 368
[email protected]
Feel free to visit our World Expeditions
offices in:• Melbourne
• Brisbane
• Adelaide (Thor Travel)
For address and office phone numbers visit
www.worldexpeditions.com
NEW ZEALAND
UTracks
Level 1, 59-67 High St
Auckland CBD
PO Box 106-275
Auckland City 1143
T: (09) 368 4161
F: (09) 368 4162
Toll Free: 0800 350 354
[email protected]
CANADA - OTTAWA
UTracks
47 William St
Ottawa, Ontario
Canada
K1N 6Z9
T: 613 241 2700
F: 613 2414189
Toll Free: 1-800-567-2216
[email protected]
UNITED KINGDOM
UTracks
1B Osiers Road
Wandsworth
London SW18 1NL
T: 0845 241 7599
F: 020 8870 7014
T: 1800 946 258 (Ireland)
[email protected]
UTracks is a division of the
World Expeditions Travel Group
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