Take the trip of a lifetime on the Via Francigena
If you are looking for a trip with a point of difference then walking the ancient pilgrimage route of The Via Francigena, which links Canterbury to Rome, could be for you.
This famous route was first recorded by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Sigeric, who walked to and from Rome to be consecrated by the Pope, writing his itinerary in the middle of the 10th century. More than 2000 kilometres long, the Via Francigena offers many outstanding highlights.
The route has become popular among Irish tourists and throughout the years, people such as Brendan Behan, Patrick Kavanagh and Brian O'Nolan (Myles na Gopaleen), have travelled to France on their way to Rome.
As it passes through England, France, Switzerland and Italy, this journey has some beautiful places of interest, such as the famous Canterbury Cathedral, Lake Geneva, the Great St. Bernards Pass and the Swiss Alps.
The highlight of the trip is the last 100 kilometres, the most famous and the most walked section, which takes you from Viterbo to the St Peter's Basilica. You will pass by the beautiful lakes Vico and Bracciano, as well as the beautiful pools of thermal water near Viterbo. Entering Rome via the ancient Appian Way, you will walk one of the oldest Roman roads. Rome is one of the most impressive cities in the world and is full of history, art, fantastic food and culture.
The route is split into 16 sections, and each section takes approximately 1 week, with travellers booked into 2* or 3* hotels along the way. Each section starts and finishes in a large city with landmarks, like Canterbury, Reims, Lausanne, Siena or Rome.
Camino Ways, the walking and cycling holiday specialists, can organise this trip of a lifetime, with prices from €575pps, or €695 single for 6 nights.
Departure for the self-guided tours happens all year round. There are two guided tours a month scheduled for 2012.
Price includes: Luggage transfers between each hotel, breakfast, dinner and a comprehensive Holiday Pack including 24/7 assistance over the phone.
Please note, price does not include return flights.
To book, or for further information visit caminoways.com.
