In the footsteps of Saint Francis, from Gubbio to Assisi — Umbria · From Gubbio to Assisi

Tours / Multi-day treks

In the footsteps of Saint Francis, from Gubbio to Assisi

Umbria · From Gubbio to Assisi

49 km

Distance

5 days · 2 o 3 walking

Duration

Moderate

Difficulty

may- september

Season

The Umbrian stretch of the Franciscan way, from Gubbio to Assisi over three days of sixteen to seventeen kilometres. Badlands, hermitages and medieval villages, ending at the Basilica of Saint Francis.

Three days in the hills of Umbria. The Way of St. Francis, also known as the Via di Francesco, is not simply a route to be walked, but a profound experience that combines history, spirituality, art, and untamed nature. This journey retraces the steps of one of the most extraordinary and revolutionary figures in history: Francis of Assisi.

As you traverse Umbria’s breathtaking landscapes, the trail will guide you through centuries-old forests, perched medieval villages, and ancient, silent hermitages, with the majestic Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi as your final destination.

Why Set Out Walking?
An experience for everyone: Whether you’re driven by a deep spiritual motivation, the desire to challenge yourself, or the need to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, This walk welcomes every step.
Unspoiled Landscapes: You’ll traverse the sacred woods of La Verna, the green Umbrian hills, and the sanctuaries of the Valle Santa Reatina.
Encounters and Hospitality: You’ll discover the warm welcome of local communities and the spontaneous camaraderie with pilgrims from all over the world.

The route, stage by stage

  1. Day 1 — From Gubbio to Biscina 22 km · moderate · km 22

    We set out from the Chiesa della Vittorina and leave the Gubbio plain behind on the first real climb into the hills: badlands, pasture and the occasional farmhouse. Halfway along stands the Hermitage of San Pietro in Vigneto. The day ends near the Castle of Biscina.

  2. Day 2 — From Biscina to Valfabbrica 13 km · easy · km 13

    The shortest and gentlest stage of the trip. The path contours high above the Chiascio valley, with glimpses of the reservoir behind the dam, before dropping gradually to the medieval village of Valfabbrica.

  3. Day 3 — From Valfabbrica to Assisi 14 km · moderate · km 14

    The climbing resumes through woodland, over the ridge dividing the Chiascio and Tescio valleys. The descent crosses the Bosco di San Francesco and the old Ponte dei Galli; a final rise leads to Porta San Giacomo and the Basilica.

Stops and refreshments

Eremo San Pietro In Vigneto
Val Fabbrica

What to bring

Multi-day treks
  • Considering that the rest of our luggage will be transported to our destination by bus, here is a list of items that are not compulsory but are recommended to take with you along the walk.
  • A backpack with a minimum capacity of 20 litres;
  • a 1-litre aluminium water bottle;
  • 1 pair of lightweight, breathable, anti-blister hiking socks;
  • 1 pair of technical T-shirts;
  • a lightweight fleece;
  • a rain poncho or k-way;
  • a backpack cover;
  • a small umbrella for those who want one…;
  • a 100g windbreaker;
  • a hat;
  • gloves (useful if it rains);
  • sunglasses;
  • a multi-purpose pocket knife;
  • sun cream and insect repellent;
  • a small first-aid kit (plasters, antiseptic, gauze and various medicines) and mineral salt supplements;
  • anti-chafing cream;
  • plastic bags (for rubbish or wet items);
  • mobile phone, charger;
  • prayer book (indispensable for sinners).
  • sandwiches, etc…..
  • Bearing in mind that an empty rucksack weighs about 2 kg, with all the gear inside it should weigh around 5 kg (though if you want to carry even more, that’s fine) – I couldn’t manage any less than that.
  • For the first day’s walk, you’ll need hiking boots and long trousers; for the second day, if it doesn’t rain, hiking shoes and shorts will suffice.
In the footsteps of Saint Francis, from Gubbio to Assisi

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