This journey allows you to discover the different souls of Italy: the tranquil rhythms of its provincial towns, the bracing air of itsvillages nestling between the Alps and the modern fascination of its industrial cities. 

You will taste little known but surprising “km 0” dishes, from cheeses from the pastures to rice dishes, accompanied by the refined wines of the Val d’Aosta. 

And you will let the landscape variety amaze you, from the harshness of Alps to the sweetness of hills, to the “chequered sea” of the rice fields.

The journey starts in Aosta, a Roman town located in a valley surrounded by mountains. You will be able to contemplate the medieval capitals in the silence of the cloisters of Sant’Orso, or visit the impressive Roman theatre. To end the day, we recommend you take a walk through the alleys of the centre, admiring the high mountain peaks that appear over the roofs of the houses.
 

Day 2: From Aosta to Chatillon, distance: 35 km

The itinerary continues across the valley floor, on the cycle path that runs along the River Dora, through castles and vineyards. After a visit to the Fenis castle, we recommend a stop at the Crotta de Vegneron at Chambave, a temple consecrated to the wines of the Valle d’Aosta..

Before arriving you will face the only little challenge of the day, the ascent to the center of  Saint Vincent, where you will be able to stop for a reinvigorating rest at the spa.
 

Day 3: From Chatillon to Pont St. Martin, distance: 30 km
Today a brief journey in a time machine awaits you: at Arnad you will be able to emerge yourselves in the part of medieval pilgrims walking through the naves of the parish church of San Martino, before crossing the ancient Enchallod bridge. Or you can have fun looking for the tracks of Roman carriages in the stones of the ancient road of the Gauls, which will surprise you with a still perfectly preserved section leading to the gates of Donnas. If you like more recent history, visit Bard fort with its Museum of the Alps.

Day 4: From Pont to Viverone, distance: 51 km

The alpine scenery gives way to the gentle Piedmont hills, among characteristic villages and sections surrounded by nature. Today’s destination point is Ivrea: the old town centre will delight you with its fine castle and tall tower of Santo Stefano, but do not miss a walk through an open-air museum of modern architecture.  The itinerary continues through enjoyable countryside paths until Viverone, where you will be able to end the day admiring the sunset along the banks of the lake.

Day 5: From Viverone to Vercelli, distance: 55 km

Today you will enter the area of rice  fields, which get flooded from March to May, creating a landscape of great fascination. The leg is easy and enjoyable, and you will exit the philological itinerary of Via Francigena to visit the Bosco della Participanza (Wood of Community), whose name originates from the fact that the locals have been taking care of the wood together. If you appreciate local dishes, try the Panissa.

Day 6: From Vercelli to Vigevano, distance: 40 km

You will travel across the rice fields of Lomellina until Vigevano, with its beautiful Ducal square designed by Bramante. Here you will be able to sit under the porches to enjoy a good coffee and some rice biscuits, observing life in the square and enjoying the calm rhythm of this provincial town.

Day 7: From Vigevano to Pavia, distance: 43 km

The green way of the Ticino River, among the most important in Italy, will let you immerse in a savage nature, and if the weather is good you will be able to sunbathe on the beaches or meadows near the river, looking out for great tits and squirrels that run through the trees. You will leave the river to visit the Certosa di Pavia, beautiful monastic complex built in the XIVth century, before arriving to Pavia, one of the “pearls” of Via Francigena: you will be able to end your journey with a nice visit to the wonderful historic center, and discovering the young soul of the city with an aperitiv in Piazza della Vittoria, animated by university students.

Day 8: Pavia

Last day included. Service ends after breakfast.

 - Nights in 2/3 stars hotels and B&B with breakfast.

 - Luggage transportation from hotel to hotel.

 - Maps and detailed description of the itinerary.

 - 24h travel insurance.

 - Phone assistance in case of emergency.

Not included:
 - Transfers to the starting location and from the arriving location of the tour.

 - Lunches and dinners.

 - Visits and entrance fees – tips.

 - Personal expense.

 - Possible sojourn taxes.

 - Everything that is not mentioned in the “included” section.
 

 - Single room supplement € 145.

 - Half Board supplement.

 - Bikes and e-bikes rental.

 - Transfers to reach the starting location or to leave the arriving location of the tour, which will be quoted on request.

Typical Flavours - Do not miss:
 

• Lardo from Arnad.
 

• Fontina, to cheese from the pastures of the Val d’Aosta.
 

• Panissa, to dish based on rice from Vercelli, sausage and beans.
 

• The wines from the Val d’Aosta, such as Fumin and Chambave.