Much more than just a path…
It’s a journey through time, along trails walked since the Middle Ages by pilgrims, merchants and travelers heading to Rome. Today, this route—recognized as a Cultural Route by the Council of Europe—is one of Italy’s most captivating slow travel experiences, blending nature, history and culture into a path to be enjoyed slowly and with wonder.
■ Through the Tuscan Hills: Val d’Orcia and the Magic of UNESCO Landscapes
In Tuscany, one of the most beloved stretches crosses the Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rolling golden hills, cypress trees, ancient farmhouses and medieval villages make this a dreamlike landscape.
Unmissable stops include San Quirico d’Orcia, with its Romanesque churches and the formal Italian gardens of the Horti Leonini, and Bagno Vignoni, famous for its thermal-water square. Here you can join guided tours of ancient Roman baths and sensory experiences in the healing hot springs.
Along the way, many farms open their doors for tastings of pecorino cheese, extra virgin olive oil and Val d’Orcia wines, creating a perfect blend of outdoor activities and local culture.
➤ Discover the Gitavillage
➤ Discover The Caesar Hotels
■ Radicofani and the Legend of the Gentleman Outlaw
In Radicofani, a village dominated by a spectacular fortress, the legend of Ghino di Tacco comes to life—a noble brigand mentioned by Dante and Boccaccio. Visitors can climb to the fortress with views of Monte Amiata or join theatrical tours in historical costumes that bring his story back to life.
■ Lakes and Etruscan Villages in Northern Lazio
Crossing into Lazio, the Francigena winds through volcanic landscapes, tuff villages and peaceful lakes. One of the most scenic stretches, between Bolsena and Montefiascone, overlooks Lake Bolsena and is steeped in wine legend: it’s said that a medieval servant marked “Est!” on inns with good wine, and when he reached Montefiascone, he wrote it three times. Today, you can still taste this story through samplings of Est! Est!! Est!!! wine and local products like lake-grown beans and hazelnut desserts.
■ Viterbo and the Papal Pilgrimages
Viterbo, known as the “City of Popes,” is a must-see stop: its historic center is one of the best preserved in Lazio. Walk through the medieval district of San Pellegrino, visit the Palace of the Popes, or join evening guided tours that recount stories of pilgrimage, noble family rivalries, and the secrets of the 1268 conclave—the longest in history.
■ Activities Along the Route
– Horseback rides through the hills of Maremma and Tuscia
– Craft workshops in villages (pottery, basket weaving, traditional cooking)
– Archaeological tours of the Etruscan necropolises of Sovana and Vulci
– Stargazing evenings and storytelling under the stars in slow-travel-friendly stops