Via Francigena WEEK 3
This week delves into the Pò river valley, past the alluvial plains where expansive rice fields cover the land. Through these fields you will find the city of Pavia, known for its spectacular Visconti castle from 1360. Pavia is also home to the Basilica di San Pietro, whose shimmering gold ceilings have inspired artists & pilgrims for centuries. From there you’ll continue onwards to the XV castle of Belgioioso, to the healing natural springs of Miradolo terme. Beyond the thermal springs past the vineyards of the San Colombano hills, you will reach the banks of the River Po.
After you take the ferry across the river, the next big stop is Piacenza. Take some time to enjoy the spectacular Renaissance palaces, as well as the 12th century Duomo, a massive cathedral displaying the classic traits of Romanesque architecture. A few miles later you’ll reach the luxurious palaces of Fiorenzuola, a small but elegant town, just beyond which lies the Cistercian Abbey of Chiaravalle della Colomba, which welcomes pilgrims from around the world.
Your journey will end in Fidenza, a small town in the province of Parma. Be sure to visit Fidenza’s 13th century Cathedral, an exemplar of the Lombardy Romanesque style, as well as to enjoy the delicious local delicacies & wines. We recommend you celebrate your weeklong journey with some savory prosciutto & 30-month-aged parmesan, with a rich balsamic vinegar.
This week begins in the town of Garlasco, easily reached by train from Milan (2h30). Waiting for you at your hotel will be all the material you need for your trip: hotel vouchers, a detailed description of the route & stops along the way, & the GPS maps. You will also find information on churches where you can receive a benediction, should you desire one.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
Pavia bridge
Po river crossing
Castllarquato village
Fidenza Duomo
HOW DOES IT WORK:
We book your accommodations
We will book double rooms with private bathrooms in 2* or 3* hotels, b&b or country Inns. and you will find the corresponding vouchers in your package
We transfer your luggage
Just leave it at the reception desk with your name tag and you will find it at your next accommodation.
We supply detailed route notes and maps
The route notes can be in English, Italian, French or German. All maps have GPS tracing.
PRICES AND SUPPLEMENTS
> Price in double room: 650 Euro
> Price in triple room: 580 Euro
> 5 Dinners package: 120 Euro
> Single supplement: 120 Euro
> Solo traveler supplement: 220 Euro
- Destination
-
Departure
From Garlasco to Fidenza
-
Included
7 NIGHTS ( in 3 Star Accommodation )All breakfast ( dinners on demand )Emergency number 24/7Gps Files AvailableLuggage TransferPilgrim's "Credenziale" ( Stamp book )Road Book & Maps
-
Not Included
11 NIGHTS ( in 3 Star Accommodation )2 Dinners5 Dinner package ( On Request )5 NIGHTS in 3-4 Stars Accommodation6 NIGHTS in 3* / 4* Accommodation8 NIGHTS in 3* / 4* AccommodationWine Tasting in Umbria
Day 1 – Arrival in Garlasco – Height at departure: 93m
Day 2 – Garlasco – Pavia – Height at arrival: 77 m Length: 25,7km Walking time: 6h.30
Day 3 – Pavia – Santa Cristina ( Miradolo ) – Height at arrival: 71 m Length: 27,7km Walking time: 6h.30
Day 4 – Miradolo – Calendasco – Height at arrival:60 m Length: 17.5 km Walking time: 4h.0
Day 5 – Calendasco – Piacenza – Height at arrival: 61 m Length: 15,5 km Walking time: 4h.00
Day 6 – Piacenza – Carpaneto – Height at arrival:80 m Length:26.5km Walking time: 5h.30
Day 7 – Carpaneto – Fidenza – Height at arrival:57 m Length: 25km Walking time: 6h.30
Day 8 – End our service
Location
The map of the Via Francigena
From Garlasco to Fidenza
