Via Francigena
“The Via Francigena The Via Francigena is the common name of an ancient road and pilgrim route running from France to Rome and Apulia, where there were the ports of embarkation for the Holy Land,[1] though it is usually considered to have its starting point on the other side of the English Channel, in the cathedral city of Canterbury. As such, the route passes through England, France, Switzerland and Italy. The route was known in Italy as the “Via Francigena” (“the road that comes from France”) or the “Via Romea Francigena” (“the road to Rome that comes from France”).[2] In medieval times it was an important road and pilgrimage route for those wishing to visit the Holy See and the tombs of the apostles Peter and Paul. ”
Self-guided Cycling
We elected to do a self-guided (just Sandy and me) tour from Florence to Rome. We had previously ridden in France, Spain, and Portugal, and felt our marriage could stand the stress of the trip.
A quick word about self-guided riding . . . “Self guided cycling requires individuals to use problem solving skills, be adaptable and have a keen eye. It is expected that you will know how to repair punctures and make minor adjustments to gears, handlebars and seats. For anything more serious, our local partner will be able to assist. It is recommended that you are comfortable map reading, referring to route notes and that you have a good sense of direction (or have a wife with such!). Sometimes route finding, losing your way, finding it again and asking the locals for help is all part of the adventure. If you’ve never been on a self guided trip, after the first couple of days you will get the hang of it as the vast majority of our first time travelers attest. Using directions and maps can be more difficult for solo travelers (impossible for some!) as often two heads are better than one when it comes to finding your way. There is a certain level of the unknown that comes with self guided trips, however with a methodical approach potential problems will be averted. The freedom of a self guided trip is something that, once experienced, is sought time and time again.”
Our route took us through Florence-Greve-Siena-San Quirico-Racidofani-Lake Bolsena-Viterbo-Sutri-Formello-Rome
Way Too Many Photos
Leaving on a jet plane . . . PDX-Chicago-Rome
The Duomo . . . Florence
Up on the roof . . . Florence
The first hills . . . St. Peter’s tomb above Florence
Our hero in Siena
Lunch time?
Via Francigena
High rollers’ lunch on the trail
Sandy on the road less traveled
End of the day . . . well deserved!
Not looking forward to tomorrow! More hills!
Riding instructions . . . why we got lost
Cascade Sotheby’s . . . Lake Bolsena branch
Fueling up . . .
Cassia Antica . . . over 2000 years old!
“What if we can’t make it?”
A little mud never hurt anyone . . .
Our ponies . . . they did some nice work!
Another wicked climb!
Beautiful (flat!) cycle path along the Tiber into Rome
The Tiber River . . . Rome
Wow! St. Peter’s Square
One more adventure . . . cycling across Rome to drop off the bikes!
We made it! What a trip!
Wonderful Trip
We had a wonderful trip . . . I’d like to thank my wife/navigator supreme and partner, Sandy, for accompanying me, pulling me up all those friggin’ hills, and making this another truly memorable experience.
