Via Francigena first stage • Cycling from Aosta to Parma

 The journey starts in Aosta, a Roman town located in a valley surrounded by mountains. Here you can 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.

 Today a private transfer will take you to the jagged peaks of the Great Saint Bernard Pass, where the same Saint Bernard built the first pilgrim hospice: from here you will descend to Aosta along a panoramic road with breath-taking views, pedalling first on a State Road and then through orchards and woods, crossing enchanting villages such as Saint Rhemy and Etroubles.  

Challenge: 40 km / 25 mi, 103m ascent, 12070m descent

The itinerary continues across the valley floor, on the cycle path that runs along the River Dora, through castles and vineyards. Along the way you encounter the enchanting Saint Germain castle, with its imposing Midday tower that used to defend the noble De Mongioveto family. From here the itinerary continues to Verrès through breath-taking views.  

Challenge: 50 km / 31 mi, 230m ascent, 450m descent 

 Entering in Piedmont, the alpine scenery gives way to the gentle Piedmont hills, as ascents and height differences become less and less challenging. You alternate wood trails to typical towns such as Ivrea, with its nice old town centre and the tall tower of Santo Stefano. Continuing the ride you arrive close to the imposing Serra of Ivrea, the biggest European drift, until the nice village of Roppolo where a cozy, family-run bed and breakfast awaits you.

 Challenge: 54 km / 34 mi, 370m ascent, 480m descent  

Today you 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 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!.

Challenge: 41 km / 25,5 mi, 35m ascent, 205m descent 

Crossing the fertile plains of the Po river valley you leave Vercelli, the Sesia river, the vast rice fields and the region of Piemonte. As you reach the Ticino river you enter Lombardy region. During the renaissance Duque Ludovico Sforza ruled this land and it is said he commissioned Leonardo da Vinci to design Vigevano’s beautiful central square. Migle with the locals as you relax at one of the outdoor terraces on the square. Today’s ride is flat  and relaxing giving you ample time to visit this pictureque town

Challenge: 54km / 34 mi, 40m ascent, 62m descent 

The green way of the Ticino River, among the most important in Italy, lets you immerse in a savage nature, and if the weather is good you may even sunbathe on the beaches or meadows near the river, looking out for great tits and squirrels that run through the trees. You then 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: we suggest you 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.

 Challenge: 42 km / 26 mi, 53m ascent, 45m descent

This part takes you through the flood plain of the basso Pavese, with its typical flood terraces.  You reach the ford of Sigerico, the “transitum Padi”, where walking pilgrims are transported to the other bank: the cycling itinerary allows you to cycle along the river Po until Piacenza, entering gate to Emilia Romagna, a land of great hospitality famous for its food and wine delicacies. Here you will be able to taste the famous charcuterie, washed down with a glass of  Gutturnio wine, and pass through the Porta del Paradiso to discover the Romanesque interiors of the Basilica.

 Challenge: 75 km / 46,5 mi, 116m ascent, 119m descent

Today’s quiet, flat leg leads you to Parma: along the way do not miss a visit of the Cistercian abbey of Chiaravalle della Colomba, where you can stand in thought for a few minutes   in the silence of the cloisters or admire the carved wooden interiors of the church. The ride continues among the Parma hills, a foretaste of Tuscan mountains, until arriving to the final point of your trip: Parma, the Italian province boasting the largest number of PDO and PGI gastronomic products. A great place to celebrate the end of your trip!  

Challenge: 98 km / 61 mi, 62m ascent, 311m descent 

The trip ends after breakfast, unless you have booked extra nights or other optional services with us.