Approach to Rome

Ancie nt Paths to Rome: Section III of 225 Miles to Rome

Historic towns and villages now influenced by the vortex of Rome, whilst in the ancient volcanic landscapes, are evocative reminders of the Via Francigena, its ancient origins, and the millions who have travelled the route

Day 1 • Arrive in Viterbo

Free day in Viterbo, with its fine churches, papal palace and medieval quarter. Optional walk to the Villa Lante gardens (5.3 miles, 2.5 hrs).

HHH Hotel Tuscia

Day 2 • Viterbo to Lake Vico

Paths through oak and chestnut forest lead to a ridge, then down to an ancient crater and Lake Vico, with its secondary cone, Monte Venere, sur mounted by a small temple to Venus. We walk through hazel groves to our lakeside hotel (9 2 miles, 4 5 hrs)

HHH Hotel La Bella Venere

Day 3 • Lake Vico to Sutri

Tracks lead down beside a river flowing from the lake, which powers over 20 water mills, en route to the picturesque ancient citadel of Ronciglione. Lanes then lead through hazelnut groves to the ancient walled town of Sutri, birthplace of Pontius Pilate, with its atmospheric amphitheatre, frescoed church of the Madonna del Parto, and Etruscan sites (9.7 miles, 4.5 hrs).

B&B Le Terrecotte

Day 4 • Sutri to Campagnano di Roma

Follow tracks across low hills, with far mland and woods, before walking up to the gates of the walled town of Campagnano di Roma (17 miles, 8 hrs).

HHH Albergo da Righetto

Day 5 • Campagnano di Roma to Isola Far nese a grit uris mo I Casali del Pino

Quiet lanes and far m tracks lead via an isolated pilgrim church to the necropolis of Etruscan Veio, then, still in unspoilt country, to the hilltop village of Isola Far nese, 11 miles from Rome (12.3 miles, 6 hrs).

Day 6 • Isola Far nese to Rome

Follow the Via Cassia before passing through the nature reserves of Insugherata and Monte Mario for your first magnificent views over Rome Then follow the Viale Angelico to reach the walls of the Vatican, and on to St. Peter’s Square. Stay at a very well-situated hotel in the centre of the old city (14 3 miles, 6 hrs + sightseeing)

HHHH Monti Palace Hotel

Day 7 • Free day in Rome

HHHH Monti Palace Hotel

Day 8 • Departure day

Route open: April-Oct

Airports to first hotel: u Rome Fiumicino (65 miles)

Train: 2-3 hrs - €13

Taxi: 1 5 hrs - ~€180 u Rome Ciampino (60 miles)

Train: 3 hrs - €12

Taxi: 1 5 hrs - ~€180

Route Manager: ATG-trained, lives locally and speaks fluent English, Italian and Polish

Route Book: 117 pages – detailed walking directions, maps, comprehensive local and background information.

Walking: Moderate (Grade 3) See p 8

Terrain: Varied paths: Etruscan roads; Roman roads; mule paths; wooded paths; cart tracks and dirt roads.