Cycling Collection by guido gazzaniga
Cycle the St. Francis Way in Italy – Via del Nord
3 days
3-4 h/day
180km
2,440m
3,210m
Originally a hiking pilgrimage, the route is becoming increasingly popular among cyclists. Whilst St Francis didn't have a bicycle, he passed through the same spiritual places. The villages en route seem to be frozen in time and nature is lush and wild. This Collection leads through one of Italy’s greenest regions: Umbria.
These areas are remote: you’ll find yourself cycling for long stretches on secondary roads surrounded by green landscapes of fields or oak forests, with little traffic and few buildings. In between asphalt roads, you’ll encounter short stretches of dirt road and compacted cycle paths. The route isn’t too technical and you can easily ride it on a road bike, although wide tyres are a good idea, especially if you’re travelling with panniers.
The Collection is divided into three Tours that depart from and arrive in larger population centres. Use the complete Tour to adjust the lengths of the stages to your preferences. As some sections are remote, you should plan where to sleep and eat in advance. If you experience any mishaps, you can knock on a door and ask for help. Umbrians are very hospitable (and are also fantastic in the kitchen). Bring a puncture repair kit and multi tool with you for your bike.
You can cycle the route throughout the year. The region has a Mediterranean and sub-continental climate so it’s mild, even in winter and summer. You’ll pass through many microclimates due to the altitude differences so always check the weather and pack your gear accordingly. October to March are the rainiest months, while July is the driest.
For further information, visit the official website of the Via di Francesco: viadifrancesco.it/en. Via the link, you can also get your pilgrim's credential to collect stamps on the way as a souvenir. By giving a donation for the card, you also support the route’s maintenance and development.
You’ll find it hard to leave once you finish this spectacular route – enjoy!
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Via del Nord – Via di Francesco by bike
180km
2,420m
3,190m
Last updated: November 22, 2024
Do it yourself!
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Plan your own version of this adventure in the multi-day planner based on the stages suggested in this Collection.
Activities
68.4km
04:15
530m
1,370m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
54.6km
04:14
1,140m
940m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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56.6km
03:39
770m
900m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Collection Stats
Activities
3
Distance
180 km
Duration
12:08 h
Elevation
2,440 m
3,210 m
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