On July 15th, I will start my hike from the beautiful mountain village Morzine in the French Alps. The dream is to arrive on Saint Peter's Square in Rome on September 14th. That is not just a date. It is my 40th birthday. This hike is a journey towards a new chapter in my life. Check the celebrate tab on this website for more information on my big birthday party in Rome and how you can be a part of it.
But first I have to walk those 1136 kilometers. And I'm already sure that I will enjoy every kilometer. The trail goes through the most stunning landscapes Europe has to offer. I plan to cover the distance in 54 stages. Add 8 rest days and I should arrive in Rome 62 days after I have left Morzine. But as you know, happiness is only real when shared. So if you have some time off this summer and you would like to join me for a part of my walk, please do so. Scroll down for more information or click on the button just below to see my detailled walking schedule.
But first I have to walk those 1136 kilometers. And I'm already sure that I will enjoy every kilometer. The trail goes through the most stunning landscapes Europe has to offer. I plan to cover the distance in 54 stages. Add 8 rest days and I should arrive in Rome 62 days after I have left Morzine. But as you know, happiness is only real when shared. So if you have some time off this summer and you would like to join me for a part of my walk, please do so. Scroll down for more information or click on the button just below to see my detailled walking schedule.
It is always good to start with a bang and that is exactly what I plan to do. My Rome hike starts in the beautiful Alps, a tall wall of mighty mountains. On my first day, I will have to climb more than 1000m to cross the border with Switzerland. From there, the path continues to go up and down towards the famous Col du Grand Saint Bernard. This mountain crossing is a wonderland of narrow trails among moss-covered boulders and surrounded by jagged granite peaks. That is where the Via Francigena finds its way into Italy. At the summit, the pilgrims hospice has safeguarded hikers for nearly 1000 years. During my first days, I have limited the number of kilometers that I will cover per day. Not only because I don't want to push my limits at the beginning, but also because the terrain will be tough. On the other side, the rewards will be numerous. Pure mountain happiness!
|
After these first days in the mountains, the legs will be strong. Once the last mountains of the Aosta valley will be behind me, I will walk into the Po valley. The flatter farmlands will be a welcome relief from all the climbing. Beautiful castles dominate the landscape and lakes offer the possibility for a refreshing swim. The region of Piemonte comes into view. It is the second largest region in Italy after Sicily. At the foot of the Alps, it has an excellent climate for vineyards. The Via Francigena doesn't pass through the capital of Torino, but goes southeast towards Pavia and Piacenza. Every day will definitely bring new surprises.
|
Rome wasn't build in a day and on foot, it isn't reached in a day either. Before getting eyes on the beauty of the Italian capital, another big mountain range will have to be tackled: the Apennines. Although lower than the Alps, these mountains offer some of the most thrilling scenery in all of Italy. The Via Francigena goes over the high Cisa Pass. From the summit, there are stunning views. One thing is certain, there will be some tough days here with lots of climbing. After these mountains have been conquered, the last part of my hike comes into sight. And with that, the rolling hills of Tuscany. Lucca is one of Italy's most beloved towns and there, I will be only two weeks away from Rome!
|
Lucca is 400km away from Rome. The dream of arriving will be lively, but there is still lots to see. What about the historical city of Siena? Or San Gimignano, widely recognized as one of the best preserved medieval towns in Italy. It will definitely be highlight after highlight. And then comes the day: September 14th 2023, the day I turn 40. I will take off from la Storta, just outside Rome. There is a railway station in La Storta for those who would be in Rome and who would love to join me on my last 20km. First, we will go through the green and serene Insugherata Nature Reserve. Then comes a second oasis of quiet in Monte Mario Park with its dramatic views over Rome. From there, the Via Angelico will bring us to the Basilica San Pietro. The end and also the new beginning of my adventure!
|
What would you do if you knew you could not fail??
That is exactly what you have to try.
Remember, you only live once, live now!!
That is exactly what you have to try.
Remember, you only live once, live now!!