Lucca to Rome
Ride the Via Francigena pilgrimage route on the gravel roads of Tuscany and Lazio
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- A thorough daily itinerary
- Details for exact accommodations
- What to expect
- Travel planning tips
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The route, a mix of dirt and paved roads, follows in the footsteps of ancient pilgrims and was first documented in 990 AD by Sigeric, Archbishop of Canterbury. In his diary, he recorded the places he passed through on his return to Canterbury, mapping what would later become known as the Via Francigena (the “road from France”) or Via Romea (the “road to Rome”). For centuries, this route was traveled by merchants, clergymen, soldiers, and pilgrims, journeying between northern Europe, Rome, and Jerusalem, carrying ideas, money, and goods. Travelers moved mostly on foot, mules, or horseback, as carts were rarely used due to the ever-changing road conditions. Unlike the Roman roads, designed to connect major cities, the Via Francigena evolved as a network of local trails and paths, maintained by noble families, linking mountain passes, bridges, ferry crossings, and villages, shaping one of the most important pilgrimage routes in history.
Tour Essence
- Experience the spirituality of the pilgrimage: Walked by millions for over a thousand years, the Via Francigena carries a unique energy
- Tuscany and Lazio are among Italy’s most seen regions: with our itinerary, discover a secret side closer to nature and little-forgotten artistic masterpieces
- Experience traveling on a mix of paved and unpaved roads: away from cars and trucks, you’ll be able to focus on the sound of your turning wheels and the rhythm of your body
- Follow expert guides who know better than anyone off-road cycling and the Via Francigena
- Relax in ancient spas: enjoy stops at centuries-old thermal baths along the way
- Cycle on a 2,000-year-old Roman road over the basalt stones of the ancient Via Cassia, a testament to Rome’s engineering legacy
What to Expect
Terrain
Rolling and mixed terrainStart Location
Lucca, ItalyEnd Location
Rome, ItalyMileage
Average Daily: 32 miles Total: 285 milesElevation
Average Daily: 2,200 ft Total: 19,450 ft
Once you have a trip confirmed, we will feed you a steady diet of additional pre-departure information that includes: How to train, prepare, pack and all the wonderful, inspirational and practical things you want and need to know before you go! Our Travel Advisors will be available to help plan your pre- and post-tour travel.
- Service of professional guides throughout the program
- Full van support
- Ciclismo jersey and water bottle
- Cycling clinics and one-on-one coaching
- 3 cultural visits with local guides
- 2 tastings of local specialties
What’s Included
- Use of our exclusive carbon gravel bike, La Ribelle Gravel (or Equivalent Carbon Gravel Bike)
- Garmin Edge Explore GPS loaded with the GPX tracks of your rides
- Two water bottles
- Saddle bag with repair kit
- Optional: map holder on handlebar
Pedal Options
- Flat pedals
- Half-toe pedals (without straps)
What’s Not Included
- Helmet
- Optional: clipless pedals with shoes
- Optional: your own saddle
- All accommodations
- All breakfasts
- 3 lunches
- 7 dinners
The route, a mix of dirt and paved roads, follows in the footsteps of ancient pilgrims and was first documented in 990 AD by Sigeric, Archbishop of Canterbury. In his diary, he recorded the places he passed through on his return to Canterbury, mapping what would later become known as the Via Francigena (the “road from France”) or Via Romea (the “road to Rome”). For centuries, this route was traveled by merchants, clergymen, soldiers, and pilgrims, journeying between northern Europe, Rome, and Jerusalem, carrying ideas, money, and goods. Travelers moved mostly on foot, mules, or horseback, as carts were rarely used due to the ever-changing road conditions. Unlike the Roman roads, designed to connect major cities, the Via Francigena evolved as a network of local trails and paths, maintained by noble families, linking mountain passes, bridges, ferry crossings, and villages, shaping one of the most important pilgrimage routes in history.
2025
Start Location
Lucca, ItalyFly Into
FlorenceEnd Location
Rome, ItalyFly Out Of
RomeLucca
Meals Provided
Lunch, DinnerAverage Mileage
15 milesElevation Gain
350 ftRiding Terrain
Rolling with paved and dirt pathsMeals Provided
Lunch, DinnerAccommodations
Hotel Ilaria
Located within Lucca’s historic walls, the 4-star Hotel Ilaria offers an ideal base for exploring this fantastic town, ensuring exceptional service and comfort. After a day of sightseeing, return to Hotel Ilaria to unwind—relax on the terrace with complimentary snacks and drinks, or soak in the hot tub overlooking lush gardens.
San Miniato
Meals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAverage Mileage
30 milesElevation Gain
1,300 ftRiding Terrain
Rolling with a hilly end of day on mixed terrainMeals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAccommodations
Hotel Miravalle
The 4-star Hotel Miravalle is set right beneath the Tower of Frederick, in the ancient castle square, facing San Miniato Cathedral. Every room offers a beautiful view, whether of the stunning Tuscan hills or the historic monuments of San Miniato. The hotel is decorated in a refined Tuscan style, with carefully selected furniture and drapery enhancing the warmth of its inviting, richly colored interiors. From Frederick Barbarossa to Pope Clement VII and Michelangelo, many illustrious figures who shaped history have stayed here.
San Gimignano
Meals Provided
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAverage Mileage
30 milesElevation Gain
2,900 ftRiding Terrain
Hilly on mixed terrainMeals Provided
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodations
Hotel La Cisterna
Housed in an elegant 14th-century building, the 3-star Hotel La Cisterna is perfectly situated in the heart of San Gimignano. The hotel’s Florentine-style rooms offer breathtaking views, overlooking either the charming Piazza della Cisterna or the rolling Tuscan countryside.
Siena
Meals Provided
BreakfastAverage Mileage
30 milesElevation Gain
2,300 ftRiding Terrain
Hilly on mixed terrainMeals Provided
BreakfastAccommodations
Grand Hotel Continentale
The Grand Hotel Continental Siena is a prestigious 5-star boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Siena’s historic center. Housed in the 17th-century Palazzo Gori Pannilini, the hotel showcases original frescoes and elegant Renaissance architecture. Its prime location places guests just steps away from Piazza del Campo and the Duomo di Siena, offering an immersive experience in the rich cultural heritage of Tuscany.
Bagno Vignoni
Meals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAverage Mileage
35 milesElevation Gain
2,800 ftRiding Terrain
Hilly on mixed terrainMeals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAccommodations
Le Terme Spa & Resort
The 3-star Le Terme Spa & Resort welcomes guests to a 15th-century palace, designed by Rossellino and once the summer residence of Pope Pius II Piccolomini. Nestled in the heart of Bagno Vignoni, the hotel overlooks the Piazza delle Sorgenti, home to a historic Etruscan thermal pool, where natural 49-degree waters have flowed for centuries.
Proceno
Meals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAverage Mileage
35 milesElevation Gain
2,800Riding Terrain
Hilly on mixed terrainMeals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAccommodations
Castello di Proceno
The 3-star Castello di Proceno is a tranquil 12th-century fortress, offering beautifully appointed rooms adorned with art, history, and antique furniture. Guests can relax in the scenic park, dine at the outdoor summer restaurant, or unwind at the elegant wine bar, all within this timeless historic setting.
Viterbo
Meals Provided
Breakfast, LunchAverage Mileage
40 milesElevation Gain
2,700 ftRiding Terrain
HillyMeals Provided
Breakfast, LunchAccommodations
B&B dei Papi
Residenza d’Epoca B&B Dei Papi is an elegant 14th-century mansion located in the historic center of Viterbo, just a minute’s walk from the renowned Palazzo dei Papi. Each room exudes period charm, featuring spacious accommodations, terracotta floors, and classic furnishings.
Formello
Meals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAverage Mileage
49 milesElevation Gain
3,500 ftRiding Terrain
Hilly with mixed terrainMeals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAccommodations
La Meridiana Relais
La Meridiana Relais is a charming accommodation located in the historic center of Formello, Italy. Situated within a 16th-century building, this relais offers guests a unique blend of historical ambiance and modern comfort. Each room is elegantly furnished, reflecting the rich heritage of the region.
Il Vaticano e Roma
Meals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAverage Mileage
20 milesElevation Gain
800 ftRiding Terrain
Hilly with mixed terrainMeals Provided
Breakfast, DinnerAccommodations
Hotel Isa Design
The 4-star Isa Design Hotel in Rome is nestled in a 19th-century historic building in the heart of the city, just steps from Vatican City, Castel Sant’Angelo, and St. Peter’s Basilica. Its prime location, distinctive interiors, and high standards of service ensure a memorable and luxurious stay in the Eternal City.
