Francigena River Trekking offers an unforgettable adventure through the historic landscapes of Lunigiana, Tuscany. Suitable for families with older children, this medium-difficulty trek promises stunning vistas of olive groves, chestnut forests, and refreshing waterfalls. Participants will enjoy a guided hike with essential equipment provided, though swimming knowledge is required to safely explore the crystal-clear pools. The journey culminates in a picturesque setting, celebrating the region’s natural beauty and rich history. If you’re seeking an exhilarating outdoor experience that combines physical challenge with culture, this 5-hour trek along the Via Francigena may be just the…
Key Points
- The Francigena River Trekking adventure offers a 4-hour hike along the historic Via Francigena in Lunigiana, Tuscany, showcasing the region’s natural beauty.
- The trek is suitable for children aged 10 and up, with a medium difficulty level and swimming required to enjoy the refreshing pools.
- Participants will experience scenic views of olive groves, vineyards, and waterfalls during the guided hike, which starts at Valdantena after a 30-minute car transfer.
- The activity includes guide service, equipment (wetsuit, helmet, life jacket), insurance, and car transfer, with meals and hiking shoes as exclusions.
- Safety guidelines are in place, and the activity may be canceled due to adverse weather or water level changes, with full refunds available up to 24 hours in advance.
Activity Overview
The Francigena River Trekking adventure takes participants along the historic Via Francigena in Lunigiana, Tuscany.
Priced from Kč1,754 per person, the excursion lasts approximately 5 hours and is suitable for children aged 10 and up.
While the difficulty is rated medium, swimmers are required.
The trek starts at the Centro Didattico Sorano in Filattiera, with a 30-minute car ride to Valdantena where the hiking and river exploration begin.
Trekkers can enjoy scenic views of olive groves, vineyards, and waterfalls, though this isn’t a canyoning activity.
The tour includes guide service, equipment, insurance, and transportation, but excludes meals and hiking shoes.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Filattiera.
Itinerary Details
Starting at the Centro Didattico Sorano in Filattiera, participants meet at 9:00 a.m. at the Tourist Information Point Pieve di Sorano.
From there, it’s a 30-minute car ride to Valdantena, where the trek begins.
The 4-hour hike along the historic Via Francigena includes scenic views of terraced olive groves, vineyards, chestnut forests, waterfalls, and crystal-clear pools.
An optional 1-hour picnic lunch with an extra fee is available during the trek.
The excursion finishes at 54027 Molinello MS, Italia.
Highlights and Experience
Trekking along the historic Via Francigena, which links Canterbury to Rome, offers adventurous hikers scenic views of terraced olive groves, vineyards, chestnut forests, waterfalls, and crystal-clear pools.
This river trekking experience in Lunigiana, Tuscany, isn’t a canyoning activity but rather a focus on exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Participants can look forward to hiking for approximately 4 hours and taking refreshing dips in the inviting pools along the way.
While it’s a medium-difficulty trek suitable for children aged 10 and up, all participants must know how to swim to fully enjoy this outdoor adventure.
Inclusions and Exclusions
This Francigena River Trekking experience includes a guide service, necessary equipment like wetsuits, helmets, and life jackets, insurance, and a car transfer to the excursion’s starting point. However, meals and hiking shoes are not included.
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
|---|---|
| Guide service | Meals |
| Equipment (wetsuit, helmet, life jacket) | Hiking shoes |
| Insurance | |
| Car transfer to excursion start |
Participants should also note that this activity may be canceled due to bad weather or water level changes.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information
The Francigena River Trekking activity isn’t suitable for everyone.
It’s not recommended for children under 10, pregnant women, individuals with mobility issues, non-swimmers, people over 220 lbs (100 kg), or those with altitude sickness.
Participants must wear proper footwear – sandals, flip-flops, and bare feet aren’t allowed.
Bring swimwear, a towel, and a change of clothes.
Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund, but the activity may be canceled due to bad weather or water level changes.
Following these guidelines ensures a safe and enjoyable river trekking experience along the historic Via Francigena.
What to Bring
Participants should bring a few essential items for the Francigena River Trekking adventure.
First and foremost, they’ll need swimwear to enjoy the crystal-clear pools along the way. Comfortable, outdoor-appropriate clothing is a must, as is a towel to dry off.
Proper hiking shoes are required – sandals, flip-flops, and bare feet aren’t allowed. A change of clothes for after the trek is also recommended.
Finally, don’t forget to pack any personal necessities like sunscreen, snacks, and water.
With these items in tow, participants can focus on seeing the stunning natural surroundings of the historic Via Francigena.
Not Allowed
Certain items aren’t allowed on the Francigena River Trekking adventure. This is to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.
The prohibited items include:
- Sandals or flip-flops – These types of footwear offer little to no support and can be hazardous on the uneven terrain.
- Fishing gear – The activity is focused on river trekking, not fishing, and such equipment could interfere with the experience.
- Bare feet – For hygiene and safety reasons, participants must wear proper hiking shoes or water shoes throughout the trek.
Adhering to these guidelines helps maintain the integrity of the Francigena River Trekking adventure and keeps everyone secure during the journey.
Cancellation and Weather
According to the provided information, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This policy gives customers flexibility in case their plans change.
However, the activity may be canceled due to bad weather or changes in water levels. These factors can impact the safety and feasibility of the river trekking experience.
Customers should be prepared for potential cancellations and keep an eye on weather forecasts leading up to their booking.
The organizers prioritize the safety and enjoyment of participants, so they reserve the right to cancel the activity if environmental conditions become unsuitable. This ensures a high-quality and secure experience for all.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Group Size for This Activity?
The activity doesn’t specify a minimum group size. It’s likely that the tour can accommodate solo travelers or small groups, as long as the total number of participants falls within the safety guidelines provided.
Is There an Option for a Guided Tour in Other Languages?
The tour offers guided excursions in English, but they may be able to accommodate other languages upon request. Clients should check with the tour operator regarding language availability when booking.
Do the Guides Provide Any Historical Information During the Trek?
Yes, the guides provide historical information about the Via Francigena route and the surrounding areas during the trek. They share insights into the cultural significance and history of this ancient pilgrimage path through Lunigiana, Tuscany.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Swimming Portions?
There are age restrictions for the swimming portions – the activity is suitable for children aged 10 and up. Swimmers must be able to handle the swimming portions of the trek.
Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Trek?
Yes, the duration of the trek can be extended. According to the activity overview, the standard duration is approximately 5 hours, but participants can opt for an additional 1-hour picnic lunch for an extra fee.
Recap
The Francigena River Trekking adventure offers an unforgettable journey through Tuscany’s stunning landscapes. Suitable for families, the medium-difficulty trek features breathtaking views, refreshing waterfalls, and an opportunity to immerse in the region’s rich history. With essential equipment provided and swimming knowledge required, this 5-hour experience promises an exhilarating exploration of the picturesque Via Francigena.
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