Cycling to Rome: An Adventure Along the Via Francigena

The Via Francigena is more than just a religious route – it’s a journey of experience through the heart of Europe. For centuries, pilgrims and travelers have followed this ancient path to reach Rome, passing through enchanting landscapes, artistic cities, historic villages, and lands rich in spirituality and authentic flavors. Today, the route takes on a new life thanks to the e-bike, allowing everyone to tackle the journey more freely, one stage at a time. A cultural and sporting adventure for almost everyone!

TRIP PROGRAMME

Day 1: from Ticino to the Great Saint Bernard Pass, via Martigny Departure from Ticino by bus through the Valais. Stop in Martigny, a town full of art and culture, to visit the new Barryland – a center dedicated to the famous Saint Bernard dog and the history of the pass. Continue to the Hospice of the Great Saint Bernard, nestled in the mountains at 2,473 m – a spiritual haven and refuge for pilgrims for centuries.

Day 2: descent into the Roman city of Aosta Spectacular descent from the pass through breathtaking alpine landscapes and ancient mountain villages. Pass through Saint-Rhémy-en-Bosses, known for its DOP ham, then Étroubles, one of Italy’s most beautiful villages. Ride along the ancient Roman road to Aosta, a thousand-year-old city with the Arch of Augustus, the Roman Theatre, and the Cathedral. Cycling: 41 km.

Day 3: from Aosta to Verrès Ride through the central valley of the Dora Baltea river, past castles and vineyards. Visit the villages of Nus and Fénis (with its majestic medieval castle), then Châtillon and Saint-Vincent, known for its thermal baths. Arrive in Verrès, dominated by its square-plan castle, a fine example of 14th-century military architecture. A stage rich in nature and history. Cycling: 51 km.

Day 4: from the Fort of Bard to Ivrea Short ride to Bard, overlooked by the 19th-century Fort of Bard, now a museum. Continue to Pont-Saint-Martin, famous for its Roman bridge. Enter Piedmont via Settimo Vittone, then gently rolling hills toward Ivrea, an industrial UNESCO heritage city with strong ties to the Olivetti legacy. Cycling: 60 km.

Day 5: along Lake Viverone to Vercelli Ride through the Canavese region to Lake Viverone, a perfect spot for a relaxing break. Continue through farmland, passing Cavaglià and Santhià, then cross into the rice fields of Vercelli plain. Arrive in Vercelli, an ancient spiritual city with the beautiful Basilica of Sant’Andrea and historic center. Cycling: 62 km.

Day 6: the Abbey of Sant’Albino Cross the Lomellina region, a land of water, rice fields, and old farmsteads. A peaceful stage through the plains. Pass Robbio and Mortara, known for the Abbey of Sant’Albino, a traditional pilgrims’ rest stop. Overnight in Tromello, a quiet rural village. Cycling: 38 km.

Day 7: entering Pavia via the Ponte Coperto Ride through rural landscapes, visiting villages like Garlasco and Gropello Cairoli. Enter Pavia, a historical city with landmarks such as the Ponte Coperto, Visconti Castle, medieval towers, and cathedral. Pavia is also a vibrant university town, perfect for an evening of local food and culture. Cycling: 43 km.

Day 8: along the Ticino and Po rivers A stage full of spiritual and natural charm. Reach Orio Litta, where pilgrims cross the Po at the historic Sigerico ford via a traditional ferry. Enter Emilia among poplar groves and farmhouses, arriving in San Rocco al Porto. Reach Piacenza with its Romanesque architecture, historic squares, and rich cuisine. Return to Ticino by bus in the evening. Cycling: 60 km.

Highlights

• Visit to Barryland 2025, the new theme park in Martigny

• Overnight stay at the Hospice of the Great Saint Bernard

• E-bike journey with cultural stops and tastings

• Historic cities like Aosta, Bard, Pavia…

• Unique tourism trilogy (3 sections over 3 years)

Services included

• Transfer from Ticino

• Comfortable hotels, full board (last day: breakfast and lunch only)

• High-quality e-bikes provided

• Full accompaniment, technical support, and guided city tours

• Support vehicle available throughout the trip

• Local cuisine with zero-km products and regional specialties