SELF GUIDED WALKING TOUR
This independent Italian tour begins with a private vehicle transfer from Rome to La Tuscia, the ancient Roman name for this stunning region that stretches from the southern border of Tuscany, through the lakes of northern Lazio, and into the southwestern mountains of Umbria.
This area, renowned for its dramatic beauty, lies at the volcanic heart of central Italy. It is marked by rolling hills of rich black soil, deep basalt canyons, rugged mountain ranges, and serene crater lakes. Inhabited since prehistoric times, it is one of the cradles of Italian civilization. In the 6th century BC, it was the center of the Etruscan Federation, and during the Renaissance, it became a stronghold for two influential papal dynasties. La Tuscia still boasts many remnants of its illustrious past. If you’re looking for a truly unique and off-the-beaten-path adventure, this is the tour for you!
The journey begins in the “three lost villages of Tuscany” and concludes in the breathtaking Umbrian town of Orvieto. Along the way, you’ll follow paths that wind through the heart of ancient Etruria, including stretches of the Via Francigena, the historic stone road once traveled by pilgrims, merchants, and crusader armies journeying from Papal Rome to northern Italy and beyond.
This is a grade 3 walk. The walks vary in distance from 8 to 18 km. The tour begins with shorter walks over the first three days, gradually leading up to the two longer walks at the end. The trails primarily follow unpaved country roads through rolling farmlands and are well-marked. There are a few more challenging sections that follow narrow, yet clearly defined, paths.
The accommodation is a standout feature of this tour. As always, our Italy travel experts ensure the finest places to stay. All the hotels are located in historic buildings in the heart of charming villages and towns, including a 4-star resort built atop ancient Etruscan foundations, a hotel set within a restored Medici fortress, a family-run hotel nestled beneath the Orvieto cathedral, and a third-generation country hotel in a quaint rural village. Each room is equipped with an en suite bathroom and air conditioning.
Our Italian travel experts will arrange for you to be picked up in Rome and transferred to Pitigliano, a stunning town dramatically set between two ravines, with a history dating back over 3,000 years. Its historic center, a maze of narrow, pedestrian-only streets, is perfect for exploring and taking in its fascinating atmosphere
In the morning, you’ll be transferred to nearby Sovana, where you’ll have time to explore before embarking on a remarkable walk linking Sovana to Pitigliano. The trail follows an ancient Etruscan path, carved from the rock over 2,500 years ago. In the afternoon, you’ll have the chance to explore the valleys surrounding Sovana and visit the impressive Etruscan archaeological sites.
(2hrs; 8km; elevation gain: min 200m, max 315m)
The journey continues to another breathtaking town founded around the same time as Pitigliano. This town, perched on volcanic cliffs above a river, offers stunning views. You’ll stay in a hotel housed in the town’s medieval fortress.
(3hrs; 11km; elevation gain: min 268m, max 428m)
After a morning exploring the town, you’ll set out on a scenic walk to a charming farming village. The route follows a shaded stream and was historically used to connect landlocked Orvieto to the coast. Along the way, you’ll visit the ruins of a fascinating abandoned medieval village, reclaimed by the surrounding forest centuries ago.
(2.5hrs; 7km; elevation gain: min 340m, max 480m)
Today, you’ll walk to Lake Bolsena, passing through a sleepy country village and leaving Tuscany for Lazio, crossing from the Grand Duchy into the Papal State. The walk ends at a lakeside trattoria, shaded by willows, where you can stop for lunch. From here, our driver will take you to your accommodation—a 4-star hotel located on the lakeshore.
(5hrs; 18km; elevation gain: min 303m, max 625m)
Walk from Lake Bolsena to the magnificent town of Orvieto, following much of the route of the medieval Via Francigena. Along the way, you’ll pass through forests, Etruscan ruins, and a rock that miraculously split open to allow a medieval procession carrying a relic of Christ’s blood to reach Orvieto. A straight, paved section of ancient Roman road will lead you directly into the town.
(5hrs; 18km; elevation gain: min 188m, max 626m)
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Orvieto station, located on the main Rome/Florence line, offers convenient options to continue your journey from there.
| Starts | Ends | Price | Status | Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01/01/2025 | 31/12/2025 | On Request | On Request | Book Now |
Airfare and luggage charges
Meals other than those indicated, beverages in addition to the reasonable amount provided during meals
Travel insurance
Passport and other documentation fees
Items of a personal nature i.e. laundry, phone calls, mini bar, shopping etc
Tipping/Gratuities
Single supplement (if required and if available)
Optional excursions/sightseeing
City Tax: some City Councils may introduce a tourist tax that has to be paid directly at the hotel
* Please note, price is subject to fluctuation and availability is subject to change until booked and confirmed. *