Group Tours & Self-Guided Tours

Via di Francesco Group Tours & Self-Guided Tours

Embark on a life-changing pilgrimage through the breathtaking Tuscan landscapes, walking in the footsteps of St Francis. 

Join our group tours or self-guided tours along the Via di Francesco, as we journey from Florence to La Verna through the enchanting Casentinesi Forests National Park, visiting sacred sites like the Monastery of Camaldoli and Monastery of La Verna. 

Immerse yourself in the serenity and peace of the sacred forests and trails, forging lifelong friendships and memories along the way.

Our tour guides create and lead group tours, and also create self-guided itineraries and programs for pilgrim’s who want to hike solo.

Group Tours vs. Self-Guided Tours: Choose Your Path

Group Tours
Self-Guided Tours
Organized Itinerary
✔️
✔️
Accommodations Package Included
✔️
✔️
Baggage Transfer Services
✔️
❌ (Pilgrim carries
their own bags)
Licensed Tour Guide
✔️
Half Board (Breakfast & Dinner)
✔️
Group Tours Photo by Alter Trek

Contact for Group Excursions

Join our guided tours led by Casentino locals for an intimate exploration of the Via di Francesco’s Tuscan offerings.

When you hike with our guides, you’ll get expert interactions with the nature, history, and culture of the Casentino area and national forest.

To get started, fill out the form below with details, including:

  • Self-guided or Group tour
  • Proposed dates
  • Accommodations preferences
  • Hiking ability
  • Baggage transfer preference
  • Budget preferences
  • Trekking preference: Hiking, Cycling, Horseback Riding, Donkey Trekking

Why Choose Our Group Tours?

Group Tours Photo by Alter TrekWe’re dedicated to providing the most unforgettable pilgrimage experience possible. 

Our expert team is made up of Tuscan locals who know the trails, its secrets, and the gems of The Way. 

Our guides carefully select accommodations, transportation, and itineraries to ensure your journey is smooth, stress-free, and deeply meaningful. 

You’ll be staying in local accommodations dedicated to the values of St Francis and pilgrimage, and members of our hospitality network. Plus, we take care of language barriers, payments, and bookings, so you can focus on the spiritual journey ahead.

How to Book Your Self-Guided Tour

Ready to embark on the pilgrimage of a lifetime? Contact the guides below to discuss your preferences, dates, and goals, and let us craft the perfect journey for you. 

Whether you prefer a group tour or a self-guided tour, we’ll be with you every step of the way, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience.

Our Expert Guide Services

We’re proud to collaborate with Alter Trek and Gli Amici dell’Asino, providing you with top-notch local guides who are passionate about the region, its rich history, and the values of St Francis. Both services are unique and operated by our associate member Marta Signi.

Together, you’ll explore the hidden gems of Tuscany, dive deep into the sacred forests, and enjoy unforgettable experiences on your spiritual journey.

SUGGESTED Activities

Rediscover Nature and Connect with Your Spiritual Side

As you journey along the Via di Francesco, you’ll have the opportunity to engage in unique activities that help you connect with nature and experience the true essence of pilgrimage. 

Our partner organizations offer immersive forest therapy sessions and donkey treks, perfect for both children and adults who wish to deepen their bond with the natural world.

Forest Therapy: A Healing Experience

Our partner, Alter Trek, offers therapeutic forest immersions. 

These experiences, also known as Shinrin-Yoku or Forest Bathing, encourage participants to wander through the forest with their senses open, fostering a deep connection with nature. No specific activities are planned, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of the Casentinesi Forests.

See more about Alter Trek

Donkey Treks: A Fun and Unforgettable Adventure

Gli Amici dell’Asino invites you to explore the Casentino countryside in the company of friendly, patient donkeys. Perfect for families and nature lovers, these donkey treks offer a unique perspective on the landscape and allow you to move at a leisurely pace, taking in the scenery from a new vantage point.

More about Gli Amici dell’Asino

FAQs

Most common questions:

The Via di Francesco features various terrains and distances between stages. We cater to different fitness levels and can customize your pilgrimage to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a refillable water bottle, sun protection, and a small backpack for daily essentials are recommended. We’ll provide a comprehensive packing list upon booking. 

See our Packing Guide

Absolutely! Our group tours are designed to foster friendships and connections among like-minded pilgrims. Solo travelers are welcome and encouraged to join.

We recommend booking your tour at least 3-6 months in advance to secure accommodations and services. However, we’ll do our best to accommodate last-minute bookings based on availability.

Travel insurance is strongly recommended to protect against unforeseen circumstances, including medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

Meet the Guide

Meet Our Expert Guide

Marta points to the Way of St Francis sign

Marta Signi

Marta is a certified hiking guide and the founder of Alter Trek and Gli Amici dell’Asino. She has a deep love for nature and is dedicated to providing alternative hiking experiences in the Casentino region. With her extensive knowledge of the area and her passion for forest therapy, Marta ensures that pilgrims connect with the natural world and experience the healing power of the Casentinesi Forests.

Alter Trek

Facebook
Website

Pratovecchio, Italy
+39 320 067 6766
riserva@altertrek.it

To book a private tour, send an email to the address above, indicating your chosen date, the number of participants and a telephone number.

Gli Amici dell’Asino

Facebook
Website
Instagram

LOC. Campolombardo 37
+39 320 067 6766, +39 328 193 3784
amicidellasino@gmail.com

Marta has designed donkey treks for stages of the Via di Francesco. Advance booking via email is required.
Group Tours Photo by Alter Trek

Embark on Your Via di Francesco Pilgrimage Today

Don’t wait any longer to experience the spiritual journey of a lifetime. Whether you choose a group tour or a self-guided tour, our expert team will ensure your Via di Francesco pilgrimage is filled with unforgettable memories, deep connections, and transformative moments.

Join the waitlist for our group tours, contact Marta for details about self-guided tours, or choose to contact Alter Trek and Gli Amici dell’Asino for a private tour.