wandelgids Via Francigena pilgrim route - Part 4, Walking the

Guidebook to the final 940km of the Via Francigena pilgrimage route, from Rome to the heel of Italy.

The route passes through Lazio and into Campania before traversing Puglia, where it concludes at Santa Maria di Leuca. Described in 52 stages, including alternative routes, with information on facilities and pilgrim hostels.

Seasons
Walkable any time of year. Some snow at higher elevation in winter, more rain between December and January, and very hot in July and August. The best months are mid-September to mid-November, plus March to early June.

Centres
Rome, Benevento, Bari, Brindisi, Lecce, Otranto and Santa Maria di Leuca. Variant route destinations include San Giovanni Rotondo, Monte Sant'Angelo and Barletta.

Difficulty
No technical skills or specialised equipment are needed, although the occasional forest or beachside pathway can require careful footing. Sturdy trail runners work well as footwear. Low-cost pilgrimage lodging infrastructure is available on about 50% of the route.

Must See
The 940km Via Francigena south of Rome includes enchanting seaside cities Bari, Brindisi and Monopoli, plus beloved Lecce. The route follows the UNESCO World Heritage Via Appia, plus trails, quiet backroads and over 150km alongside beaches. A major variant leads through Gargano National Park to historic Monte Sant'Angelo.

A guidebook to walking the final section of the Via Francigena pilgrimage. Part of a four-volume set, this volume covers the 940km historic route from Rome to Santa Maria di Leuca in Puglia.

The route is presented in 52 stages of 9 to 30km (6-19 miles), including alternative routes, with information on facilities and pilgrim hostels. Suitable for most abilities.

1:100,000 maps and profiles included for each stage
GPX files available to download
Handy route summary tables help you plan your itinerary
Refreshment and accommodation information given for each trek stage
Advice on planning and preparation