Fifth on our list of the Via di Francesco’s most gorgeous stages is the walk from Spoleto to Ceselli, into the Valnerina. Spoleto is one of Umbria’s most lovely towns, and its cathedral includes beautiful frescoes as well as one of the few handwritten letters of St Francis of Assisi.
The spoleto to ceselli stage
A hike across the gorge from Spoleto (sorry, the lovely Ponte delle Torri is still closed) leads to the first treasure – the sanctuary of Monteluco, where not only St Francis stayed, but also the great Renaissance artist Michelangelo. From here it’s over the ridge and into the first of the views of the scenic Valnerina (Nera River Valley). This walk above the gorge is surely one of the most beautiful walks on any pilgrimage anywhere! On the way down, stop to see Mario, a modern hermit who oversees the ghost town of Sensati. It’s a beautiful day, and in good weather, some of the best walking anywhere, anytime!
Continue walking down into the Valnerina and stay either at Macenano or above town at the amazing Abbazia san pietro in valle, one of the most scenic and beautiful lodgings in Italy.
This stage is the fourth stage of our Assisi to Rome walks and the fifth stage of our Rieti to Assisi walk. Our Via di Francesco tours can be found here.
Find our 6th most beautiful stage on the Via di Francesco right here.
