Finding St Francis in the heart of Italy

In the quiet hills of Italy, the country’s patron saint is eternally present in the names of churches, monasteries and wayside chapels, and on the network of pilgrimage routes winding through the heart of Italy towards Rome.  As the 800th anniversary of his death approaches in 2026, we’re taking a look at St Francis of Assisi and his legacy, and where you can encounter him along our routes.

Born around 1181 into a prosperous family, the young Francis enjoyed a lavish lifestyle, but after a strange vision came to him, he devoted himself to a life of poverty and prayer. Preaching a message of brotherly love, peace and respect for the natural world in the mountains of Umbria and beyond, he attracted a following that led to the founding of the Franciscan Order in 1210. The Order grew throughout Italy and across Europe, alongside an order for women known as the Poor Clares, and a secular order that does not live monastically. He died in October 1226, and was declared a saint in 1228 when the building of the Basilica of St Francis was begun in Assisi. Today he is venerated around the world for his example of caring for the poor and needy, and as the patron saint of ecology, and is still very much present in the lives of present-day pilgrims.

Walk with St Francis in Umbria

Hikers taking On Foot’s route south from Spoleto in Umbria might like to visit Assisi before their walk, to see the Basilica and take in the atmosphere of the anniversary celebrations during 2026. You will also encounter the Via di Francesco pilgrimage trail occasionally. A highlight of your holiday is the little town of Greccio, with its hermitage clinging to a cliff face nearby. Inspired by his visit to the Holy Land, it was here that St Francis created the first nativity scene in 1223, in a rustic chapel hewn from the rock. An ox and ass attended the simple manger, and villagers processed with torches and candles. The scene is still recreated every Christmas.

Visit the Franciscan chapels of Sacro Monte

Set in woodland above Orta, final destination of our Lake Maggiore walking holiday, are the 20 small chapels of Sacro Monte di Orta, one of the most sacred places in Piedmont. Built between 1590 and 1788, with architectural styles reaching from Renaissance to Baroque and Rococo, each chapel contains the depiction of a scene in the life of St Francis, in frescoes or life-size statues.  As you leave the site, which is now a Special Nature Reserve, and walk down to the charming town of Orta, you’ll pass a striking modern statue of the saint in his customary pose with birds alighting on his hands.

Sacred spaces in Tuscany

As the Franciscan Order grew rapidly in the 13th century, many new churches were dedicated to the saint. Walkers in Southern Tuscany pass through the charming town of Pienza, where it’s worth taking a moment to visit the church of San Francesco in the town centre. This simple building is now surrounded by much grander facades, though its interior retains remnants of 14th century frescoes alongside contemporary pieces, and provides a peaceful sanctuary from the busy street.

See all On Foot Holidays routes in Italy

Walk with us in the glorious hills of southern Tuscany, through vineyards, fields of waving corn and lines of graceful cypresses.

Each day brings another charming Renaissance town to explore – wander the narrow streets to discover the cool interior of a medieval church, artists’ workshops, a wine shop, or a bottega alimentare bursting with artisanal produce. There may even be a thermal pool where you can soothe your tired feet!

And, of course, there’ll be plenty of opportunities to sample Tuscan food and drink – this is home to some of Italy’s very best red wines, and some fabulous regional cheeses, cured meats and pasta dishes.

This short film gives a taste of the hiking experience  – and when you’re ready to lace up your boots, give us a call!

Find more about Southern Tuscany with On Foot Holidays here.

With thanks to Great Escapations.

So said the great man of the mountains, John Muir, and it’s a sentiment that resonates with many a walker. The soaring peaks and clear air, meadows bursting with wild flowers, and the gentle music of cow bells are salve to the soul. There’s really nothing quite like reaching a magnificent view and stopping to drink in the majesty of the mountains.

Does that sound appealing? Then do take a look at our Alpine routes for your next walking holiday. From France to Slovenia we have itineraries that will suit hikers looking for everything from modest mountain walking to something a bit more challenging. None of them require serious mountaineering experience, but all will reward with heart-stopping views and a huge sense of achievement.

Visit the Dolomites in northern Italy for towering rocky peaks and tree-clad valleys. You’ll journey from the Germanic influences of the South Tyrol to Italian Cortina, stopping at a jolly mountain refuge on the way. It’s a short summer season, so do plan ahead!

Still in Italy, a gentler route on the fringes of the Alps will take you from Lake Maggiore with its lovely island villas and gardens, to the top of Mottarone – quiet in the months when the winter sports facilities are deserted. Descend to little Lake Orta, with cultural and spiritual sites to visit and plenty of restorative Piedmontese food and wine to sample.

At the southwestern tip of the Alpine range, the Alpes Maritimes descend through France to the coast at Menton. Here the medieval villages perchés are the highlights, with mazes of tiny, winding streets and cosy cafes. On reaching hilltop Ste Agnes, the view of the Mediterranean suddenly opens gloriously before you.

At the opposite eastern end of their massif, the Alps tip into Slovenia, where our Slovenian Highlands route will take you into the lower reaches of Triglav, the national peak. It’s a land of steep valleys, tumbling waterfalls, and crystal clear lakes, complemented by hearty cooking and some great Slovenian wines and beers. Finish your holiday in style with a visit to picturesque Lake Bled.