Saint Francis Walk from Assisi to Poggio Bustone

* 7 Days walking adventure (150 km) * Plus 2 days at Ananda Assisi

Walking along the path of Saint Francis: an unforgettable pilgrimage crossing through the wonderful places of Umbria and Lazio, visiting sanctuaries and hermitages filled with peace and harmony.

DATES TO BE DEFINED

Are you ready to live a true soul adventure? To open yourself to the intense beauty of nature and the inspiring and uplifting energy of those sacred places where Saint Francis of Assisi lived and walked?

This pilgrimage is a transformative experience: 7 days of walking from Assisi to Poggio Bustone, featuring either demanding or moderately demanding routes each day. With each step there will be many new things to see and experience; many opportunities to discover yourself and appreciate the vibrant and beautiful life that surrounds you. As our journey takes us deeper into the environment, ourselves and each moment, each place will became precious and special, infused with the consciousness of this uplifting and inspiring walk.

Departing from Assisi on the slopes of the wonderful Mount Subasio, we will walk south towards Lazio, encountering picturesque and characteristic villages such as Spello, Trevi, Spoleto, Cesi, Greccio and Poggio Bustone. We will immersing ourselves completely in the wonder of nature and the stunning natural landscapes will provide a sublime backdrop for our inward journey. The second part of the St. Francis Way brings us to four sanctuaries which featured in the life of the saint, as well as other important monasteries and convents. You will have the opportunity to rest in these places and to be able to deepen the experience of your journey.

This will be a group experience (between 10 to 15 participants) with moments of listening, meditation, relaxation and sharing. There will be a daily practice of the Energization Exercises and meditation according to the teachings of Yogananda. We’ll see the benefits and results of those exercise daily on our walks!

Gopala and another teacher from Ananda will be the guides who will accompany you on this pilgrimage. They will take care of you, supporting you in your journey in order to give you a joyful and memorable experience.

Walking from the heart: June 2020

The meeting will be at Ananda Assisi on June 18th, in order to know each other and be ready to start walking together on the 19th morning from Assisi.

Day	Route	km.	Walking time	Altitude change
19/6	Assisi – Spello	20	6 hours	uphill 830 m, downhill 930 m
20	Spello – Spoleto	20	6 hrs	u.150 m, d. 130 m
21	Spoleto – Romita di Cesi	21	7 hrs	u. 630 m, d. 570 m
22	Romita di Cesi – Sacro Speco	28	8 hrs	u. 420 m, d. 780 m
23	Sacro Speco – Greccio	18	7 hrs	u. 860 m, d. 560 m
24	Greccio – Fontecolombo	16	6 hrs	u. 500 m, d. 490 m
25	Fontecolombo – Cantalice	16	hrs	u. 420 m, d. 430 m

Cantalice – Poggio Bustone

3,5 hrs

u. 250 m, d. 130 m

The pilgrimage includes two nights fullboard at Ananda Assisi (the last 2 nights: June 26th and 27th) with yoga and meditation practices included in the package.

Physical condition

This pilgrimage requires sufficient physical stamina to be able to walk between 10 to 28 km per day for seven consequential days. Each participant should check with his doctor to ascertain that his or her physical condition is suitable for this type of pilgrimage. When you book for the pilgrimage, you will be asked to fill out a questionnaire about your health. We recommend that you do some training on your own before the pilgrimage in order to fully enjoy this adventure!

Climate

The weather in this period is ideal but at times uncertain and variable; sunny days with temperatures around 21°C degrees can alternate with possible rainy periods. You will need comfortable and appropriate clothing; a detailed list will be sent to you upon confirmation of booking.

Accommodation

All hotels have been inspected by the guides. They are simple and cozy, comfortable and fully equipped. All accommodation includes towels and sheets. The accommodation available are double, triple or quadruple rooms, in a friendly spirit of sharing and pilgrimage. Bring your swimsuit – in case of sunny warm days there’s a swimming pool!

Food

Food will be 100% vegetarian. The price is for half-board, with breakfast and dinner included. Packed lunches, extra drinks and any additional options will be charged to the participant. Contact us in case of special dietary needs.

Directions

Depending on weather conditions, the programme may vary slightly. This adventure requires mental flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing conditions.

This pilgrimage is organised by Ananda Assisi in collaboration with Vacantioner Travel Agency, Bastia Umbra PG Italy

10 nights in half board service in double or triple bedroom. The price is 830 € per person.
Booking and balance due by May 20th. The pilgrimage will be confirmed with 8 participants.

For more information ask for Gopala on +39 328 9033995.
To subscribe fill in the application form below, scan it and send it to gopala@ananda.it

Optional Cancellation Insurance: 4% of the total cost.
Please inform us during your reservation if you want to submit this insurance.

The price includes:

* Room and board, two meals per day (breakfast and dinner)
* Transportation to Assisi and return from Poggio Bustone to Ananda
* Medical insurance valid only during the period of pilgrimage on foot
* Ananda guides and spiritual practices