recommended route
Siena to Grancia de Cuna
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The gothic cathedral in SienaPhoto: Heleen Bosch, Macs Adventure
Depart from Siena and follow the official Via Francigena road, the Porta Romana, all the way.
Please note: You will be transferred from Grancia de Cuna to Buonconvento (this shortens the walk from 32km to a more manageable 18km).
The trail meanders through serene farmland, rolling hills and small hamlets crisscrossing the Via Cassia all the way. En route is the imposing medieval building, the Grancia di Cuna that served as protected storage for food supplies in the Middle Ages and which offered hospitality to pilgrims and travelers.
Track types
Show elevation profileSafety information
As this route tries to remain as true to the original pilgrimage route as possible, you will not only walk on trails and unpaved roads but also on asphalt part of the way. The ‘traditional’ walk is alongside some busy main roads, which is why we give other suggestions (especially near Rome). Please take care when walking along roads and always be mindful of other road users. Pavements or paths should be used if provided and walk on the right-hand side of the road if there is no pavement or path. This way you can see oncoming traffic.
Italy is known to have long, hot summers with July and August being the hottest months. At that time of year, the temperatures can rise into the 30 degree Celsius during the day. Always make sure to stay hydrated and carry plenty of water. It is also advised to wear skin protecting clothing and use sun cream/screen. We recommend you inquire about the day’s forecasted weather before setting out on your walks. A useful website for climate information specific to towns and countries is www.weather2travel.com or www.yr.no
Tips and hints
Due to the remote location of some of the smaller towns and villages along the way it is possible that some of your overnight hotels will be a few kilometres from the route or in a nearby town or village. If this is the case, you will always receive directions to and from the trail in your route notes. Please be aware that this may result in slightly longer or shorter walking days.Start
Destination
Turn-by-turn directions
These maps and routes are designed to be used in conjunction with our traditional documentation. We have recently embarked on a conversion initiative to bring the two elements together, and this itinerary will be covered in due course.
In the meantime, using the two elements alongside each other should go a long way to ensure you have a safe, enjoyable and problem-free day.
Coordinates
Equipment
This depends on the time of year you are walking; if traveling in the spring or autumn it can be cool in the morning, but it soon heats up in the late morning and afternoon so make sure and bring some layers with you. During the summer months, the area can be prone to afternoon thunderstorms, so waterproofs are also essential in case of heavy showers. In the heat of the day, sun cream is essential and a sunhat is highly recommended. Otherwise normal hiking gear in a ~25-liter rucksack will suit. Either sturdy walking shoes or light hiking boots are suitable.
Other essential items are water, enough food and snacks to last between supply points, blister treatment and first aid kit, insect repellent, biodegradable toilet tissue, and a whistle and torch.
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