Saint Francis' Way
from Rimini towards La Verna
SAINT FRANCIS’ WAY
Saint Francis’ Way: A Journey into the Heart of Spirituality and Nature
A religious journey is a path followed in a conscious way; it starts with the intention of discovery, in addition to cultural and spiritual enrichment. Saint Francis’ Way is a fascinating route that follows the footsteps of the Assisi’s Saint, retracing some of the significant stages of his journey through the locality of Valmarecchia in 1213.
This approximately five-day walk offers not only an opportunity for spiritual reflection, but also an immersive experience in the heart of central Italy, among the breathtaking landscapes of Romagna and Tuscany.
An Itinerary to Discover Places Rich in History
The path brings you through places full of history and tradition, some of these directly linked to the figure of Saint Francis. Starting in Rimini along the Adriatic coast, where pilgrims immerse themselves in the green hills leading to the Valmarecchia valley, the itinerary culminates at the Sanctuary of La Verna, a site of deep spirituality where Saint Francis of Assisi received the stigmata.
Saint Francis’ Way projects the steps of our Patron Saint into an international dimension and, also through the figure of Saint Ronconi, reconnecting him to the historic pilgrimage destinations, from Rome, to Santiago de Compostela, Jerusalem, and Canterbury.
The walk is divided into five stages that connect all the localities where the passage of Saint Francis is found. The Municipalities crossed, mostly part of the “Sustainable Tourism Development Project” are: Rimini; Sant’Arcangelo di Romagna (detour from the route); Verucchio; Poggio Torriana; San Leo; Maiolo; Novafeltria; Sant'Agata Feltria; Casteldelci; Verghereto (fractions of Balze and Montecoronaro); and Chiusi della Verna (Tuscany).
As a winter variant from Balze (Verghereto), the route also includes Badia Tedalda and Pieve Santo Stefano in Arezzo’s province.
Recognitions of the Way
- Saint Francis’ Way is recognized as a pilgrimage route in the Atlas of Italian Paths by the Ministry of Culture (MiBACT).
- In 2025, it was recognized as a Cultural Route of the Council of Europe, a prestigious title attesting its historical, cultural, and spiritual importance. The walk is therefore part of the broader project of the Ways of Saint Francis, a network of cultural itineraries that connect the most significant places linked to the Saint’s life.
The walk is not only a journey of faith, but also a voyage through unspoiled landscapes, medieval villages, and local traditions that make every step a unique experience.
What to Expect from Saint Francis’ Way
- Spirituality: Each stage offers an opportunity to reflect on the figure of Saint Francis and his message of peace and respect for nature.
- Nature: The route crosses the Apennines’ hills and forests, with scenery alternating between green meadows and ancient forests.
- History and Culture: Pilgrims can visit monasteries, hermitages and sanctuaries, all places that marked the Saint’s life and the history of Christian spirituality.
Authentic Places
In addition to the main stages of the walk, it is possible to follow the Franciscan Routes in the locality of Valmarecchia, which are alternative itineraries connected to Saint Francis’ Way that bring you to authentic and significant places for the Franciscanism’s history. Among these we find the connection from San Marino to San Leo.
A Journey for Everyone
Suitable for experienced walkers as well as for those seeking a peaceful break immersed in nature, Saint Francis’ Way represents a true path of knowledge and rediscovery of the territory. Each stage offers the chance to pause, reflect, and appreciate the landscape that shows itself step by step.
Further Information
The book “The Walk of Saint Francis from Rimini to La Verna” written by Franco Boarelli is available for purchase at the Tourist Information Office in Piazza Garibaldi 5. The guide describes each stage of the route and includes historical-cultural insights, practical information and a 1:25 000 hiking map.
For more details about Saint Francis’ Way and to begin your journey, visit the dedicated page on The Lovely Places. This route not only takes you back in time, but also allows you to discover an authentic and beautiful territory, with a rich calendar of celebratory events marking the 800th anniversary of the death of Saint Francis (1226–2026).
Dedicated websites
ph. Albano Sgarbi