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Via degli Dei (Path of Gods): Bologna-Florence

€915 per person

This self-guided walking tour follows The Path of the Gods, also known as Via degli Dei, which connects two significant art cities in Italy: Bologna and Florence. This ancient Roman road takes you on a historical and legendary journey, starting from the heart of Bologna at Piazza Maggiore and leading to Piazza della Signoria, the iconic main square of Florence and the birthplace of the Renaissance.

The path derives its evocative name from the mountains that grace its route, including Mt. Adone, Mt. Giove, Mt. Venere, and Mt. Lunario. It follows the ancient route that once connected Felsina (the Etruscan name for Bologna) to Faesulae, the original town of Florence. During Roman times, the path was renamed “Flaminia Militare” and paved with large flagstones, some of which are still visible today and upon which you will walk.

Throughout this self-guided hiking tour, you’ll encounter a remarkable diversity of natural habitats, resulting in a rich biodiversity. The Reno River valley showcases Pliocene-era spurs and a series of rocky sandstone crags. As you ascend gently, you’ll be surrounded by expansive beech forests in the Piana del Mugello. Along the way, small medieval villages and solitary farmhouses dot the hills, adding to the picturesque scenery.

On the final day, as you hike down from the lofty Mugello hills, a breathtaking view of Florence will unfold before you. Your journey on the Path of the Gods is a captivating fusion of history, natural beauty, and cultural significance, culminating in the vibrant city of Florence.

  • Destination
  • Duration
    8 Days I Level: 3/4 (of 5)
  • What is included
    Accommodation in 3* hotels and agriturismo with en-suite rooms including breakfast; people transfer on Day 3; luggage transfers on days 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7; pilgrim's passport; detailed roadbook and map in English (incl. access to GPS tracks); emergency phone assistance
  • What is not included
    Drinks and other meals; Possible CITY TAX to be paid in cash on the spot (it varies depending on the city and on the hotel’s category between 2 and 6 EUR per person per night); Entrance charges; Tickets for the public transport.
  • Best period
    April, May, June, July, August, September, October
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Day 1: Arrival in Bologna
Upon your individual arrival in Bologna, a city brimming with attractions, you'll have the opportunity to explore its many delights. Take a leisurely stroll through the 7 chapels of the Santo Stefano Basilica, admire the cityscape from the iconic Torre degli Asinelli (Donkeys' Tower), and savor the delicious tagliatelle al ragù, a local specialty. Don't miss the enchanting sight of Piazza Maggiore illuminated at night or the famous Piazza Grande, immortalized in a song by the renowned Bolognese songwriter, Lucio Dalla, who resided just a stone's throw away. *Easiest arrival via Bologna or Florence airports (Florence to Bologna appr. 30 to 90min ride depending on the train service).
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Day 2: Bologna to Sasso Marconi (20km, 6hrs, +525m/-525m)
Today’s stage of the self-guided walking tour starts from Piazza Maggiore, the heart of the city. Walk along the Portico di San Luca, the world's longest covered street, spanning 4 km with 666 arches, leading to the majestic Basilica of San Luca. Enjoy the splendid view from the basilica. Continue your journey to Parco Tolon, where the Casalecchio lock-gate has controlled the flow of the Reno River's waters to Bologna for 800 years. From a hilltop, admire the village of Sasso Marconi, named in honor of Nobel Prize-winning scientist Guglielmo Marconi, who was born there. 
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Day 3: Sasso Marconi/Badolo to Monzuno (16km, 5hrs, +700m/-500m)
A short private transfer will take you to Badolo where you will start today’s stage independent walking route uphill towards Monte Adone. A highlight of this leg is the Contrafforte Pliocenico, a rocky bastion that emerged from the shallow sea during the Pliocene age, approximately 2-4 million years ago. Some parts of the route will lead you through sandy terrain, gradually ascending to the edge of the abyss along a spectacular path that takes you to the summit of Mount Adone, characterized by its stone towers. From there, your route continues towards Monzuno, where we highly recommend visiting Zivieri's charcuterie shop, a haven of local food and wine, renowned for its Slow Food-protected meats.
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Day 4: Monzuno to Bruscoli (20km, 6hrs, +970m/-575m)
During this section of the route, you'll encounter the first Roman paving stones of the "Flaminia Militare," an ancient Roman road that connected Bologna to Arezzo. As you reach Pian di Balestra, you'll cross the border into Tuscany. Along the way, you'll arrive at Bruscoli, where you can enjoy a delightful overnight stay in a charming Agriturismo nestled on the hill.
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Day 5: Bruscoli to San Piero a Sieve (28km, 8hrs, +465m/-1465m + shorter option of 21km!)
Along your route, you'll reach Passo della Futa, which was held by the Germans during the Second World War. We suggest visiting the military cemetery, a poignant reminder of the senselessness of war. The highest peak of this section is Monte Gazzaro, adorned with a white cross offering splendid views of the Firenzuola Valley and Mugello. Descending on a wide path, you'll arrive at Sant'Agata, a charming Tuscan village. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the unique "Museo del Leprino" before continuing your journey. As you proceed, you'll notice the landscape transforming into the characteristic Tuscan scenery. If desired, you can make an optional stop in Sant'Agata and take a bus to San Piero a Sieve in order to shorten the day's walk (*no bus on Sunday, but private transfer can be arranged instead if ordered at least 10 days in advance). In San Piero a Sieve, indulge in the hearty local cuisine of Mugello or savor the flavors of the typical Ramerino bread. 
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Day 6: San Piero a Sieve to Olmo (20km, 7hrs, +1020m/-800m + shorter option of 13km!)
After breakfast, you'll leave San Piero and your independent hiking adventure will take you towards the Castello del Trebbio, a former residence of the Medici family that now stands as a private property. Despite its private nature, the castle offers exceptional panoramic views, allowing you to gaze over the Mugello Valley and Lake Bilancino. Continuing along the route, you'll pass through expansive olive groves until you reach Tagliaferro. From there, the trail ascends to the Badia di Bonsollazzo, an enormous abandoned structure. As you continue, you'll arrive at the Monastero di Monte Senario, which was founded by seven saints belonging to the order of the Servants of Mary. Inside the church, you'll find their preserved skulls, adding to the monastery's intriguing history.
* for the shorter option take a bus from San Piero a Sieve to Tagliaferro (into direction of Carlone; 5min ride), where you can rejoin the trail (thus cutting the first 7km of the standard day's walk)
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Day 7: Olmo to Fiesole/Florence (11km, 4hrs, +380m/-530m)
As you approach Florence, the excitement builds, knowing that the end of your journey is near. You'll pass through Vetta le Croci, a place believed to be the burial site of 200,000 barbarians who perished during the Battle of Montereggi in 405 A.D. Continuing onward, you'll tackle the final ascent to Il Pratone before descending towards Fiesole, an Etruscan town perched on a terrace with a stunning view of Florence. Take time to explore the extensive archaeological area of the town and marvel at the frescoed presbytery of the San Romolo Cathedral. Finally, you'll arrive in Florence, where you can celebrate your achievement with a delectable Florentine steak. While in Florence, be sure to visit Piazza del Duomo, where the Porta del Paradiso of the Battistero di San Giovanni awaits, showcasing breathtakingly beautiful golden tiles depicting stories from the Old Testament. As your journey comes to a close, Florence welcomes you with its rich history and countless attractions to explore.
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Day 8: Departure
Your tour may come to an end after breakfast, but Italy beckons you to continue your exploration. If you're inclined to continue your journey on foot, we are delighted to offer suggestions for additional hikes to further immerse yourself in the beauty of this remarkable country. 

TOUR LOCATION

Price
915 Euro per person in twin/dbl room
Single room & Solo Traveler supplement
Single room supplement: 275 Euro
Solo Traveler supplement (incl. sgl. room supplement): 555 Euro
Tips
Daily departures between the beginning of April and the end of October. The walks are along small gravel roads (strade bianche), footpaths and mule tracks on hilly terrain. The tour is suitable for people in very good physical condition, able to walk 15+ km for a few consecutive days. Some walks are quite long but can be shortened if requested in advance. The hiking route is well marked by the Official signs of the Via Degli Dei (white-red markings). Florence, Pisa and Bologna airports are best to use for arrival/departure. They are flown to by both major and low cost international carriers. All three airports can be easily reached by local transport, which is affordable and offers a frequent service. If you are unable to walk, you can always ask, if the luggage transporter can take you with him when transporting your baggage, but this is not always possible and sometimes you have to pay a small fee locally. In some countries there are special insurances for transporting peoples and sometimes the car is not suited for transporting persons. The longer stages can be shortened additionally.
Accommodation & luggage transportation
Selected 3* hotels and agriturismo (en-suite rooms), incl. breakfast. Some hotels have their own restaurants. Throughout the trip, there are plenty of opportunities to taste both the great local food and a wide array of prestigious wines of the region. Luggage transfers are included.

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