Long distance gravel on the Via Francigena.

The Via Francigena offers a challenging, diverse, and less crowded alternative to the Camino de Santiago, featuring a mix of defined and flexible routes with significant historical and cultural landmarks, making it ideal for off-road cycling adventures.

The Via Francigena is recommended for its rich historical significance, cultural immersion, diverse culinary experiences, natural beauty, physical challenge, personal growth opportunities, strong community, sustainable tourism, flexibility, and unique adventure, appealing even to non-religious travelers.

The Via Francigena, a historic pilgrimage route from Canterbury to Rome, originated in the Roman Empire, was defined in AD 990 by Sigeric the Serious, and has been revived in recent decades for cultural exchange and tourism.