Ready or not, we’re off to Italy where we’ll begin The Way of St. Francis, a pilgrimage that traces the pathway traveled by St. Francis of Assisi in the early 13th century.
Our journey begins in the eastern portion of central Tuscany in Chiusi Della Verna, a small community located below Santaurio (Sanctuary) Della Verna. It was in this area that St. Francis is said to have received the stigmata. We’ve allowed two nights here to explore the history and beauty of the region…and to catch our breath after what promises to be two pretty hectic travel days.
Then we start walking, traveling mostly southward, with a goal of reaching Vatican City (not quite 300 miles away) by mid-May.
Many thanks to Sandy Brown for allowing me to use the above map, his incredibly detailed trekking guide, the links and foolproof instructions for downloading the GPX tracks onto my phone app and for hosting the Way of St Francis (Official Group) Facebook page. The information is invaluable!
As always, we will post on our blog when we’re able, so feel free to follow along on our journey as we walk The Way of St. Francis.
carryoncouple 
So exciting! Can’t wait to go along through your blog❤️
Sent from my iPad
>
LikeLike
This one might be tough…I’m glad you’ll be there to cheer us on!
LikeLike
In my OLLI class these past two Fridays: “The Adventures of Bicycle Touring With An Electric Motor”, I mentioned how you two introduced adventure in your lives by citing your Camino walks. It served as a lead to my planned bicycle tours this summer. 27 people signed up for this class.
I can imagine your excitement in going on this tour. I like those shoes and bags. Nice.
LikeLike
Congratulations on the signups, Phil. We appreciate your kind words and encouragement! This trek is going to be a challenge, but we are excited to give it our best.
LikeLike
So excited to follow the trip via your blog and to hear about your adventures. Happy trails to you!
LikeLike
Thanks Kathy!
LikeLike
Safe travels and we wish you the best adventure ever! We look forward to getting together to hear all about it.
LikeLike
Thanks Ellen. We’ll look forward to a get-together soon!
LikeLike
Buon Camino!
LikeLike
Grazie Debbie!
LikeLike
Have fun you two. And we expect lots of carryoncouple posts. Ken
LikeLike
Alrighty…that is, if we don’t conk out too early each night.
LikeLike
Can’t wait to see your posts:) Buon Viaggio!
LikeLike
Thank you!
LikeLike
St. Francis is my mother’s patron saint. I have a statue of him in my front yard with a feeder feeding the birds. I will think of you when I see him and keep you in my thoughts and prayers. What an adventure. Can’t wait to hear about it. happy trails, Lori
LikeLike
Thanks Lori!
LikeLike
We’ll be following you all the way!! Wishing you both a safe and inspiring journey! C & B xx
LikeLike
Thanks Carole and Beaton! We’ll post when we can.
LikeLike
We look forward to following you on your trek. Safe journey and safe trekking.
LikeLike
Thank you both. This should be an adventure!
LikeLike
Another exciting adventure! You two are amazing. Safe travels and safe treking!
LikeLike
Thanks Bonnie. This trek is less traveled than our previous ones, so adventure (but not too much, I hope) is a good description.
LikeLike
Again, I am so in awe of you both! What a spiritual and fabulous journey! You are an inspiration to all!!! ❤️❤️❤️Safe journeys!and keep those feet from blisters!!!!
LikeLike
Thanks so much Emily. Your encouragement means so much!💕
LikeLike
I am eager to see your posts as you trek through this next adventure! Wow, oh wow- this journey begins!!!
LikeLike
Thanks Jamey. I emailed you a note the other day 💕
LikeLike