Via Francigena: Aosta to Ivrea

On arrival in Aosta, the largest town in the valley and full of Roman monuments and modern services, make your way to the joining hotel. The remainder of the day is free to explore the sights and prepare for your walk tomorrow.

The Via Francigena winds through castles and vineyards today. You'll pass the ancient castle of Quart, with its chapel dedicated to the local saint, Emerico. Along the way you will see semi-spherical engravings made in the rock by prehistoric people whose purpose today is unknown. This afternoon you'll arrive in Nus, your destination for the day, where you can relax and sample the local wine. Walk: 16km/9.9mi Ascent: 550m/1804ft. Descent: 600m/1968ft. Surf/Unsurf 41/59%

Today you will follow the Rus, ancient aqueducts which are still used to water the crops on the mountainsides of the Valle d'Aosta. As you walk between vineyards we recommend stopping at the Crotta de Vegneron at Chambave. This wine collective celebrates and produces the greatest wines of the region. The walk continues to Saint Vincent, where you will stay overnight. Walk: 17km/10.5mi Ascent: 300m/984ft. Descent: 400m/1312ft. Surf/Unsurf 40/60%

From Saint Vincent you will continue along the left side of the valley and pass the ruins of the castle Saint Germain with its Mezzogiorno tower, once a formidable defence tower built between the 11th-12th century by the De Mongioveto family. From here you will walk on a short section of the ancient Strada Delle Gallie, before the route winds up the side of the mountain to Verres. If you enjoy castles we recommend taking a detour and visiting Issogne. Overnight in Verres. Walk: 16.5km/10.2mi, Ascent: 570m/1870ft. Descent: 740m/2428ft. Surf/Unsurf 49/51%

During today's walk you'll feel as though you've stepped back in time. In Arnad feel just like a medieval pilgrim as you walk through the nave of San Martino Church, before crossing the ancient Enchallod bridge. You'll even walk on a perfectly preserved Roman road where you can look for the tracks of Roman carriages. If you prefer more recent history you can visit the fort at Bard. This afternoon you'll arrive at Pont Saint Martin, where you can relax and enjoy the stunning views from town. Walk: 13km/8.1mi, Ascent: 180m/590ft. Descent: 150m/492ft. Surf/Unsurf 66/34%

The alpine scenery of previous days gives way to the gentle hills of Piedmont. Today's walk to Ivrea will lead you through charming villages and beautiful natural sections. Arriving in Ivrea you will be delighted by the old town centre with its impressive castle and the tall tower of Santo Stefano. Be sure to take a walk through the open-air museum of modern architecture. We also recommend trying the local Novecento cake, a delicious chocolate cake whose recipe is closely guarded by the local pastry makers. Walk: 21km/13mi, Ascent: 290m/951ft. Descent: 385m/1263ft. Surf/Unsurf 66/34%

The trip concludes this morning after breakfast. Please ask for our rates if you want to stay an extra night, or you can continue along the Francigena Way to Pavia.