Non-Camino walk with short, easy stages?

[trecile]

I've already posted in the Fisherman's Trail forum, but I think that all the beach/sand walking might be a no-go for my husband.

My husband will accompany me to Europe next year for a vacation before I start my Camino (probably the Portuguese from Lisbon). We haven't made any plans yet, but think that we want to go to Italy. It's really a long shot, but I'd like to convince him to do a short supported walk - about 5 days, with stages around 10 miles/16 km or less.

Some background - my husband is in decent shape, and we generally like to travel to places where we can walk instead of taking taxis. But, he has no interest in walking a Camino - at least not in the manner that I like to walk, which is carrying my pack and averaging 20 - 25 km per day, which sounds like drudgery to him. However, I thought that I might be able to entice him to do a short inn to inn style walking tour

What are some easy, but scenic walks where we could have luggage transport and stay in inns or hotels?

 

[CTLawGal]

I did some lovely walks in western Sicily - Zingaro, Monte Cofino, Erice to Trapani and around the island of Levanzo off the coast of Trapani. I flew into Palermo and discovered the amazing Palazzo de Butera. I booked it through an Italy based company that specialized in walking tours (car transfers, hotels, gps maps, no guide). I likely could track down the gps maps if you’re interested. I can also provide name and contact of company. There really wasn’t enough that could be done without a car and I didn’t want to drive. They also had options for eastern Sicily (they offer other Italian locations - I also did a lake region tour with them - might be too much elevation gain for the spouse, Sicily was very manageable). I walked in October. Weather was incredible. So was having the sea at my shoulder. Their website might be useful just for ideas on where walks are possible.

 

[Vacajoe]

my wife and I have walked 10 or so routes and generally enjoy hiking/walking daily. But my god, the Fisherman’s Trail?!!?!? That was by far the hardest route of all. I understand that it seems so simple - costal, relatively flat, nice villages - but it was definitely challenging and NOT for a beginner!!!

 

[Robo]

Given the need for daily luggage transfers, would an option be a not too busy Camino route, that has baggage services (I know they kind of play against each other there). And pre book accomodation in some nice Casa Rurals and the like. With the right route it need not feel too Camino like.

But there again, when I look at Correos. They are all fairly busy routes.

As of Easter 2024, the Paq Mochila is available until October 31 at on the Frech Way from Roncesvalles, on the Portuguese Way from Tui, on the Coastal Portuguese Way from A Guarda, on the Variante Espiritual of Portuguese Way; on the Primitive Way from Oviedo, on the Northern Way from Irún, on the English Way from Ferrol, on the Sanabria Way from Ourense and on the Way to Fisterra and Muxía. Paq Mochila is also available on the French Way from Somport and on the Winter Way on request at paqmochila@correos.com.

So maybe that idea was a non starter, sorry. It's hard not to think about taking advantage of the Camino infrastructure.

What about an 'organised' walking tour in Italy?

There seem to be loads! Nice accomodation too. (I won't let Pat see these links!)

Walk About Italy

Guided Walking Tours in Italy: Tuscany, Amalfi Coast, Sicily, Umbria-Assisi-Le Marche region. Local guides, great food and wine, family owned farm visits.

www.walkaboutitaly.com

Early Bird Sale: Save On Europe Walking Tours 2025 | UTracks

Save money on your next walking holiday in Europe with the 2025 UTracks Early Bird Sale. Explore Europe's hiking trails on a discounted walking tour.

www.utracks.com

Hidden Italy - Italy Walking Tour Specialists | Guided Tours and Self-Guided Walks

https://www.sloways.eu/destinations/europe/holidays-in-italy

Italy Walking & Hiking Tours

Explore the best walking & hiking tours to Italy. Choose from 36 unique tour itineraries with 11 past traveller reviews from 4 leading tour operators. September is the most popular month to join a walking & hiking tour to Italy with 828 departures starting between October 2024 and November 2026.

www.globaljourneys.com

Search - Explore

Search the Explore site and find your next adventure holiday today.

www.exploreworldwide.com.au

Of course you could save loads of money and plan it all yourself!!
Heard that somewhere before

This might be a case though where a 'package' makes a lot of sense.

 

[Robo]

but I'd like to convince him to do a short supported walk - about 5 days, with stages around 10 miles/16 km or less.

What does your husband like to do? I'd be tailoring the walk to match stuff he likes. Walks near the sea, old cities, natural beauty, historic sites....... build a walk around that, so it's not about the walk at all really.

For example. Pat my dearly beloved is not exactly "champing at the bit" to walk 400 kms next year. Though she does kind of want to get the exercise and some motivation to get fitter.

The greater motivation is the snippets I'm finding about places to eat along the way.
It looks like some really great 'memorable' meals will help
We've even found a couple of Michelin places with great menus and reviews........

It's all about the right motivational 'bait'

 

[Sirage]

Sorry not to be helpful, but the Cinque Terra 20 years ago.

But it depends on your budget I guess which for 2 of you might be 5 or 6 times your long-conditioned Camino life, and as Robo said some sort of seductive bait.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

If I were going to Italy and had never been before, I suggest a two week bus tour that included all the famous tourist stops that encompasses a huge swath of the country in all its beauty. Definitely not a camino, but there is plenty of daily walking to be done. It has been one of my favorite vacations and very little planning to be done.
Btw, your hubby sounds similar to mine regarding "Caminos".

 

[Roland49]

If you want to experience Italy, walk the part of the VF from Lucca to Siena.
Amazing tuscan landscape, friendly people, great food and wine.
Maybe shorten it to your needs. Public transport is available.

Or you stay in Montalcino and do day walks to Pienza, to the Val d'Orcia, Petriolo, Monte Amiata, etc.
So much to see!

Have fun!

 

[BarbaraW]

There are a number of UK based companies which offer guided and self guided walking tours in Italy. The ones I've used (though mostly not in Italy) are Exodus, Explore, Ramblers Worldwide and HF holidays. I think these are less expensive than the US based tour companies that I've seen. Routes include the Cinque Terra and the "Path of the Gods" on the coast south of Naples. Also plenty in Tuscany, though I think these tend to be circular day walks rather than point to point. I'm currently touring Italy independently and averaging under 100 euros per day for food and lodging. Plenty of walking in the normal course of touring here!

 

[Anhalter]

I would imagine that finding a short staged and supported tour thats no camino will be a bit of a challenge. I think there might be such services for certain tours in the alps, but from the sound of yoyur post it seems that might not be the thing. Then there might be organized walking trips, as others mentioned. That might be something.
One more option, maybe not perfect as well, is booking some accomodation for a certain period and go hiking from there. But that obviously has not the same feeling as walking toward some destination and getting closer every day.
If the latter sounds like an option, i had a very good time in the town of Castellina in Chianti, which is located on the trail of "Via Romea del Chianti", an old way that connects Florence with Siena and leads on the VF there. Also has the full force Tuscany wibe and excellent food and wine.

 

[Kathor1]

@trecile, I agree with @BarbaraW and @Robo: Look for self-guided holiday offers.

There is a large choice for all of Europe. Have a look at what Explore and Exodus offer; Terdav is also a good recommendation with a broad offer but you'd have to be comfortable with French to explore their catalogue. There are many other reliable companies of course.

While you can organise such trips yourself, I think it might be the luggage transport where you'd often might lack the know-how to have it organised efficiently and not too costly.

https://www.exodus.co.uk/
https://www.exploreworldwide.eu/
https://www.terdav.com

 

[TravellingMan22]

If I were going to Italy and had never been before, I suggest a two week bus tour that included all the famous tourist stops that encompasses a huge swath of the country in all its beauty. Definitely not a camino, but there is plenty of daily walking to be done. It has been one of my favorite vacations and very little planning to be done.
Btw, your hubby sounds similar to mine regarding "Caminos".

I know it’s not what you asked for, but I agree with this. Not sure if you have seen much of Italy but I would offer the thought of visiting a number of great cities they have and walk 20km a day round them. At least 20 fantastic cities to choose from. Trenitalia are great, good fares often available close to departure, and the ‘long and thin’ nature of the country means you can work your way ‘north or south’ or vice versa - not like Spain where so much hubs through Madrid.

Maybe theme it , say Bologna for food. Go to Verona and you can act out Romeo and Juliet!!

 

[jungleboy]

It seems we are having trouble with this request. I also can't think of a good option within your parameters, so I'll just do what everyone else is doing and suggest something that isn't what you asked for!

Have you thought about the Azores? Location could be a bonus as it's 'on your way' to Portugal and not as far for your husband to fly. It wouldn't be a continuous multi-day walk but Wendy and I visited four islands there last year and included a lot of day hikes. If it appeals, PM me and I'll tell you what we did.

Edit: Edited to add that I believe there are direct flights to the Azores from Boston and possibly elsewhere on the US east coast (obviously not exactly where you live, but the point is that you wouldn't have to fly to, say, Lisbon and then back again to the Azores, which would defeat the purpose somewhat.)

 

[TravellingMan22]

It seems we are having trouble with this request. I also can't think of a good option within your parameters, so I'll just do what everyone else is doing and suggest something that isn't what you asked for!

Have you thought about the Azores? Location could be a bonus as it's 'on your way' to Portugal and not as far for your husband to fly. It wouldn't be a continuous multi-day walk but Wendy and I visited four islands there last year and included a lot of day hikes. If it appeals, PM me and I'll tell you what we did.

Yes good shout. I did some walking there and loved it. Think there is also a deal around if you book an Azores Airline flight into the island, you can a get a free ‘add on’ to another island, and then take relatively short ferries around. Madeira pretty good too from memory!

 

[J Willhaus]

If you want to experience Italy, walk the part of the VF from Lucca to Siena.
Amazing tuscan landscape, friendly people, great food and wine.
Maybe shorten it to your needs. Public transport is available.

Or you stay in Montalcino and do day walks to Pienza, to the Val d'Orcia, Petriolo, Monte Amiata, etc.
So much to see!

Have fun!

Yep, we are walking Lucca to Siena in February. Phil will carry his own pack, but in the warmer months there is pack transfer. Also doing a Cinque Terre stay a few days before our Via Francigina stretch. Winter is a quieter time and less expensive.

There's hiking in the alps, too.

 

[Roland49]

Yep, we are walking Lucca to Siena in February. Phil will carry his own pack, but in the warmer months there is pack transfer. Also doing a Cinque Terre stay a few days before our Via Francigina stretch. Winter is a quieter time and less expensive.

Cinque Terre are amazing! Took the train from La Spezia and walked from Riomaggiore to Moneglia. Hopped there on the train again back to La Spezia.

Best round-trek this summer vacation: the Sentier'Elsa trail (11k) in Colle di Val d'Elsa down to "Le Caldane", an antique etruscan Spa and back to the start.

 

[BarbaraW]

Just remembered, there's good walking too in the Algarve. Some is based in the pretty town of Tavira, while Macs Adventure offers a self guided route, with luggage transfers, along another part of the coast.
Have fun exploring your many options.

 

[Yaari]

How about starting at Porto and walking the Portuguese Central for 5 days? Use Portugal Green Walks to take your bags and organize your charming guest houses. That way, your husband can experience a little bit of your "Camino" but in comfort. If you end in Ponte de Lima, he can bus or train back to Porto and you can carry on by yourself to Santiago. Or you could start in Coimbra which is a fantastic small city to explore as a starting point.

 

[Madamjoy]

I've already posted in the Fisherman's Trail forum, but I think that all the beach/sand walking might be a no-go for my husband.

My husband will accompany me to Europe next year for a vacation before I start my Camino (probably the Portuguese from Lisbon). We haven't made any plans yet, but think that we want to go to Italy. It's really a long shot, but I'd like to convince him to do a short supported walk - about 5 days, with stages around 10 miles/16 km or less.

Some background - my husband is in decent shape, and we generally like to travel to places where we can walk instead of taking taxis. But, he has no interest in walking a Camino - at least not in the manner that I like to walk, which is carrying my pack and averaging 20 - 25 km per day, which sounds like drudgery to him. However, I thought that I might be able to entice him to do a short inn to inn style walking tour

What are some easy, but scenic walks where we could have luggage transport and stay in inns or hotels?

I agree with other poster.. if Italy is your preference, you should l do part of the Via Francigena.. less walkers, great food and there’s options to stay in more upscale places. there is luggage delivery service in Tuscany. There is a VF Facebook page with plenty of info.

 

[TravellingMan22]

Not Italy I know, but just wondered if there may be some good longer walks alongside the Danube? I’ve no idea. Was going to walk Vienna to Bratislava once just because they are so close but gather not very scenic but there must be some good stretches?

 

[Annette london]

As Travelling man just mentioned the Danube, a few years ago, we walked from Bonn to Wiesbaden along a good section of the Rhein

The way is called the Rheinsteig

The path went from beside the river and also
above the river and the views were wonderful
There were benches all along to rest
Beautiful villages along the way with many choices of accommodation
The best thing of all though were the people…..some of the nicest people we’ve met on any walk

As Rolan also mentioned the Cinque Terre, another beautiful place with the little villages connected by paths and the little train and with amazing views from the coastal road
Now you have so many options
Please let us know what you decide

 

[Jezzerisin]

I've already posted in the Fisherman's Trail forum, but I think that all the beach/sand walking might be a no-go for my husband.

My husband will accompany me to Europe next year for a vacation before I start my Camino (probably the Portuguese from Lisbon). We haven't made any plans yet, but think that we want to go to Italy. It's really a long shot, but I'd like to convince him to do a short supported walk - about 5 days, with stages around 10 miles/16 km or less.

Some background - my husband is in decent shape, and we generally like to travel to places where we can walk instead of taking taxis. But, he has no interest in walking a Camino - at least not in the manner that I like to walk, which is carrying my pack and averaging 20 - 25 km per day, which sounds like drudgery to him. However, I thought that I might be able to entice him to do a short inn to inn style walking tour

What are some easy, but scenic walks where we could have luggage transport and stay in inns or hotels?

It's not in Europe, but Saint Cuthbert's Way across the Scottish Borders..
It's four/five days of beautiful countryside, ending at the wonderful Holy Island!
I thoroughly recommend it!

 

[Liam55]

My suggestion is the Camino !!! I know I hated the idea when my wife was encouraging me to go but when I got a taste of it I was forever converted!! Luggage transfers mean no carrying heavy bags for him. Ye can stay in private rooms; he is not forced to a busy albergue. On other hand its trhe albergues that add the unique magic and allows meeting people. And ye could walk together!!

 

[sinein]

Another suggestion is to do your camino first. Last week I did part of the Norte and took buses down to northern Portugal to meet my husband there for a walking holiday. One suggested provider is Inntravel offer walking, cycling and leisure holidays transporting luggage etc on their self guided walking holidays (https://www.inntravel.co.uk/destinations/portugal)

 

[peregrino_tom]

Interesting challenge!
Scotland is a bit of a wild card, but as Jezzerisin says above, the St Cuthberts way is a delight - not sure about the bag transfer though - and you need to plan for the tides over to Holy Island.
Some frineds recently did the West Highland Way with packs being transported for them each day and staying in traditional B&Bs. It sounded and looked fantastic, but best for earlier in the season to reduce the impact of the midges.
Earlier this year my sis rented a cottage in Normandy and did a series of walks along the Normandy beaches of the D-Day landings and followed some routes into the hinterland to Caen. So if husband has an interest in WW2 or family connections that were involved, that could be an epic and moving walk - and Bayeaux is in the area too.

 

[Rossandjeannie]

Also in Scotland is the John Muir way. From coast to coast it is very bonny

 

[Kathor1]

We haven't made any plans yet, but think that we want to go to Italy. It's really a long shot, but I'd like to convince him to do a short supported walk - about 5 days, with stages around 10 miles/16 km or less.

Since you won't be walking more than 50-80 km in total and might go to Italy, a themed tour might be a good idea. And as to the weather, Italy, Spain, Portugal and the South of France are always your best bet.

Out of curiosity, I entered Toscana short walks luggage transport into Google search, and this came up:

https://tuscany.tours/tour/walking-tour-val-orcia/ - Walking tour of Tuscany / Val d’ Orcia - From Montalcino to Montepulciano - 5 days / 4 nights - 40 Km in the Classic Tuscan countryside

This is just an example. I have no idea of the company and the area. I'd pick an area and then look for tours. Googling and websites of the relevant tourist offices may be useful.

I also saw offers for easy walking tours with luggage transport and less than a week in the larger areas around Bordeaux with their many vineyards. Years ago, I walked on the Road from Tours and walked through some famous vineyards on the way to Bordeaux (I crossed the wide Gironde river on a ferry from Blaye). FWIW. Easy walking and pleasant.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

Interesting challenge!
Scotland is a bit of a wild card, but as Jezzerisin says above, the St Cuthberts way is a delight - not sure about the bag transfer though - and you need to plan for the tides over to Holy Island.
Some frineds recently did the West Highland Way with packs being transported for them each day and staying in traditional B&Bs. It sounded and looked fantastic, but best for earlier in the season to reduce the impact of the midges.
Earlier this year my sis rented a cottage in Normandy and did a series of walks along the Normandy beaches of the D-Day landings and followed some routes into the hinterland to Caen. So if husband has an interest in WW2 or family connections that were involved, that could be an epic and moving walk - and Bayeaux is in the area too.

I have done much of the north coast of France, including Bayeaux by car. It was a lovely town which has (I think) the longest tapestry in France. Then on to Mont St. Michel next heading west.
Renting a car could be a good option too, to explore.

 

[CWBuff]

If I were going to Italy and had never been before, I suggest a two week bus tour that included all the famous tourist stops that encompasses a huge swath of the country in all its beauty. Definitely not a camino, but there is plenty of daily walking to be done. It has been one of my favorite vacations and very little planning to be done.
Btw, your hubby sounds similar to mine regarding "Caminos".

Im sorry but I disagree. Perhaps because I simply LOATHE bus tours ("If is Wednesday it must be Belgium")
Multi-countries, multi-cities - matter not.... you practically live out of suitcase with no chance to unpack.... yeah yeah very reminiscent of Camino living in albergues out of backpack.. but its NOT "Camino"!!! Plus, now you're tied to other folks on the bus... 1/2 hour to unload, someone decided to be late for departure time (they just HAD to haggle for 40-mins for a $.50 price difference for that trinket they just cannot live without....)
Terri - I'm sorry I cannot give you the actual answer I have not been to Portugal so know very little of it. If Italy is on your horizon then look for something suitable tere; someone mentioned Sicily, Cinque Terre or Tuscany - I'd zero in on those and choose one

Good luck (and I hope someone does not suggest Siberia )

 

[Camino Chrissy]

Im sorry but I disagree. Perhaps because I simply LOATHE bus tours

I enjoyed mine immensely! If I had not been willing to do a bus tour of Italy with my husband, I never would have had opportunity to see all that we did. He was not keen on renting a car, nor hopping on and off trains all through the country. There is a place for bus tours, as there are for cruises and I have been on many. In fact, @CWBuff, if you recall, you and I were in Barcelona at the same time in October 2019, each heading out on different cruises with family.

 

[ShoshTrvls]

I've already posted in the Fisherman's Trail forum, but I think that all the beach/sand walking might be a no-go for my husband.

My husband will accompany me to Europe next year for a vacation before I start my Camino (probably the Portuguese from Lisbon). We haven't made any plans yet, but think that we want to go to Italy. It's really a long shot, but I'd like to convince him to do a short supported walk - about 5 days, with stages around 10 miles/16 km or less.

Some background - my husband is in decent shape, and we generally like to travel to places where we can walk instead of taking taxis. But, he has no interest in walking a Camino - at least not in the manner that I like to walk, which is carrying my pack and averaging 20 - 25 km per day, which sounds like drudgery to him. However, I thought that I might be able to entice him to do a short inn to inn style walking tour

What are some easy, but scenic walks where we could have luggage transport and stay in inns or hotels?

Another option is to look at center-based walking vacations where you head out on a different walk every day, but return to the same home base. No worries about luggage transfer, and if one day you (or your husband) doesn't want to walk, it doesn't effect the overall plan.

 

[Rick of Rick and Peg]

In the 1870s Robert Louis Stevenson walked through France and wrote the book Travels with a Donkey. Many like to walk the route today. Donkeys are optional. It is too long for Mr Trecile and the normal stages are probably the same but if it's a really popular trail there may intermediate places to stay.

I haven't spent more than a week in metropolitan France so I will leave you with this starting point:

The Cévennes: in the footsteps of Stevenson

The donkey is the favorite companion of hikers who dicover the Cévennes in the footsteps of Stevenson. A Rare bond with the animal offers a unique hike!

www.en-vols.com

 

[TravellingMan22]

Another option is to look at center-based walking vacations where you head out on a different walk every day, but return to the same home base. No worries about luggage transfer, and if one day you (or your husband) doesn't want to walk, it doesn't effect the overall plan.

That was my thought too! Not done it in Europe but did it in Sydney once returning to the centre of the Sydney by boat each night!!!

As an example, south east of England is a good example of opportunities in this regard with pretty good options to return to your accommodation in London or other parts of the south east by train. I can’t access the internet fully at moment but I think @Vacajoe may have done something in this regard as he stayed at a hotel I lived close to at the time in Maidenhead.

 

[CWBuff]

@Camino Chrissy - Well... thats why there are vanilla & chocolate. I dont begrudge someone liking bus tours but in the context of the ask - IMHO it is not what @trecile is looking for.
That said I do love cruise and of course I remember us being in Barca about the same time. Wish I knew you were there, would've been very nice to meet tête-à-tête

 

[Rick of Rick and Peg]

That said I do love cruise and of course I remember us being in Barca about the same time. Wish I knew you were there, would've been very nice to meet tête-à-tête

Then we missed meeting too. Chris and I were to meet for a breakfast on the morning I started my Camino Catalan. A couple days earlier I was looking for the place, didn't see it so I checked Maps. I saw a 30 minute old message from her saying she just checked in -- at a place a block away. I gave her a surprise visit, a camino highlight.

 

[trecile]

Thanks for all the suggestions. It looks like a walk in Italy might be the best bet. I'll check out the links that some of you have provided!

Thanks also for the alternative suggestions, but I really want to (hopefully) introduce him to a walk similar to the Camino in that we would walk to a new destination each day.

We aren't interested in seeing as much of Italy as we can cram into a week or two. We prefer to spend 4-5 days in a place so that we can get to know it somewhat in a relaxed manner.

 

[markf_syd]

Highly recommended, so on my to do list, is Via Degli Dei.... 5-6 days from Bologna to Florence or in reverse. Apparently a beautiful & historical Roman route. Packages available including bag transfer and accom. https://en.viadeglidei.it/preparati-a-partire-it

 

[jungleboy]

Highly recommended, so on my to do list, is Via Degli Dei.... 5-6 days from Bologna to Florence or in reverse. Apparently a beautiful & historical Roman route. Packages available including bag transfer and accom. https://en.viadeglidei.it/preparati-a-partire-it

That actually sounds like what @trecile requested!

Also just an FYI that this path is not the same thing as the similarly named Sentiero Degli Dei (Path of the Gods), which was mentioned upthread and is a (stunning) day hike on the Amalfi coast.

 

[JabbaPapa]

I'd say anything in the region between Siena, Grosseto, Viterbo, and Perugia would be ideal -- combining easy walking with the scenery and options for excellent food and touristy stuff.

A complex network of hikeable trails would let you easily make things up as you go along.

For luggage transport, use taxis.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

@trecile should let hubby read all 39 posts and let him choose which one he prefers to do.

 

[Peregrinopaul]

Left field. The Canal du Midi in southern France.

 

[JustOneGuy]

I've already posted in the Fisherman's Trail forum, but I think that all the beach/sand walking might be a no-go for my husband.

My husband will accompany me to Europe next year for a vacation before I start my Camino (probably the Portuguese from Lisbon). We haven't made any plans yet, but think that we want to go to Italy. It's really a long shot, but I'd like to convince him to do a short supported walk - about 5 days, with stages around 10 miles/16 km or less.

Some background - my husband is in decent shape, and we generally like to travel to places where we can walk instead of taking taxis. But, he has no interest in walking a Camino - at least not in the manner that I like to walk, which is carrying my pack and averaging 20 - 25 km per day, which sounds like drudgery to him. However, I thought that I might be able to entice him to do a short inn to inn style walking tour

What are some easy, but scenic walks where we could have luggage transport and stay in inns or hotels?

Hi Trecile,

If you decide to go to Italy, it depends mostly on the season. Remember that Italy is VERY hot in the summer now. Avoid July and August at all costs: too many tourists, accommodation difficult to find and really hot weather, especially in the south and centre. If you are looking for an almost flat area, try Tuscany, for example Val d'Orcia, which is very beautiful and green, although not completely flat. There is only one really flat area in Italy: Pianura Padana, but it is quite cold and damp in winter and hot and humid in summer.

You could for example try Pienza, jewel of urban planning and hometown of Pope Pius II, designed by famous reinassance architect Rossellino, to Siena:

The Best Route Planner for Cycling, Walking, Hiking and Running | Komoot

The world's most powerful outdoor route planner for planning perfect cycling, hiking, walking, MTB and running routes.

www.komoot.com

I guarantee you that is one of the most amazing place on Earth Italy. If you want to make it longer, you can start from Montepulciano, with the Madonna di San Biagio Church, designed by Antonio da San Gallo il Vecchio, or Torrenieri, or even Lago Trasimeno: your (husband) legs are the limit. Plenty of ancient, remote villages, excellent food (pici al sugo di cinghiale... ) and wine (Montepulciano, Chianti Classico, Chianti Colli Senesi, Brunello di Montalcino, Rosso di Montalcino, Sangiovese, etc., etc...) and beautiful nature.


p.s. I live abroad, but I am Italian and my parents lived in a little village close to Pienza for 30 years.

 

[CTLawGal]

I've really enjoyed the responses on this post, thanks Trecile for the question and all the great responses - an opportunity to dream about other walks! As someone who has only walked one Camino (and planning a second), there are still so many other Caminos I'd like to walk, but I've been collecting these suggestions for future reference!

 

[Camino Chrissy]

I've been collecting these suggestions for future reference!

There are a plethora of Camino paths and GR hiking paths all over Europe! An endless rabbit hole of ideas if a person is willing to do some research.

 

[NavyBlue]

Hi Trecile,

You could have a look at the Tro-Breiz, in Brittany, an old pilgrimage though not a camino :
https://www.montrobreizh.bzh/fr/les-chemins-du-tro-breizh/

If you want an organized self-guided tour in France and limitroph countries, as mentioned before, you can have a look at the offers of Terre d'Aventure, Allibert, Chamina and others.

For instance, I have walked the "Route des vins" in Alsace and enjoyed the landscapes, vineyards, ruined castles, typical villages, local cooking and beverages...

 

[CWBuff]

Left field. The Canal du Midi in southern France.

I want to sail it

 

[CWBuff]

Thanks for all the suggestions. It looks like a walk in Italy might be the best bet.

There Ya go! Viva Italia! Do a "good job" of it and whistle this while at it:

Trecile & Hubby Hiking Society

 

[Jarrad]

I've already posted in the Fisherman's Trail forum, but I think that all the beach/sand walking might be a no-go for my husband.

My husband will accompany me to Europe next year for a vacation before I start my Camino (probably the Portuguese from Lisbon). We haven't made any plans yet, but think that we want to go to Italy. It's really a long shot, but I'd like to convince him to do a short supported walk - about 5 days, with stages around 10 miles/16 km or less.

Some background - my husband is in decent shape, and we generally like to travel to places where we can walk instead of taking taxis. But, he has no interest in walking a Camino - at least not in the manner that I like to walk, which is carrying my pack and averaging 20 - 25 km per day, which sounds like drudgery to him. However, I thought that I might be able to entice him to do a short inn to inn style walking tour

What are some easy, but scenic walks where we could have luggage transport and stay in inns or hotels?

For scenery, short stages, supported inn-to-inn walks I would take a look at the Cotswolds in England. It's a charming area and comfortable walking, if a bit spendy (of course, you expect that with inns/hotels). You could walk the southern section in about 5-6 days, which has more rolling green hills and the sheep that love them. Same for the northern section, which has more quaint villages and you could start or end in Bath -- a lovely place to visit for half a day or so, with it's gorgeous cathedral and incredibly well preserved Roman baths.

 

[JustOneGuy]

Hi Trecile,

If you decide to go to Italy, it depends mostly on the season. Remember that Italy is VERY hot in the summer now. Avoid July and August at all costs: too many tourists, accommodation difficult to find and really hot weather, especially in the south and centre. If you are looking for an almost flat area, try Tuscany, for example Val d'Orcia, which is very beautiful and green, although not completely flat. There is only one really flat area in Italy: Pianura Padana, but it is quite cold and damp in winter and hot and humid in summer.

You could for example try Pienza, jewel of urban planning and hometown of Pope Pius II, designed by famous reinassance architect Rossellino, to Siena:

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I guarantee you that is one of the most amazing place on Earth Italy. If you want to make it longer, you can start from Montepulciano, with the Madonna di San Biagio Church, designed by Antonio da San Gallo il Vecchio, or Torrenieri, or even Lago Trasimeno: your (husband) legs are the limit. Plenty of ancient, remote villages, excellent food (pici al sugo di cinghiale... ) and wine (Montepulciano, Chianti Classico, Chianti Colli Senesi, Brunello di Montalcino, Rosso di Montalcino, Sangiovese, etc., etc...) and beautiful nature.
View attachment 178500

p.s. I live abroad, but I am Italian and my parents lived in a little village close to Pienza for 30 years.

I modified this tour to include Bagni Vignoni, the setting of the famous Tarkovsky film "Nostalghia". I've walked the part from Pienza to there tens of times for training and it's magnificent. Now it's 64.4 km long.

I would really like to walk it...

The Best Route Planner for Cycling, Walking, Hiking and Running | Komoot

The world's most powerful outdoor route planner for planning perfect cycling, hiking, walking, MTB and running routes.

www.komoot.com

 

[grdemedeiros]

+1 for the recommendation https://www.bolognawelcome.com/en/blog/path-of-gods

An Italian pilgrim I met this summer told me about it. He said it was flat and straightforward, and that some Italian pilgrims do this walk to train for the Camino.

I added it to my dream list because of the food!

 

[DaveJ]

I've already posted in the Fisherman's Trail forum, but I think that all the beach/sand walking might be a no-go for my husband.

My husband will accompany me to Europe next year for a vacation before I start my Camino (probably the Portuguese from Lisbon). We haven't made any plans yet, but think that we want to go to Italy. It's really a long shot, but I'd like to convince him to do a short supported walk - about 5 days, with stages around 10 miles/16 km or less.

Some background - my husband is in decent shape, and we generally like to travel to places where we can walk instead of taking taxis. But, he has no interest in walking a Camino - at least not in the manner that I like to walk, which is carrying my pack and averaging 20 - 25 km per day, which sounds like drudgery to him. However, I thought that I might be able to entice him to do a short inn to inn style walking tour

What are some easy, but scenic walks where we could have luggage transport and stay in inns or hotels?

Last year we did a hike through the medieval hill towns of Tuscany. It was a custom hike developed by viadelsole. They shuttle luggage and provide GPX tracks and book hotels. It was terrific! The name of this self guided tour was The Best of Tuscany on their website. 10 miles was our longest day I think.

 

[Ferdie]

For a more relaxed experience, consider the Amalfi Coast. The Path of the Gods offers stunning views with easier sections, and you can stay in coastal towns like Positano.

 

[henrythedog]

I've already posted in the Fisherman's Trail forum, but I think that all the beach/sand walking might be a no-go for my husband.

My husband will accompany me to Europe next year for a vacation before I start my Camino (probably the Portuguese from Lisbon). We haven't made any plans yet, but think that we want to go to Italy. It's really a long shot, but I'd like to convince him to do a short supported walk - about 5 days, with stages around 10 miles/16 km or less.

Some background - my husband is in decent shape, and we generally like to travel to places where we can walk instead of taking taxis. But, he has no interest in walking a Camino - at least not in the manner that I like to walk, which is carrying my pack and averaging 20 - 25 km per day, which sounds like drudgery to him. However, I thought that I might be able to entice him to do a short inn to inn style walking tour

What are some easy, but scenic walks where we could have luggage transport and stay in inns or hotels?

I’ve not read every post, so apologies if I’m duplicating.

I can highly recommend ‘Inntravel’ who offer a range of self-guided options; the one which includes Siena and San Giminano is excellent. The lodging is generally of a high standard in family run country inns.

Your bags are transferred by the previous night’s host with whom you can get a lift in extremis.

Even Mrs HtD, who is no great lover of anything involving a rucksack, loved it.

 

[Thornley]

I have done much of the north coast of France, including Bayeaux by car. It was a lovely town which has (I think) the longest tapestry in France. Then on to Mont St. Michel next heading west.
Renting a car could be a good option too, to explore.

We walked from Mont St Michel ........met 8 pilgrims before Angers .............all were heading North.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

We walked from Mont St Michel ........met 8 pilgrims before Angers .............all were heading North.

When I was at Mont Saint Michel I'd not yet ever heard of the Caminos.

 

[WGroleau]

Sorry not to be helpful, but the Cinque Terre 20 years ago.

Walking path connecting all five villages. Steep in places. Said to be generally pleasant, but when I was there (2013) three of the four sections were closed due to hazardous conditions.

 

[Sirage]

Said to be generally pleasant

Very pleasant in 2003. However the influx of cruise ships in recent years docking in nearby La Spezia and going by small watercraft to then flood the delightful villages with cruise passengers who don't walk except a few metres from the wharves to the restaurants and cafes, so I hear, now makes the experience no longer the same.

Is there an adage:
"Go when you are young before the place is changed beyond recognition"?

Disclaimer: I walked the Camino Frances in 2005 - there is a tenuous parallel.

 

[OTH86]

When I saw inn to inn, I thought of The Thames Path...
That was a warm up for my 6th Camino...

PS Start at the source, not the mouth..

 

[Peter Brandon]

I've already posted in the Fisherman's Trail forum, but I think that all the beach/sand walking might be a no-go for my husband.

My husband will accompany me to Europe next year for a vacation before I start my Camino (probably the Portuguese from Lisbon). We haven't made any plans yet, but think that we want to go to Italy. It's really a long shot, but I'd like to convince him to do a short supported walk - about 5 days, with stages around 10 miles/16 km or less.

Some background - my husband is in decent shape, and we generally like to travel to places where we can walk instead of taking taxis. But, he has no interest in walking a Camino - at least not in the manner that I like to walk, which is carrying my pack and averaging 20 - 25 km per day, which sounds like drudgery to him. However, I thought that I might be able to entice him to do a short inn to inn style walking tour

What are some easy, but scenic walks where we could have luggage transport and stay in inns or hotels?

We are about to begin the Fisherman’s Trail in a few days. Beginning in Sines. I will keep you posted!

 

[MARSKA]

If I were going to Italy and had never been before, I suggest a two week bus tour that included all the famous tourist stops that encompasses a huge swath of the country in all its beauty. Definitely not a camino, but there is plenty of daily walking to be done. It has been one of my favorite vacations and very little planning to be done.
Btw, your hubby sounds similar to mine regarding "Caminos".

Ahhhh... mine too!

 

[CJKColorado]

I've already posted in the Fisherman's Trail forum, but I think that all the beach/sand walking might be a no-go for my husband.

My husband will accompany me to Europe next year for a vacation before I start my Camino (probably the Portuguese from Lisbon). We haven't made any plans yet, but think that we want to go to Italy. It's really a long shot, but I'd like to convince him to do a short supported walk - about 5 days, with stages around 10 miles/16 km or less.

Some background - my husband is in decent shape, and we generally like to travel to places where we can walk instead of taking taxis. But, he has no interest in walking a Camino - at least not in the manner that I like to walk, which is carrying my pack and averaging 20 - 25 km per day, which sounds like drudgery to him. However, I thought that I might be able to entice him to do a short inn to inn style walking tour

What are some easy, but scenic walks where we could have luggage transport and stay in inns or hotels?

Trecile: Purposefully long, yet detailed, to see if this is a possible match.

I have (briefly) mapped via Google the Vale do Lima region of northern Portugal (where we live) and, indeed, it's possible to construct a 16km or less, quite flat (or rolling hills, as you choose), mostly shaded, beautiful hike. Depending upon how many days your husband would feel comfortable walking in those types of conditions, a truly fabulous hike could be constructed.

Getting to our region: It is relatively easy to get from Lisboa to Viana do Castelo via flight, high speed train or fast bus from Lisboa to Porto, then a fast bus (or slower train) from Porto to Viana do Castelo. It's also VERY easy if you flew into Porto rather than Lisboa. In our region taxis are plentiful and, surprisingly, we have Uber in our village. We know several locals who will (for a fee) transport bags along otherwise what is often called a 'self-catered' walk (aka you pick your hotels, solars or B&Bs and you also manage your own meals).

We chose to move to Ponte de Lima, Portugal, in part to wake up each morning with the ability to walk our "ecovia" (ecological biking/walking path) that almost completely covers both the northern and southern banks of the Rio Lima. Parts of that route, to the West of the river at Darque & Viana do Castelo, include a brief section along the Camino Litoral (coastal route). Other parts, 100m from our apartment, include a brier section of the Camino Portugues that includes crossing the "Ponte Velha/Ponta Romana" for which our village, Ponte de Lima, is famous.

Between Ponte de Lima and Viana do Castelo/Darque, it's really quite flat, as the elevation from the coastal sea to our village increases ~15 meters/50 feet across a span of about 20km. From Ponte de Lima traveling further east up the Lima River toward Ponte da Barca/Arcos the terrain is equal parts flat and gently rolling hills. From Across then up the Vez River to Sistelo, the terrain has a few 'steep' parts, yet meets the unbelievably magical small village of Sistelo, described as the "Little Tibet" of Portugal. A "Camino-like" experience could indeed be had, with views every day of the stunning mountains of our region, yet not have to scale them for those who are not inclined to be inclined. Moreover, if you choose a late spring through early fall trip, some of the finest river beaches in all of Portugal will greet you for short dips to soothe your bones and cool your trek.

If that sounds of interest for further investigation, let me know and I can invest a bit more time constructing 16km or less segments that match your shared interests. I can send you some photos. We've walked (and cycled) almost all of the sections that I've described. Indeed, Anna is out walking our dog at the twain of the Lima and Vez as I write this.

 

[trecile]

@CJKColorado - you didn't happen to be at the Frankfurt airport on July 3rd this year? I briefly chatted with an American couple who live or were moving to Ponte de Lima while I was waiting in the Passport Control queue.

 

[CJKColorado]

@CJKColorado - you didn't happen to be at the Frankfurt airport on July 3rd this year? I briefly chatted with an American couple who live or were moving to Ponte de Lima while I was waiting in the Passport Control queue.

No but a few couples have moved to this region within the last 2-3 years. Not as popular as Porto, Lisboa, the Algarve. It's a fairly small village.