Lord Colliers Active Retirement Life

Radicofani to Aquapendente

Yesterday evening was another unforgettable experience. Staying in Ostello’s really is key to capturing the full essence of this journey. The camaraderie you build, the stories exchanged, and the sense of connection to other pilgrims makes each day richer.

But, as is often the case on such adventures, not everything goes as planned. In the middle of the night, one of our fellow guests took a hard fall and injured their head. An emergency room visit ensued, but thankfully, after hours of waiting, they were cleared and are now recovering. It’s a relief to know they plan to continue on their way to Rome, despite the challenges ahead. Knowing the resilience of pilgrims, I have no doubt they’ll push through and make it.

This morning, we woke to another glorious sunrise, marking the last day in Tuscany before crossing into Lazio—the region surrounding Rome. Tuscany has been a highlight of this Italian journey, with its rolling hills, medieval villages, and sweeping landscapes leaving an unforgettable impression. From the golden sunflower fields to the tranquil vineyards and charming stone cottages, it’s easy to see why this region is often described as the heart of Italy. Tuscany truly encapsulates everything I love about this country: history, beauty, and mouthwatering food. It’s a place I’ll certainly return to.

Around 9:30 AM, I bid Tuscany farewell and crossed into Lazio. Known for its rich cultural heritage and proximity to Rome, Lazio has a charm all its own. The region offers a mix of ancient Roman ruins, serene lakes, and picturesque hill towns. It feels like the perfect bridge between the tranquil countryside of Tuscany and the vibrant, bustling energy of Rome. As I step into Lazio, I can already feel the subtle shift in landscape and culture.

With just 106 miles left until Rome, there’s a growing sense of urgency. After so many days on the road, I can almost taste the excitement of finally reaching my destination. But it’s also tinged with the anticipation of what awaits in the Eternal City—the sights, the sounds, and the experience of standing in places I’ve only read about. There’s still a week left, and I’m considering breaking up the final stretch into longer stages to get there sooner. But, of course, much will depend on how the weather holds up.

Today was a relatively short day, and I arrived in Aquapendente by 11 AM. This small town in Lazio rich with medieval architecture and a welcoming atmosphere. Situated on the Via Francigena, Aquapendente has long been a stop for pilgrims making their way to Rome. Its cobblestone streets, ancient churches, and panoramic views of the surrounding hills create a perfect backdrop for rest and reflection. Local trattorias offer hearty, flavorful regional dishes, and I took full advantage of them! The evening end with the arrival of Peter from Germany. He caught us up and was ready for a beer! 

We are all ready for this journey to be complete. I sense the crew are tired and ready to get back to normal life. The next leg should end with us staying close to lake Bolsena! That will give everyone a boost! 

Note: No video again as internet is very poor in this area!