Total distance walked: 14.3 km
After a great breakfast at our hotel, the group hit the trail for our final day of walking together. We were advised to take a short cut through the vineyard and field to get back to the Via Francigena.
We walked along the path past farms and beside railroad tracks, then stopped for coffee at Ponte D’Ariba.
Leaving the coffee shop, we were going to cross the Ariba River on the new pedestrian bridge, but repair work was underway. We had to walk across the Via Cassia automobile bridge instead. Thankfully it wasn’t too busy.
Next stop of interest was Centro Cresti which has had an interesting history. It has been a nursery school, housing for refugees and since 1983, a pilgrim hostel.
The path to Buonconvento headed uphill among the fields and towards the top the wind became quite strong. so we were often walking with our heads down…and holding on to our hats. Found some interesting sculptures along the way.
Finally, we headed downhill, out of the wind, and into the small town of Buonconvento. It was very quiet, perhaps at the end of their season.
The group noted that their accommodation is another 2+ kms away and uphill most of the way. They were able to arrange for a ride while we enjoyed one last Aperol Spritz together on the patio of a local bar.
I walked to a local hotel where my luggage was delivered. It is close to the train station, thankfully. We bid farewell to each other, and I wished them well on their continuing journey to Rome. What a pleasure to meet these four kind and accomplished women and have then include me in their plans for a few days. I will miss them.
This has been a sometimes challenging, but mostly enjoyable week. I’m tired, but in a good way. And so grateful to have experienced the Tuscan landscapes, interesting towns and interesting people along the way – incredible.
Total kms walked in 7 days: 142.3 Km
My Italian experiences continue as I hop the train to Siena. Watch for future posts of my experiences in Florence, Siena, Pisa, Lucca, Cinque Terre and Bologna. Thanks for reading!
Really enjoyed looking through your post, Lynne! What an amazing journey. Awesome that you could meet up with the four women and enjoy this together. Thank you so much for sharing!