Total distance walked: 26.4 kms
I met the WCW for breakfast on the patio in the morning. They were getting a ride to a spot “down the path” to avoid some of the road walking. I started out from the hotel. It took me a few tries to find the Via Francigena markers, but finally I was on my way. There was a stunning view of San Miniato, just a little bit down the hill.
The path along the road wasn’t too busy and the views were nice. After an uphill climb the path left the road and followed the ridgeline along olive groves and vineyards. There were some remnants of previous rainy days.
Signs of previous days’ rainfall 
Selfie fail! 
About 14 kms into the day, I started to get a little tired. Slowed my pace, stopped for lunch (and discovered I had left my deli purchases in the fridge in my hotel room). I took lots of breaks during the remainder of the day. The afternoon was hot and there wasn’t much shade. I rejoiced when the sun went behind a cloud for a few minutes!
Along the fields, I noticed a large yellow bench at the top of a hill. “What’s one more hill,” I thought to myself. Managed the short but steep walk and enjoyed the views. It is a local monument to honour the pilgrims walking the Via Francigena in this area.
The last leg of the day wasn’t quite as tough as I though it would be, not really steep but a constant uphill. I arrived at my accommodation, Ostello Sigerico at about 4:15. I almost walked by it as I was expecting it to be in the town of Gambassi Terme. It is located behind the Church of Santa Maria Assunta of Chianni on the hill leading up to the town.
The hostel was basic, but pleasant. It had a lovely courtyard where I enjoyed a cold beer after I had settled in and shared a table with a young man from Germany. He’s an automotive engineer with Porche who is on a multi-month sabatical, solo walking the Via Francegina to Rome. At dinner, I was seated with Max and a retired couple (Cane and Elena) from Holland. We enjoyed a good conversation.
Retired early to my room as it was a long and hot walking day. The WCW were staying at different accommodation in the town of Gambassi Terme, so we agreed to connect in the morning to walk the next leg together.
