Trip Notes FOOTSTEPS OF ST FRANCIS HIGHLIGHTS IS THIS TRIP FOR YOU? SUMMARY LAND ONLY ITINERARY

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Trip Notes Trip Code: LTF Country: Italy Amended: September 2013 Edition No: OG 01 2014 Valid from: 01 Jan 2014-31 Dec 2014 FOOTSTEPS OF ST FRANCIS HIGHLIGHTS Superb walking in Italy's undiscovered

hotels - panoramic swimming pools at all - 4 nights in 4 - star comfort hotel Highly prized black truffles, the finest of olive oils, Italy's famous Sagrantino wines Romantic Apennine peaks, soft

countryside of the Assisi valley, one of the most beautiful corners of Italy, and the true green heart of the country.

The walking is relaxed and unhurried, re-tracing in part the trail St Francis took on his last visit to the town in 1226, and taking in the sacred woodland that for years has been tendered and cared

The places we've selected for you to stay in are pretty special too.

1 Trip Notes Trip Code: LTF Country: Italy Amended: September 2013 Edition No: OG Valid from: 01 Jan Dec 2014 FOOTSTEPS OF ST FRANCIS HIGHLIGHTS Superb walking in Italy's undiscovered 'Green Heart': deep lush forests, impressive limestone gorges, rare flora and fauna World-famous Assisi and ancient Spello, one of the best preserved mediaeval towns in Italy Exceptionally friendly hotels - panoramic swimming pools at all - 4 nights in 4 - star comfort hotel Highly prized black truffles, the finest of olive oils, Italy's famous Sagrantino wines Romantic Apennine peaks, soft terracotta colours, perched villages with stunning views Wonderfully wild Subasio Natural Park SUMMARY This independent 8-night walking holiday follows a circular loop, exploring the rich rolling countryside of the Assisi valley, one of the most beautiful corners of Italy, and the true green heart of the country. It's a sun-drenched region of deep lush forests, impressive limestone gorges, majestic lakes and stunning mediaeval villages seemingly unchanged over the years with superb views! The walking is relaxed and unhurried, re-tracing in part the trail St Francis took on his last visit to the town in 1226, and taking in the sacred woodland that for years has been tendered and cared for by the Franciscan monks. It's a rural route, brimming with rare flora and fauna, along ancient forest tracks, through centuries-old forests and passing olive groves dating back to Roman times. The places we've selected for you to stay in are pretty special too. In Assisi, Signor Piampiano's friendly hotel is ideally located just minutes from the historic centre, and boasts a panoramic pool and spa facilities. You also stay in a prestigious 4 - star countryside retreat in the heart of the Monte Subasio natural park, the grounds of Le Silve are spread over 230 hectares of spectacular countryside! In mediaeval Spello, you'll stay in a magnificent 17th century former mill, crammed with numerous works of art and a wine cellar packed with over 900 bottles! This trip is run in conjunction with our sister company Headwater. IS THIS TRIP FOR YOU? Grade: 2 (Leisurely/ Moderate) The paths are generally waymarked and well maintained, predominantly through woodland and with plenty of shade. There are frequent ascents and descents, so you need to be reasonably fit and confident. This trip includes good challenging walks, medieval hilltop villages and fantastic hotels, therefore would suit anyone who is fit and interested in walking and enjoy stunning scenery! This is a self-guided tour, as such there will be no group or tour leader and you are free to complete the walks at your own pace. LAND ONLY ITINERARY The entries in bold at the end of each day indicate the type of accommodation normally used (if different standards of accommodation are used - see accommodation section below for key to codes), and meals included (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner). Day 1 Arrive Spello A transfer is included from Foligno train station for those who wish to take advantage of this. We will collect you and and take you (25 mins) to your hotel in Spello, arriving time for dinner. CH (D) Exodus Travels Grange Mills, Weir Road, London SW12 0NE Sales & Reservations: sales@exodus.co.uk

ascend to the Rifugio di Madonna della Spella for panoramic views on the open pastureland before descending through oak and centuries-old olive groves and finish in charming Spello, one of the finest

(B) For those on group flights, these depart in the afternoon and will arrive in the UK the same day.

2 ascend to the Rifugio di Madonna della Spella for panoramic views on the open pastureland before descending through oak and centuries-old olive groves and finish in charming Spello, one of the finest preserved mediaeval towns in the region. Walking time 4.5hr, distance 14km/9mi. CH (B,D) Day 9 Leave Spello The tour ends here after breakfast. A transfer back to Foligno train station is included. (B) For those on group flights, these depart in the afternoon and will arrive in the UK the same day. ACCOMMODATION Day 2 Spello to Assisi The shorter, lower route takes you through lush Umbrian countryside - with its distinctive dark green cypresses and silver olive trees whilst the longer, more challenging route takes you via the sacred 'Eremo delle Carceri' - St Francis' famous hermitage where he used to pray and talk to the birds. Walking time 4hr, distance 11km/7mi or walking time 5hr, distance 16km/10mi. CH (B,D) Day 3 At Assisi A full day to explore the ancient town of Assisi. The Basilica, including its magnificent 13th century Giotto frescoes, is an unmissable sight before ambling up Via San Francesco to the beautiful Piazza del Comune to visit the well preserved temple of Minerva. CH (B,D) Day 4 Assisi to Satriano Today's route skirts the mediaeval centre of Assisi - option to visit the Rocca Maggiore, Assisi's well preserved castle offering excellent views over the Valle Umbra - before heading out along the unspoiled Francescan trail, tracing backwards St Francis' steps on his last journey to the town. You'll pass the north side of Monte Subasio through gentle hillsides and green valleys dotted with isolated farms, monasteries and watchtowers before winding down to Satriano, in the heart of the Monte Subasio natural park, home for the next two nights. Walking time 4.5hrs, distance 16.5km/10mi. CH (B,D) Day 5 At Satriano At an altitude of 800m above sea level, the views from your hotel afford a fabulous 360 degree panorama of the luxuriant natural park and surrounding Apennine Mountains. You've literally hundreds of forest trails to choose from on your doorstep! CH (B,D) Day 6 Satriano to Le Silve The places we've selected for you to stay in are pretty special. In Assisi, Signor Piampiano's friendly hotel is ideally located just minutes from the historic centre and boasts a panoramic pool and spa facilities. You also stay in a prestigious 4-star countryside retreat in the heart of the Monte Subasio natural park. In mediaeval Spello, you'll stay in a magnificent 17th century former mill, crammed with numerous works of art and an impressive wine cellar. Please feel free to ask us for more detail about where you'll be staying. Room Upgrades: Room upgrades may be available on request for a supplement; prices start from an additional 9 per person per night (based on 2 people sharing) - please enquire at the time of booking for further details and prices. Single Accommodation: All prices are based on 2 persons sharing, so if there is an odd number of people travelling in your party or you are travelling alone, there will be a compulsory single room supplement of 168 for sole occupancy of a twin/double room for the tour duration. KEY TO ACCOMMODATION: We indicate in the itinerary what type of accommodation is provided on each day. The descriptions are guidelines only and are used to give an idea of the accommodation offered, rather than an exact description. CH Comfortable Hotel, Lodge or Gite - twin rooms with en suite facilities, reliable electricity and water supply, good service and some added amenities. FOOD & TRANSPORT Food All continental breakfasts and evening meals are included, they will be served at each hotel. Transport Some transfers to starting points will be done by local taxi and sometimes by minibus. You'll set off this morning along pine scented forest trails before winding slightly uphill along the Marchetto River. You'll continue along former drover's tracks, passing meadows carpeted with colourful flowers - orchids, edelweiss and wild tulips - enjoying lovely gorge views. You cross the gorge via the Ponte del Marchetto, or Wolves Bridge - if you're lucky you may even catch the rare sight of a wolf! You'll enjoy pure luxury for the next 2 nights on the Silve di Armenzano estate. Walking time 4.5hr, distance 14km/9mi. CH (B,D) Day 7 At Le Silve You almost feel as though you have the world to yourself as you explore the wonderfully wild surroundings of this 230-hectare estate! There are over 20kms of well-marked walking paths and trails winding around St Francis' magical Subasio Mountain and surrounding valleys. Have a swim in the new deck-level saltwater pool, and perhaps end the day with a relaxing sauna or afternoon tea in the exquisite tearoom. A guided tour of the estate can be organised through the hotel with photography stations for local wildlife. CH (B,D) Day 8 Le Silve to Spello Today's route follows the lower eastern slopes of Monte Subasio, passing through the restored hamlet of San Giovanni. You then 2

WEATHER AND SEASONALITY RESPONSIBLE TOURISM Tourism can be a real help to local communities, providing income, positive cultural exchanges and a financial incentive to protect their natural

For full details of our Responsible Tourism Policy please visit: www.exodus.co.uk/responsible-travel PRACTICAL INFORMATION In general we can state that in July and August it is warm and dry.

3 WEATHER AND SEASONALITY RESPONSIBLE TOURISM Tourism can be a real help to local communities, providing income, positive cultural exchanges and a financial incentive to protect their natural environment. Ours is a 'total approach' to responsible tourism, covering everything from the way we plan and operate our trips to the practices of Exodus as a company. For full details of our Responsible Tourism Policy please visit: PRACTICAL INFORMATION In general we can state that in July and August it is warm and dry. In May, June and September it is usually warm and dry as well but less hot than in July and August when it can reach temperatures up to 30'C. In the autumn there is a higher chance of rain, but usually October is still nice. JOINING THE TRIP IN SPELLO 9 days, normally start Spello Sat, end Spello Sun Itinerary Start Your trip normally starts at our hotel in Spello in the evening of Day 1 of the itinerary. We recommend you take the train from Rome Termini to Foligno at the below times. Please note that for land only travellers train tickets are not included in the price of the tour but we can either book the journey for you or you can purchase tickets yourself (return fares are currently approx. 45 2nd class/ 114 1st class). Arrival/departure transfers between Foligno train station and the start/end hotels are included for all clients (land only and flight inclusive) at 16:34 on arrival, and 09:30 on departure (approx. 25 mins) subject to prior arrangement. If you are arriving/departing at different times then we can also arrange non-standard/private transfers by train/car between Rome Termini and the start/end hotel in Spello (at additional cost - please enquire at the time of booking for prices). Recommended Rail Times: Rail from Rome Termini to Foligno train station 15:05/16:34*. Rail from Foligno train station to Rome Termini 10:26/12:34*. *Rail times are correct at the time of writing, but may be subject to change throughout the season. Flights: We can also book flights for you if you wish. The standard flights we usually use are with British Airways from London Heathrow to Rome Fiumicino. Note that the standard flights may occasionally change throughout the season so please enquire for up-to-date details. For flight inclusive travellers a 2nd class return rail ticket between Rome Termini to Foligno train station (as detailed above) is also included in the price of the tour (add approx. 69pp for a 1st class return rail upgrade). Passports and Visas Most nationalities, including British, require a full passport that must be valid for 6 months beyond the intended length of stay. It is your responsibility to have the correct personal documents and to obtain your own visa, if one is necessary, in accordance with the regulations of the country you are to visit. The information below is primarily for UK passport holders, and other nationalities should check with their travel agent or the relevant embassies. We are not responsible for the actions of local immigration and customs officials, whether at points of entry or otherwise, and any subsequent effects. Certain European nationalities may be able to travel within Europe on their national identity card. Check carefully with the relevant authorities if you intend to do this. No visa required for British passport holders. Please note in Italy it is compulsory to carry ID with you at all times. Visa regulations can change without notice: please check the current regulations in good time to obtain a visa if one is required. Vaccinations and Health Travel health can often be something people forget about before going away, but a little preparation and knowledge can go a long way to help you stay fit and healthy while abroad. There are no specific health risks on this trip. The above information can change at short notice; as we are not qualified to answer all your questions about travel health we strongly recommend you contact your Medical Professional or a Travel Health Clinic at least 8 weeks prior to departure for up-to-date information. Insurance - are you adequately covered? You must have adequate travel insurance, and if you are joining a trip which goes to high altitude, you must check that you are covered up to the maximum altitude of the trip. If you are resident in the UK we strongly recommend Exodus travel insurance, which is specifically designed to cover all activities on your trip. If you are a UK citizen and travelling in Europe you should obtain the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) from your Post Office. This gives free medical care in many European countries, but should not be considered a substitute for adequate insurance. Local Time GMT +1 (+2 in summer) Full details of how to reach the start point (including local emergency numbers) will be sent to you as part of your Final Joining Instructions approximately two weeks before departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent. 3

Electricity Voltage: 220V Frequency (Hz): 50 Group, Staff and Support The minimum age of clients on this trip is 12 years but younger children may also be accepted; please enquire for details and

A local agent/representative is on hand to assist you and will meet you at the beginning of the week to go through the route notes and point out particular places of interest.

4 Electricity Voltage: 220V Frequency (Hz): 50 Group, Staff and Support The minimum age of clients on this trip is 12 years but younger children may also be accepted; please enquire for details and child prices. Please note that anyone aged under 18 must be accompanied by (and share accommodation with) a parent or legal guardian. As this is a self-guided holiday there is no group and no leader. A local agent/representative is on hand to assist you and will meet you at the beginning of the week to go through the route notes and point out particular places of interest. Your luggage is transferred from point to point and route notes and maps are provided. The route notes contain a 24-hour emergency assistance telephone number. In an emergency, the local representative or the hotels are normally able to dispatch a taxi or pick you up themselves. They may wish to charge for this service. MONEY MATTERS Currency Information The national currency of Italy is the Euro (EUR), with an exchange rate of 1.2 to the UK and 0.75 to the US$. Exchange rates are correct at the time of publication. ATM availability/credit Card Acceptance/Travellers cheques Using credit cards is by far the cheapest way to pay for things in Italyindeed, any foreign country. The exchange rates averge 9% better than even cash withdrawls from an ATM (the second chepeast way to pay for things). ATMs are available in Assisi and Spello. You can also change dollars or travellers checks at any bank and at many hotels' front desks, however, you will receive a lower exchange rate. Extra Expenses and Spending Money Lunch is not included in the itinerary please allow some spending money for this. We recommend approximately 5-15 per lunch. WHAT TO TAKE JOIN THE EXODUS ONLINE COMMUNITY Don't forget to visit the Community area on our website. You can view the range of Exodus videos and podcasts, read trip write-ups which have featured in the national media and take advantage of some special deals on travel gear and equipment. In the Compass Café forum you'll find the Departure Lounge where you can discuss your trip with fellow travellers before you depart. When you get back from your holiday remember to upload your images to the relevant trip page on our website. This helps other people see what our holidays are really like and you'll be entered automatically into our monthly photo competition. To make full use of the Compass Café you'll need to join My Exodus. It's free, registration is simple and easy, so what are you waiting for? IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR ALL CLIENTS Exodus operates a 24 hour duty office for emergencies, which can be contacted on 0044 (0) Every time that you travel abroad you should take the time to read the warnings in the essential information in the brochure or at www. exodus.co.uk/about-exodus/essential-information? Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers, and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately 2 to 3 weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent. The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; in order to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, as stated in our brochure, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons - climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary. Essential Equipment and Clothing Light walking boots (good walking trainers will suffice) Small daypack for camera, guidebook, etc. Water bottle to use when walking and sightseeing Sun cream Hat Sunglasses Waterproofs Warm clothes As fuel prices, airport taxes and exchange rates fluctuate, and airlines manage their rates to match demand, it is proving harder than ever to guarantee our Flight Inclusive prices. Although we endeavour to keep our website as accurate as possible, daily fluctuations mean that our Flight Inclusive price may be out of date. For accurate prices we recommend that you contact one of our Travel Experts, or your Travel Agent. Prices and exchange rates were correct at the time of publication. The most up-to-date prices can be found on the Exodus website. Exodus Travels Ltd. ATOL 2582/FTO Optional items: Walking poles Swimwear 4

HOW TO BOOK YOUR TRIP 1. Check availability Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email. 2.

uk for online booking, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.

5 HOW TO BOOK YOUR TRIP 1. Check availability Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or Secure your place You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days. 3. Complete your booking and payment When you re ready to book, go to for online booking, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque. Book with confidence: Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582 issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA - The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all monies paid to us for your trip are fully protected. 5

Trip Notes THE ITALIAN DOLOMITES HIGHLIGHTS IS THIS TRIP FOR YOU? SUMMARY LAND ONLY ITINERARY

Trip Notes THE ITALIAN DOLOMITES HIGHLIGHTS IS THIS TRIP FOR YOU? SUMMARY LAND ONLY ITINERARY Trip Notes Trip Code: LTD Country: Italy Amended: September 2013 Edition No: OG 01 2014 Valid from: 01 Jan 2014-31 Dec 2014 THE ITALIAN DOLOMITES HIGHLIGHTS Breathtaking natural landscapes: jagged limestone