Chemin d'Assise, Cluny - Montcenis
The place
The Chemin d'Assise links Le Puy-en-Velay (Haute-Loire) to Assisi (Italy), following in the footsteps of Saint Francis of Assisi along long-distance trails that cross Auvergne, Languedoc, Provence, Liguria and Tuscany. Covering roughly 1,500 km over 45 to 60 stages, it is one of Europe's great pilgrimage routes, crossing the Way of Saint James (GR65) at Le Puy and following the old Via Aurelia along the Mediterranean coast.
Why go
Le Puy-en-Velay and its Romanesque cathedral. Gorges de l'Allier. Provence and its lavender fields. Ligurian coast. Tuscany. Assisi and the Basilica of Saint Francis (UNESCO).
A bit of history
Inspired by the medieval Franciscan paths, the French Chemin d'Assise was waymarked by the eponymous association in the 2000s and gained renewed momentum after Pope John Paul II's 1986 pilgrimage to Assisi, which revived interest in Europe's Franciscan routes.
Getting there
Le Puy-en-Velay: train station (from Lyon, 1h30). Assisi: train station (from Perugia or Rome). Full rail connection from Paris to Assisi.
Recommended gear
Pilgrim's gear: 35–40 L backpack, hiking boots, trekking poles, sunscreen, first-aid kit. Credenziale (pilgrim's passport) required for accommodation.
Best season
April to October. Spring and autumn recommended. Very hot summers on the southern sections.