THERE’S complete silence except for birdsong and distant church bells. Spring has sprung and the countryside is ‘raining’ with white blossom in the breeze. The track is lined with purple wildflowers and red poppies are scattered over the magnificent rural landscape. Small lizards are sunning themselves on rocks and scurry off, rustling in dried leaves as we approach. With the warm sun on our backs too nothing can dent the joy of being on this delightful pilgrimage path, following in the footsteps where nature-loving Saint Francis of Assisi roamed more than 800 years ago.
It’s hard to believe we are walking in such peace in a country as populated as Italy! Our days are dominated by mother nature as well as medieval history and frescoed art. It’s easy to stop and enjoy the views as there are layers of unspoilt hills and forests wherever you look. Everything moves at a slower pace. Every storybook village and hilltop town is a hidden treasure with its unique church and,
