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This is my story about the planning, preparation, journey and reflection on the Via Romea Francigena, 'the road to Rome that comes from France'.
The Via Francigena is an ancient pilgrim route between Canterbury and Rome and more can be read about it on the Wikipedia page and the official website of the Council of Europe.
I am not a pilgrim in the traditional sense. I am a man approaching the sixtieth year of my life who was looking for a challenging adventure. It was during casual conversation that the nature of this adventure was revealed to me. In the subsequent weeks I learnt about the history of the Via Francigena, followed by research into the practicalities of such a journey.
There are many who still walk to Rome, following a route as described by Archbishop Sigeric around 990 AD. I had considered this, but the constraints of time in a modern working life led me to deciding upon travelling by bicycle. Even so, I anticipate that it will take me at least a month.
My challenge required me to be as independent as I can from convenient living. Levels of hygiene that are acceptable to me will necessitate occasional visits to a shower for a proper wash, provisions to a supermarket, but other than that I intend to be self-sufficient.
I do not cycle regularly, maybe managing a few miles for recreation during a summer holiday. I don't even exercise that much. Sunday walks finished by a pint is about my limit. I am generally fit, albeit a little overweight. One thing I do have is the determination to make this journey. I have given myself six months to prepare.
I hope that you enjoy reading my story. If I can inspire you to do something similar and help you achieve that end, then that will be a great reward for me. If I can do it, you can too.
There are many who still walk to Rome, following a route as described by Archbishop Sigeric around 990 AD. I had considered this, but the constraints of time in a modern working life led me to deciding upon travelling by bicycle. Even so, I anticipate that it will take me at least a month.
My challenge required me to be as independent as I can from convenient living. Levels of hygiene that are acceptable to me will necessitate occasional visits to a shower for a proper wash, provisions to a supermarket, but other than that I intend to be self-sufficient.
I do not cycle regularly, maybe managing a few miles for recreation during a summer holiday. I don't even exercise that much. Sunday walks finished by a pint is about my limit. I am generally fit, albeit a little overweight. One thing I do have is the determination to make this journey. I have given myself six months to prepare.
I hope that you enjoy reading my story. If I can inspire you to do something similar and help you achieve that end, then that will be a great reward for me. If I can do it, you can too.