Summary:

• We traveled 2300 km and gained 16km in elevation.
• We cycled for 23 out of 34 days between mid-July and August.
• Our route was a combination of Benjaminse’s route, Euro-velo routes and the Via Francigena pilgrimage route.
• Major cities we crossed were Rome, Florence, Pisa, Lausanne, Basel, Strasbourg, Metz and Maastricht.
• We took the sleeper train back from Rome to Arnhem over Munich.

Overview

In this blog post I will expand on the route and places visited. This post could be of interest if you are considering, or planning a cycling trip yourself. The journey can be split in three: 1) Benjaminsen’s Rhine route, starting from Maastricht and the Adrennes, over the Vosgues to Basel. 2) The Euro-velo Route along the beautiful lakes of Switzerland, over saint bernards pass, into the Po Valley. 3) And finally, the ancient via Francigena pilgrimage route that took us over the Apenines twice, and led us trough the famous Cinque Terre, Pisa, Florence, Assisi and finally, Rome. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist seeking inspiration, or a dreamer yearning for adventure, this post promises to ignite your wanderlust.

To ensure a smooth and comfortable journey, we meticulously selected our cycling gear. High-quality bicycles, durable panniers, weather-resistant clothing, helmets, repair kits, and ample nutrition were all part of our arsenal. Rigorous training routines were established to build stamina, improve endurance, and familiarize ourselves with long-distance cycling. We devoted hours studying the Franciscan Route, plotting the most scenic and cyclist-friendly paths. Our research included identifying pit stops for rest, lodging, and replenishment, ensuring a balance between conquering challenging terrains and appreciating the cultural landmarks.

Embarking on an epic cycling adventure from Maastricht in the Netherlands to Rome, Italy, was a monumental feat that required meticulous planning and unwavering determination. The journey, tracing the Franciscan Route and encompassing captivating cities like Metz, Strasbourg, Grand Ballon, Basel, Bernard’s Pass, Pisa, Florence, Assisi, and ultimately Rome, was a dream that three adventurers set out to conquer.

The groundwork for this extraordinary expedition involved months of preparation. From selecting the right gear to mapping out the route, ensuring physical fitness, and honing our cycling skills, every aspect was thoroughly considered to make this journey a success.

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In terms of elevation it looked as follows:

The Rhine Route

Our journey commenced from the historic city of Maastricht, known for its cobblestone streets, ancient architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. As we stood at the heart of the city, bikes ready and spirits high, the realization of the adventure that lay ahead was both thrilling and humbling.

Our continued began in Metz, a charming city in northeastern France. This historical city was not only our starting point but also a glimpse into the diverse cultures and architecture that lay ahead. From Metz, we set out on our bicycles, ready to conquer the Franciscan Route.

Cycling through the beautiful Alsatian region of France, Strasbourg welcomed us with its half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral. The city’s blend of French and German influences left us captivated, and it was a taste of what was to come as we pedaled through this multicultural journey.

Ascending the mighty Grand Ballon in the Vosges Mountains was a challenging yet exhilarating feat. The breathtaking views from the summit were a reminder of the rewards that nature bestows upon those who persevere. Continuing our journey, we reached Basel, Switzerland, a city with a rich cultural heritage and a serene atmosphere. Basel’s old town and the Rhine River provided us with a much-needed break before heading towards Bernard’s Pass.

Crossing the Alps and Northern Italy

Bernard’s Pass was a true test of our cycling prowess as we ventured into the Swiss Alps. The alpine scenery was awe-inspiring, with towering peaks and meadows dotted with wildflowers. Conquering the pass was a physical and mental accomplishment, reinforcing our determination to reach Rome.

Northern Italy

One of the absolute highlights of our cycling adventure from the Netherlands to Rome was our visit to Cinque Terre, a collection of five picturesque fishing villages nestled along the rugged Italian Riviera coastline. As we approached Cinque Terre after our journey through Pisa and Florence, the beauty of the Ligurian Sea came into view. The vibrant, pastel-colored houses clinging to the cliffs, the azure waters, and the lush vineyards made for a spectacular sight. We took a break from our cycling odyssey to explore each of the charming villages – Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. The narrow, winding streets, local artisan shops, and exquisite seafood left us in awe. We also hiked parts of the famous Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) that connects the villages, allowing us to witness the breathtaking views of the Ligurian Sea from various vantage points. The mix of natural beauty and the unique, preserved culture of the Cinque Terre region made it a perfect addition to our cycling journey, adding a refreshing coastal experience to our adventure. Cinque Terre was a reminder that our cycling journey wasn’t just about the destinations but also about the diverse experiences we encountered along the way. The charm and tranquility of these villages fueled our spirits, preparing us for the remaining stretch of our remarkable journey to the eternal city of Rome.

The journey through Italy was a blend of history, art, and spirituality. Pisa, with its iconic Leaning Tower, was a sight to behold. Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, offered a cultural immersion as we explored its art, architecture, and culinary delights. As we cycled further, the sacred town of Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis, was a moment of spiritual reflection. The tranquility and spirituality of this town inspired us for the final leg of our journey.

Central Italy

Finally, our tires hit the cobbled streets of Rome, the eternal city. Cycling through this ancient city, past the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican City, we felt an overwhelming sense of achievement. Our journey, both physically and emotionally taxing, had led us to the heart of the Roman Empire.

Cycling from the Netherlands to Rome along the Franciscan Route was a monumental adventure, filled with challenges, breathtaking scenery, and cultural immersion. The journey not only strengthened our bodies but also enriched our souls as we pedaled through history, spirituality, and the beauty of diverse landscapes. This cycling odyssey will forever remain etched in our memories, a testament to the power of determination and the joy of exploration.

This is what we biked each day: 1.98 2.132.5 3.125 4.125 5.62 6.94 7.118 8.56 9.0 10.105 11.155 12.100 13.65 14.90 15.157 16.121 17.122 18.0 19.70 18.100 21.0 22.137 23.86 24.57 25.139 26.78