St Bendict Way, Rieti to Subiaco, Turano Lake
St Bendict Way, Rieti to Subiaco, Turano Lake

St.Benedict Way, from Rieti to Subiaco

LEVEL
2
DISTANCE
97 km
DURATION
7 days | 6 nights
PERIOD
Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct
PRICE FROM
€ 675
CO2e FOOTPRINT
128 Kg/person
  1. Italy
  2.  | 
  3. Self-Guided
  4.  | 
  5. Tourcode ITSW660

 
From Rieti to Subiaco, following in the footsteps of St. Benedict through the places shaped by his presence. The journey begins in the beautiful city of Rieti, both papal and Franciscan, and leads to Subiaco, where Benedict drafted his Rule and spent three years in the silence of a cave before founding his first monastery, San Clemente.

Along the way, you’ll encounter places filled with a palpable energy, immersed in lush green landscapes: from Rocca Sinibalda, with its fascinating "castle of metamorphoses," to Castel di Tora, nestled in the Turano River Valley, where the air is pure, and the mountainsides are thick with forests. Then, the trail leads through the Monti Lucretili Park, where ancient rock churches dedicated to the Longobard cult of St. Michael stand alongside Roman villas once used for poetry and meditation.

Following the course of the Aniene River, you’ll finally reach Subiaco and the breathtaking Monastery of Sacro Speco, built into the rocky cliffs of Monte Taleo. Along the route, medieval villages and monasteries, crystal-clear springs, and centuries-old castles make for an unforgettable journey through the untouched, green heart of Lazio.

Highlights

  • Rieti and Subiaco: ancient towns rich in history
  • Monasteries, chapels, and churches of great interest
  • Picturesque, quiet villages 
  • Wonderful landscapes and authentic countryside 
  • Friendly people, delicious cheeses, salami, and wines

 

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive in Rieti

Arrive in Rieti

Arrive in Rieti and take some time to visit the town. Its origins go back a long way: known as Reate, the capital of the Sabine territory. Over the centuries, Rieti has preserved its rich history, evident in its well-preserved medieval walls and notable architectural landmarks. Key sites include the 12th-century Romanesque Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the Episcopal Palace dating from 1283, and the Palazzo Comunale, which houses a museum and picture gallery.

Day 2

Walk from Rieti to Rocca Sinibalda, 20 km

Walk from Rieti to Rocca Sinibalda, 20 km

Your journey begins with an easy, scenic route through the rolling hills of the Turano River Valley, one of the most picturesque areas of the Sabina region. As you walk, you'll be surrounded by the serene beauty of lush valleys and the ever-present backdrop of the majestic Apennines, making this stretch particularly captivating for nature lovers and photographers.  

The path leads to Rocca Sinibalda, a charming medieval village perched on a hilltop, overlooking the winding Turano River. Its most striking feature is the Castle of Rocca Sinibalda, an architectural masterpiece dating back to the year 1000. Designed as a "geometric abstraction," the fortress resembles an eagle with folded wings—both a noble residence and a symbol of transformation. This fascinating site has drawn visitors from all over Europe for centuries.  

Rocca Sinibalda is also known as the birthplace of Filippa Mareri, the first Franciscan saint, who was born here in 1200. With its rich history, breathtaking views, and timeless atmosphere, this village is the perfect reward at the end of this beautiful stage.

Distance: 20 km

Elevation Gain: +405/-553 m

Day 3

Walk from Rocca Sinibalda to Castel di Tora, 14 km

Walk from Rocca Sinibalda to Castel di Tora, 14 km

A short and easy stage that takes you back into the lush, green Turano Valley. Along the way, you'll pass through the village of Posticciola, set in an archaeological area that includes the Romanesque Ponte Vecchio, an 11th-century bridge.

As you approach Lake Turano, the landscape takes on a mountain character—fresh, pure air, forested slopes, and a deep sense of connection with nature. The Navegna and Cervia mountains rise in this unspoiled, picturesque area, home to majestic wildlife such as the golden eagle, the wolf, and the wildcat.

Your destination is Castel di Tora, near the abandoned town of Antuni. The village’s historic center is a maze of charming stone alleys, perfect for wandering and pausing to take in breathtaking views of the endless forests that stretch all around.

Distance: 14 km

Elevation Gain: +405/-553 m

Day 4

Walk from Castel di Tora to Orvinio, 13,5 km

Walk from Castel di Tora to Orvinio, 13,5 km

Today's stage is a challenging one, but the natural landscape you'll encounter is absolutely breathtaking. You’ll walk along mountain paths offering panoramic views of Lake Turano, lush meadows, and verdant valleys. Along the way, you'll pass through the village of Pozzaglia Sabina, nestled in a magnificent pine forest and near the Cave of San Michele, a sacred site introduced by the Lombards.

Another surprise along the journey is the Benedictine Abbey of Santa Maria del Piano, believed to have been built by Charlemagne as a thanksgiving to the Virgin Mary for a victorious battle. Though only the ruins remain, encountering it amidst the greenery of Valle Muzia is one of the small yet profound joys of the journey.

Your destination for today is Orvinio, perched in a panoramic position within the Monti Lucretili Park. Here, you can admire the Church of Santa Maria dei Raccomandati and the imposing 11th-century castle, which has witnessed the stories of noble families such as the Orsini and Borghese.

Distance: 13,5 km

Elevation Gain: +1130/-755 m

Day 5

Walk from Orvinio to Mandela and transfer to Subiaco, 20 km

Walk from Orvinio to Mandela and transfer to Subiaco, 20 km

This beautiful day of walking will take you deep into the heart of the Monti Lucretili Regional Park, offering you continuous panoramic views of an untouched landscape: it’s hard to believe that the center of Rome is just 40 km away!

Along the way, you'll come across the medieval village of Licenza, with its ancient Orsini palace. Just a short distance from the small historic center lies the Roman Villa of Horace, dating back to 33-33 BC, a gift from Emperor Augustus to the great poet. Here, Horace would retreat to philosophize, meditate, and read, surrounded by the peaceful, untouched landscape that must have been even more tranquil in his time.

Mandela, your destination for the day, is situated on a hill between the Licenza stream and the Arrone river. Here, you'll find the Benedictine Hermitage, where the saint’s wine was poisoned, and the impressive Roman aqueduct, a series of ingenious tunnels carved into the rock that once carried the waters of Aqua Marcia and Aqua Claudia to Tivoli.

At the end of the day, a transfer will take you to Subiaco. Tomorrow, you will return to Mandela to complete the final stretch.

Distance: 20 km

Elevation Gain: +600/-940 m

Day 6

Bus to Mandela and walk to Subiaco, 27 or 16,5 km

Bus to Mandela and walk to Subiaco, 27 or 16,5 km

A short bus ride will take you to Mandela, where the final stretch of the itinerary begins. The last leg of the journey is long but easy, set in the stunning landscape of the Aniene River valley. Along the way, you'll pass the village of Marano Equo, known for its beneficial waters, and the hilltop town of Agosta, whose name comes from the Roman spring of Augusta, famous for the Sanctuary of Madonna del Passo. 

As the kilometers increase, you will enter the Giovenzano valley, passing through the town of Gerano, famous for its beautiful flower festivals that decorate the streets of the historic center each year, and Cerreto Laziale with its polygonal walls.

Finally, you will reach Subiaco, the journey's ultimate destination: the town is deeply connected to Saint Benedict, who, arriving here in the fifth century, isolated himself in a cave—now preserved in the stunning Monastery of the Sacred Speco, nestled like a jewel in the rocky face of Monte Taleo. It was here that he drafted his Rule and, three years later, founded San Clemente, the first of his 13 monasteries. Subiaco is also home to the Convent of San Francesco, a Franciscan complex rich in art treasures, set in the lush green of a chestnut forest, and the Rocca dei Borgia, where Giovanni, Cesare, and Lucrezia Borgia were born, children of the future Pope Alexander VI.

Distance: 27 km or 16,5 km + 3km to Visit the Subiaco Monastery

Elevation Gain: +470/-500 or +410/-470

Day 7

Arrivederci, Subiaco!

Arrivederci, Subiaco!

Our services end after breakfast, unless you have booked another service with us.

Details

Is this for me?


It is a beautiful route, following in the footsteps of the Saint through a stunning natural landscape with ever-changing views, immersed in the breathtaking scenery of the Apennines.

As with all multi-day walks, it is recommended for those who are aware of what it means to walk for several kilometers each day. Some stages are long and therefore demanding, but shorter alternatives are available.

The route includes some rocky sections (making it ideal for those with good stability) as well as stages with significant ascents and steep descents. While not a technical trail, it is essential to be well-trained and accustomed to this type of hike.

Included


What is included

  • 6 Nights in double room in **/*** hotels , B&B and agriturismi with breakfast
  • Luggage transportation from hotel to hotel
  • Maps and detailed description of the itinerary in digital form, app
  • Pilgrim Passport
  • Medical and luggage travel insurance
  • 24h phone assistance

What is not included 

  • Transfers to the starting location and from the arriving location of the tour
  • Lunches and dinners, if not otherwise stated
  • Visits and entrance fees - tips
  • Personal expense
  • Possible sojourn taxes
  • Everything that is not mentioned in the "What is included" section.


Optional Services

These services can be added to the ones included in the base price of the tour:

  • Single room supplement
  • Cancellation insurance
  • Transfers to reach the starting location or to leave the arriving location of the tour, which will be quoted on request
  • Official camino guidebook, shipped to the first hotel
  • Travel documentation in printed form (maps and detailed description of the itinerary), shipped to the first hotel

Accommodation


For our trips, we always choose accommodation with private rooms and private bathrooms. In rare cases, shared accommodations or shared bathrooms may be provided, so we recommend carefully checking the inclusions section to understand the type of accommodation included in the trip you are interested in.  

We place great importance on the choice of accommodations and select hotels with care and attention. We understand how essential it is to rest well after a day of walking. We always prefer cozy and characteristic establishments, preferably family-run, that fully embody the spirit of the place and offer hospitality with courtesy and comfort.  

Where, due to the nature of the route, accommodation options are limited, we choose the one that best aligns with our standards.

When to travel


The ideal time to walk the Benedictine Way from Rieti to Subiaco is during spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild, with pleasant temperatures and longer days, perfect for walking through forests and hills without the summer heat. Summer can be sultry, especially in areas exposed to the sun, while winter brings cold temperatures and the possibility of snow in the mountainous sections.

What to bring


Clothing and other items
You will need your regular walking/cycling gear, including some sort of reflective garment. For the evenings, smart outdoor style trousers (or shorts) are invaluable, as are quick-dry t-shirts. These can be washed easily and will dry overnight and still look good for sightseeing or having a drink in town.

Take as little as possible to avoid potentially lugging a heavy suitcase up three flights of stairs at the end of the day. Please be aware that laundromats (“Laverie”) are not common in rural areas, so plan to do handwashing of small items.

Lightweight walking shoes/ trainers
For wearing around towns & villages. They can also be a back-up pair.

Socks & underwear
Take only good quality socks with quick-dry and insulating qualities. Road test them before you go on the trip. Take a suitable quantity of underwear as washing facilities are limited.

Warm jacket, hat, gloves
Bring a fleece, Polartec or warm layers for the evenings especially in spring or autumn; be sure it is totally suitable for your needs.
A fleece jacket which blocks the wind (Wind-stopper) is the most preferable. In the summer months a lightweight jacket is suitable for evenings.
If you are cycling/walking in mountainous or coastal areas, even in the height of summer, the weather can change very quickly and unexpectedly and you should be prepared for fog, mist, rain, snow or hail at any time. Always take an extra layer with you, as well as a warm hat and gloves.

Waterproof jacket & trousers
If you are caught in heavy rain, with good waterproof clothing you should remain dry. Remember that most garments will lose their properties over time. Few will remain waterproof for more than five years and many deteriorate in three years or less. We recommend a rain jacket with a good hood and collar and waterproof or thermal walking/cycling trousers or tights.

Dress code
In general, you should wear suitable clothing when entering a church (in many places, it is considered unacceptable to go inside wearing shorts or a tank-top). We suggest that women carry a shawl to cover up bear shoulders or low-cut tops. It also comes in handy when your shoulders get sunburned!

It is considered inappropriate for men to go without a shirt / T-shirt (other than at the beach).

Trekking poles (adjustable)
Highly recommended. A pair works best, depending on what you are comfortable with. If you suffer from back or knee pain this should be considered essential. Remember to practise walking with your pole(s) on different types of terrain in the months preceding your trip.

Walking boots
The importance of good footwear cannot be stressed enough. Your boots should be sturdy and of good enough quality to handle all types of terrain. Lightweight boots, (cordura/leather boots) which have Gore-Tex or sympatex water-proofing are most suitable for this trip. They should provide good ankle protection and be well broken in. Waxing leather boots regularly prolongs their life.

Walking tops & trousers
We recommend walking trousers and shorts and quick-dry wicking t-shirts. These can be washed easily and will dry overnight and still look good for sightseeing or having a drink in town. Wicking T-shirts are fast drying, keep moisture away from your skin and are available at outdoor stores. You should also bring one pair of loose-fitting trousers to wear in cities and for evenings out, etc. Shorts or zip-off trousers are useful in warmer weather.

Practical info

How to arrive


On arrival:

The nearest airports are in Perugia and Rome.

From your airport, reach Rieti by train.


On departure:

You can take a local bus from Subiaco to Rome.

Mobile App


Use the SloWays APP for iOS and Android smart phones in combination with the written documentation provided.

The App has the detailed tracks and maps that you can use offline and without roaming. Thanks to the phone’s internal GPS, you can check your exact position on the map, so you always know exactly where you are. It also helps you self-navigate you way while travelling. More information on how to use the App inside the roadbook documents.

The navigation features include:

  • Offline navigation. Mobile data not required after initial download
  • Accurate GPS tracks
  • Autorotation of the maps
  • Daily route summary and elevation chart
  • Panorama of the track and at street level
  • Alarm and vibration that alerts you in case you go off track.
  • Emergency SMS button with position coordinates
  • Possibility to record and take georeferenced photos of problems on route alerting fellow travelers
  • Hotel information
  • Points of interest along the way
  • Historical background

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Wanderlust Nominee Best Specialist Tour Operator 2023
Wanderlust
Nominee Best Specialist Tour Operator 2023
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Touroperating
S-Cape Countryside Travels srl
Borgo Allegri 16R
50122 Firenze FI
P. IVA 05227330486

 
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Touroperating S-Cape Countryside Travels srl Borgo Allegri 16R 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
VAT Nr 05227330486
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