Well after something over a year of research, data validation and app design edition 10 has been put on limited release. Edition 9 will be the last paper/eBook edition of the guide while I hope edition 10 will be the first of a family of app guides.

The essence of my approach has been to recognise that needs of the pilgrim are varied and that a guide must allow a pilgrim to tackle challenging routes like the VF in their way. The app tries to do this first by allowing the pilgrim to build a plan that fits their constraints, perhaps building on the Official or Historic interpretations of the route or even working ground up and then helping the pilgrim to follow their plan.

The app technology allows it to be run in a laptop through a browser or on a phone. The browser seems best fitted to planning while the phone lets you follow your plan or even adapt it as you go with all the necessary maps, trails, more than 250 pages of historical cultural information and 1000 accommodation addresses without the need for further network connections.

The limited release is so far restricted to the web version although I have tested the android version in significant detail, I am currently working through the admin of having it also available on ios.

Here are a couple of feed back messages

“Been having a look at your web page, very impressive! I showed it to my partner too and he was rapt with it. We’ve been looking for a decent map showing all the stages for the Francigena and this is great.”

“The new app is brilliant.  I especially love how easy it is to navigate the map and plan my own itinerary. You haven’t just offered one route but have offered alternatives to suit different travellers and different needs – whether walking, cycling or travelling on horseback.  For me, planning to walk with a hiking trolley, these alternative routes have given me peace of mind.”

Another early adopter has discovered an issue with the app running under firefox that seems to relate to a clash between firefox and the map drawing library that the app uses. This has been refered to the development community of the software components and I hope I will have a fix shortly.

Below you will see a few screen shots of the app. If anyone is interested in joing the early adopter program then you can contact me at mail@pilgrimagepublications.com