Edition 9 Route Profile Comparison- Italy

Here is a comparison of the route profile for the “Official Route” in Italy with a route using alternative options from the Lightfoot Guide. The abbreviated route will save approximately 40 km of walking by remaining closer to the historical Sigeric Route. Also shown is the via degli Abati a.k.a. Abbots Way or “Francigena di Montagna” from Pavia to Pontremoli which can further reduce route distance by approximately 30 km and offer an early escape from the Po valley following a magnificent though more challenging route through the Apennines but passing beside the 7th century abbey founded by the Irish monk Saint Colomban/Colombano/Colombanus and his final resting place. Combining these choices with those to the north of the Col Grand Saint Bernard can reduce a complete journey by nearly 300 km.