• Experience one of Japan’s most remote and rewarding journeys, the ‘Kumano Old Road’ in the Kumano Kodo Japan Self-Guided Trek!
• Trek this sacred pilgrimage trail once reserved for Emperors and Samurai
• Marvel at Nachi Falls, Japan’s highest single-drop waterfall 
• Visit all three of Kumano’s grand shrines: Hongū Grand Shrine, Nachi Grand Shrine, and Hayatama Grand Shrine
• Savour homemade meals made daily with fresh, local ingredients
• Experience shinrinyoku, (forest bathing) and unwind in soothing onsen hot springs
• Earn credentials to receive Dual Pilgrim status with the Camino de Santiago.

Overview

Embark on the Kumano Kodo, or the ‘Kumano Old Road’, which encompasses a network of ancient pilgrimage paths that crisscross the diverse landscapes of Japan’s Kii Peninsula. These sacred routes, with a history spanning over a millennium, have been traversed by individuals from every stratum of society—from peasants and craftsmen to nobles and emperors—symbolizing a journey accessible to all in pursuit of spiritual fulfillment. Moreover, the trails stretch across majestic mountain ranges and meander through verdant valleys, peppered with serene villages and vibrant spa towns renowned for their healing hot springs.

This ancient pilgrimage comprises several trails, including the Nakahechi, Kiiji, Iseji, Kohechi, and Ohechi. Specifically, our 6-day self-guided trek delves into the heart of this spiritual journey via the classic Nakahechi trail, ultimately culminating at the majestic Nachi Grand Shrine through the Ōgumotorigoe Pass. As you journey from village to village, the Kii Mountains unfold around you, believed to be a sacred location that serves as the home of the gods. Engage in shinrinyoku, or forest bathing, and feel the serenity of the deep, forested walks and otherworldly landscapes softly blanketed in fog. Furthermore, along the Kumano Kodo Japan Self-Guided Trek, relish the stunning mountain views, taste the region’s exceptional cuisine, unwind in soothing onsen hot springs, and visit all three of the Grand Shrines of Kumano.

You will be supported by our team in Kyoto, our local Chikatsuyu office, and by our bespoke turn-by-turn walking instructions and topographical maps to guide you on your way. Additionally, if you’ve trekked the Camino de Santiago, take advantage of the opportunity to achieve Dual Pilgrim status on our Kumano Kodō trek, or use this experience towards earning credentials on your future Camino de Santiago pilgrimage.

Should you wish to extend your self-guided trip, you can combine this pilgrimage journey with the historic Nakasendo Trail—offering 3-day, 4-day, or 5-day treks—that connects Kyoto and Edo-period Tokyo.

• Walk village to village along the most charming sections of the ancient Nakasendō Trail in the Nakasendo Trail Japan Self-Guided Trek
• Follow in the footsteps of Samurai warriors on the Nakasendō Trail
• Soak in the thermal waters at a traditional hot spring ryokan
• Stand in awe of Matsumoto Castle, a ‘National Treasure’ and the oldest five-tiered, six-story castle tower remaining in Japan
• Explore the beautifully preserved villages of Magome, Tsumago, and Narai
• Travel by the world-famous bullet train from Tokyo to Nagoya.

Overview

The Nakasendo Trail Japan Self-Guided Trek invites you into the heart of Japan. Here, ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern life. This trek is more than a walk; it’s a journey through time on one of Japan’s historic pathways, the Nakasendō Trail. Originally, this was the northern mountain route between Tokyo and Kyoto. It featured 69 post towns, serving as stops where travelers could find food, lodging, and entertainment. Today, this route has been restored to highlight its historical significance from the Edo period (1603-1867). It offers an immersive glimpse into Japan’s pre-modern era.

Your adventure starts in the vibrant city of Tokyo. From there, you’ll take the iconic bullet train to Nagoya. This journey bridges the bustling capital with the serene landscapes of central Japan. A local bus ride to Magome transports you into a different era. This sets the stage for a deep connection to the paths once traveled by samurai, merchants, and nobles. The historic Nakasendo Trail connected Kyoto and Edo-period Tokyo, stretching 534km. Along the way, villages known as juku provided accommodation for weary travelers dating back to the seventh century.

You will walk ancient paved village paths and mountain trails between perfectly preserved Nakasendo post towns. These include Tsumago, Nojiri, Yabuhara, and Hirasawa. Each night, you will stay in small local minshuku or ryokan. Here, you will be welcomed as part of the family and enjoy warm hospitality. In Magome, Tsumago, and Narai, every stone path and wooden building tells stories of the past. This is thanks to the passionate conservation efforts by locals. Walking this trail, you connect with those who walked before you, feeling a sense of historical continuity.

The Nakasendo Trail Japan Self-Guided Trek offers more than a spiritual journey through the mountains. It is a deep engagement with culture, history, and the enduring spirit of Japan. It invites you to slow down and reflect. Absorb the beauty of nature and the legacy of human endeavor. This trek is not just a way to see Japan, but to feel it. Experience the respectful silence of the ancient roads and the preserved beauty of the juku towns. These towns have stood the test of time, preserving a rich history.

If you wish to extend your self-guided trip, you can combine this trek with the pilgrimage journey along The Kumano Kodō Trail. 

• Amalfi – this medieval town is the largest on the coast and home to stunning architecture, including the Amalfi Cathedral and Piazza Dante
• Trek the Path of the Gods – the most famous and scenic hiking trail on the Amalfi coast
• Experience the picturesque town Positano known for its colourful houses and charming narrow streets
• Take in the sights from the hilltop town of Ravello with views of the coastline and its beautiful gardens, including the famous Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo
• Relax with a day trip to the Island of Capri with a choice of walks including a beautiful coastal trail wander via the famous Blue Grotto
• Enhance your walks with a refreshing swim in one of the beautiful coves
• Sample the best Amalfitano Limoncello made with St Teresa lemons, a lemon variety native to the Sorrento Peninsula of Italy
• Choose your very own trip date between April – December
• Receive a complimentary Water-To-Go bottle when you depart on this trip to minimise our plastic foot-print in Italy!

Overview

A self-guided walking holiday is a great ways to get under the skin of Italy’s diverse landscapes, and there is no finer coastal trail than the Amalfi Coast. This self-guided trek gives you the chance to explore this picture-perfect region at your own pace on foot while having all the necessary tools and information beforehand: the route notes, places of interest, accommodation and transport all accessible through an easy and intuitive app.

This is your chance to discover a true Italian gem, the Amalfi Coast in the region of Campania.

A UNESCO world heritage site steeped in maritime history; island hop across turquoise waters, walk the ‘path of the gods’, marvel at the beautiful clifftop villages, and savour some of the freshest seafood in the world –  the scialatielli ai frutti di mare is not to be missed!

Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that your luggage will be transferred with ease and a good night’s rest awaits at each of the family run hotels enroute. 

Why go Self-Guided:

FLEXIBILITY
You get to choose your very own trip date between April – October. Take advantage of low-cost flights or make the most of your precious leave by arranging travel around a Bank Holiday or a weekend.

YOU CHOOSE THE PACE
Travelling independently gives you the freedom to go at your own pace and stop where you wish to sample local food & drinks.

PICK YOUR TRAVEL BUDDIES
You let us know who would like to go with, and we’ll arrange the rest. For cost purposes these trips are best with a minimum of 2 people. Solo trips can be arranged and feel free to contact us for more info.

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE DESTINATION
Stop at places that take your interest, linger in a local market, savour your coffee or chat with the locals.

SAMPLE THE LOCAL FOOD
Time to indulge in all the local delicacies. Find the best ice cream, sample the finest cellar door wines or enjoy locally famed cuisine.

BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE
Relax in the knowledge that we have made all your arrangements for your self-guided walking holiday. From your starting point to your departure, we have it covered. We handpick your accommodation, transport your bags each day and provide you with all the route details and information you need to have a fantastic trekking journey. And don’t forget, a self-guided adventure doesn’t mean you’re all on your own. The local team is only a phone call away to offer a helping hand, should you need it.

• Hike the second last section of the of the legendary Via Francigena from Lucca to Sienna  
• Discover one of Europe’s most important medieval pilgrimage routes, connecting English cathedral city Canterbury with Rome
• Hike the spectacular Tuscan hills pass renowned vineyards and hilltop villages
• View the amazing historical fortified military village of Monteriggioni
• Experience charming UNESCO towns such as San Gimignano and Siena
• Enjoy the delicious Tuscan cuisine and wine 
• Stay in small, comfortable, family run accommodations with delicious culinary specialities
  
• Receive a complimentary Water-To-Go bottle when you depart on this trip to minimise our plastic foot-print in Italy!

Overview

A self-guided trek gives you the chance to explore this historic region at your own pace on foot while having all the necessary tools and information beforehand: the route notes, places of interest, accommodation and transport all accessible through an easy and intuitive app.

The Italian Camino via Francigena, is an ancient pilgrimage route similar to the trail of Santiago di Compostela in Spain, covers 1900kms from Canterbury to Rome. Crossing 4 European countries: the UK, France, Switzerland and Italy; it travels through areas of spectacular beauty and historic interest.

Following in the footsteps of countless pilgrims, your self-guided camino trek with cover the a section of the legendary trail from Lucca to Sienna through postcard-like landscapes filled with culture, history and spirituality coming together. Via Francigena route is a Council of Europe European Cultural Itinerary since 1994 and Major Cultural Route since 2004 plus it’s much quieter than the Camino de Santiago routes in Spain.

The Northern Tuscany section of Via Francigena starts in the medieval town of Lucca with its beautiful gardens and villas. The first stage of the tour is through the open and flatlands of the Val d’Elsa. Then you will explore the medieval atmosphere evoked by the narrow streets and the buildings made from the local sandstone of some of the most popular medieval villages in Tuscany, such as Monteriggioni and San Gimignano that with its thirteen outstanding towers became a UNESCO world heritage site in 1990. Reaching Siena, you will enjoy a landscape made of open rolling hills with grey crags of the beautiful and picturesque Crete Senesi. Be sure to sample ‘tagliolini al tartufo bianco’, fresh pasta with white truffles, and treat yourself to a refreshing gelato when reaching Siena’s city gates!

Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that your luggage will be transferred with ease and a good night’s rest awaits at each of the family run hotels enroute. 

Why go Self-Guided:

FLEXIBILITY
You get to choose your very own trip date between April – December. Take advantage of low-cost flights or make the most of your precious leave by arranging travel around a Bank Holiday or a weekend.

YOU CHOOSE THE PACE
Travelling independently gives you the freedom to go at your own pace and stop where you wish to sample local food & drinks.

PICK YOUR TRAVEL BUDDIES
You let us know who would like to go with, and we’ll arrange the rest. For cost purposes these trips are best with a minimum of 2 people. Solo trips can be arranged and feel free to contact us for more info.

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE DESTINATION
Stop at places that take your interest, linger in a local market, savour your coffee or chat with the locals.

SAMPLE THE LOCAL FOOD
Time to indulge in all the local delicacies. Find the best ice cream, sample the finest cellar door wines or enjoy locally famed cuisine.

BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE
Relax in the knowledge that we have made all your arrangements for you. From your starting point to your departure, we have it covered. We handpick your accommodation, transport your bags each day and provide you with all the route details and information you need to have a fantastic trekking journey. And don’t forget, a self-guided adventure doesn’t mean you’re all on your own. The local team is only a phone call away to offer a helping hand, should you need it.

• Hike the second last section of the of the legendary Via Francigena from Sienna to Viterbo 
• Discover one of Europe’s most important medieval pilgrimage routes, connecting English cathedral city Canterbury with Rome
• Look behind you from the crests of the Val d’Arbia, to admire the Siena skyline
• Enjoy the thermal pools of Bagno Vignoni, used since Roman times
• Do not miss the view from the Rocca di Radicofani
• Admire a sunset over Lake Bolsena
• Walk barefoot on the paving of the Via Cassia in Montefiascone
• Enjoy the delicious local food and wine from the region
• Stay in small, comfortable, family run accommodations with delicious culinary specialities
  
• Receive a complimentary Water-To-Go bottle when you depart on this trip to minimise our plastic foot-print in Italy!

Overview

A self-guided trek gives you the chance to explore this historic region at your own pace on foot while having all the necessary tools and information beforehand: the route notes, places of interest, accommodation and transport all accessible through an easy and intuitive app.

The Italian Camino via Francigena, is an ancient pilgrimage route similar to the trail of Santiago di Compostela in Spain, covers 1900kms from Canterbury to Rome. Crossing 4 European countries: the UK, France, Switzerland and Italy; it travels through areas of spectacular beauty and historic interest.

Following in the footsteps of countless pilgrims, you’re self-guided camino trek with cover the second last section of the legendary trail from Sienna to Viterbo through postcard-like landscapes filled with culture, history and spirituality coming together. Via Francigena route is a Council of Europe European Cultural Itinerary since 1994 and Major Cultural Route since 2004 plus it’s much quieter than the Camino de Santiago routes in Spain.

Hike the renowned strade bianche (“white roads”, dirt roads) of Siena, crossing the Val d’Arbia and the Val d’Orcia, icons of the Tuscan landscape. Visit wonderful local villages of Bagno Vignoni, with its grand thermal pool in the centre of the square, and Radicofani, whose fortress dominates southern Tuscany. Once you enter Lazio, be in awe of the beauty of Lake Bolsena, and charmed by the ancient paving stones of the Via Cassia, still intact after 2000 years, before visiting the charming old town centre of Viterbo.

Cross the vineyards of the Brunello di Montalcino, one of the best Italian wines, and the production zones of the cacio di Pienza (type of cheese), before entering one of the most important areas for the production of extra-virgin olive oil, between Bolsena and Montefiascone.

Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that your luggage will be transferred with ease and a good night’s rest awaits at each of the family run hotels enroute. 

• Trek one of the oldest pilgrimage routes in the world, The Camino de Santiago de Compostela 
• Follow in the footsteps of countless pilgrims, walking the last 100kms of the legendary Way of St James 
• Hike through beautiful landscapes and historic towns to collect stamps for your pilgrim’s passport
• Explore romanesque cathedrals, medieval monasteries and unspoiled rural scenery 
• Be part of a long-standing tradition in obtaining the ‘compostela’, a certificate of accomplishment given to pilgrims upon completing the way
• Fully supported self-guided trek allowing you to enjoy this historic pilgrimage at your own pace
• Experience the amazing camraderie with fellow pilgrims from all over the world
• Choose your very own trip date between April – October
• Receive a complimentary Water-To-Go bottle on departure to minimise our plastic foot-print in Spain!

OVERVIEW

A self-guided Camino trek gives you the chance to explore this historic region at your own pace on foot  while having all the necessary tools and information beforehand: the route notes, places of interest, accommodation and transport all accessible through an easy and intuitive app.

Since Apostle James’ tomb was discovered in the ninth century, the route has also been known as ‘The Way of St James’. The symbol of the scallop shell, typically found on the Galician shores, marks your way. On completion of the final 100km stretch of The Way of St James, it is a great tradition to receive a certificate or ‘compostela’.

This section of the self-guided Camino trek will take you from the interior and unique region of Galicia to Santiago through peaceful rolling landscapes, rich vineyards, many small villages and town before your final goal, the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.

One of the most special parts of undertaking this renowned route is the people you meet along your way from all over the world and the experiences you share as you absorb yourself in the culture and tradition of the route.

Staying in a selection of Guesthouses and family run hotels on a half board basis you can be sure of a warm welcome at the end of your day. With specially selected accommodation close to your route and your luggage transfers included, you can relax in the knowledge that we have taken care of all the arrangements so all you need to do is choose the date which suits you, step foot on the famed Camino on your own or with a small group of family or friends and enjoy your journey.

Summary of route

Start: Sarriá  Finish: Santiago de Compostela

• Hike 8 day self-guided on the Italian Camino via Francigena
• Choose your very own trip date between April – October
• Discover one of Europe’s most important medieval pilgrimage routes, connecting English cathedral city Canterbury with Rome
• Follow in the footsteps of countless pilgrims, walking the final 125kms of the legendary Via Francigena from Montefiascone to the Vatican City
• With ancient treasures, medieval towns, remote hilltop monasteries and volcanic lakes the landscape is set for a fascinating 6-day trek
• Explore the enchanting old quarter and Roman amphitheatre in Sutri
• Savour the poignant finish at the ever-mesmerising Eternal City and receive your well earned ‘Testimonium’ of pilgrimage
• Enjoy the delicious local food and wine from the region
• Stay in small, comfortable, family run accommodations with delicious culinary specialities
  
• Receive a complimentary Water-To-Go bottle when you depart on this trip to minimise our plastic foot-print in Italy!

Overview

A self-guided trek gives you the chance to explore this historic region at your own pace on foot while having all the necessary tools and information beforehand: the route notes, places of interest, accommodation and transport all accessible through an easy and intuitive app.

The Italian Camino via Francigena, is an ancient pilgrimage route similar to the trail of Santiago di Compostela in Spain, covers 1900kms from Canterbury to Rome. Crossing 4 European countries: the UK, France, Switzerland and Italy; it travels through areas of spectacular beauty and historic interest.

Following in the footsteps of countless pilgrims, you’re self-guided camino trek with cover the final 125kms of the legendary trail from Montefiascone to the Vatican City through the rolling hills Tuscany. The Via Francigena route is a Council of Europe European Cultural Itinerary since 1994 and Major Cultural Route since 2004 plus it’s much quieter than the Camino de Santiago routes in Spain.

Marvel at a fine blend of scenic beauty with vibrant green countryside dotted with vineyards, hazel & olive groves, huge old oak trees and some of Europe’s largest volcanic lakes. Plus enjoy some well deserved rest stops and the chance to meet friendly locals with passing through medieval towns, remote hilltop monasteries and quaint Italian villages. Add fabulous food and wine into the mix and you have the perfect recipe for a trip to remember especially with the grand finale of entering the Vatican City.

Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that your luggage will be transferred with ease and a good night’s rest awaits at each of the family run hotels enroute. 

They say all roads lead to Rome, though this one warrants an incredible adventure!