Have you ever wondered if it’s possible to walk all the way from England to Rome Well, the answer is both yes and no.
While it may be physically possible to cover this vast distance on foot, there are several factors that make it an incredibly challenging endeavor. Let’s explore the logistics and requirements of such a journey.
The Distance
The distance between London, England, and Rome, Italy is approximately 1,400 miles (2,250 kilometers). This means you would need to cover an average of 20 miles (32 kilometers) per day if you were to walk continuously without taking any breaks. However, this distance doesn’t take into account detours or obstacles along the way.
The Route
There isn’t a direct walking route from England to Rome. You would need to navigate through multiple countries and terrains, including crossing the English Channel. One popular route is known as the Via Francigena, which follows ancient pilgrimage trails from Canterbury in England through France and Switzerland before reaching Italy and eventually Rome.
England
If you start your journey in England, you would need to make your way from Canterbury Cathedral in southeast England towards the coast. From there, you could take a ferry or train across the English Channel into France.
France
Once in France, you can follow well-established walking paths like the GR1 or GR2 routes that will take you through picturesque countryside villages and towns. These paths are marked with signs or colored markings on trees or rocks.
Switzerland
To reach Italy from France, you will need to pass through Switzerland. The Via Francigena takes walkers through beautiful Swiss landscapes such as Lake Geneva and the Alps. Be prepared for steep ascents and descents, as well as the possibility of encountering snow in higher altitudes.
Italy
Once you reach Italy, you will continue to follow the Via Francigena. This route passes through historic cities such as Turin, Piacenza, and Siena before finally leading to Rome. Along the way, you will experience Italy’s diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to vineyards and charming countryside villages.
Challenges
Walking from England to Rome is not for the faint-hearted. It requires excellent physical fitness, endurance, and careful planning. You will need suitable walking gear and equipment, including sturdy hiking boots, weather-appropriate clothing, a backpack with essentials like food and water, navigation tools like maps or GPS devices, and proper documentation for crossing borders.
Accommodation
While there are dedicated pilgrim hostels along the Via Francigena route where walkers can find affordable accommodation, it’s crucial to plan your daily stops in advance. Alternatively, you can choose to camp or stay in hotels or guesthouses along the way.
The Experience
Embarking on a walking journey from England to Rome is not just about reaching the destination but also about embracing the adventure and immersing yourself in different cultures along the way. You will have the opportunity to meet fellow walkers from around the world and create lasting memories.
In Conclusion
Walking from England to Rome is indeed possible but requires meticulous planning, physical fitness, and determination. It’s an extraordinary challenge that offers incredible rewards for those who dare to take it on. Whether you decide to embark on this epic journey or simply dream about it from afar, let the idea of walking across countries inspire your sense of adventure.