In the Footsteps of Frassati

We lead pilgrimages that unite the physical with the spiritual and offer a mindful escape from the frenetic pace of modern life. On pilgrimage, we see how our lives are a voyage filled with joy, effort, beauty, suffering, surprises, goals, adventure, expectation and love. We always travel by foot, and we develop authentic relationships with the local community along the way.

The value of a good night’s sleep can’t be overstated, and we’ll be sleeping indoors at the Sanctuary of Oropa, mountain huts, and Catholic pilgrim Hostels.

Typically there are metal-framed bunkbeds with plastic-covered mattresses. You’ll want a lightweight sleeping bag liner, sleep sheet, or some kind of cover, but you do not need a traditional sleeping bag. Most locations provide a pillow, but you can also improvise with your gear (stuff sack filled with laundry?)  We would not advise bringing a pillow from home.

Good earplugs and an eye mask are also recommended, especially for light sleepers. As mentioned earlier, many bedrooms will be shared and snorers might be among them.

Learning some basics will always be helpful (acqua-water, birra-beer, bathroom-bagno, bread-pane…), however shopkeepers and our hosts tend to know enough “English” to communicate basic ideas and understand simple requests. 

When in doubt just point at the thing you want, smile, and hold out your hand with a few Euro in it for them to take the correct amount (they’ll quickly let you know if you don’t have enough cash available, and are unlikely to ‘overcharge’ you; stealing a few Euro from well-intentioned pilgrims is sure to incite the wrathful intercession of St. Francis).

There are two major hikes as a part of this pilgrimage. Though not overly technical, they can be challenging if you do not regularly hike or workout. Every bit of prep helps and you should start letting your body know it’s going to have some work to do.  If you have been pretty sedentary (who, me?) start by walking a few miles at a time in the same socks and shoes you plan to wear on the Pilgrimage.  This will give you a chance to test them out and make adjustments in advance of your arrival in Italy.

Eventually you may also want to toss your pack on, add some weight and just head outside. You can dial in the weight and balance/adjustments of your pack, and get your feet ready to carry the extra pounds.  Plus, when your neighbors see you wandering around with your pack they will suddenly think you’re more interesting (or more weird) than they did before.