If you are thinking of taking the Via degli Dei as your first walk: you are in the right place!
In this article we are going to analyze all the pros and cons of this path for beginners and guide you to see if you are ready to tackle this route.
Before you begin, if you haven’t yet, we invite you to visit the Via degli Dei page, where you can find out the mileage of this Cammino, its history, signage, reception along the route, and all of its STAGES.
Once you have visited the board, come back here to evaluate with us all the pros and cons of this path.
Click here to view the Via degli Dei fact sheet.
The cons: the Via degli Dei is a challenging path
Let’s start right away with the “bad” news. The good ones we’ll see later!
We are well aware that you will have heard several stories of people who have walked it as their first path, but let us never forget that the Via degli Dei has features that might be challenging for those without walking experience.
The first thing to consider is the elevation gain: you will cross the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines with significant ascents and descents, facing rather steep slopes in some sections.
In particular, the climb up Mt. Adonis, the STAGE between Madonna dei Fornelli and Monte di Fò, and the ascent to Mt. Gazzaro and its crosses require good physical preparation.
Are your knees and ankles ready to take on climbs and descents?
Test yourself before you set out by hiking trails with significant inclines for a few consecutive days so you can see how your body may react.
Below, in the dedicated section, you can find tips on physical preparation for the Via degli Dei.
The pros: signage, guidance, Apps and accommodations along the Via degli Dei
Although the Via degli Dei is a challenging route, there are some aspects that make it accessible to the less experienced.
The trail is well marked with the iconic red-and-white CAI signs and by the Via degli Dei markers, greatly reducing the risk of getting lost.
You can also walk the Via degli Dei by relying on the tracks of several free itinerary apps, including the official Cammini d’Italia App, which has all the day-by-day tracks of the walk inside, which can also be downloaded offline.
La official guidebook of the camino, published by Terre di Mezzo and available both online and in all the best bookstores, will be another very useful tool for getting to know and plan the Camino not only during the journey, but also and especially in the days leading up to departure, thus allowing you to find all the information you will need: the route described in both directions, detailed maps, elevations, height differences and directions on where to sleep (including in tents). In addition, the guidebook gathers all the historical and artistic insights and the most significant places to visit.
Another important aspect to consider when planning is that accommodations are well distributed along the route, allowing you to plan shorter STAGES if necessary (see below to find out the ideal breakdown of beginner STAGES).
A great strength, especially for those embarking on their first walk, is the contagious energy of all the walkers who will walk the Via degli Dei with you. As one of the most traveled routes in Italy, you will have a thousand opportunities to meet other walkers, exchange stories, useful advice and perhaps find new fellow adventurers.
This atmosphere makes the walk even more special: in the most challenging moments you will always find a smile, a word of encouragement, or a funny anecdote that will energize you.
Tips for the Via degli Dei for beginners
After reading all this, do you have a little voice inside you saying, “I want to leave”?
Here are some tips for how to best approach the Via degli Dei:
When to leave for the Via degli Dei
Choosing the best time to set out on the Via degli Dei is crucial, especially if it is your first walk. The Tuscan-Emilian Apennines have special climatic characteristics that you should be aware of before setting out.
Spring and autumn: the ideal periods
Spring months, particularly April and May, and fall months such as September and October, are considered the best times to tackle this path.
Temperatures are moderate, the landscape is at its most beautiful, and ground conditions are generally good. Beware, however, of spring rains that can make some sections muddy and slippery.
Summer: the busiest period but also the most challenging
Despite the fact that it is the period with the greatest number of walkers, summer presents some critical issues that should not be underestimated. High temperatures, especially in the middle hours of the day, can make the climbs even more strenuous, although it should be pointed out that the Camino has many shady stretches that are not exposed to the sun.
If you decide to leave in the summer, it is essential:
- Book all accommodations in advance: as summer is the busiest season, it will be essential to book both all accommodations along the way and all dinners, so you can secure your bed and dinner and avoid unpleasant surprises once you arrive at the end of the STAGE
- Leave early to take advantage of the cooler hours of the day
- Provide more frequent stops at shady spots
Winter: for experts only
The winter period is not recommended for beginners. Low temperatures, the possible presence of snow and ice, and shorter days make the trail significantly more challenging. We advise you not to choose this season, preferring rather spring and autumn.
Breakdown of the Via degli Dei beginners’ stages into 6 stages
The traditional route involves completing the Via degli Dei in 5 stages. However, for beginners, we recommend opting for the 6-day version, which allows you to:
- Addressing more manageable daily distances
- Reduce the risk of physical problems
- Have more time for breaks and rest
- enjoy more of the places traversed
STAGE 1: Bologna – Sasso Marconi (17 km)
A relatively simple first STAGE that will allow you to “get into the rhythm” of the walk. The elevation gain is moderate and the route alternates between urban stretches and first glimpses of nature.
After passing through the city center, you will walk along the San Luca portico, the longest in the world, and then enjoy a panoramic view of Bologna from the Basilica of San Luca. From there you will descend to Talon Park, continuing along the Reno River as you gradually move away from the city.
STAGE 2: Sasso Marconi – Monzuno (16 km)
This STAGE includes the ascent to Mount Adonis. You will leave early in the morning to tackle the climb in the cooler temperatures.
Mount Adonis is one of the symbols of this path; it will be one of the unforgettable moments of this journey. After a stretch of paved road you will arrive at the small town of Monzuno, where you will rest.
STAGE 3: Monzuno – Madonna dei Fornelli (18 km)
An intermediate STAGE that requires attention to energy. The Madonna dei Fornelli accommodation is a strategic point where you can refresh yourself with local cuisine and rest properly.
Along this STAGE you will cross the Flaminia militare, a Roman road dating from 187 B.C., and arrive at the largest Germanic Cemetery in Italy.
STAGE 4: Madonna dei Fornelli – Monte di Fò (15 km)
This is considered one of the most challenging STAGES. Breaking it down this way will allow you to take your time tackling the elevation changes while enjoying the views of the Apennine ridge.
STAGE 5: Monte di Fò – San Piero a Sieve (19 km)
The descent into Tuscany offers beautiful views. Plan stops at scenic spots and don’t miss a visit to the Medici Fortress and the Trebbio Castle. The highlight (in every sense of the word!) of the walk will be the spectacular Convent of Monte Senario, at 815 asl, with a balcony offering a view from which you can mentally retrace your journey.
STAGE 6: San Piero a Sieve – Florence (21 km)
The last STAGE is the longest but mostly downhill. The arrival in Florence will be your well-deserved reward.
Don’t rush to get to your destination, devote some time to Fiesole, a terrace over Florence, and its archaeological area, unknown to most but a true Italian jewel. Then onward all the way down to Piazza della Signoria!
Physical preparation for the Via degli Dei
Begin physical preparation at least two months in advance, with progressively longer and more strenuous daily hikes.
The weight of the backpack, which will contain everything you need for 5-6 days of walking, can test your endurance, straining your shoulders, hips, legs and your body more generally.
So before you set out, we not only recommend that you do uphill and downhill workouts, but that you carry a backpack (possibly the same one you will use during the walk) that weighs about 7-8 pounds and simulates the weight you will have during the walk.
Roda well the shoes you will wear: before embarking on the walk, it is essential to ensure comfort and prevent problems along the way.
New shoes could cause you blisters, chafing or discomfort if they have not been tested and fitted to your foot.
Believe us, there is no better way to simulate and days on the road and to become aware of your preparedness.
Stories of inspiration: who chose the Via degli Dei
Nothing is more useful than the direct experience of those who have already walked this path. We have collected some significant testimonies of walkers who have chosen the Via degli Dei: some of them had walked a path before, while others walked it as their first walking experience.
If you are determined and prepare properly, the Via degli Dei can be tackled even by beginners. The important thing is not to underestimate the commitment required and to prepare yourself both physically and mentally.
Remember, however, that this is not a race: give yourself enough time to appreciate not only the Camino, but also the people you will meet along the way, the places and views you will cross, and the unique experience of crossing the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, from Bologna to Florence.
As always, find all the information about the Via degli Dei both on our portal and on theCammini d’Italia App.
Happy Via degli Dei!
