Twenty -seven excursions accessible for everyone: this is what the 2025 edition of open paths offers. Simple routes from 7 to 12 km with minimal differences in altitude to discover the Italian treasures on foot
Walk It is an act that transcends the simple need to move. It is a practice that is done Inner reflection engineof discovery and transformation. Those who start walking, even for short sections, always tell of an experience that goes beyond the physique: it is a journey into oneselfone Connection with nature which opens new horizons. There beauty of the landscapethe loneliness of the paths and the lightness of the mind Which accompanies each step are among the reasons why the desire to take a journey is growing constantly, with more and more people ready to live this experience at least once in a lifetime.
During the pathlo backpack on the shoulders becomes a symbol of lightness, and the fatigue transforms in a rite of connection with the earth. The landscapewhich progressively reveals, invites to reflect on what surrounds us And it immerses us in details that often escape the daily frenzy. With beyond 100 paths to go and a heritage full of Historical, cultural and spiritual treasuresItaly is confirmed among the most loved destinations by those who want Discover the world on foot.
Open paths: a sustainable weekend to discover Italy
For those who want to live a taste of this type of travel, the event Open paths It offers a unique opportunity. The 10 and 11 May 2025it will be possible to participate free of charge in one of the 27 excursions provided for in the context of the initiative, which saw the Umbria Region as the leader, supported by Ministry of Tourism. This special weekend is dedicated to anyone who wishes to explore the beauty of the Italian pathswith ideal paths for beginnersnot exceeding 12 kilometers and accompanied by Expert guides which will share information on the territory and the right equipment.
The Regions involved I am Emilia-Romagna, Lazio, Brands, Tuscany And Umbriawhich, once again, is confirmed as the leader of this project to promote the slow tourism. The chosen paths include some of the most suggestive and significant paths in Italy, such as Streets of San FrancescoThe Lauretano journey and the Way of San Benedettoitineraries that tell centuries of history, spirituality and art. This edition is particularly significant, not only for the beauty of the proposed paths, but also for the great anniversaries that accompany them, such as theeighth centenary of the Canticle of Creatures of San Francesco and the preparation for the Jubilee.
Fundamental values: sustainability, accessibility and spirituality
The event is based on cardinal values of sustainability, accessibility And spirituality. The Italian Alpine Club contributed to creating accessible excursions, with the support of Fish (Italian Federation for the rights of people with disabilities), who developed a useful vademecum for the preparation and formation of the guides. Federtrekengaged in inclusion, and the National Women on Women’s Networkwhich brings one female and spiritual perspectiveare other realities that actively participate in the project. There spiritualityunderstood as Inner path and reflectionit will be a central theme during all excursions.
A journey between history, culture and nature: five special places to discover
The beating heart of this initiative is the discovery of little known placesbut of enormous value historical and cultural. Five extraordinary openings of sites usually not accessible to the public represent a unique opportunity to approach Hidden gems of the Italian heritage.
- Emilia-Romagna: The Franciscan convent of Sant’Agata Feltriaa place full of spirituality linked to San Francesco, will open its doors for a guided tour, offering a unique experience in the heart of the Franciscan History.
- Lazio: The MONASTERO DELLA CSARISSE ERITEMEwith his famous Museum of silencewill offer a starting point on reflection on Silence as a meditation practicea central element in monastic and Franciscan life.
- Brands: TheAbbey of San Firmanoplace of great value historical and religiouswill be open for a visit that will allow you to appreciate the magnificent fifteen fresco and its history linked to the saint.
- Tuscany: The Pieve di Sant’IPPOLITO IN ASCIANOwhich could conceal a fresco attributed to a young Raffaelloit will be another fascinating destination to discover theArt and spirituality of the Region.
- Umbria: The Crypt of the Basilica of San Benedetto in Norciaa place of great spiritual suggestion, will be accessible thanks to the sponsorship agreement between Eni and the Ministry of Cultureto make a corner of History and spirituality linked to San Benedetto.
How to participate and what to expect
The excursions will be held in a welcoming environment, with Ring routes between 7 and 12 kilometersand a maximum difference in altitude of 300 meters, classified as tourist or hiking according to the legislation of the CAI. The Registrations are free and available through the Official portal of the Open Way initiativewhere you can consult all the details of the extraordinary routes and openings. The goal is to make an authentic experience live, far from large tourist flows, in small villages rich in History and natural beauty.
Among the proposed itineraries, the Way of St. Francis From Rimini to La Verna, which crosses the Balze di Verghereto in the heart of theTuscan-Romagna Apenninesit will be an opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and reflect on the spirituality of a place that saw San Francesco pass.
In the Laziothe excursion along the Holy Valley it will touch places full of charm and history, such as the Sanctuary of Grecciofamous for the First representation of the Nativity wanted by San Francesco.
The Brands they will offer a journey through uncontaminated landscapespassing through the village of Muccia and the city of Dressing roomrich in artistic traditions and beauties, while in Tuscany the path in the area of Cortonawith his Hermitage of the cellswill bring the participants to a corner of spirituality and nature.
Finally, in Umbriathe path will offer a panoramic view of Assisi and theHermitage of the goodnessplaces that are the testimony of a deep and authentic spirituality.
