From September and throughout the autumn, Lake Bolsena remains at the heart of the landscape, but it can also become the perfect starting point for exploring the surrounding area.
Following a trail, walking a section of the Via Francigena, climbing the hills, exploring the Turona Archaeological and Nature Park, or simply strolling along the lakeside means discovering a different and fascinating side of Bolsena.
You do not necessarily need to be a pilgrim or an experienced hiker.
The area offers both long-distance routes and short walks, nature trails, spiritual itineraries and opportunities to explore by bicycle as well.
The Via Francigena: Bolsena Along a Thousand-Year-Old Route
The best-known route is, of course, the Via Francigena.
Bolsena already appeared in the 990 itinerary of Sigeric of Canterbury, under the name Sca Cristina.
Today, the town lies between the stage arriving from Acquapendente and the one continuing towards Montefiascone.
Approaching from the north, the route offers the first sweeping view of Lake Bolsena from the area around San Lorenzo Nuovo.
Setting off again from the town, the lake continues to accompany walkers through hills, olive groves and scenic viewpoints.
It is along this second stretch that walkers come across the Turona Archaeological and Nature Park, with its woodlands, springs, streams, small waterfalls and archaeological remains.
We have dedicated a special feature to Turona. Here, it is enough to remember that within just a few kilometres, the Via Francigena leads walkers from views over the lake and its islands to a secluded landscape of woodland and water.
The Path of the Miracle: from Bolsena to Orvieto
There is also a route where walking directly connects with one of the most important stories in Bolsena’s history.
The Path of the Corpus Christi Miracle links the Basilica of Santa Cristina with Orvieto along a route of approximately 21 kilometres, commemorating the Eucharistic Miracle of 1263 and the transfer of the Sacred Linen to Orvieto.
It is therefore a spiritual journey, but also a route through nature, along rural roads and through the woodlands of the plateau.
For those visiting Bolsena, it offers another way to understand that the town’s history is not confined to its monuments: it also continues along the roads that begin here.
From Orvieto to Civita via Bolsena
A completely different itinerary is the Intrepid Larth Trail.
This approximately 58-kilometre route, divided into three stages, connects Orvieto, Bolsena and Civita di Bagnoregio.
Its name evokes the Etruscan warrior Larth Cupures, while the route combines nature, archaeology and historical heritage, also following some sections of the Via Francigena.
Bolsena thus becomes not only a destination, but also a link between different territories, along a route that allows visitors to explore part of the landscape between Lazio and Umbria on foot or by bicycle.
The Via Romea Strata Also Passes Through Bolsena
Another route crossing the area is the Via Romea Strata, a major European pilgrimage route leading to Rome.
Along the local stretch, the route reaches Bolsena from Orvieto, crosses the historic centre, passing by the Basilica of Santa Cristina and the Monaldeschi Fortress, and then continues towards Montefiascone.
Once again, the town and the lake are not simply places to visit.
They form part of a network of historic routes that people continue to travel today.
There Is No Need to Set Off on a Long-Distance Trail
Exploring Bolsena at a slower pace does not necessarily mean packing everything needed for a twenty-kilometre stage.
The area also offers scenic walks around the lake, with trails alternating between stretches close to the shore and routes across higher ground.
The views are constantly changing: reed beds and small beaches when walking near the water; from above, the panorama opens out over the entire basin and the Bisentina and Martana islands.
This is perhaps one of the most interesting aspects of walking around Bolsena: the lake never looks the same twice.
From the Lakeside to the Historic “Le Piagge” Route
There is also a more urban side to exploring the area on foot.
The Armando Diaz and Luigi Cadorna avenues, along the lakeside, offer a flat route ideal for walking, running and cycling, always remaining close to the water.
Heading up towards the historic village, however, the scenery changes completely.
The Historic Piagge Route connects the San Rocco area with the Monaldeschi Fortress along one of the historic centre’s ancient stone-paved streets, also offering scenic views over the lake.
Two very different routes, yet only a few minutes apart: first the lakeshore, then the stone streets of the medieval village.
Bolsena by Bicycle
For those who prefer cycling, we also recommend the cycling route around Lake Bolsena.
The complete route is approximately 53 kilometres long and passes through several towns and landscapes around the lake, alternating between minor roads, unpaved sections and lakeside stretches. Gravel bikes, mountain bikes and e-bikes are among the most suitable options, depending on your experience and how you wish to tackle the route.
Of course, there is no need to complete the entire circuit to enjoy exploring the area by bicycle, which can also be easily hired locally.
Even shorter routes allow you to travel between the lake, countryside and hills, remaining in direct contact with the landscape.
Choose Your Own Pace!
There is no single way to explore Bolsena.
Some routes require several hours and a little preparation; others need only a comfortable pair of shoes and the desire to walk or cycle.
And perhaps this is the theme to follow throughout September: continuing to enjoy the lake while occasionally changing your point of view.
Leave the shore behind. Climb a little higher. Enter the woods. Follow an ancient road. Then turn around.
Because very often, Lake Bolsena is still there, right in the heart of the view!
