St Francis Way in Umbria: from Assisi to Rome – Stage 23a – from Arrone to Terni - La Via di Francesco

This stage is the first of the route variant of the Via di San Francesco towards Rome, which allows entry into the Sacred Valley of Rieti via the Sanctuary of Greccio. The following stages are Terni – Stroncone – Greccio and Greccio – Rieti in Lazio, where the variant rejoins the main route coming from Lake Piediluco and Poggio Bustone.
Leaving Arrone, the route follows the main Via di Francesco. After passing the Convent of San Francesco, it enters the characteristic village of Casteldilago.
The route is flat and runs along the Nera River. Attention is required at the fork where the path splits. To head towards Piediluco, continue uphill gently. To follow the direction towards Terni, pay close attention: near the ticket office of the Marmore Waterfall, follow the signs to the Pennarossa Belvedere (Trail no. 4) and then to San Liberatore. Note: at the time of writing, Trail no. 4 Pennarossa is closed due to a landslide (check the official Marmore Waterfall website for updates).
The recommended route climbs the mountain with a steady ascent, offering a full frontal view of all three drops of the waterfall from two panoramic terraces. Some sections are demanding up to San Liberatore. It is recommended to tackle the climb at a slow pace; the remaining part of the route is easier.
From San Liberatore, a long downhill stretch begins along secondary roads.
After crossing the modern outskirts of Terni, the route reaches the lively and welcoming historic city centre.