Day 8 – Etroubles/Aosta

Another day of beautiful views, but this time we were going downhill. We descended over 4000 vertical feet.

Earlier in the hike, we mentioned how downhill hiking is often difficult, but today, it was no problem. While it was very steep at times, the footing was generally good, and we both had a great time. Our happiness was due in part to the fact that unlike yesterday, we weren’t gasping for air the whole time.

I found the little towns we visited to be some of the most charming I’ve ever seen in Europe. These include Saint-Rhémy, Saint-Leonard, Cerisy and eTroubles. The citizens in these towns keep everything so pristine. We met several of them, and they were kind and welcoming. They seem to really appreciate pilgrims.

Our original plan was to walk 18.7 miles today. All of it downhill. We decided that was a bit crazy after our recent tough hikes, so we walked only about 9 miles, then took a cab to Aosta. This allowed us to see the best sites, but not be totally whipped at the end of the day.

Tomorrow is a well deserved rest day. Weather forecast for the next week looks ideal. Life is good for Bill and Scott on the Via Francigena.

Yesterday, I posted this view with grey skies and rain. This morning as we left, it looked quite different.
We officially have left Switzerland and entered Italy
Our walk started above the tree line
We quickly descended with gorgeous views the whole way
The natural sights were spectacular, but so were the villages. The locals invest a lot of time in maintaining every detail.
A crucifix as we left the village of Saint-Leonardo
Two pilgrim friends
Italy has many more signs and monuments to the pilgrimage than Switzerland
Nearly ever step today was taken on a path with a wonderful view
More nice trails
And more
Approaching our finishing town of Etroubles
Drinks last night with Joseph and Liliana. We may see Joseph again, but Liliana’s pilgrimage is now over. She told us this was her last one, although there was some doubt in her voice.

Today’s Data

Starting Temp: 47

Finishing Temp (eTroubles): 58

Finishing Temp (Aosta): 73

3 thoughts on “Day 8 – Etroubles/Aosta”

  2. Bill, this trip has been spectacular! I’m so glad you are having such a memorable experience. Thank you so much for sharing. When I hear the bells ringing in the villages and the cow bells, it brings back warm memories of our trip together.

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