Day 4: Sant'Agata to Florence

Day 4: 47km. Sant'Agata to Florence. Total: 137km.

That was tough! 

Accommodation logistics meant I had the option of doing either two short days, or a single long one. In the interests of saving money (since I am spending an extra day in Florence — a city I love — anyway), I chose the long one. 

Just under 47km with 1450m of ascent is no joke. The last 15km felt like an eternity; but at least I know I won’t have to do such distances again, and have tested my limits somewhat!

The last stretch into Florence proper aside, it was beautiful. One particular highlight was reaching Monte Senario, a Franciscan monastery, around lunchtime. Unfortunately the bar was closed when I arrived, dashing my hopes for a coffee, but I heard a lot of commotion from inside, so thought I’d try my luck. Alas, definitely closed. But a convention of friars was meeting, and the party was in full swing: dog collars removed and wine freely flowing.

I thought I had basically made it to the end by the time I arrived at Monte Senario, but I was getting ahead of myself, and it was a long slog to the Piazza del Duomo.

At least I have the day off tomorrow to rest! 

Naturally, I will be in the Uffizi all day.

The magnificent Duomo di Firenze. Contrary to common belief, 'duomo' does not refer to the church's magnificent dome. It in fact means 'cathedral', coming from the Latin for 'house of God' — 'Domus di dei'.

Typically rolling Tuscan countryside.