This evocative stage of the Way of Saint Francis retraces, in reverse, one of the most meaningful journeys in the life of the Saint. After the prophetic act of renouncing all earthly possessions before the Bishop of Assisi, Francis set out for Gubbio, where he was welcomed as a pilgrim by his friend Spadalonga. Today, this route revives that same spirit of hospitality, encounter, and reflection, with several stopping points offering rest and contemplation along the way.

The itinerary is challenging yet deeply rewarding, characterized by continuous ascents and descents and enriched by extraordinary landscapes. Leaving Gubbio, the path initially follows an asphalt road before continuing along dirt tracks. Upon reaching the ridge, walkers are invited to pause and take a final, moving look back at the city.

The trail winds through the valley of the Chiascio River, across wooded hillsides and castles perched on hilltops. On clear days, the silhouette of Mount Subasio appears in the distance, heralding the final destination. One reaches the small Church of the Ripe �\" Madonna delle Grazie �\" one of the most intimate and tender places along the Way, preserving memories of centuries of pilgrims. It is an ideal spot for quiet reflection.

Continuing through conifer woods, the route leads to the Hermitage of San Pietro in Vigneto, where a small fountain provides fresh water. After a descent, the path climbs again toward the Church of Caprignone, a cool and welcoming resting place, before tackling a more demanding ascent to the Castle of Biscina, the last point where water is available. From here, the trail is mostly downhill to Valfabbrica.

Valfabbrica represents a true Franciscan "Monte do Gozo", a symbolic place to reflect on the journey already undertaken and on the final steps leading to the tomb of Saint Francis. Leaving the village behind, the path enters the silence of rolling hills and woodlands, and from Pieve San Niccolò the landscape opens onto broad valleys dotted with olive groves and vineyards.

The final section of the stage is a summary of the entire Way: climbs, descents, and a few steep stretches, eased by the growing excitement of nearing Assisi. Suddenly, the harmonious and imposing view of the Sacred Convent and the Basilica of Saint Francis comes into sight-one of the most beautiful and emotionally powerful moments of the walk, foreshadowing the joy of arrival.

At the foot of Assisi, in the area known as Ponte de Galli, walkers may access the FAI Bosco di San Francesco, a natural alternative to the asphalt ascent (entry by donation). The entrance into Assisi is through Porta San Giacomo, the historic gate from which pilgrims once set out on their journey to Santiago de Compostela.

The majestic façade of the Basilica of Saint Francis, bathed in sunlight, is the pilgrim's first reward-a fitting conclusion to an experience that seamlessly blends spirituality, nature, and cultural heritage, ideal for mindful and high-quality tourism.