Stage 27: Gy to Besançon
Walk 28 km from Gy to Besançon on the Via Francigena pilgrimage trail through Switzerland.
Distance
28 km
Elevation gain
434 m
Elevation loss
459 m
Time
~7.5 h
Difficulty
Moderate
Terrain
Mixed
Highlights along the way
- Besançon Vauban citadel (UNESCO)
- Doubs river loop
- Historic old town
- Astronomical clock
What to expect on this stage
Stage 27 of the Via Francigena takes you 28 km from Gy to Besançon through Switzerland, climbing 434 metres and descending 459 metres over mixed terrain. Most walkers complete this stage in around 7.5 hours at a steady pace. The terrain is rated moderate, with moderate water sources along the way and good shade.
Getting there
Public transport access: train.
About the Via Francigena
The Via Francigena is the ancient 1,900 km pilgrimage route from Canterbury, England to Rome, Italy, recorded in 990 AD by Archbishop Sigeric of Canterbury. It crosses England, France, Switzerland and Italy across 84 daily stages, ending at St Peter's Square in the Vatican.