Stage 13: Tergnier to Laon
Walk 25 km from Tergnier to Laon on the Via Francigena pilgrimage trail through France.
Distance
25 km
Elevation gain
307 m
Elevation loss
173 m
Time
~7 h
Difficulty
Moderate
Terrain
Mixed
Highlights along the way
- Laon Cathedral
- Laon medieval upper town
- Panoramic views from hilltop
- Poma automatic tramway
What to expect on this stage
Stage 13 of the Via Francigena takes you 25 km from Tergnier to Laon through France, climbing 307 metres and descending 173 metres over mixed terrain. Most walkers complete this stage in around 7 hours at a steady pace. The terrain is rated moderate, with moderate water sources along the way and partial 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.