Hiking in Europe – More Travel #5

Hear about Hiking in Europe as the Amateur Traveler talks to travel writer Cassandra Overby from exploreonfoot.com about how and why to see Europe from its trails and paths.

The podcast episode features Cassandra Overby, a travel writer and author of Home Base Hiking Europe and Explore Europe on Foot, discussing hiking as a unique way to explore Europe. Below is a summary of the episode’s key highlights:

Cassandra’s Journey to Hiking-Based Travel

• Cassandra transitioned to hiking-based travel after becoming disillusioned with typical tourist experiences, which felt too globalized and disconnected from local cultures.
• She discovered that hiking offered a more meaningful and immersive way to travel, leading her to explore Europe on foot.

Key Differences Between Hiking in Europe vs. the U.S.

• European hiking is highly accessible and civilized, with amenities like mountain huts and small villages offering beds and meals.
• Trails in Europe are well-connected to public transport, unlike U.S. hikes that often require driving to remote areas.

Beginner-Friendly Hiking Recommendations

1. Home Base Hiking:
   • Stay in a scenic village and explore nearby trails. Examples include:
     • Wengen, Switzerland: A car-free village offering easy access to Alpine trails and cultural experiences.
     • Calella de Palafrugell, Spain: Coastal trails with Mediterranean views, swimming spots, and local Spanish cuisine.
2. Alsace Wine Route (France):
   • A multi-day hike through vineyards with stops every few miles in picturesque villages. Luggage transfers can be arranged to travel light.

Thematic Hikes

• History Hikes:
  • Northern France’s Somme region offers trails through WWI battlefields and memorials.
  • Normandy’s D-Day beaches and WWII bunkers provide a rich historical experience.
• Food & Wine Hikes:
  • Spain’s Camino English Way: Combines great food, history, and meditative experiences.
  • Austria’s Danube Region: Vineyard hikes with world-class wines.
• Beer Hikes:
  • Bavaria’s King Ludwig’s Way leads to the famous Neuschwanstein Castle, with stops at breweries along the way.

Tips for First-Time Hiking Travelers

1. Preparation:
   • Train for elevation and distance in advance.
   • Test gear, especially backpacks, shoes, and clothing.
   • Pack light, focusing on versatile and breathable fabrics like merino wool.
2. Travel Companions:
   • Choose companions with similar activity levels, or consider hiking solo if preferences differ.

Notable Destinations and Insights

• UK: Lake District offers beautiful, albeit drizzly, hiking with rich cultural ties.
• Eastern Europe: Lesser-known spots in Croatia and Slovenia provide clean, affordable trails with stunning scenery.
• Other Countries: Cassandra also recommends hiking in Greece, Ireland, and even Morocco for unique experiences.

Conclusion

Cassandra encourages travelers to try hiking in Europe, highlighting its affordability, cultural immersion, and accessibility. Her books and website (Explore on Foot) provide practical advice and itineraries for hikers of all levels.

The episode showcases Cassandra’s enthusiasm for hiking as a transformative way to experience Europe’s diverse landscapes and cultures.

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Show Notes

• exploreonfoot.com
• Home Base Hiking Europe
• Explore Europe on Foot

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