The Journey Beneath Your Feet: The Joy of Travel On Long-Distance Walking Trails
- Kate O'Neal-Eaton
- Oct 23
- 4 min read
As I approach my 50th birthday, I am starting to feel a quiet sense of urgency to do active and adventurous things while my body and mind are still able. Being a part of the "sandwich generation" where I can see my father aging and how he must modify his travel experiences to fit his physical abilities, and at the same time watching my nearly grown children's stamina and zest for exploration inspires me to get out and experience the world.
I've never been much of an athlete. I don't have a gym membership. I hate jogging -- and my feet can't take that kind of pounding anymore anyway. But walking... walking I can do. Walking I love. Especially out in nature.
I was living in the UK during the Covid lockdowns (which were quite strict) and walking was literally the only thing I could do to get out of my house. My mother had suddenly and unexpectedly passed away at the beginning of the pandemic and I was mourning her loss, as well as enduring the pandemic, perimenopause, and teenage children trying to do school from home, feeling isolated from their friends and in deteriorating states of mental health. It was a difficult time for me, and I think walking was the therapy that saw me through it. We were lucky enough to live near a park full of wooded trails and heather-filled fields. My dog and I spent hours walking each day. Walking and thinking. Walking and crying. Walking and breathing, calming, clearing our hearts and releasing our stress and pain. As the Japanese call it - "forest bathing." And I think it saved me.
So, a few months ago my sister-in-law was looking to check out part of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage trail in northern Spain and wanted a walking companion. I was so excited to don my walking shoes and join her on this adventure. Walking the entire Camino typically takes about a month. With jobs and families still at home, we did not have that kind of time to devote to travel yet, so we chose a 60 mile section to try out and see how we liked traveling this way (Pamplona to Logronos). I fell in love with discovering the world step by step and am determined to explore more places at a walking pace. I can't wait to see where the next path leads!
Europe is home to some stunning long-distance walking trails. These trails offer breathtaking views, rich history, and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, there is a trail for everyone. But long distance trails can be found across the world. I hope to experience trails across the world someday.
Here's a quick overview of my first long-distnace trail (the Camino) and the next trail I'm planning to experience (the West Highland Way). I'll take a deeper dive into each in future posts and get into the details of how to prepare for a long-distance walking trip. I hope you'll fall in love with walking the world with me and set out to leave your own footprints across the continents!
The Camino de Santiago, Spain
The Camino de Santiago, or the Way of St. James, is one of the most famous walking trails in Europe. The most traversed route of this ancient pilgrimage stretches about 500 miles across northern Spain. It leads to the shrine of the apostle Saint James in Santiago de Compostela.
Many people walk the Camino for spiritual reasons, but others do it for the adventure and the stunning scenery. The trail passes through beautiful landscapes, charming villages, and historic towns.
Key Highlights
Diverse Landscapes: The trail offers a mix of mountains, forests, and vineyards. Each section has its unique charm.
Cultural Experience: Along the way, you can visit cathedrals, monasteries, and local markets.
Community Spirit: Many walkers share their experiences, creating a sense of camaraderie among travelers.
Walking the Camino can take about 30 days, depending on your pace. It is a journey that many find transformative.
The West Highland Way, Scotland
The West Highland Way is Scotland's first official long-distance walking route. It spans approximately 95 miles from Milngavie, just outside Glasgow, to Fort William. This trail showcases the stunning beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
Key Highlights
Scenic Views: The trail features breathtaking views of lochs, mountains, and glens.
Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for deer, eagles, and other wildlife along the way.
Historic Sites: You can explore ancient ruins and battlefields, adding a historical element to your hike.
The West Highland Way typically takes about a week to complete. It is a challenging but rewarding experience for those who love nature.
Miles of Meaning
Walking long-distance trails is an incredible way to experience the beauty and culture of a place. Each trail offers unique landscapes, history, and challenges where you will create lasting memories. Traveling this way can also be an inner journey. A moving meditation that allows your mind and body and work through whatever you are experiencing in life and get some perspective, time for contemplation, and appreciation for simple pleasures. You will finish each day with a sense of accomplishment and a lasting bond with your fellow travelers.
So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your backpack, and embark on an adventure of a lifetime. The trails are waiting for you.
