The decision to take on an extended walking adventure through Europe is one that many would consider ambitious, and for me, it has been nothing short of transformative. Although this blog post comes after my journey has already begun, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on where I am, what I’ve learned, and what’s next. For fellow adventure enthusiasts, health seekers, and outdoor lovers, I hope this serves as both an update and a glimpse into the physical and emotional highs and lows that come with such a unique undertaking.
What I’ve Accomplished So Far
Over the past year, I’ve had the privilege of visiting some incredible parts of Europe, including Berlin, Prague, Budapest, and Krakow. I did not walk here however, I took the train from Denmark, and I will take the train back to keep walking from the same point where I left. Each city brought with it its own cultural vibrancy, beautiful architecture, and unique experiences. While the cultures varied significantly, I found that the cuisine across these regions shared some common threads—which is natural considering the climate.
So far I have only gotten to Denmark, which means I have a long way to go. Last winter however, I camped in a forest in Denmark, and it was very, very cold. A clear difference between Denmark and Sweden is that Denmark lacks the “every man’s right” law, which enables you to essentially pitch your tent everywhere. However, I found a small forest outside of a very small town in Denmark, and stayed there for quite a while.
I have nothing negative to say about Danish people, they have all been great. Courteous and nice, understanding their language has been a herculean task, so far.
Navigating Setbacks and Challenges
While the spirit of the adventure has kept me going, my body hasn’t always been as cooperative. Unfortunately, I’ve experienced some physical setbacks, particularly with my hip. These issues became more pronounced with the constant walking.
However, I see these setbacks not as reasons to stop but as opportunities to reassess and rebuild. This winter, I’ve decided to give my body the care it needs by stepping back temporarily. Instead of camping, I’ve opted to stay in hostels. Not only has this decision given me some comfort and warmth, but it’s also been an enriching experience in and of itself. Hostels bring together travelers from all walks of life, and the moments shared with strangers have been as valuable as the moments spent alone on winding trails.
Currently, I’m back in Sweden and using this downtime to focus on recovery and strength. I’ve set specific goals to address my hip issues and get my body into better shape, so I’m ready to continue walking when spring comes around.
What’s Ahead
For now, my walking boots are resting, but my resolve is stronger than ever. Once spring rolls in, I’ll pick up my path and continue exploring more of Europe on foot. Throughout the downtime, I’ll also take the opportunity to reflect deeply on the parts of the journey I’ve already completed.
Upcoming blog posts will feature detailed accounts of my time in cities like Berlin, Prague, Budapest, and Krakow. I’ll share the challenges, hidden gems, and cultural highlights from each destination. Additionally, I’ll provide practical recommendations for adventure enthusiasts looking to explore these cities, from must-see landmarks to tips for saving money while traveling.
Lessons from the Journey
What I’ve learned so far goes beyond just geography—it’s about resilience, adaptation, and the joy of the unknown. Camping in Denmark last winter pushed me to my limits, but it also fostered immense gratitude for small comforts like running water, warm meals and bathrooms. Choosing to stay in hostels this winter has been a completely different experience. It’s reminded me of the importance of community and connection, even in the midst of a largely solitary adventure. Conversations with fellow travelers have given me new perspectives, and sharing my story has inspired others to consider their own challenges and adventures.
Building Strength for the Next Chapter
While this temporary pause in Sweden might seem like a detour, I view it as a critical part of the process. This is a time to heal, to train, and to strengthen. Walking through Europe isn’t just about reaching destinations—it’s about being in peak condition to continue enjoying the experience for as long as possible.
Whether it’s physiotherapy for my hip, strength training to build endurance, or simply taking moments to reflect on my “why,” this winter pause is setting the stage for a greater adventure ahead. Every step forward calls for moments of rest and grounding—it’s all part of the bigger picture.
A Journey Worth Reading About
For anyone who’s considering a similar adventure—whether it’s a walking tour of Europe or any other form of long-term travel—I hope my updates serve as inspiration and insight. There’s so much to gain from getting out of your comfort zone, and while the road can be unpredictable, it’s always worth it.
Over the coming weeks, I’ll share stories, tips, and recommendations from my experiences so far. From navigating the cultural riches of major European cities to finding peace in nature, there’s much I’ve learned that I’m eager to pass on.
If you’re someone who dreams of adventure, loves the outdoors, or simply wants to discover new ways to challenge yourself, I invite you to follow along. Together, we’ll explore the beauty and complexity of stepping into the unknown—one step at a time.
