Today we reach the beautiful Turkey, which is a natural bridge between East and West and has a long history, from the Hittites to the Ottomans. We go up to the south-west of the country, where incredible and pristine beaches, lively towns and impressive monuments await us.

Ancient rock Lycian Tombes, photo by miquitos via Flickr

Ready? We leave together for an unforgettable travel in Turkey, between seaside resorts where in summer tourists flock, rural locations where you can enjoy nature and authenticity, and amazing food everywhere you turn. Our destination is Kaya Valley and the nearby coast, also known as the Turkish Riviera.

To get there, the easiest way is certainly to arrive at Dalaman airport, not far from the villages of the area and the sea. Things to do, live and experience are many and it is not easy to tell about them: walking among the scents and colors of the bazaars, being amazed by the view of the islands of Fethiye, seeing the ghost town of Kayaköy, walking in nature that hides ancient tombs, dive into the blue sea. This area of ​​Turkey is sure to get exciting, but let’s go with order and discover some of the things not to be missed.

The villages, the authentic Turkey

Here you can feel the essence of local life of these areas; they are small villages surrounded by mountains and greenery where life proceeds at a slow pace, in a relaxed atmosphere. But in Kaya, Hisaronu, and in the other towns there is still a large number of restaurants and bars, where you can taste local delicacies and watch the world goes by.

The ghost town of Kayaköy. Photo by Panegyrics of Granovetter via Flickr

The beaches, pristine blue

Again, the choices are many, and it depends on personal taste: those who prefer more secluded beaches will find heaven in Gemiler, a set of marvelous bays and coves where there are also interesting archaeological finds; those who enjoy more the beach life, will choose the Fethiye Bay from which you also admire twelve beautiful islands. But how not to mention the Patara beach, south of Fethiye, with its 18 kilometers of beach and the chance to see loggerhead turtles, and of course the most photographed beach in Turkey, the one of Oludeniz, the Blue Lagoon.

Fethiye, tourism, and archaeological sites

With its 147,000 inhabitants, it is the largest city in the area. It is located in the ancient Telmessos and is one of the most popular tourist centers in Turkey. My advice is to spend a day or two to visit the city, but never in August when tourists rush here. Although far from the authenticity of the inland villages, the city offers precious glimpses. Among the many restaurants and clubs, there is a lively and wonderful weekly market that retains its turkish character. Besides the aforementioned beaches and islands, Fethiye offers historical evidence that worth visiting, from the Telmessos rock tombs, the theater and the remains of the fortress built by the Knights of Rhodes.

Photo by Oceanwide Properties via Flickr

The Lycian Way

One of the best ways to discover the area is walking along this trek, one of the most popular in the world. It is 540 km route, very challenging in some points, that goes from the sea to the mountain, representing a portal to the past. In the journey from Oludeniz to Antalya there are many ancient buildings, rock Tombs, and archaeological ruins dating back to the period of the Lycian people.

Along the Lycian Way. Photo by Warren Talbot via Flickr

Where to stay in this unspoiled corner of Turkey

In the village of Kaya, not far from Fethiye and the Blue Lagoon, you can stay in a beautiful eco-sustainable accommodation. The Fig Garden offers travelers 2 beautiful and rustic cottages surrounded by a garden of fruit trees. You will be welcomed with a basket of local products and this is the perfect place for spending some relaxing days, without any stress. The cottages, which are equipped with solar panels and low-energy light bulbs, can be rented together or separately. Both have beautiful private terraces with a barbecue and they share a pool.

Cover photo by Chris_Parfitt via Flickr

The article Turkey trip, between the bays and the Lycian Way was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Discover the most beautiful corners of the Alps, those that can only be reached on foot: views that only people who are willing to make an effort can admire. Experience the excitement of reaching the top of a peak, of breathing light and fresh air, of seeing chamois running through the meadows … Put on comfortable shoes and prepare the backpack: here are five recommended walking routes across the Alpine Pearls.

1.Tremis di Cermignon – France

Stéphane Enten via Flickr

This Pearl, at the border with Val di Susa is surrounded by the majestic mountain peaks of the Vanoise National Park with its glaciers. You can explore intact nature, walking along the approximately 350km of paths through the wilderness Maurienne Vanoise. An unforgettable round-trip through the entire region is the Grand Tour de Haute Maurienne. The route is divided into ten stages, each lasting from 4 to 8 hours walking, crossing the most beautiful corners, including alpine huts, clear pools and stone villages. Depending on your freetime (…and your fitness!), you can decide whether to follow it enterely or only along some of the stages.

2. Val di Funes – Italy

Nicola Bursi Gandolfi via Flickr

Here we are, in South Tyrol, in the heart of Puez-Odle National Park, surrounded by the imposing peaks of the Dolomites standing inbetween candid blue skies and fresh green lawns. Trekking routes through the valley are really a lot and of course, after the effort you can enjoy excellent traditional dishes in cozy alpine huts! I suggest an original idea if you are on vacation with your children. The Mineral Museum of Tiso has created some walking paths to explore the geological and botanical characteristic of the territory. One of these is the circular path to the pond called “Mesner Lake”. It starts from the central square of the village of Tiso, heading north, toward a small lake. A comfortable path, that can be easily followed by strollers and wheelchairs, goes around the pond. There are also many benches from which you can enjoy the sun, watching at dragonflies dancing and listening to the concert of frogs, while your children are playing all around. Some fragments of rocks tell the geological history of the area. You can decide to go back passing through the “Kårrner Waldele” playground and the hill of “Schelmbühl”.

3. Mallnitz – Austria

ffgc.slf via Flickr

Take a walk through Hohe Tauern National Park, a real paradise for trekking lovers, with its three valleys, crossed by 200km of trails and walking paths even at high altitude. An interesting path is the “Roman trail”. It starts from Mallnitz and reaches Sportgastein following an ancient Roman road. Along the way you will also find references to the history of the place. Merge yourself with the nature of the Hohe Tauern and discover the consequences of climate change on the territory, including rocky moraines of ancient glaciers.

4. Arosa – Swiss

chripell via Flickr

A walking holiday in Arosa is ideal for those seeking tranquility. The particular position differentiates this Swiss Pearl from other hiking areas in the surroundings. Between the village of Arosa and Weißhorn meet unique limestone cliffs. This unusual combination is ideal for life of over 900 species of flowers, ferns, mosses and mushrooms. 200 km of walking and hiking trails are waiting for you to enjoy the unique spectacle of nature. Get an hiking map and start your journey through beautiful forests, with crystal clear alpine lakes or pointing up into the peaks of 3000 meters. Arosa expect you with hiking tours for all tastes!

5. Ceresole Reale – Italy

Associazione Amici del Gran Paradiso via Flickr

Let us move to Piedmont, in the Gran Paradiso National Park, between glaciers, cliffs and mountain peaks. Start your walk from Ceresole and hike through the park: this is one of the stages of the Grand Tour of Piedmont, an hiking trail through the Alps, from the Tanaro Valley to Lake Maggiore! Here is an interesting route from Ceresole (1584m), to Lake Dres (2087m) in 3 hours, following an easy path! The trail starts from the paved road along the south side of Lake Ceresole, in near of Villa Poma. The wide path, after about ten minutes forks, from one side to the Passo della Crocetta, the other towards Lake Dres and Refuge Leonesi. After passing the main stream, the trail winds within one of the most interesting coniferous forests of the Park, including larches, firs and stone pine. It continues in a picturesque expanse of pastures in the presence of the Eastern Levanna and you will reach the glacial basin filled by the lake, near which you can spot the common frog, the species that lays its eggs in mountain lakes above 2500 m quote!

Cover image: max guitare via Flickr

The article 5 walking routes in the Alps was originally posted on Ecobnb.

If you are a nature lover and enjoy outdoor experiences without wanting to miss out on culture, the province of Parma offers a variety of green itineraries and experiences that will leave you breathless. Let’s explore together 10 routes to discover this fascinating region’s natural and cultural beauty.

Walking Tour in the Historic Center of Parma

Let’s begin our journey in the heart of Parma by exploring its enchanting historic center on foot. Get lost in the cobblestone streets and discover architectural gems such as the Cathedral, the Baptistery, and the Teatro Regio. You will find yourself immersed in a unique and refined atmosphere, typical of this city rich in history and culture.

Green Parma: Walking Along the River from Parco Ducale to the Cittadella

Parma holds a small river in its heart: take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and discover this true gem of nature. Follow the course of the Parma River and walk along the path that connects the picturesque Parco Ducale to the majestic Cittadella. Along the way, enjoy the panoramic view, relax in the tranquility of the surrounding green spaces, and forget that you are right in the city center!

Cycling in the Boschi di Carrega Park

Grab your bicycle and head to the Boschi di Carrega Park, a true natural oasis. This protected reserve offers a wide variety of breathtaking landscapes, including lush forests, green meadows, and cultivated fields crossed by numerous streams and small artificial ponds. Pedaling along the quiet paths of this Ducal Woods, you can also admire some precious architectural gems, such as the Casino de’ Boschi. Along the route, you may spot different species of birds, wildlife, and rare plants. Whether you are an experienced cyclist or a beginner, the Boschi di Carrega Park is the ideal place to explore the uncontaminated beauty of the Parma countryside.

The Labyrinth of Masone

Immersed in the countryside of Fontanellato, less than half an hour from Parma, you will find the Labyrinth of Masone, the largest bamboo maze in the world! Getting lost in the corridors of intense green is an adventurous and fascinating experience. Discover hidden corners, secret paths, and surprises along the way. You can choose to follow the scattered signs or let your instincts guide you – fun and amazement are guaranteed!

The Hills of Parma and Torrechiara Castle

Fifteen minutes south of the elegant Emilian city awaits the enchanting Torrechiara Castle, a charming 15th-century residence. You can also reach it with a simple bike itinerary that combines history and breathtaking landscapes. It is undoubtedly the most spectacular castle in the province of Parma, internally well-preserved and rich in atmosphere. The local legends tell about ghosts. Will you see it?

Its name probably derives from the verb “torchiare,” which means to press and squeeze something in a press. In fact, the area is rich in vineyards, and the fortress was the place where wine was produced and stored.

The Reggia di Colorno, near Parma

Head towards the majestic Reggia di Colorno, an architectural gem immersed in the Parma countryside. This country residence of the Dukes of Parma will welcome you with its sumptuous interiors and vast gardens. Admire the frescoed halls, antique furniture, and splendid paintings that tell the story of this fascinating place. Take a stroll through the lush Italian gardens, framed by elegant fountains and suggestive tree–lined paths. The Reggia di Colorno will transport you to an era of splendor and allow you to immerse yourself in the art and history of this fascinating noble residence, which has been connected to some of the most important European and Italian dynasties (from the Farnese to the Bourbons to the Habsburgs).

Fontanellato and the Rocca Sanvitale

Embark on a journey back in time in the picturesque village of Fontanellato, where the Rocca Sanvitale dominates the horizon. This medieval fortress, with its imposing walls and majestic water-filled moat, houses a treasure trove of history and culture. Cross the ancient drawbridge and discover the fascinating interiors of the castle, where you will find a captivating labyrinth of rooms and courtyards. Admire the frescoes and the room decorated with frescoes by Parmigianino in 1524 depicting the myth of Diana and Actaeon. They will leave you breathless! After visiting the Rocca, located in the heart of the village, explore its picturesque alleys, arcades, and traditional artisan shops.

Art and Nature at the Magnani Rocca Foundation

If you are an art enthusiast, don’t miss the Magnani Rocca Foundation. Located in an elegant villa surrounded by a large park, this foundation houses the extraordinary collection of Luigi Magnani, featuring works by Goya, Dürer, Titian, Burri, Rubens, Canova, Monet, Morandi, and others.

The Barboj of Rivalta

For a unique experience, immerse yourself in the rural atmosphere of the Parma countryside and visit the Barboj of Rivalta. The park is located on the hills south of Parma, between Lesignano de’ Bagni and Traversetolo, and owes its name to the gurgling sounds accompanying the emission of methane gas and mud from the subsoil through numerous small volcanoes up to 1 meter high. These geological phenomena are considered the most important in western Emilia and are truly a particular spectacle!

Food Museums of Parma and surrounding

When it comes to Parma, we cannot overlook its culinary tradition. Like many others in Emilia Romagna, the city has a very strong relationship with food. The territory is animated by 8 dedicated food museums. In Soragna, you will find the Parmigiano–Reggiano Museum, while the Prosciutto of Parma and Salumi Museum is located in Langhirano. There is also the Salame Felino Museum, and the Tomato Museum in Colecchio, where you can also find the Pasta Museum. The impressive cellars of the ancient Rocca di Sala Baganza house the Wine Museum, while the Culatello di Zibello Museum is hosted in the complex of the Antica Corte Pallavicina in Polesine. This incredible food and wine journey concludes with the Porcini Mushroom Museum of Borgotaro IGP, inaugurated in September 2022.

Parma and its surroundings offer a wide variety of green itineraries that combine culture, history, and nature. Choose the route that fascinates you the most and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of this part of Italy. Have a great trip!

The article Parma and Surroundings: 10 Must-Visit Green Itineraries was originally posted on Ecobnb.

There is Dublin with its pubs, there are castles that dot the entire territory. There are very high cliffs that leave you breathless, there is music, festivals, and the desire to have fun. Ireland is a multifaceted country and is also a perfect destination for a walking holiday.

For those traveling on foot, Ireland is a destination that offers authentic and magical experiences. Ancient pilgrimage routes, trails that wind through endless woods, and breathtaking coastal itineraries will make your journey unique and unforgettable. You will be able to admire some of the most beautiful and uncontaminated parts of the country. You can choose from very different scenarios and landscapes, while discovering the true spirit of the island in every corner.

Your walking holiday in Ireland

The itineraries and paths to be tackled while walking on the Irish island are truly numerous. A particularly interesting area, as well as easily accessible, is between the county of Galway and Clare. The Slieve Aughty region is a natural park characterized by endless forests, quiet country roads, river landscapes, and striking mountains. Here is Slieve Aughty Centre, an eco-resort surrounded by nature and the best starting point for a walking holiday in Ireland. The hosts will provide you with a map with 4 simple but captivating paths that will allow you to discover the surroundings of the accommodation. There is also an area dedicated to families. The Enchanted Forest is a small grove where children can rediscover the magic of nature.

From the eco-resort, it is also easy to reach other points of interest, such as the Connemara National Park. It’s a wild region steeped in legend, folklore, and is the perfect location for a walking holiday in Ireland. The Connemara is nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Lough Corrib and offers incredible landscapes that change with every step. Rivers, lakes, rugged hills, sandy beaches, dramatic mountains, and cliffs will fill your eyes and heart with wild beauty.

Walking in Connemara

We recommend at least these two of the many itineraries you can do in the National Park. The Upper Diamond Hill path, a panoramic walk that reaches the top from the Visitor Center, and the 6-kilometer path that from Inagh Valley allows you to reach the splendid Maumahog Lake. Truly indescribable panoramas await you at both arrival points!

The article Enchanted woodlands and cliffs – your walking holiday in Ireland was originally posted on Ecobnb.

A paradise island of unspoilt beauty: Formentera, the kingdom of untouched nature. In the middle of the Balearic Islands, this place offers ideal moments for relax, physical activity and enjoying the authenticity of the land and sea.

Famous for fun, but also for being a true jewel of the Mediterranean. Rich in green routes where you can forget a motor vehicle and move around in a totally eco-friendly way. To discover the island through country lanes, hidden and unexpected corners. A true wonder to explore.

There are no less than 32 green routes for walking and cycling with a total of 100 kilometres of routes, which use old, alternative and perfectly safe rural roads. There are no particular differences in altitude, as the land is rather flat. They are all signposted in different colours and with signs indicating distances, with no fear of getting lost!

Formentera green routes: practical tips

Before embarking on any itinerary, it is a good idea to make some small arrangements:

• comfortable clothes and appropriate shoes
  
• a hat and protective sun cream. The sun is often hot, so you avoid unpleasant sunburns
  
• plenty of water and something to eat because you may find yourself in the middle of nature, with no shady, equipped areas and refreshment points available.

If you decide on a two-wheeler, it is good to choose

• a bicycle with gears. You have greater safety and adaptability to terrain, even if it is not difficult.

If you opt for Nordic walking

• you can request the appropriate walking stick at the Sant Francesc tourist office.

5 must-see circuits

Let’s take a look at the best green routes in Formentera. For everything else you can consult the island’s official tourism website.

Camí d’en Parra

A circuit that starts at the junction from the main road at Cap de Barbaria. The area you encounter is called Can Parra and has some of the best preserved architecture on Formentera. You will discover the most intimate and rural part of the island, made up of stone houses and nature in the wild.

With a distance of about 2 kilometres on a stone path through pine forests, the first section is paved, ideal for cycling or walking.

Camí de Ses Illetes

Discover the most beautiful sea and the most famous beaches of Formentera. A 1,900-metre-long path inside the Ses Salines Natural Park, dotted with tall pine trees and gigantic, beautiful dunes.

Skirting the now disused salt pans, you can reach the beaches of Es Cavall d’en Borras or Levante, to name the best known. In less than 2 kilometres you can immerse yourself in one of the most evocative spots on the entire island.

Camí de S’Estany

A journey of about 4.5 kilometres starting from the port of La Savina, in the direction of Es Pujols, along the lake L’Estany des Falmencs (one of two on the island) with its beautiful, transparent waters. This is a non-bathing place but perfect for observing the migratory birds in the area. You can admire numerous species such as flamingos, seagulls or ducks and the pink-coloured salt marshes.

Before arriving at the beautiful tourist centre of Es Pujols, try turning left towards Sant Francesc Xavier. You will be able to visit one of the most impressive archaeological finds on Formentera: the dolmen of Can Na Costa.

Camí Vell de la Mola

A beautiful route linking Sant Ferran with the Ca Marì area is recommended to be cycled. It is about 12 kilometres long and is located in a very isolated and quiet area of Formentera.

Among fields and spectacular vegetation, you will immediately enter the wildest nature of the island and the placid and slow life of its inhabitants. On the way you will see not only fields, forests and vineyards, but also the lighthouse, the old mill known as Molí d’en Tauet and magnificent views of the sheer cliffs.

Camí de Ses Vinyes

A path that starts at the lively Es Pujols and arrives at San Ferrant. A path surrounded by large pine forests and olive groves, in an authentic and historic rural area, passing through the villages of S’Estaca and Es Caló. In just 1,300 metres you can admire the centuries-old vineyards owned by local families.

A pride of the area, a tradition that has a long history and produces wine of excellent quality. The wine of Formentera, in fact, is known for its characteristic and genuine flavour.

Discover Formentera from different points of view in contact with unspoilt nature. On foot or by bicycle, along paths that make you forget everyday stress. Let yourself be enveloped by a feeling of well-being in body and soul and explore the island in a green way, among agricultural circuits, pine forests and dunes.

Are you ready to be overwhelmed by the scents and colours of its magical nature? Formentera is waiting to kidnap your heart.

Cover image: photo by Resim Michel Bertolotti tarafından Pixabay’a yüklendi 

The article Formentera: the most scenic walking and cycling routes was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Plogging is ideal for those who want to combine sport with environmental protection. It is a new discipline that was born in Sweden and now has many “adepts” in Italy as in the rest of the world.

How was plogging born?! And what does it mean?

Plogging comes from the Swedish word “pluck” which means pick up (and in English it is said to pick up) with the union of the English word jogging and here is plogging.

The word “plogging” as well as this discipline was conceived in 2016 by the Swedish runner Erik Ahlstrom who had to move to another city before leaving and decided to clean up the area in which he had trained until then.

How to combine sport and environmental protection

Plogging is a discipline, as already mentioned, that is friendly to nature as it provides that while you practice sports (mostly it is running or walking) you also collect any dirt that is on your way.

The basic idea of plogging is to do two things in one because it optimizes the time we normally spend playing sports to do something useful to the environment around us.

What does it take to practice plogging?

In order to practice plogging you need to be first of all lovers of both sport and nature!!

However, you need to get a pair of comfortable sneakers, a suit and very important you need to have some bags (so you can do the differentiated) in which to put dirt and wear a pair of gloves (better if that anti-cutting) so as not to directly touch the garbage that is collected from the ground.

Possibly we recommend for the most scrupulous also the use of “dedicated” tongs for garbage collection. I point out that these pliers are found in any (a little ‘big though) DIY store, do-it-yourself, and even in some hardware stores.

Where to practice plogging?

Plogging can be practiced anywhere because every place may need to be cleaned up.

So you can go both to the city center and the suburbs as well as to the mountain paths rather than along the beaches or on the rivers.

A couple of useful tips on how to “plogging”

When lowering to collect dirt it is important to crouch but it is also okay to lean on one leg (maybe, if possible, alternating) in this way you train the hip muscles without forgetting that these push-ups firm the legs and secondarily also the arms. Second, but certainly, not for importance, advice is to change often the arm with which you carry them so as not to always and only strain the same limb.

How is it spreading in Italy and in the rest of the world?

In Northern Europe, plogging is a discipline that has spread very quickly thanks to the media, and in doing so have born initiatives dedicated to it in which people meet to practice it.

An example: in France was also born an “ad hoc” foundation called “Trail Rail Fondation” that wants to teach how to properly practice waste collection during running.

In Italy, instead, they are being born alongside the classic races / city walks also races /walks dedicated exclusively to plogging and just to name a few in Bologna, Florence and Bari.

An all-Italian record

Our country also holds the record as the first nation in which the first World Championships of plogging were held from 1 to 3 October 2021 and were held in the Turin Alps of Val Pellice. On that occasion about 800 kg of garbage were collected on a route of about 1,780 km.

Some interesting facts about plogging

• There is not only the plogging on foot (which however remains the most classic specialty and also the most practiced) but there is also the bicycle as well as the marine one and this second type is practiced standing on rowing boats and in doing so you have the opportunity to collect all the dirt that characterizes the rivers, lakes, and seas. Without forgetting the dog plogging is obvious our furry friend will not be able to collect the dirt but it will be a valid and nice company.
• And do you know the name of the person who practices plogging?! The exact name is plogger and is good both for those who practice it at a competitive level and for those who do it at an amateur level.

For more information on plogging I recommend visiting the following websites:

• https://worldploggingchampionship.com/
• https://www.ploggingchallenge.com/

Cover image: photo via Canva PRO

The article Let’s Go Plogging, to Combine Sports and Environmental Protection was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Transport is the hardest sector to decarbonize because of the heavy use of fossil fuels. Globally, only one in 50 new cars was fully electric in 2020. But even if all the new cars were electric, it would still take 15-20 years to replace all the fossil fuel cars.

However, saving harmful emissions would not be fast enough to make the necessary difference. One of the ways to quickly reduce transport emissions is to opt for cycling and walking, or the so-called active travel.

What is Active Travel?

Active Travel’ means moving from A to B in ways that do not employ fossil fuels. Active travel not only improves health and well-being but helps reduce the carbon footprint and save money.

The most sustainable option is walking where the only resource required is you, followed by cycling which requires some equipment.

Walking

Small steps make a difference:

• by choosing to walk, not only will you do good to your body, keeping it active, and to your health
• you will minimize your carbon footprint
• you will save on fuel expenses!

Cycling

• Cycling strengthens the muscles and is linked to better heart and lung capacity.
• In cities, cycling can save time as you pass through traffic and avoid queues.

The Research

According to a study on Science Daily, using a bicycle to move around the city, can reduce emissions by 84% compared to those who do not use it!

About 4000 people living in London, Barcelona, Vienna, Rome, and Zurich were sampled. Over a two-year period, participants completed 10,000 entries in a travel diary that served as a record of all the trips they made every day, to get to work by train, and to take children to school by car or bus into the city. For each trip, the carbon footprint was calculated.

Results of active travel

Surprisingly, people who used the bicycle daily had 84% fewer carbon emissions from all their daily trips than those who didn’t. In addition, those who prefer cycling to cars even for a single day a week have reduced their carbon footprint by 3.2 kg of CO2 – equivalent to the emissions of a car for 10 km.

It is also estimated that residents of cities who have switched from car to bicycle for only one trip per day have reduced their carbon footprint by about half a ton of CO2 over the course of a year, saving the equivalent emissions of a one-way flight from London to New York.

Therefore Active Travel can help to address the climate emergency before electric vehicles, also providing economical, reliable, clean, healthy transport.

The article Active Travel reduces the carbon footprint by 84%! was originally posted on Ecobnb.

The Route of Wool and Silk (Via della Lana e della Seta in Italian) is a 130 kilometer long trekking route that crosses all the beauty of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines. It’s time to start walking!

On one side there is Prato, the seat of the textile industry, on the other Bologna, that once was the capital of silk. The two cities are joined by a suggestive and interesting route, which crosses wild landscapes and historic villages. While walking you will find yourself immerse in deep nature, discovering little-known corners characterized by medieval architecture and industrial archeology.

MarkPagl, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Inaugurated in 2017, the Route of Wool and Silk is divided into six stages, each of 20 kilometers. The itinerary connects the hydraulic systems of Chiusa di Casalecchio (Bologna) with those of Cavalciotto (Prato), following the traces of the ancient trade route linked to wool and silk. The common thread of the entire itinerary is therefore water which, thanks to the two structures, fed the many artisan workshops in the area, such as the factories and the fulling mills.

The stages of the Wool and Silk Road

1. Bologna – Sasso Marconi (20 km)
2. Sasso Marconi – Grizzana Morandi (27 km)
3. Grizzana Morandi – Castiglione dei Popoli (22 km)
4. Castiglione dei Popoli – San Quirico di Vernio (20 km)
5. San Quirico Di Vernio – Vaiano (21 km)
6. Vaiano to Prato (22 km)

The Route of Wool and Silk begins with a stage entirely on asphalt, which starts from Piazza Maggiore, crosses the Parco della Chiusa until arriving first at Palazzo de’ Rossi and finally at Sasso Marconi.
With the second stage you begin to climb, towards the peaks of some mountains. Passing through the Historic Park of Mount Sole, sadly famous for the massacres of the Second World War, you’ll arrive at large meadows where it is possible to meet wild animals; and then at the summit of Mount Salvaro (826 m), the highest point of the day.

We are halfway through and the third stage is the most demanding one. Here, in fact, you’ll face the major differences in height of the entire Route of Wool and Silk. But it’s worth it. You walk immersed in a beautiful chestnut forest and you can visit Collina, a charming medieval village typical of the Apennines. With the fourth stage we pass from Emilia Romagna to Tuscany, passing through the villages of Rasora e Storaia. Then we arrive at Gorandaccio and its Rocca dei Bardi, from where the descent to Vernio starts.

Bruno Simili, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

The fifth stage is entirely dedicated to the Calvana Mounts massif, where you can meet the first herds of wild horses. Once in Sofignano, go down a hilly path between cultivated terraces to get to Vaiano. The last stage offers beautiful views across the plain where Prato and the Bisenzio river stand. Once you reach the summit of Mount Maggiore, in a typically Apennine setting, you go down towards Prato. As soon as you reach the valley floor you can see the Cavalciotto di Santa Lucia: a large hydraulic work that has allowed the city to become a reference point in the textile industry. The Route of Wool and Silk ends in Piazza Duomo.

Sansa55, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Tips for tackling the Route of Wool and Silk

The itinerary is accessible all year round. But the best time to tackle this trip is certainly between late spring and early autumn. It does not present major difficulties; but it is recommended for those who are trained and used to walking in the mountains. A water bottle, a windbreaker, a hat, sunglasses, a suncream and a mini first aid kit can’t miss in your backpack. The signposting of the Route of Wool and Silk is really excellent, however it is advisable to have a printed guide.

The flavors of Apennines

Photo via Canva Pro

Traveling along the Route of Wool and Silk allows you to discover all the charm of the Apennines; to go into its woods and admire its villages. But it is also an opportunity to taste the typical flavors of these territories. You can’t miss the tortelli: in Bologna stuffed with meat, in Tuscany with potatoes. During the journey you can then taste crescentine and zampanelle, as well as delicious game meat dishes.

Cover image: The Route of Wool and Silk in Italy, route near Sasso Marconi, photo via Canva PRO

The article The Route of Wool and Silk: a route in the Apennines was originally posted on Ecobnb.

The Way of Mary (Mária Út in Hungarian) is an ancient pilgrimage route that provides a rich and unique variety of cultural, natural, gastronomic and religious experiences, as well as a glimpse into the different realities of the peoples who live in that regions. Its East-West axis runs from Mariazell in Austria to Csíksomlyó (Șumuleu Ciuc) in Transylvania, while its North-South route expands from Częstochowa to Medjugorje. Thus, we get a cross that spans Austria, Hungary, Romania, Poland, Slovakia, Croatia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The origins of the path

The path has distant origins. During the Middle Ages it was essential for pilgrims, religious people but also rulers to be able to reach the main pilgrimage routes that led to Rome, Jerusalem and Santiago. To reach these holy destinations it was, therefore, necessary to follow paths that crossed the centre of Europe, often touching the burial places of beatified or canonized kings and queens. Furthermore, the growing cult of relics gave birth to new centers of devotion, in which pilgrims could benefit from the hospitality of religious orders. In this great movement of faith, the cult of the Virgin Mary acquired particular relevance, especially starting from the fourteenth century, giving rise to new pilgrimage routes, still traveled and today also rediscovered as cultural and spiritual experiences for the open minded.

When to go

It is useful to take into account that the climate of continental Europe gives rise to cold winters and moderately hot summers. Although a significant variation in temperature and rainfall can occur on any day of the year, the road is open for everyone who would hear the call of the journey. However, maybe the best time to set out is therefore from April to the end of September

How to organize the journey

The Way of Mary is a thousand paths in one and there are infinite thematic paths that travellers can choose or combine with extreme flexibility: you can plan a Path through a single country or a single region, the pilgrimage can last many weeks or just a few days, and it is also possible to follow circular itineraries during the day. It can be done on foot, by bicycle but also on horseback, and you can even decide to sail in a canoe along a stretch of the Danube to enrich the journey with a fascinating and unique experience in nature.

Along the Way of Mary you will be able to count on national associations, with hundreds of volunteers, as well as on targeted international projects linked to cultural itineraries: this is the case of the European project rurAllure which maps, highlights and enhances the natural and cultural heritage along the main pilgrimage routes throughout Europe to help pilgrims to better personalize their travel experience, offering the possibility to discover unexpected points of interest along the way in complete autonomy. The app even reports local events, so pilgrims can plan their departure or arrival for specific moments of sharing.

Why to chose this pilgrimage route

The sense of community experienced while walking, the closeness of nature, the experience of breaking away from the usual, and the pleasant fatigue resulting from physical performance all contribute to seeing the world from a new perspective. People can discover their surroundings and themselves. Visiting the different nationalities living along the route will help you learn the deep religious heritage of the region, and how extremely proud the people of these places are of their hospitality.

If you want to relax, reset your mind, gain spiritual impression and enjoy the breathtaking natural and cultural heritage sites along the Way of Mary, plan your tour today. Reach out!

Info: official site Mária Út

Authors: The rurAllure WP7 team and Simona Spinola, Communication Specialist at EAVF

The article The Way of Mary: discovering Central Europe (and yourself) step by step was originally posted on Ecobnb.

“I have learned that the swiftest traveller is he that goes a-foot”
Henry David Thoreau

January is the month of reports and good intentions, but we prefer rankings and above all new ideas for traveling! To start this 2022 on the right foot, we have thought about the best way to really discover a city, to immerse yourself in its atmosphere: walking. Only by wandering through the streets and alleys is it possible to feel like a local; dive into lesser-known neighborhood; experience the most authentic soul of the city.

But which cities are best suited to the traveler on foot? Waterfront promenades, human-sized historic centers and bridges that invite you to walk make some European destinations truly unmissable. And if we add some green tips and green B&Bs to sleep, then we can offer you the perfect holiday!

Walking among the alleys of Genoa

Photo by Canvas Pro

Genoa has the largest historical center in Europe. The only way to fully experience the beauty of its medieval alleys (caruggi) is walking; letting yourself be guided by the scent of the sea and slowly savoring its architectural treasures. Do not miss the promenade. Walking along Corso Italia until reaching Boccadasse is an unparalleled experience. What to add to tastings of focaccia and fresh pesto and sunsets over the port? Definitely a stay in an eco-sustainable accommodation designed for those traveling on foot, such as the Hotel Cairoli and the B&B Essiale.

Ups and downs in the colors of Lisbon

Photo by Canvas Pro

Yes, there are trams, funiculars and even the tuc tuc to visit this city which is built on 7 hills. But walking through its streets and tackling its climbs on foot means being able to discover all the poetry and colors of Lisbon. The ideal starting point for a walking holiday in Lisbon is the Impact House Belém hostel, not far from the center and easily accessible by public transport.

Walking in Barcelona

Photo by Canvas Pro

Could we not include the Ramblas of Barcelona in our ranking? Despite its size and liveliness, the Catalan city is perfect for walking. In fact, it offers unforgettable walks full of surprises. From the Barri Gòtic, with its small streets and famous squares, to the port of Barceloneta, the city invites you in a mix of perfumes, art and history. To sleep in a eco-friendly way you can choose the Eco Youth Hostel or this comfortable apartment.

In the streets of Edinburgh

Photo by Canvas Pro

Between witch stories, Gothic buildings and cobbled streets, Edinburgh is a truly enchanting destination. Walking in the Scottish capital will take you to discover Royal Mile, in the old town, the picturesque district of Leith and the castle. A Scotch tasting is a must!

Walking along the canals of Amsterdam

Photo by Canvas Pro

Also called Venice of the North, Amsterdam is best known for its many bicycles. But you can skirt its canals also on foot: this is the only way to discover every corner of the city and savor its atmosphere of freedom. Starting from the Hotel La Bohème you can go into the center of Amsterdam, visit the Van Gogh Museum and admire Dam Square and the baroque Royal Palace.

The article Walking through European cities: the best destinations was originally posted on Ecobnb.