Happy hiking, and I hope to inspire you to explore the beauty and culture of Europe’s trails!

Let’s see how this trail unfolds…

x-Morgan

Happy hiking, and I hope to inspire you to explore the beauty and culture of Europe’s trails!

Let’s see how this trail unfolds…

x-Morgan

Happy hiking, and I hope to inspire you to explore the beauty of Europe’s trails!

Next week we’ll dive into some foot saving tips for coastal treks and black friday deals on outdoor gear.

Let’s see how this trail unfolds…

x-Morgan

Hey friends!

It’s been a little quiet on my end lately—summer pneumonia really knocked me off my feet (seriously, how does that even happen?!). I hope you’re all staying healthy and soaking up some sunshine!

Things are finally picking up as we head into alpine trekking season. It’s been a slow start, but I did manage to squeeze in an amazing hike in Montenegro (highly underrated, if you ask me) and I’m gearing up for some proper mountain climbs soon.

While I was recovering, I ran a two-month survey all about safety and solo multiday hiking in Portugal. I’m excited to share what I learned with you!

Today’s Roundup:

• SOLO hiking myths - 117 people gave feedback stats

• Last minute Dolomites Hiking Trip Deals

• Video 👉 11 Best Coastal Hiking Trails in Europe

Welcome to your next Adventure! Each week, we demystify the confusing logistics of walking and hiking holidays in Europe by offering quick hiking and training tips, sharing experiences and highlighting hidden travel destinations. If you were forwarded this message, you can receive the free weekly email here.

Is the Fishermen’s Trail Safe for Solo Female Hikers?

We recently asked our hiking community a crucial question:
Do you feel safe hiking the Fishermen’s Trail in Portugal as a solo female?

The results are in, and they’re truly inspiring! Out of 117 respondents:

• 👎 Very Unsafe: 0

• 👎 Unsafe: 0

• 😐 Neutral: 2

• 👍 Safe: 22

• 🌟 Very Safe: 94

That means almost everyone feels safe or very safe hiking this stunning coastal route. If you’ve been considering a solo adventure, you’re in great company!

The Science-Backed Benefits of Solo Hiking

Solo hiking is more than just a physical journey—it’s a powerful way to boost your confidence and mental well-being. Research shows that time spent in nature can reduce stress, increase self-esteem, and help us reconnect with ourselves. In fact, a study published in Society & Natural Resources found that wilderness experiences often lead to increased self-confidence and reduced stress.

Basic Safety Precautions for Solo Female Hikers

Even on safe trails, it’s important to take some basic precautions to ensure your peace of mind and safety. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Share your itinerary: Let someone know your route and expected return time.

• Stay aware: Be alert to your surroundings and trust your instincts.

• Stick to marked trails: Avoid venturing off established paths.

• Carry a charged phone and power bank: For emergencies and navigation.

• Pack essentials: Bring water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and weather-appropriate clothing.

• Download offline maps: In case you lose signal.

• Avoid oversharing your location on social media in real-time

• Check local updates: Be aware of trail conditions and weather forecasts.

These simple steps can help ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure

Ready to Hit the Trail?

If you’ve been dreaming of a solo hike, let this be your sign. The Fishermen’s Trail—and many other stunning routes—are waiting for you. Lace up your boots, embrace the adventure, and discover what you’re capable of!

Last Minute 2025 Deals for Self-Guided Treks in Dolomites

Special Discounts: Dolomites Hut-to-Hut Tours

Looking for your next big adventure? We’ve partnered with a trusted company to offer exclusive discounts on Dolomites hut-to-hut hiking tours. For a self-guided experience, these tours are perfect for exploring Italy’s iconic mountain landscapes.

👉There are several “as is” itineraries left for last minute adventures…The Dolomites are incredible for mountain hiking lovers. I like this company and trust them.

🚀 In case you missed it:

Asking for guests for the upcoming “Fishermen’s Trail Podcast”. Share your experiences on an easy 30 min podcast. Just reply to this email and let me know what you think.

Happy June~

Let’s see how this trail unfolds…

x-Morgan

Good morning hikers!

I hope this email finds you well and ready for your next adventure! 🌄 I'm excited to share my latest video with you, where I take you through the essential steps to plan and hike on a memorable multi-day hiking vacation on a sandy trail.

Watch it 👉 Hiking in Sand for Beginners

In this video, I cover everything you need to know about hiking in sand if you’re a beginner.

I’d love to hear your thoughts! Feel free to reply to this email with any questions or share your own experiences if you've hiked the Fisherman's Trail or other European coastal treks.

Happy hiking, and I hope you find inspiration for your next journey!

-Morgan

Hello lovely hikers!

If you love the sea breeze, rugged cliffs, and the sound of waves crashing, you’re in for a treat! Europe’s coastline is home to some of the most spectacular hiking trails, each offering unique landscapes, culture, and adventure.

Here’s a roundup of 11 incredible coastal trails across Europe — from wild Atlantic shores to Mediterranean gems — perfect for your next hiking escape! 🌍💙

It’s also a great gift to give for Father’s Day!!!

Today’s Roundup:

• 11 Best Coastal Trails for Multiday Hikes in Europe - VIDEO HERE

• 🎥Video 👉 Hidden Gem Hiking Destination in Germany

• In case you missed it: 🚀 Fishermen’s Trail Hotel Guide for Self-Booking

Welcome to your next Adventure! Each week, we demystify the confusing logistics of walking and hiking holidays in Europe by offering quick hiking and training tips, sharing experiences and highlighting hidden travel destinations. If you were forwarded this message, you can receive the free weekly email here.

Explore Europe’s 11 Best Coastal Trails – Your Ultimate Hiking Guide! 🥾✨

1. Fishermen’s Trail, Portugal 🇵🇹 

- Distance: 230 km (142 miles), 12-13 stages

- Terrain: Mostly flat, rugged Atlantic coast with cliffs & coves

- Best time: Year-round except July and August

- Highlights: Charming fishing villages, fresh seafood, easy luggage transport

- Stay: Hotels, campsites

- Hot tip: Start at Porto Covo to skip less scenic road sections

Imagine walking along wild cliffs with the ocean breeze and fresh seafood aromas — a perfect coastal escape!

2. South West Coast Path, England 🇬🇧 

- Distance: 1,015 km (630 miles), 52 stages

- Terrain: Challenging with 58,000 ft ascent, cliffs, golden beaches

- Best time: Year-round

- Highlights: Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, historic harbors, remote villages

- Stay: Hotels, campsites

- Hot tip: Hike early morning or late afternoon for stunning light at Land’s End and Durdle Door

3. Selvaggia Blu (Wild Blue Way), Sardinia 🇮🇹 

- Distance: 60 km (37 miles), 2-4 stages

- Terrain: Hard, technical, with climbs and rope sections

- Best time: Spring or early fall

- Highlights: Rugged cliffs, hidden caves, archaeological sites

- Stay: Campsites with guides

- Hot tip: Requires fitness and navigation skills — a true adventure for experienced hikers

4. Sentier des Douaniers GR 34, Brittany, France 🇫🇷 

- Distance: 2,000 km (1,200 miles), 50-60 stages

- Terrain: Easy, coastal paths with salt marshes and cliffs

- Best time: Year-round

- Highlights: Celtic history, seafood delicacies, dramatic Crozon Peninsula views

- Stay: Hotels, campsites

- Hot tip: Explore fishing villages for authentic Breton cuisine

5. Baltic Sea Coast Hiking Path E9, Germany 🇩🇪 

- Distance: 160 km (100 miles), 8 stages

- Terrain: Flat, sandy beaches, dunes, and forests

- Best time: Year-round (best in autumn)

- Highlights: Coastal forests, salt marshes, gray crane migrations at Pramort

- Stay: Hotels

- Hot tip: Use sand gaiters to keep sand out of your shoes

6. Alta Via Delle Cinque Terre, Italy 🇮🇹 

- Distance: 50 km (31 miles), 2-5 stages

- Terrain: Easy to moderate, pine forests above Ligurian Sea

- Best time: Year-round

- Highlights: Peaceful high trail with spectacular sea views, easy access to villages

- Stay: Hotels

- Hot tip: Walk south to north for best views, starting in Portovenere

7. Catalan Mediterranean Trail GR 92, Spain 🇪🇸 

- Distance: 583 km (362 miles), 31 stages

- Terrain: Easy Mediterranean coast with caves and castles

- Best time: Year-round except July and August

- Highlights: Cap de Creus, wetlands, vibrant villages like Cadaqués

- Stay: Hotels

- Hot tip: Avoid summer heat and crowds by hiking in cooler months

8. Lycian Way, Turkey 🇹🇷 (Not Europe but close)

- Distance: 760 km (472 miles), 29-35 stages

- Terrain: Moderate-challenging, rugged Mediterranean coast

- Best time: Spring and fall

- Highlights: Ancient ruins, turquoise bays, wild camping in mountains

- Stay: Hotels, guesthouses, wild camp

- Hot tip: Carry GPS and be prepared for wild camping in remote sections

9. E4 Section Crete, Greece 🇬🇷 

- Distance: 140 km (87 miles), 8 stages

- Terrain: Moderate, coastal cliffs and gorges

- Best time: Spring and fall

- Highlights: Samaria and Aradena gorges, pink beaches, ancient ruins

- Stay: Hotels, guesthouses, wild camp

- Hot tip: Savor local Cretan cuisine in fishing harbors after a day’s walk

10. Camino del Norte, Spain 🇪🇸 

- Distance: 835 km (528 miles), 30-35 stages

- Terrain: Moderate-easy, Atlantic coast with vibrant fishing villages

- Best time: Year-round

- Highlights: San Sebastián, Bilbao, Picos de Europa, traditional cider houses

- Stay: Hotels, guesthouses

- Hot tip: Enjoy fresh seafood and local cheeses along the route

11. Arran Coastal Way, Scotland 🏴 

- Distance: 108 km (67 miles), 5 stages

- Terrain: Rugged with mountain scrambles and coastal paths

- Best time: Year-round

- Highlights: Goatfell summit views, Neolithic sites, wildlife like red squirrels

- Stay: Hotels, wild camp

- Hot tip: Explore ancient standing stones and enjoy local whisky in villages

Bonus: Litoral Way, Portuguese Camino 🇵🇹 

- Distance: 275 km (170 miles), 13 stages

- Terrain: Mostly flat, wild beaches and rugged cliffs

- Best time: Year-round

- Highlights: Quiet coastal villages, sandy beaches, fewer pilgrims

- Stay: Hotels

- Hot tip: Use GPS navigation; the trail is mostly unmarked but spectacular

Each trail offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and adventure — whether you want a gentle seaside stroll or a rugged mountain challenge. Which one will you choose for your next hike?

Secret German Red Sandstone Hiking Destination

Germany often gets skipped when looking for a hiking holiday destination. This is a shame because it’s just so gorgeous.

This day hike is a total hidden gem and while not super hard, it offers SO MANY incredible red rock formations, castle ruins and stunning single track.

There are quite a few hotels and “resorts” nearby so it’s a great place to spend a few days exploring the Pfalz in southwest Germany.

You’ve got everything between 4 star spa hotels and camping spots and everything in between.

It’s absolutely superb in May.

Watch my video from a glorious warm day where we barely saw anyone else on the trail.

• ⚡️ Germany’s Dahner Felsenpfad Hike

And if you are on Youtube, please help me out by liking and subscribing to the channel to help it grow in the algo.

Next Week: Physical Therapist Tips for Hiking in Sand

Walking on sandy trails can be tricky, and super annoying. Stay tuned for next week’s video deep dive into sand hiking tips.

🚀 In case you missed it: 👉 Fishermen’s Trail Hotel Guide for Self-Booking

Happy hiking, and I hope to inspire you to explore the beauty of Europe’s trails!

Let’s see how this trail unfolds…

x-Morgan

Tick season is killing me and the dogs lately—every hike feels like a battle against those pesky little critters.

While we’re all gearing up for hiking adventures, it’s the perfect time to address the second worst thing about hiking - a Heavy Backpack.

I want to share how to lighten your load and hike more comfortably…

Today’s Roundup:

• Lighten Your Pack

• (for new hikers) A hiking backpack primer

• Video 👉 Fishermen’s Trail “Do’s and Dont’s”

Welcome to your next Adventure! Each week, we demystify the confusing logistics of walking and hiking holidays in Europe by offering quick hiking and training tips, sharing experiences and highlighting hidden travel destinations. If you were forwarded this message, you can receive the free weekly email here.

Lighten your Backpack

Ever noticed hikers setting off on European trails looking like they’re going into the backcountry and ready to fight bears?

You know the type:

🎒 Overstuffed backpacks bursting at the seams.

🍫 Enough snacks to share with fellow trekkers.

Maybe you’ve been that hiker yourself—no worries, it happens!

But here’s the secret to a truly comfortable adventure in Europe:

You don’t need to carry it all yourself.

Many of Europe’s most scenic routes—whether coastal treks like the Fishermen’s Trail in Portugal or the South West Coast Path in England, or challenging alpine hikes in the mountains—offer luggage transportation services, so you can enjoy your journey with a lighter pack and more freedom.

By traveling light and packing smart, you gain:

🧭 The ease to explore charming villages and hidden paths without feeling weighed down

 🌅 Energy to savor breathtaking sunrise views comfortably

 📸 Quick access to your camera and essentials without the hassle of digging through heavy gear

Here’s how to pack for comfort and convenience:

👉 Choose multi-use clothing: Items that work for hiking, relaxing, and dining make your pack lighter and your trip easier.
👉 Select quality fibers like merino wool: It’s breathable, moisture-wicking, odor-resistant, and perfect for layering on unpredictable European trails.
👉 Use luggage transfer: Let your main bag be transported between huts or hotels, so you hike light and stress-free.
👉 Simplify your gear: One versatile jacket, travel-sized toiletries, and just enough snacks for the trail.
👉 Plan for comfort: Pick trails with well-equipped accommodations where you can recharge each night.

Enjoy Europe’s stunning coastal and alpine trails with a light pack, smart clothing choices, and the convenience of luggage transport—making every step a pleasure!

Hiking the Fishermen’s Trail in Portugal Soon? Learn about Luggage Transfer Services to Lighten Your load.

For NEW multi-day hikers: A Primer on Hiking Backpacks

Selecting the ideal hiking backpack depends on your individual needs, the duration of your trip, the weight you'll carry, and your comfort preferences, while prioritizing durability, organization, and support to guarantee a safe and enjoyable hiking adventure.

1. Choose Packs with both Chest and Hip Adjustments
   Walking a long time requires you to shift the weight around periodically. This helps a lot and you need multiple ways to adjust your pack.

2. Train with it Ahead of a Big Trek
   Practice beforehand and get to know your pack. My daughter unfortunately didn’t and her “perfect” pack gave her bad friction on her shoulder and we had to improvise on a 5 day trek.

3. Don’t get a bigger pack
   Like a purse, you’ll fill it if it’s bigger.

Want to learn about “Lightweight Backpacking” in the mountains - What is Hut to Hut Hiking? (hint: it’s not so strenuous)

Now is the time to plan an Autumn Adventure Hiking in Portugal - Fishermen’s Trail Tips

Tips for new hikers on the trail.

This multi-day hike is one of the best coastal treks in Europe…

It’s getting more and more popular, so now’s the time to see the trail before it gets crowded.

• ⚡️ 12 Do’s and Dont’s Hiking the Fishermen’s Trail Video

And if you are on Youtube, please help me out by liking and subscribing to the channel to help it grow in the algo. ❤️

🚀 In case you missed it: 👉 Asking for guests for the upcoming “Fishermen’s Trail Podcast. Share your experiences on an easy 30 min podcast.

Happy hiking, and I hope to inspire you to explore the beauty of Europe’s trails!

Let’s see how this trail unfolds…

x-Morgan

Finally, we’ve got some rain here in Germany! After nearly two months of barely any, it’s definitely a welcome sight. Of course, that means the mud from the dogs is starting up again — but honestly, it’s still better than having sand everywhere.

Speaking of sand, today I want to share some tips and tricks I’ve picked up from multi-day hikes on sand dunes and sandy trails on the Fishermen’s Trail in Portugal. Hopefully, these will come in handy for anyone planning to tackle sandy terrain.

Today’s Roundup:

• Gear Tips for Hiking in Sand (Particularly Fishermen’s Trail)

• Hiking Tips for Sand

• Video 👉 Austria’s Olpererhutte Suspension bridge hike

Welcome to your next Adventure! Each week, we demystify the confusing logistics of walking and hiking holidays in Europe by offering quick hiking and training tips, sharing experiences and highlighting hidden travel destinations. If you were forwarded this message, you can receive the free weekly email here.

Equipment For Hiking in Sand

Walking on sandy trails can be tricky, and super annoying. Prepare for slower pacing and dealing with sand in your footwear. It's also more challenging on your Achilles' tendon than harder surfaces.

Gear to Make Sandy Hikes Easier

• Keep sand out of your shoes with: low lightweight gaiters

• Avoid blisters with: moisture wicking socks

• Keep blowing sand out of your face with: a buff

• Protect your eyes with: wrap around cat 3 or higher sunglasses

• Stay cool with: a ventilated backpack

• Stabilize ankles and knees with: trekking poles

Sand Hiking & Training Tips

Beyond the basic equipment, there are a few additional tips and considerations specific to hiking in sand that can help improve your experience:

1. Choose Firmer Sand When Possible
   Walking closer to the waterline on beaches or in areas where the sand is moist tends to be easier because the sand is firmer and less energy-intensive to walk on. This also helps reduce the risk of ankle rolling.

2. Train Your Muscles
   Hiking on sand requires more effort because your feet sink and slip, engaging different muscles than typical trail hiking. Training by walking or running on sand beforehand can help build the necessary strength and endurance.

3. Plan for Temperature Extremes or Wind
   Sand can get extremely hot during the day, so plan hikes during cooler parts of the day (early morning or late afternoon) to avoid heat exhaustion and burns on exposed skin or feet.

4. Protect Your Ankles
   Sand is unstable and uneven, increasing the risk of ankle sprains. Wearing supportive footwear and possibly ankle braces can help, as well as using trekking poles for balance.

5. Expect Slower Pace and Increased Effort
   Because sand shifts underfoot, expect your hiking pace to be slower and your energy expenditure higher. Factor this into your planning for distance and water needs.

6. Keep Sand Out of Your Gear
   Sand can get into zippers, electronics, and other gear causing damage or inconvenience. Use sealable plastic bags or dry sacks inside your backpack to protect sensitive items.

7. Navigation
   Sand dunes and beaches often lack clear landmarks, so bring a reliable GPS device or map and compass, and be prepared for limited shade or shelter.

Incorporating these sand-specific considerations along with the right gear will make your sand hiking safer and more enjoyable.

Austria’s Most Famous Suspension Bridge Hike

Schlegeis resevoir in the background and some glaciers too!

This day hike is one of Austria’s most famous, and we chose to go in September to avoid the crowds — it was absolutely spectacular.

We even brought along some of those pesky flying dresses (which were quite heavy to carry up the trail) to capture some fun, girly photos.

I definitely recommend staying overnight at the Olpererhütte or Dominikushütte huts if you can, rather than driving up the same day. This way, you’ll beat the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.

It’s so beautiful — you simply have to go!

• ⚡️ Olpererhutte Austria September Hike Video

And if you are on Youtube, please help me out by liking and subscribing to the channel to help it grow in the algo.

🚀 In case you missed it: 👉 Dolomites Hut to Hut Hiking Trip Available for 2025 on Alta Via 1

Happy hiking, and I hope to inspire you to explore the beauty of Europe’s trails!

Let’s see how this trail unfolds…

x-Morgan

Morning hikers!

I hope this email finds you well and ready for your next adventure! 🌄 I'm excited to share my latest video with you, where I take you through the essential steps to plan and book a memorable multi-day hiking vacation on the stunning Fisherman's Trail in Portugal.

Watch it 👉 Self booking tutorial

In this video, I cover everything you need to know, including:

• Choosing the Best Sections: Discover which parts of the Fisherman's Trail offer the most breathtaking views and unique experiences.

• Accommodation Tips: Learn how to find the perfect places to stay that cater to hikers’ needs.

• Transfer Essentials: Get a plan to skip sections or move your luggage and getting to the trailhead from airport.

• Navigating the Trail: Tips on how to read maps and use apps to stay on track during your hike.

• Keeping Organized: Use my detailed itinerary builder so you can book with confidence.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or planning your first multi-day trek, this video is packed with valuable insights to help you make the most of your adventure. 🌍

Watch it 👉 Self booking tutorial

This multiday hike is accessible year round, but April-May and Sep-Nov are probably the best times to go if you want full services.

January and February are the quietest but many services are closed.

I’d love to hear your thoughts! Feel free to reply to this email with any questions or share your own experiences if you've hiked the Fisherman's Trail.

Happy hiking, and I hope you find inspiration for your next journey!

-Morgan

We’ve all been there - wanting to know more about a trail before we go from REAL people going on real adventures.

So I’m excited to launch a new video podcast about the Fisherman’s Trail hike in Portugal.

We’ve already recorded our first episode with a guest that hiked in March - which will be released in May in both German and English.

Have anything to share?

Send me a quick email if any of these resonate with you and you’re willing to do a 45 min recorded chat:

1️⃣ You’ve hiked it and have some stories to share with others.

2️⃣ You are planning it and want to brainstorm live.

3️⃣ You live or work on the Fisherman’s Trail and want to share your services.

Stay tuned for week where we’re diving in Austrian high mountain multi-day treks. The Adlerweg is next on the list to research.

You can find all previous tips here. If you have a friend who would find this newsletter useful, please forward it to them.

Let’s see how this trail unfolds…

Hello hikers! Welcome to APRIL!

Let’s talk coastal hiking!

Gif by lolacoca on Giphy

The high mountains are really limited to mid-June to mid-Sep so when looking for a great place to spend a week hiking - the Atlantic coastline fits the bill in Spring (and fall).

Hikers in our facebook group are striking out on finding accommodations in certain villages and opting to use taxi or bus to make the trek work.

Which is a bummer. 😢

So…To use a tour agency to plan the fisherman’s Trail or not?

The wild coastline along the southwest corner of Portugal is gaining in popularity and it’s not as easy as it used to be to just show up and hike and land a room each night.

Deep dive into the Pros and Cons of Self-booking Video

Guys - the Fisherman’s trail is getting popular so I would plan ahead for your accommodations from mid-March until the end of the year.

Good luck on your hiking vacation travel planning!

Learn more:

• 🎥 : Packing for the Fisherman’s Trail - Minimalist

• 🎯 : Get help planning your own tour

• 🥾: Read the full blog post on hiking the Fisherman’s Trail in Portugal

Stay tuned for Thursday for a SPECIAL report on the Fisherman’s Trail. I’m super pumped!

You can find all previous tips here.

Let’s see how this trail unfolds…

Hey there hikers!

Enjoy this new hiking video from a November day hike between castles and ruins with plenty of animals, food and playgrounds. The forest was enchanting last Autumn when we went.

Watch it 👉 Ruby’s Castle Quest hike

• 2 massive red sandstone castles built into the cliffs

• 2 yummy huts serving delish food

• most intriguing sandstone formation in Germany - Drachenfels

This dayhike is accessible year round and located near Dahn Germany in the Wasgau forest on the border with France.

GPX: here

Upcoming: More content on the Fisherman’s Trail in Portugal. Stay tuned.

You can find all previous tips here.

If you have a friend who would find this newsletter useful, please forward it to them.

Let’s see how this trail unfolds…