The HIKE project concluded its activities in Italy with a weekend along the Via Francigena in the South in the Provinces of Ostuni and Brindisi (Puglia region). This historic cultural route, recognized by the Council of Europe, connects Canterbury to Rome and continues for over 900 km to Santa Maria di Leuca, the southernmost tip of Italy. On 27 – 29 September over 160 participants joined the second weekend of events organized by the European Association of the Via Francigena, in collaboration with the Puglia Region, local municipalities, and the Association Brindisi e le Antiche Strade.
HIKE’s international partners, Paths of Greece and Culture Routes Society, from Greece and Turkey respectively, took part in the events to exchange best practices and learn the practices of the Via Francigena on the ground. HIKE will continue with new itinerant events along the Greek Via Egnatia and the Turkish Tolerance Way in October and November.
The three days of events were filled with hiking, bicycle rides, sports activities, and guided tours. Warm weather allowed the hikers to take a refreshing swim at the WWF ethical beach in the beautiful Torre Guaceto Natural Marine Reserve, which protects turtles and other animals in need.
Participants also contributed to the trail maintenance and signage along the route. On 29 September 29 the HIKE combined its outdoor activities with the “Clean Up” initiative organized by Plastic Free Brindisi, a collective effort to clean up the route and raise awareness about pollution and environmental care. The day ended with a workshop on safe hiking practices, featuring outdoor experts, sports doctors, and mental coaches, alongside with the speeches from local authorities and institutions.
This initiative, held during the European Week of Sport, aimed to promote a healthy and sustainable lifestyle through free outdoor activities open to all.
For more details, visit the Hikes section
[Credits: EAVF. For more pictures click here]