As 2024 comes to a close, I just want to take a moment to wish all my travel companions throughout the year a wonderful Christmas and to say a big thank you to those who joined me on our adventures this year. It’s been a year of memorable journeys, challenges, and growth, and I’m so grateful to have shared these experiences with such wonderful people.
The Year That Was…
In between caring for Mum living with Alzheimer’s disease, balancing family time and completing a big physical challenge, I had the privilege of leading some incredible adventures in 2024, starting with:
Great Gardens of Italy (April to May 2024)
26 of us set off to explore Italy’s most stunning gardens. From the beautiful Tivoli and Ninfa Gardens in Rome to Villa Lante and its hunting lodges near Siena, to Brunello and pecorino tasting in Montalicino and Pienza. Florence and its beautiful architecture, art, food and sightseeing, the walled city of Lucca, with its cobblestoned streets, ancient amphitheatres and churches to the villa gardens, dating back to Napolean’s time. Venice was a highlight with the amazing art at the Biennale along with getting lost in the alleyways and canals, we had lot of laughs and adventures. Verona with thousands of northern European tourists, onto the beautiful Lakes of Maggiore, Garda and Como, all with spectacular gardens such as the Isola Bella and Madre. We had perfect weather, amazing food and wine and totally immersed ourselves in the Italian culture. It was an excellent tour with a group of passionate garden and history lovers.
Lucca to Siena – June 1-8, 2024
Our first Lucca to Siena walk brought together a group of South Aussies, a Queenslander and a lovely friend from Sydney, so new friendships were forged very quickly. Swimming pools and an enchanting rivers were a great way to relax and cool off when the weather heated up. We all tackled the rolling hills, walking through Italian cypress alleys, wandered past vineyards, stopping for coffee and our picnic lunches along the way. With a few challenges, a virus, a few blisters, everyone tackled the journey with gusto and showed such resilience, strength and determination. This group of wonderful friends wholeheartedly embraced this unforgettable 8-day journey through Tuscany, despite the bumps along the way, we had an amazing time – 140km on foot – an amazing achievement.
Lucca to Siena – June 10-18, 2024
Our second walk on this route was a special one, as it was my first all-female group! Celebrating 30 years of friends and meeting of new friends, we shared so many laughs, stories, and fun moments, and although it was hot at times, the beautiful pools and lovely accommodation kept us refreshed. It was a great reminder that the real achievement isn’t about how fast or fit you are—it’s about sticking together as a team and supporting each other through the ups and downs. Savouring the shopping moments in San Gimignano and in Siena, eating lots of gelato along the way, with a few Aperol Spritz to reward us in the late afternoon, as the sun went down. Maybe not so much luggage next time but hey we did it together, and it was incredible.
Lucca to Rome – September 1-24, 2024
This was another big one! The first challenge was that my backpack didn’t arrive with me in Lucca, so I had to scramble to replace some essential items. But once we got started, it was smooth sailing. The journey from Lucca to Rome was a special experiences. We had a large group from the SA Road Runners Club, who are a lively and fit bunch and so much fun to be around and two beautiful friends from Sydney who were return walkers. Negroni’s were a popular item on the afternoon menu. Such a special group of people, we were all lucky to share a reward journey together.
In Siena we picked up the Barossa Gals, combined with some fantastic friends from New York and Ohio. Walking through the Val d’Orcia, Radicofani, and Lazio was absolutely breathtaking, but challenging. This section from Siena to Rome is very different, we leave the postcard Italy and walking through the working, farmland Italy. Friendship, singing, lots of eating and the grand finale arriving in the rain at the Vatican, a truly emotional and memorable experience. Life changing.
Autumn in Japan – October 13 to November 1, 2024
This 20-day tour through Japan was a huge success. We experienced the stunning Autumn colours, high-quality hotels, delicious food, and a great group of people who were eager to embrace all things Japanese. It was the perfect way to end a busy year of travel.
Ironman Busselton – December 2024
And finally, my year wrapped up with the Ironman in Busselton. After all the traveling I’d done and with little bike training, I was a little nervous. But I made it through—swimming in choppy waters, biking in a crazy windstorm, and shuffling through the marathon when I had no energy left. The conditions were tough, but I finished, although it wasn’t pretty, it was definitely an achievement I’m proud of.
What’s Coming in 2025
As we head into 2025, I’ve got another exciting year of travel planned. Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up:
- Malta, Sicily, and Southern Italy (April 26 to May 16, 2025) – Fully booked
- Lucca to Rome (June 1-24, 2025) – Fully booked
- Intimate Tuscan Adventure (June 30 to July 9, 2025) – Fully booked
- Great Saint Bernard Pass to Lucca (August 31 to September 30, 2025) – Fully booked
Looking Ahead to 2026
Now is the time to start planning ahead, here are the dates for my 2026 walks:
- June 2026: Lucca to Rome; Lucca to Siena or Siena to Rome
- September 2026: Lucca to Rome; Lucca to Siena or Siena to Rome
https://www.walklocal.com.au/product/walk-to-rome/
https://www.walklocal.com.au/product/the-via-francigena-guided-walk-lucca-to-siena/
https://www.walklocal.com.au/product/15-day-walk-siena-rome/
It’s going to be another fantastic year, and I’m so excited to share these upcoming journeys with you all!
Wishing you all a restful holiday season and a very happy and adventurous 2025. Thank you for your continued support and friendship on this incredible journey
Carolyn x
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