EP-159 HIKING THE HEXATREK: France's Newest Long Distance Thru-Hike with Claire McCall

Welcome to another episode of the 10 Adventures podcast! Today, we're thrilled to host Glen Van Peski, the founder of Gossamer Gear and author of "Take Less, Do More." In our conversation, Glen shares how his passion for ultralight backpacking led to the founding of Gossamer Gear, challenging traditional notions of gear weight and functionality. His journey from crafting his own gear to running a successful company exemplifies the power of innovation and perseverance. Glen's philosophy of "take less" extends beyond gear to life itself, advocating for minimalism and gratitude. Through anecdotes and reflections, he illustrates the profound impact of simplifying one's life and embracing authentic experiences.   Visit Glen's website to learn more about his adventures and grab a copy of "Take Less, Do More" for an inspiring read! Check out his book here: https://www.glenvanpeski.com/book/take-less-do-more/#buy-links   About Us 🌍   10 Adventures 🌟 was founded with one goal in mind: to make active travel accessible, promoting mental and physical well-being. 🚶‍♀️🚴 Our mission is to eliminate the stress of holiday planning, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your journey. We offer seamless trip coordination, handling accommodations, meals, transfers, and guides 🗺️ through our network of vetted local tour operators in over 80 countries. For those who prefer a lighter load, we arrange luggage transfers, ensuring a stress-free biking or hiking experience. 🧳🌄   Specializing in private and personalized travel experiences, our team 🧑‍💼🌐 is dedicated to tailoring trips to your preferences. We understand that travel is more than just a trip; it's an opportunity to build stronger relationships and create lasting memories. As fellow active travelers, we provide genuine, human support to ensure your journey with 10 Adventures is as unique and fulfilling as possible. 🤝✨   To learn more, visit https://www.10adventures.com/ 🌐 Or contact us at https://www.10adventures.com/contact/

Join us on the latest episode of the 10 Adventures podcast as we sit down with Connor Emeny, the remarkable individual who became the first person to conquer an Iron Man triathlon on every continent. From the serene landscapes of New Zealand to the rugged terrains of Antarctica, Connor shares his incredible journey, offering insights into resilience, mental fortitude, and the transformative power of chasing dreams.   In this episode, we delve into the nitty-gritty of Iron Man triathlons, discussing the physical and mental challenges they entail. Connor sheds light on the grueling training regime, the sacrifices made, and the importance of discipline in achieving monumental goals. He also shares anecdotes from his exhilarating experiences, from braving icy waters in Antarctica to enduring the solitude of endurance training. Moreover, Connor opens up about his passion for raising awareness for mental health, emphasizing the therapeutic effects of outdoor challenges and the supportive community found within the triathlon world.   To learn more about Connor's adventures and upcoming projects, visit his website at https://www.chasingantarctica.com/ and follow him on Instagram @connor.emeny. And if you're interested in joining his upcoming run retreat in August, be sure to check out the details on his website. Don't miss out on the opportunity to be part of something extraordinary!     About Us 🌍   10 Adventures 🌟 was founded with one goal in mind: to make active travel accessible, promoting mental and physical well-being. 🚶‍♀️🚴 Our mission is to eliminate the stress of holiday planning, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your journey. We offer seamless trip coordination, handling accommodations, meals, transfers, and guides 🗺️ through our network of vetted local tour operators in over 80 countries. For those who prefer a lighter load, we arrange luggage transfers, ensuring a stress-free biking or hiking experience. 🧳🌄   Specializing in private and personalized travel experiences, our team 🧑‍💼🌐 is dedicated to tailoring trips to your preferences. We understand that travel is more than just a trip; it's an opportunity to build stronger relationships and create lasting memories. As fellow active travelers, we provide genuine, human support to ensure your journey with 10 Adventures is as unique and fulfilling as possible. 🤝✨   To learn more, visit https://www.10adventures.com/ 🌐 Or contact us at https://www.10adventures.com/contact/

In our latest episode of the 10 Adventures podcast, we're joined by Ash Joshi, author of the upcoming book "Journey to the East." Ash takes us on a captivating 1800km expedition across India, from the Arabian Sea to the Bay of Bengal, revealing a hidden side of the country rarely seen by travelers or locals.   As we delve into Ash's motivations for this epic journey, we discover his desire to connect with the heart of India, away from bustling cities and tourist attractions. Through walking, Ash immerses himself in the lives of villagers and nomadic tribes, gaining insights into their struggles, resilience, and the impact of social structures like the caste system.   Check out Ash's Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ashutoshjoshistudio/ Visit www.ashutoshjoshi.in to secure a copy of Ash's book "Journey to the East"   About Us 🌍   10 Adventures 🌟 was founded with one goal in mind: to make active travel accessible, promoting mental and physical well-being. 🚶‍♀️🚴 Our mission is to eliminate the stress of holiday planning, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your journey. We offer seamless trip coordination, handling accommodations, meals, transfers, and guides 🗺️ through our network of vetted local tour operators in over 80 countries. For those who prefer a lighter load, we arrange luggage transfers, ensuring a stress-free biking or hiking experience. 🧳🌄   Specializing in private and personalized travel experiences, our team 🧑‍💼🌐 is dedicated to tailoring trips to your preferences. We understand that travel is more than just a trip; it's an opportunity to build stronger relationships and create lasting memories. As fellow active travelers, we provide genuine, human support to ensure your journey with 10 Adventures is as unique and fulfilling as possible. 🤝✨   To learn more, visit https://www.10adventures.com/ 🌐 Or contact us at https://www.10adventures.com/contact/

In this episode of the 10 Adventures podcast, we chat with Jim Kane, host of PBS's The Food Principle, about the profound connection between food, travel, and sustainability. With 20 years of experience connecting travelers to local cultures worldwide, Jim shares insights into how food serves as a universal language, breaking down barriers and inviting travelers into the heart of communities.   From exploring vibrant food markets to immersive cooking classes, Jim highlights how these experiences offer not only a taste of local cuisine but also a deep understanding of ecosystems, history, and social dynamics. Beyond culinary delights, Jim discusses how food acts as a catalyst for conservation, connection, and community, sharing inspiring stories from cultural exchanges in Kansas City to initiatives like Lola Impact in Copenhagen.   Watch The Food Principle on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQMKh4LBO6xMfSc8D_v91sQLml-Mn6-QF Check out Jim's Instagram https://www.instagram.com/cxjim/  Or follow The Food Principle on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thefoodprinciple/   About Us 🌍   10 Adventures 🌟 was founded with one goal in mind: to make active travel accessible, promoting mental and physical well-being. 🚶‍♀️🚴 Our mission is to eliminate the stress of holiday planning, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your journey. We offer seamless trip coordination, handling accommodations, meals, transfers, and guides 🗺️ through our network of vetted local tour operators in over 80 countries. For those who prefer a lighter load, we arrange luggage transfers, ensuring a stress-free biking or hiking experience. 🧳🌄   Specializing in private and personalized travel experiences, our team 🧑‍💼🌐 is dedicated to tailoring trips to your preferences. We understand that travel is more than just a trip; it's an opportunity to build stronger relationships and create lasting memories. As fellow active travelers, we provide genuine, human support to ensure your journey with 10 Adventures is as unique and fulfilling as possible. 🤝✨   To learn more, visit https://www.10adventures.com/ 🌐 Or contact us at https://www.10adventures.com/contact/

In the latest episode of the 10 Adventures Podcast, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Rick Ridgeway, renowned adventurer and author of the captivating autobiography "Life Lived Wild." Rick's journey through life is nothing short of remarkable, from his early encounters with the mountains to his groundbreaking expeditions and storied career at Patagonia. With his infectious passion for the outdoors, Rick shares with us the pivotal moments that ignited his love for adventure and exploration.   From the gripping tale of the Seven Summits expedition to the heartwarming camaraderie of the "Do Boys", Rick's stories paint a vivid picture of spontaneous adventures and ambitious goals. Whether it's chasing elusive species in the remote corners of Tibet or spearheading environmental initiatives at Patagonia, Rick's experiences are both awe-inspiring and deeply resonant. Through his lens, we're reminded of the magic of uncharted territories and the importance of preserving our planet's wilderness.   Join us on this exhilarating journey with Rick Ridgeway and be inspired to embark on your own adventures. For more insights into Rick's remarkable life and adventures, be sure to visit his website and check out his book, "Life Lived Wild."   Explore Rick's captivating book, "Life Lived Wild", available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Life-Lived-Wild-Adventures-Edge/dp/193834099X Delve deeper into his adventures on his official website: https://rickridgeway.com/ Connect with Rick on Instagram for a visual journey: https://www.instagram.com/rickridgeway/   About Us 🌍   10 Adventures 🌟 was founded with one goal in mind: to make active travel accessible, promoting mental and physical well-being. 🚶‍♀️🚴 Our mission is to eliminate the stress of holiday planning, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your journey. We offer seamless trip coordination, handling accommodations, meals, transfers, and guides 🗺️ through our network of vetted local tour operators in over 80 countries. For those who prefer a lighter load, we arrange luggage transfers, ensuring a stress-free biking or hiking experience. 🧳🌄   Specializing in private and personalized travel experiences, our team 🧑‍💼🌐 is dedicated to tailoring trips to your preferences. We understand that travel is more than just a trip; it's an opportunity to build stronger relationships and create lasting memories. As fellow active travelers, we provide genuine, human support to ensure your journey with 10 Adventures is as unique and fulfilling as possible. 🤝✨   To learn more, visit https://www.10adventures.com/ 🌐 Or contact us at https://www.10adventures.com/contact/

Join me in this week's episode of the 10 Adventures podcast as I chat with Claire McCall, author of "Hiking the Hexa." In this podcast we discuss her thrilling journey along France's newest long-distance trail, the HexaTrek. Claire shares candidly about her experiences, from navigating the breathtaking landscapes of the Vosges to the challenging terrains of the Alps and Pyrenees. Together, we delve into the joys and unexpected challenges of through-hiking, highlighting the cultural encounters, hut stays, and newfound friendships that enriched her 64-day, hiking adventure.   About Us 🌍   10 Adventures 🌟 was founded with one goal in mind: to make active travel accessible, promoting mental and physical well-being. 🚶‍♀️🚴 Our mission is to eliminate the stress of holiday planning, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your journey. We offer seamless trip coordination, handling accommodations, meals, transfers, and guides 🗺️ through our network of vetted local tour operators in over 80 countries. For those who prefer a lighter load, we arrange luggage transfers, ensuring a stress-free biking or hiking experience. 🧳🌄   Specializing in private and personalized travel experiences, our team 🧑‍💼🌐 is dedicated to tailoring trips to your preferences. We understand that travel is more than just a trip; it's an opportunity to build stronger relationships and create lasting memories. As fellow active travelers, we provide genuine, human support to ensure your journey with 10 Adventures is as unique and fulfilling as possible. 🤝✨   To learn more, visit https://www.10adventures.com/ 🌐 Or contact us at https://www.10adventures.com/contact/

Today's episode of the 10 Adventures Podcast features Toby and Meg Twigg, a couple who took family adventures to the next level with a long-distance bike tour. In this chat we explore the challenges of biking with a five-year-old and an eleven-month-old, their inspiration for this journey, and the unexpected delights and occasional chaos of their three-and-a-half-week expedition.   Connect with Toby and Meg on Instagram for a visual journey: https://www.instagram.com/twiggsontyres/   About Us 🌍   10 Adventures 🌟 was founded with one goal in mind: to make active travel accessible, promoting mental and physical well-being. 🚶‍♀️🚴 Our mission is to eliminate the stress of holiday planning, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your journey. We offer seamless trip coordination, handling accommodations, meals, transfers, and guides 🗺️ through our network of vetted local tour operators in over 80 countries. For those who prefer a lighter load, we arrange luggage transfers, ensuring a stress-free biking or hiking experience. 🧳🌄   Specializing in private and personalized travel experiences, our team 🧑‍💼🌐 is dedicated to tailoring trips to your preferences. We understand that travel is more than just a trip; it's an opportunity to build stronger relationships and create lasting memories. As fellow active travelers, we provide genuine, human support to ensure your journey with 10 Adventures is as unique and fulfilling as possible. 🤝✨   To learn more, visit https://www.10adventures.com/ 🌐 Or contact us at https://www.10adventures.com/contact/

Welcome back to the 10 Adventures podcast! This week, I had an incredible chat with Alastair Humphreys, a true adventurer who's cycled around the world, walked across India, and rowed the Atlantic. Named National Geographic Adventure of the Year in 2012, Alastair has also championed microadventures and recently authored the book "Local," where he explores the 20-kilometer map around his home. It was a delight having Alastair on the podcast.   We dive into Alastair's evolving motivations over the 20 years of his adventures as he shares insights like the interesting contrasts between cycling the world solo and rowing the Atlantic with a team. His concept of microadventures encourages everyone to find small, achievable adventures in their daily lives, fostering a sense of exploration and curiosity. If you're intrigued, be sure to check out Alastair's website to learn more about his extraordinary journeys and his latest book "Local." Happy listening!   Explore Alastair's captivating book, available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Local-Search-Nearby-Nature-Wildness/dp/1785633678 Delve deeper into his adventures on his official website: https://alastairhumphreys.com/ Connect with Alastair on Instagram for a visual journey: https://www.instagram.com/al_humphreys/   About Us 🌍   10 Adventures 🌟 was founded with one goal in mind: to make active travel accessible, promoting mental and physical well-being. 🚶‍♀️🚴 Our mission is to eliminate the stress of holiday planning, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your journey. We offer seamless trip coordination, handling accommodations, meals, transfers, and guides 🗺️ through our network of vetted local tour operators in over 80 countries. For those who prefer a lighter load, we arrange luggage transfers, ensuring a stress-free biking or hiking experience. 🧳🌄   Specializing in private and personalized travel experiences, our team 🧑‍💼🌐 is dedicated to tailoring trips to your preferences. We understand that travel is more than just a trip; it's an opportunity to build stronger relationships and create lasting memories. As fellow active travelers, we provide genuine, human support to ensure your journey with 10 Adventures is as unique and fulfilling as possible. 🤝✨   To learn more, visit https://www.10adventures.com/ 🌐 Or contact us at https://www.10adventures.com/contact/

Welcome back to the 10 Adventures podcast! Today, we had the pleasure of chatting with Patrick Davies, the author of "Where Skylarks Sing," a captivating book that chronicles his walk across England, from Land's End in Cornwall to John O'Groats in Northern Scotland. Patrick embarked on this incredible journey in 2021, seeking solace and reflection after a challenging period that included caring for his father, who battled Alzheimer's.   In our conversation, Patrick shares the impetus behind his decision to undertake this classic English walk, weaving in personal anecdotes about his career as a British diplomat and the emotional toll of witnessing his father's decline. What sets Patrick's journey apart is his unique route, starting from Lizard Point in the far southwest and ending at the most northern point on the mainland, adding extra challenges and breathtaking landscapes to his 1400-mile trek.   For those eager to follow Patrick's journey more closely, you can find his daily photos on Instagram (@PatrickJDavies) and delve into further details on his website (PatrickJDavies.com). Don't miss the chance to read "Where Skylarks Sing" for an immersive experience into Patrick's remarkable journey, filled with personal growth, stunning landscapes, and heartwarming encounters. Happy reading, walking, and adventuring!   About Us 🌍   10 Adventures 🌟 was founded with one goal in mind: to make active travel accessible, promoting mental and physical well-being. 🚶‍♀️🚴 Our mission is to eliminate the stress of holiday planning, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your journey. We offer seamless trip coordination, handling accommodations, meals, transfers, and guides 🗺️ through our network of vetted local tour operators in over 80 countries. For those who prefer a lighter load, we arrange luggage transfers, ensuring a stress-free biking or hiking experience. 🧳🌄   Specializing in private and personalized travel experiences, our team 🧑‍💼🌐 is dedicated to tailoring trips to your preferences. We understand that travel is more than just a trip; it's an opportunity to build stronger relationships and create lasting memories. As fellow active travelers, we provide genuine, human support to ensure your journey with 10 Adventures is as unique and fulfilling as possible. 🤝✨   To learn more, visit https://www.10adventures.com/ 🌐 Or contact us at https://www.10adventures.com/contact/

Welcome back to the 10 Adventures podcast! In this episode, we chat with John Hayes about his journey cycling the Via de la Plata, a lesser-known route of the Camino de Santiago, spanning from Seville to Santiago. John shares how his passion for long-distance walks, including the E4, led him to become a guidebook author.   Discussing the uniqueness of the Via de la Plata, John emphasizes its historical significance as an ancient Roman road predating the Camino. He details the process of crafting his guidebook, providing insights into the diverse landscapes, accommodations, and cultural experiences along the route. The journey unfolds through picturesque towns with UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offering a perfect blend of cycling adventure and Spanish history.   For more details and inspiration, visit John's website and start planning your cycling adventure today.   John's Website: http://www.johnhayeswalks.com/ John's Guidebook: https://www.amazon.com/Cycling-Ruta-Via-Plata-off-road-ebook/dp/B09W5L3RH2     About Us 🌍   10 Adventures 🌟 was founded with one goal in mind: to make active travel accessible, promoting mental and physical well-being. 🚶‍♀️🚴 Our mission is to eliminate the stress of holiday planning, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your journey. We offer seamless trip coordination, handling accommodations, meals, transfers, and guides 🗺️ through our network of vetted local tour operators in over 80 countries. For those who prefer a lighter load, we arrange luggage transfers, ensuring a stress-free biking or hiking experience. 🧳🌄   Specializing in private and personalized travel experiences, our team 🧑‍💼🌐 is dedicated to tailoring trips to your preferences. We understand that travel is more than just a trip; it's an opportunity to build stronger relationships and create lasting memories. As fellow active travelers, we provide genuine, human support to ensure your journey with 10 Adventures is as unique and fulfilling as possible. 🤝✨   To learn more, visit https://www.10adventures.com/ 🌐 Or contact us at https://www.10adventures.com/contact/