Wanderer from Dublin to Rome

Hi Folks,

First of all let me introduce myself, my name’s Matteo and its very nice to meet you. I have decided to write this blog for a couple of reasons, firstly for myself; after living in Dublin for more than 3 years my homeland was calling me back so I realized its time to go; but instead of taking a low cost flight to move back I thought it was a good chance to bring my backpack and hike back to Italy. I know it sounds crazy but I am not ready to start so easily a new life. Do you know what I mean? stupid office job, rent a flat… so boring.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank a lot of people. First of all Ireland and Irish people for hosting me during these years. They have a couple of flaws but it does not change the fact that they are the warmest people in the world; Thanks to the Daily Slow for their openness in giving me time and this oportunity to write this blog.
And last but not least, all the people that I met in the last 3 years. THANKS EVERYONE.

Let’s talk about the Journey. I plan to go across 6 countries; Wales, England, Belgium, France, Switzerland and Italy for a total distance around 2.300 km and departing on Monday the 14th of March. Theoretically it should take around 3-4 months, but you know let’s see if physically I can achieve it.
My Welsh and english walks (from Holyhead to Devon) will mainly follow the national paths and between them just improvisation. Where I find a place to camp I’ll stop.

Offa’s Dyke path map

North Downs way map

After the UK I will mainly wander the famous Francis way from Canterbury to Rome. This route for me has a deeper sense of humanity than the other ones; because it is not related just to the religion but the idea of hiking along a way that for centuries has been covered by millions of people.

My journey is based on these three paths but that does not mean that I will completely follow them, a lot of variables are on the table so I can modify my way as I see fit. I think my introduction is complete, I will follow with backpack preparation just to show the heavy load that I have to carry home.

I hope you will follow and cheers with me for every step on my way back.

Matteo