Over 100 participants took part in the first HIKIng weekend in the Italian Province of Bari, Puglia on 12 – 15 September. Organized by the European Association of the Via Francigena in collaboration with the Puglia Region and partner municipalities, the events kicked in as part of the European Erasmus Sport project “HIKE”.
The HIKE project embraces a holistic approach, combining walking, culture, and sports to offer participants a well-rounded experience. Over three days, hikers on the Southern Via Francigena journeyed from Bari to Monopoli, with each stage enriched by culture and sports. From practicing yoga on the seafront and exploration of the historical Angioino Castle offered by Visit Mola di Bari, the Pino Pascali Modern Art Foundation in Polignano, and the underground air-raid shelters in Monopoli, the experience merged physical activity with cultural discovery. The journey culminated in a unique boat experience aboard the MyWave catamaran, generously offered by InfoPoint Monopoli, showcasing how walking, culture, and sports can harmoniously blend to enhance both physical and mental well-being.
The participants were also offered to measure their blood pressure and heart rate before and after the walks to assess their health status as well as understand a test of psycho-physical health.
The series of events in Puglia began on 12 September with a workshop focused on physical preparation for hiking. Experts from various fields, including representatives from the region and the University of Bari gathered for two productive hours of open dialogue with the public. The discussions covered a range of topics such as signage, nutrition, technical gear, walking safety, and the impact of over-tourism, as well as the role of institutions in developing the route.
On the first day, the group covered the stage from Bari to Mola di Bari, walking among ancient olive trees, vineyards, and the sound of the sea in the background, accompanied by the Via Francigena Canosa Association. The next stages were from Mola to Polignano a Mare on 14 September and from Polignano to Monopoli on 15 September. Alongside the AEVF staff, journalists, bloggers, and participants from Greece and the USA joined the walk, showing how the journey brings people together and creates cultural connections.
Click here to download photographs and presentations of the workshops
At the end of each day, the large group was warmly welcomed by local authorities, who also expressed their commitment to taking greater care of the route, its signage, and hospitality.
“Three wonderful days to introduce the Via Francigena to local communities, to walk together while having fun, to meet public administrations and associations. But also to support intercultural dialogue with the international partners of the HIKE project who will join us in Brindisi!” commented AEVF Director Luca Bruschi.
The HIKE project returns to Puglia on 27 – 29 September to walk from Torre Canne (Fasano) to Brindisi. Limited spots are still available. For the full programme and bookings, click here.
