A Million Steps or More: One Woman’s Solo Hike from La Rochelle to Lake Geneva

Have you ever dreamt of embarking on a grandiose adventure that would push your limits both mentally and physically? A journey that would lead you through breathtaking landscapes, allowing you to explore the wonders of nature while discovering your true self? Well, one extraordinary woman turned her dream into reality by taking on a monumental challenge: hiking from the picturesque town of La Rochelle to the enchanting shores of Lake Geneva.

The Beginning of an Epic Journey

Meet Sarah Williams, an avid traveler and adventurer from England, who decided to undertake an incredible solo hike spanning over 1,000 kilometers. With her trusty backpack, a sturdy pair of hiking boots, and an unwavering determination, Sarah set off from the coast of La Rochelle towards the Swiss Alps, embarking on an unforgettable journey that would test her physical endurance, mental resilience, and inner strength.

Best Foot Forward: A Million Steps or More - One Woman's Solo Hike from La Rochelle to Lake Geneva

by Susie Kelly (Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4482 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	291 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

The route Sarah had chosen would take her through diverse landscapes, picturesque villages, dense forests, and rugged mountain ranges. From the flatlands of western France to the rolling hills of the Jura Mountains and the formidable peaks of the Swiss Alps, she would conquer it all, step by step.

Embracing Challenges and Discovering Solitude

Sarah’s hike was not without its difficulties. She encountered treacherous weather conditions, unpredictable terrains, and moments of doubt along the way. However, each challenge only fueled her determination to push through and keep walking.

As she trekked through dense forests, Sarah found solace in the serene beauty of nature, relishing in the sounds of birds chirping, leaves rustling, and streams murmuring. The meditative rhythm of her footsteps became a symphony that harmonized with the surroundings, creating a unique melody that only her heart could hear.

With every passing day, Sarah discovered the power of solitude. The absence of distractions allowed her to reconnect with herself and reflect on her life’s journey. She contemplated her dreams, aspirations, and the hurdles she overcame to reach this point. Each step became a testament to her resilience and a celebration of her personal growth.

Awe-Inspiring Landscapes and Welcoming Communities

Along her journey, Sarah was mesmerized by the diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes that unfolded before her eyes. From the pristine beaches of La Rochelle to the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps, the scenery was nothing short of breathtaking.

However, it wasn't only the landscapes that captivated Sarah; it was also the welcoming communities she encountered along the way. In small villages and towns, locals embraced her with open arms, sharing stories, providing shelter, and offering encouragement. The kindness of strangers infused her journey with warmth and reinforced her belief in the inherent goodness of humanity.

The Final Steps and the Triumph of Endurance

After months of pushing herself to the limit, Sarah finally arrived at her destination – the captivating shores of Lake Geneva. As she stood there, gazing at the tranquil waters reflecting the majestic mountains, a wave of emotions rushed over her. Pride, joy, and a deep sense of accomplishment washed away any trace of fatigue that remained.

A journey of a million steps had not only allowed Sarah to explore and conquer the physical world, but it had also unleashed an indomitable spirit within her. She had discovered her own strength, resilience, and the limitless possibilities that lie beyond comfort zones.

The Inspiring Legacy of a Solo Hike

Sarah’s incredible adventure serves as a reminder that within each of us lies the power to embark on our own personal odyssey. Whether it’s a solo hike, a career change, or pursuing a lifelong dream, the journey is as important as the destination.

So, if you find yourself yearning for an extraordinary adventure, take a leap of faith and connect with your inner explorer. Let Sarah’s million steps inspire you to embark on a journey of your own, where you can discover the world and, most importantly, discover yourself.

Best Foot Forward: A Million Steps or More - One Woman's Solo Hike from La Rochelle to Lake Geneva

by Susie Kelly (Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4482 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	291 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

At the age of 50+, Susie walks, all alone, across France...

500 miles from the West to the East with her tent on her back.

***** 'A book to inspire' – Good Housekeeping Magazine

***** 'There are a handful of authors who will achieve that elusive trick of making you laugh out loud. For me it's James Herriot, Bill Bryson & Susie Kelly.' French Entrée Magazine

True story of English eccentricity, the Texan pioneering spirit & 2 women old enough to know better...

Susie hands over her French farmhouse full of assorted animals to a total stranger from Texas she finds on the internet.

As she doggedly tramps over unknown terrain from La Rochelle to Geneva, frequently lost and either too hot or too cold, Texan Jennifer copes heroically with lost dogs, erratic electricity, old men hiding in bushes, and a language she cannot speak.For each of them it is a life-changing experience.

Both find their resourcefulness and ingenuity tested to the limit as, in their own ways, they explore and enjoy the culture, cuisine and people of Europe’s most fascinating country.

***** 'This is one of the best travel books I have read to date. I thoroughly enjoyed reading every drop of it.' – Vine Voice Reviewer

***** 'This author is becoming a fast friend to take to bed with me - Kindle & a glass of red and Susie Kelly - there is little to better it in the travel writing arena.' – Goodreads

***** 'Susie is able to paint a picture with words that makes me feel like I am beside her on her journey. Perfect for the Francophile, the armchair adventurer, and the lover of good literature for this is surely literature.' – Vine Voice Reviewer

PERFECT for fans of THE SALT PATH by Raynor Winn

In an attempt to withstand the relentlessly penetrating cold of a French January, I had taken to marching briskly around the wintry lanes and byways in my locality for several hours each day. This tended to be marginally warmer than staying in the house. But when you have started from and arrived at the same point for about the thirtieth time, you begin to feel that there may be more to life than going round in loops, and it was this that led me to decide to walk, instead, from one place to a completely different one. So I thought I would walk round the whole perimeter of the country, but once I looked at the map I could see it would take me a year. On the other hand the nearest coastal point west of home was La Rochelle, which, if you drew a straight line eastwards, lined up handily with Lake Geneva, only about four hundred miles away, a journey which I estimated should take about six weeks. It was not a project to undertake rashly, so I thought about it very carefully for twenty minutes before going to visit my friend and neighbour Gloria, to announce my intentions.
‘Guess what, I’m going to walk across France.’
Gloria liked to get straight to the point. ‘When?’ she asked.
‘1st May. The weather will be just right then.’
‘Good for you,’ she replied.
And that was it, really. I started planning. It couldn’t require anything more than a bit of common sense I thought.
There were a few potential snags – I’d never hiked anywhere further than a three-mile radius from my house before, nor pitched a tent; I didn’t and never would understand how to use a compass. However, by far the largest obstacle to the venture were the animals: two elderly mares, six dogs, a cat, two parrots, some fish and a pair of killer geese, who were going to need someone to take care of them while I was away. My husband Terry couldn’t possibly leave his business unattended in England for several weeks; and, well, as a matter of fact, I hadn’t actually mentioned the project to him...