Slow tourism: a new way to travel
In recent years, slow tourism has been winning over more and more travellers. In an age dominated by haste and the constant search for “things to see”, rediscovering the pleasure of slowness means choosing a different way to travel – one that is more authentic and mindful.
What is slow tourism?
Slow tourism is not simply about “going slowly”; it’s about experiencing the journey with care, paying attention to the details, listening to the land, and connecting with the culture and nature of the places visited. It’s an invitation to slow down – not to rush from one stop to the next, but to savour every moment.
This approach, which has grown by 20% in Italy over the past five years, appeals to those seeking deeper experiences, far from the usual crowded destinations.
Walking routes: a symbol of slow tourism
Among the most authentic forms of slow tourism are walking routes – footpaths that cross breathtaking landscapes, ancient villages, and unspoilt natural areas. Walking along historic routes such as the Via Francigena or the Camino de Santiago is not just about reaching a destination, but about living a personal and spiritual experience.
These routes, often untouched by mass tourism, allow travellers to fully immerse themselves in nature, discovering local traditions, stories, and welcoming communities. According to statistics, the number of walkers in Italy has increased by 15% in recent years – a sign of the growing appeal of this way of travelling.
Walking is good for body and mind
As well as being a journey of discovery, walking is a real tonic for your health. Walking in the open air reduces stress, boosts your mood, strengthens the cardiovascular system, and helps to keep both body and mind in shape. Regular movement, combined with direct contact with nature, stimulates endorphins and promotes an overall sense of wellbeing.
To tackle walking routes in the best possible way, it’s advisable to equip yourself with trekking poles, which help improve balance, reduce strain on the knees and joints, and make walking safer – especially on uneven terrain.
A sustainable journey, close to nature
Slow tourism is also a choice rooted in environmental and cultural sustainability. Travelling on foot reduces your impact on the environment and encourages a more respectful relationship with the land. It also supports local economies by highlighting small artisan businesses, farm stays, B&Bs, and typical local products.
While traditional tourist destinations face the risk of overcrowding, walking routes offer a more balanced alternative – one that helps protect the landscape and enhance cultural heritage.
How to prepare for a walking route
Embarking on a walking route requires a bit of preparation, but no extraordinary skills are needed – there are trails suitable for everyone, from beginners to experienced hikers. It’s important to:
Choose a route that matches your level of fitness.
Research accommodation and refreshment points: walking routes often pass by welcoming farm stays and B&Bs, which offer an authentic, locally rooted experience.
Plan regular stops to enjoy the journey without rushing and make the most of each stage.
Even lesser-known routes, full of charm, offer the chance for a unique experience, away from traditional tourist circuits.
The role of trekking poles
Among the essential accessories for those taking on walking routes, trekking poles are a valuable support. Not only do they help maintain balance on uneven ground, but they also reduce strain on the knees and joints, ensuring a safer and more comfortable walk. They make the walking experience not only safer but also more enjoyable. In fact, numerous studies have shown that using trekking poles can improve walking efficiency, enabling you to cover longer distances with less fatigue. According to some research, the use of trekking poles has helped reduce the risk of injury during mountain hikes by as much as 30%.
An invitation to rediscover slowness
Slow tourism – and walking routes in particular – represents a new way of experiencing travel: no longer simply moving from one place to another, but embarking on a journey of personal growth. In a world where everything rushes by, taking time to walk through forests, cross quiet villages, and listen to the sounds of nature becomes a way to rediscover oneself and the beauty of life’s simple pleasures. Every step, every encounter, every landscape observed contributes to creating a rich, authentic experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Why choose slow tourism?
Choosing slow tourism means:
Valuing the quality of the experience over the number of destinations.
Living in harmony with the environment and local communities.
Rediscovering the joy of simplicity: a sunset, a woodland path, a chat with a local resident.
In an age where everything is speeding up, slow tourism is an invitation to take care of ourselves and the world around us, embracing a lifestyle that is healthier, more authentic, and more sustainable.
So, if you’ve never done it before, now is the time to take that first step: choose a route, pack your rucksack, and set off to explore a new dimension of travel – where every step matters and every moment is meant to be fully lived.
An invitation to slow down
Slow tourism is much more than just a holiday – it is an invitation to slow down, to experience travel as a journey of personal growth, and to reconnect with oneself and with nature. In a hectic world, walking through landscapes, listening to the sounds of nature, and discovering local traditions becomes a way to regain balance and inner calm.
Choosing slow tourism means valuing small gestures, details, and genuine connections – turning every trip into an unforgettable experience.
