Jakobsweg

Seven plus months of travel restrictions and social distancing left me more than a little bored. I needed to do something. I started hiking, but was not stimulated by the paths I was choosing, they were gorgeous, but at the same time, simply a way to be outside in nature. I began looking for a trail to explore from end to end. Thankfully, as this is Switzerland, I was spoiled for choice.

I was intrigued to learn that part of the Way of St James (Jakobsweg) went through Switzerland. I have jealously tracked several friends doing various parts of The Camino, thinking that I would never be brave enough to do it. Well, living so close to part of the trail leaves me with no excuses not to partake, even if it is not as famous as the Spanish leg of the pilgrimage. Especially as many nights I will be able to return home and sleep in my own bed.

Here’s what I have learned about the Jakobsweg since making the decision to walk it (Trail Number 4):

There are 33 stages covering 645 kilometres, each stage is easily reached by public transportation (again, as this is Switzerland). The grade of the trails is listed as easy and the fitness level needed is medium, we will see about this. In 1987 the Way of St James was recognized as a Cultural Trail of the Council of Europe because of its long history which served “as a model of cultural co-operation for Europe as a whole.“(coe.int) I believe that the trails in Switzerland were opened or named in 1999, but I am still trying to confirm that date (other than a fountain with that year inscribed on it).

Gulliver and I, with a nod to St Gallus and his bear, will be doing the stages as we can and probably not full stages until I am in better shape, the benefit of this undertaking, so perhaps spring. Gulliver and I hope that you enjoy the ride, so to speak.

Note: The sign says “‘In the Middle of Life we are Surrounded by Death’, a song attributed to St Gallen Monk Notker*, according to tradition it was created under the impression of the terrifying transition to the top of the mountain.”

*Monk Notker was also known as Notker the Stammerer. He was born in Elgg in 840, died in the Abbey of St Gall in 912, and beautified in 1512. His patronage is music as he was a musician, author and poet.

https://www.schweizmobil.ch and https://www.coe.int/en/web/cultural-routes