In this inspiring episode, we’re joined by Ellen from Belgium – a passionate long-distance hiker, language enthusiast, and member of the Via Alpina Volunteers Team, where Ellen is contributing her skills in multilingual communication. Her love for the mountains, languages, and Alpine cultures continues to grow, and in 2025, she’s hiking her favorite section of the Via Alpina – the Western Alps – for the fourth time.

In our conversation, Ellen shares how she’s feeling on the trail right now, what she’s learned from her first days, and what a typical day looks like for her on the Via Alpina. She talks about her toughest and most beautiful moments so far, and why she no longer dreams of hiking the Pacific Crest Trail in the USA. Instead, she’s fully committed to the Alps – hiking in a minimalist, fast-paced style with just 5 kilograms of gear. We discuss the pros and cons of hiking unsupported, and how this approach shapes her experience on the trail.

Ellen also reflects on the unique encounters with fellow long-distance hikers and what makes these connections so different from everyday life. Finally, she shares her thoughts on what makes the Via Alpina so special, offers advice for aspiring thru-hikers, and looks ahead to the future of the trail as it celebrates its 25th anniversary.

Tune in and walk along – step by step through the Alps, with Ellen as your inspiring trail companion.

Here you can find a transcript of this podcast episode: https://www.cipra.org/media/files/en-transcript-ellen-boucke.pdf

Learn more about the multilingual podcast series „Voices along the Via Alpina“:
https://www.cipra.org/en/projects/voices-along-the-via-alpina

Moderation: Michael Gams

This project is financially supported by the “Fürstlicher Kommerzienrat Guido Feger” Foundation in Liechtenstein.