We started in beautiful Glasgow and took public transport together to the edge of the Highlands. From there we hiked from accommodation to accommodation for 7 days, with the route lengths varying. As a fairly inexperienced hiker, I was unfortunately no longer able to accompany Johanna on her tours to the highest viewing points in the evenings because I was too exhausted. We hardly met any other people or hikers and completely followed our own rhythm (more like mine, I would say). One of my highlights on the first day was our jump into the lake, surrounded by forest and peace. 

Every day we were able to stock up on provisions in the local supermarkets and had a wonderful meal in the respective accommodations or cute village cafés. Twice we were even able to enjoy a bathtub, which is of course an absolute luxury when hiking. 

We were there at the end of May/beginning of June, the midgets that we had been warned about were not yet a problem. The weather was mixed, no rain shower lasted more than 15-20 minutes and since the Scottish mountains are not that high, it was easy to anticipate and prepare for any approaching rain shower. At some point I came to love the ritual of unpacking an umbrella and putting on another layer and found walking in the rain something totally liberating - when do you do that in a big city? A top tip: take an umbrella! Often you don't need anything more because the rain clouds quickly pass by.

On the last two days I reached my limits, especially my feet didn't want to go anymore. Johanna then offered me several alternatives, but I was so fascinated by the peace and quiet and the surroundings that I managed to complete the entire route (with a painkiller) and Johanna's constant motivation. It's a wonder what the body can endure and how much of it is actually a matter of the mind. 

The experience of moving around for days with just your 8kg backpack, with three pairs of underpants, two pairs of shoes, reducing and essentializing (Johanna has great experience and tips!) makes you realize how much unnecessary things we carry around with us in everyday life. In our minds, in our pockets and homes and cell phones. The mountains are the perfect place to let go of all that and connect with nature and yourself, and to focus on what (for me) really matters in life - taking your path step by step and sharing it with others.

Johanna's open and inspiring nature, her "Shanti Pace" and her many years of experience abroad in Europe and Asia enable her to bring people of all kinds together and respond to them, thus giving each person a unique experience. 

Months later, I am still so happy about this trip and I keep going back in my mind to different places and memories that fill me with pride and inner serenity. How nice that I was able to accompany Johanna from Day 1 as she fulfills her dream step by step and grows from it. I'll definitely be there again next year and I'm excited to see what else Johanna has in store for the (mountain) world!"