When I first arrived in Liechtenstein, one of the most unfamiliar yet intriguing aspects of life here was the country’s deep-rooted hiking culture. Back home in Australia, although I enjoyed the outdoors, hiking was not something I did regularly. In Liechtenstein, however, hiking is more than just a pastime – it is a cherished tradition and a way of life that connects people to their land and history.

At first, I found it intimidating. The steep mountain trails, the sheer dedication of locals heading out in all weather conditions, and the expectation that hiking was not merely an occasional activity but a regular part of life all seemed daunting. I was not sure whether I could keep up with the pace or truly appreciate the experience in the same way as the locals.

Over time, however, my perspective shifted. Encouraged by friends and fellow students, I began venturing out on hikes, starting with shorter, easier trails before gradually tackling more challenging routes. What had once felt like an exhausting and unfamiliar activity became something I eagerly anticipated. I came to understand that hiking in Liechtenstein is not just about physical endurance – it is about mindfulness, connection and an appreciation of nature. The breathtaking landscapes, from rolling green valleys to rugged peaks, revealed themselves to me in ways I had never experienced before. I found solace in the rhythm of my steps, the crisp mountain air and the sense of accomplishment that came with reaching a summit.

One of my most memorable hikes was to the summit of Fürstensteig, a dramatic, winding trail offering stunning views of the Rhine Valley and beyond. Initially, I hesitated. Could I handle the steep inclines and narrow paths? But as I climbed, supported by the camaraderie of fellow hikers, I realised that the journey itself was just as rewarding as the destination. The shared experience of conquering the trail, exchanging greetings with strangers along the way and resting at mountain huts to enjoy local delicacies such as Käsknöpfle deepened my appreciation for this cultural tradition.

Immersing myself in Liechtenstein’s hiking culture has been a profound lesson in intercultural learning. It has taught me that unfamiliarity often stems from a lack of experience and that stepping outside my comfort zone can lead to unexpected joys. I now understand why hiking is such an integral part of life here: it fosters resilience, community and a profound respect for the natural world. The discipline and patience required to complete long hikes have also influenced my mindset in other areas of life, helping me approach challenges with greater confidence and perseverance.

Most importantly, this experience has changed how I see myself. Initially, I thought of myself as someone who preferred a more relaxed, urban lifestyle. However, I have come to embrace the beauty of moving slowly and intentionally through nature. As my time in Liechtenstein comes to an end, I know that the lessons I have learnt on these trails – the importance of persistence, appreciating the journey and connecting with my surroundings – will stay with me. More than just an activity, hiking has become a personal metaphor for adaptation and self-discovery, demonstrating that what was once unfamiliar can become an essential and cherished part of life.

Furthermore, the time I have spent hiking has allowed me to form deeper connections with both people and place. Sharing trails with locals and fellow hikers has fostered a sense of belonging that I did not expect. Conversations along the way, stories exchanged at mountain huts and the simple act of helping one another navigate the rugged terrain have all contributed to a richer, more immersive cultural experience. Hiking has become a bridge between my own background and the traditions of this new environment, reinforcing the idea that nature and shared experiences transcend language and nationality. These moments of connection have made my stay in Liechtenstein even more meaningful, reminding me that the most profound cultural exchanges often happen in the simplest, most natural settings.