An adventurer embarks on a tour of Extremadura to outline Spain's first major regional route
An adventurer, Manuel Calderón, is embarking on a 2,300-kilometer walk around Extremadura to create Spain's first comprehensive regional path, transforming his personal challenge into a collective project.
Manuel Calderón, a 63-year-old from Villanueva de la Serena, is set to embark on an ambitious adventure titled "La Vuelta a Extremadura Caminando." Starting from Merida, he will traverse 2,300 kilometers over 100 stages, averaging 23 kilometers per day, with the journey expected to conclude on June 11. This unprecedented route aims to not only highlight the beautiful landscapes of Extremadura but also to engage local communities along the way.
Calderón's initiative started as a personal challenge but has evolved into a social project, as he interacts with various towns—both large and small—that he encounters. He emphasizes the community aspect, stating that this journey is no longer just about his experience but about bringing people together to appreciate their shared environment and heritage. The project encourages awareness and participation in local culture, landscapes, and history.
The conception of this endeavor traces back four years when Calderón achieved his previous goal of walking around Spain, clocking in 4,815 kilometers. His latest adventure aims to follow that spirit of exploration and raises awareness of the natural beauty and cultural richness that Extremadura has to offer. By doing so, he hopes to inspire others to undertake their own journeys and foster a sense of community, sustainability, and pride in their regional identity.