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If you’ve ever wondered about lesser-known regions of France, or what it’s like to experience travel by foot, then take a listen as my guest Colleen shares insight on walking the Camino and speaks about her home region of Dordogne, France.
In this episode, Colleen takes us through the Dordogne region and shares insight into its medieval villages, prehistoric caves, and authentic French charm. She also speaks about the Camino experience, how accessible long-distance walking can be, and how travel can evolve later in life. After the interview, Triston shares thoughts on alternative ways to explore the world and other unconventional approaches that allow for deeper connection and community.
Originally from the UK, Colleen has spent nearly two decades living in southwestern France and has walked more than 20 Camino routes across Spain and Europe.
Main Points & Some General Points/Stories Discussed
Location: Dordogne, France
Travel Topics: Walking the Camino & Slow Travel Later in Life
Main Points
- Cold Open, Guest & Topics Intro (0:00)
- Get To Know Colleen “The Person” (9:11)
- Insight on Dordogne, France (25:23)
- Get To Know Colleen “The Traveler” (50:17)
- Colleen Speaks On Walking The Camino (1:17:58)-Colleen Speaks On Slow Travel For Older Explorers (1:56:25)
- Rapid Fire Questions & 30 Seconds of Glory (2:38:37)
- Triston Speaks On Alternative Travel Methods (2:44:15)
General Points/Stories
- Colleen shares what inspired her to begin organizing walks and building a community
- Colleen discusses living in the Dordogne region and proximity to Bordeaux
- Colleen explains why the Dordogne region contains many historic castles and medieval sites
- Colleen talks about prehistoric caves and early human history in the region
- Colleen explains why the Camino is accessible compared to more extreme long-distance hikes
- Colleen describes how Camino routes offer flexibility depending on walking preferences
- Colleen explains the infrastructure and community support available along Camino routes
Things to See and Do
Dordogne / Perigord Region
- Medieval castles and chateaus throughout the region
- Lascaux area prehistoric cave sites
- Rouffignac Cave (prehistoric cave art and history)
- Bergerac (historic town near Bordeaux)
- Perigueux (historic town in the Perigord region)
Resources Mentioned
- Then We Walked (Colleen’s travel blog with resources to walk the Camino and general travel tips)
Connect With Colleen
Connect with Colleen through her website and walking resources at Then We Walked
Connect With The Backpacker Society
🎒 Explore more travel conversations at backpackerssociety.com/
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