The SOLO Journey Begins: An Explorative Itinerary for Independent Women 50+
There comes a time—usually somewhere after 50—when a quiet voice inside begins to ask, What if I just did this for me? What if you answered your own desire to explore, to feel free, to experience a different rhythm of life? The solo journey begins with exploring oneself and taking one step at a time.
For me, it started with a tug: subtle but persistent. The idea of walking solo in Europe, of exploring castles and easy walking trails that can lead you through a variety of scenery. To simply be somewhere new without anyone else’s agenda. I felt equal parts curious and apprehensive but excited and mostly, I felt ready.
And so focusing on the key foundation (safety, comfort and basic itinerary structure), I created a brilliant flexible plan. One that allowed for freedom – definitely yes, and opportunity to change course if I choose. Here’s how I shaped my journey, also my future travels. No more Waiting for someone!
How will this story might shape yours too.
From my home airport with a lightweight suitcase with the basics, comfortable (not new) walking boots, and a flexible, curated itinerary-The main flights/trains and accommodation are pre-booked and local transport scoped plus essentials noted.
Packed less to leave room for the unexpected (such as that gorgeous blouse I saw in the store window).
Trust me: Minimal luggage can be done as I was once known to carry the tag ‘high maintenance’ (apparently). So if I can, you can. More importantly, having the trust and faith in oneself and in the journey.
From thirty thousand feet up, settling in I honored my inner knowing—a lifelong whisper that finally spoke aloud.
Late Spring and the snow is falling in the Austrian Alps
Landed in Munich and transferred by train for a 6 hour trip viewing the last of the seasonal snow high in the Brenner Pass in Austria, I headed to the South Tyrol region—famous for its Alpine beauty, rich in history and walkable heritage villages.
Chose a self-contained apartment in Merano which is tucked up against the backdrop of a 2000m-odd mountain range. It felt secure, central, and welcoming to 50 plus solo travelers.
Navigating unfamiliar platforms and train schedules alone had me a bit anxious at first. But every successful moment—from translating signs to ordering coffee was an accomplishment. I was chuffed with knowing already how far I had come. My independence muscle grew with each small win.
“I was nervous. I was unsure. And I was doing it anyway.”
Did you know that everyone I spoke to for guidance was polite and helpful – (where was this decades old belief of vulnerability and weakness coming from?)
Started each morning with a flexible walking route, ranging from quiet scenic roads to well-marked heritage trails.
I used offline maps and guidance from locals (and yes, a translator app!) to keep things smooth and secure.
When vulnerability crept in, it was met with empowerment. I allowed myself to slow down, to wander, to trust myself fully. No rushing. No pressure. Just presence.
Once the Habsburg’s Summer Castle
Took a local bus to the iconic Castel Tirolo, perched above the valley—a vision I’d stored in memory from years earlier.Feeling anchored and informed (and safe!) I followed the directions of the castle’s brochure allowing plenty of time to reflect and for photographic opportunities.
Gazing through ancient windows across the valley, I felt something settle within me: a recognition of who I’ve always been.
“Not everyone needs a breakthrough. Some of us just need a castle; (to briefly be that princess) a quiet place to breathe.”
A royal view
One castle isn’t enough when others are begging so a walk to a second and a third lesser-known castles down the valley quenched my thirst for knowledge. The walking on heritage trails that royalty took centuries before represented the freedom I was enjoying (and my spirit).
Forest trails that flanked apple orchards and nurtured the occasional red Poppy led me through storybook villages and into a sense of accomplishment I hadn’t felt in years.
There was no one to double-check my choices, no one to carry my bag, and yet… I felt completely safe. Capable. Independent.
🌅 Day 7: Rest, Reflect, Reimagine
I reflected on the courage it took to begin—and the freedom it gave me in return.
“Solo travel at 50+ isn’t a crisis move. It’s a conscious choice. A declaration that your dreams still matter—and so do you.”
Final Thoughts: A Journey of Trust and Triumph
This wasn’t about being reckless or ‘winging it’. This was about being intentional. About walking toward a long-held dream with courage, intuition, and a flexible plan built around safety, comfort, and inner confidence.
I didn’t come here to find myself. I came because I already knew who I was. It just felt like time to give that woman more room to roam.
Click the link here to read part 2 – where to next?
The most wonderful and freeing thing about this completely safe region is the variety of options of how you can spend your time. Castles (over a dozen in this area alone), hiking trails, farm stays & visits, quaint villages, hot natural baths, gondola rides to name a few.
Each day is a new adventure that as a tourist, you’ll have memories that will stay with you. As a fifty plus solo traveler, every step increases your feelings of courage, self-belief and empowerment.
Travel alone or bring friends. Your journey is open to go in different directions for the day or if you’d like support while you’re there, I can help you.
Why not incorporate visiting ancestral locations while traveling and build a unique itinerary similar to these.
To chat about the multiple options and times of year that personally reflect your desires of accomplishments, click here or call me directly. 0418 790 657
AFTA Travel Certificate - International 2006
Business Diploma - Northpoint College
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