Step into nature:
ERA is at the forefront of promoting walking and conservation across Europe:
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European Hiking Federation (ERA), founded in 1969 as the European Ramblers Association in Germany, has played a pivotal role in shaping the walking and outdoor recreation landscape in Europe. Initially established as a unifying force, it has become an influential umbrella organization comprising more than 60 member walking organizations from more than 30 European countries. Over the years, ERA’s mission has centered on fostering networking and cross-border cooperation among its members.
The federation has consistently advocated for walking as a recreational activity, emphasizing its benefits in connecting with nature and culture across the continent. ERA’s commitment to respectful treatment, expertise, and shared values has been evident in all matters related to walking and outdoor recreation.
One of ERA’s key achievements has been the active role it plays in creating and marking European long-distance paths. By protecting and preserving these routes, as well as other international paths, the association ensures their continued existence and accessibility. This dedication reflects ERA’s commitment to enhancing the quality of walking experiences for both locals and tourists.
ERA’s core objectives, including promoting walking and mountain-climbing activities, instilling a sense of responsibility for the countryside and the environment, and safeguarding traditions associated with crossing borders within European countries, highlight the federation’s multifaceted approach. Through collaborative efforts and the exchange of best practices, ERA has contributed significantly to the advancement of walking rights and the preservation of Europe’s cultural heritage.
In summary, the historical development of ERA since its founding in 1969 underscores its evolution into a prominent advocate for walking as a recreational activity in Europe. Its multifaceted approach, collaborative efforts, and commitment to preserving cultural heritage have positioned ERA as a unifying force, enhancing walking experiences and fostering cross-border cooperation across the continent.
ERA, which recently changed its name to the European Hiking Federation (ERA), is a prominent and influential umbrella organization founded in Germany in 1969. Comprising approximately 60 member organizations from around 30 European countries, ERA is a unifying force that advocates for and promotes walking as a recreational activity and means of connecting with nature and culture across the continent.
With a membership totaling around 3 million individual members, ERA represents a diverse and extensive network of individuals passionate about walking, hiking, and mountain climbing. The association’s members have a wealth of experience in organizing and facilitating walking activities, and many of the member organizations boast a history of over a century, some even spanning more than 150 years.
ERA’s mission is centered on fostering networking and cross-border cooperation among its member organizations. The association places a strong emphasis on ensuring respectful treatment, expertise, and shared values in all matters related to walking and outdoor recreation. Through collaborative efforts and the exchange of best practices, ERA strives to enhance the quality of walking experiences for both locals and tourists alike.
The vision of ERA is to be widely recognized all over Europe as the foremost expert in all walking-related issues, earning a reputation as a relevant, proactive, and credible partner. By actively engaging with various stakeholders, including governments, international organizations, and fellow advocacy groups, ERA aims to contribute significantly to the promotion and preservation of walking routes, cultural heritage, and the natural environment.
The core objects of ERA encompass a range of essential goals. These include promoting walking and mountain-climbing activities while instilling a sense of responsibility and care for the countryside and the environment. ERA takes an active role in creating and marking European long-distance paths, protecting these routes, as well as other international paths, to ensure their continued existence and accessibility.
Another key focus of ERA is safeguarding and advancing the rights and traditions associated with crossing borders within European countries, thus preserving Europe’s cultural heritage. The association also works towards preserving the right of access to all land, emphasizing that this objective should not compromise the protection of the natural environment.
ERA’s commitment to mutual understanding and cultural exchange is evident in its efforts to strengthen bonds between people through walking activities and engagement with nature. Additionally, the association represents the interests of its member associations in international organizations like the European Union and the Council of Europe, ensuring that walking and outdoor activities are considered in relevant policy discussions and decisions.
Lastly, ERA seeks to raise awareness about the importance of physical activity, particularly walking, in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. By advocating for the benefits of walking and promoting physical activity, the association actively contributes to the well-being of individuals and communities across Europe.
Overall, the European Hiking Federation plays a vital role in advocating for walking, fostering cooperation among walking organizations, and preserving Europe’s diverse natural and cultural heritage. Through its tireless efforts, ERA continues to inspire countless individuals to explore the beauty of the outdoors, forge connections with nature, and appreciate the value of physical activity in their lives.