On 18 April 2026 the time had finally come again. In splendid weather and surprisingly summery temperatures, the long-awaited spring hike of the Italian section set off. Enthusiastic hikers and friends of lived European friendship started out together from the sports ground in Raibach. The destination of this lovely day was the idyllically located Rödelshäuschen amid blossoming nature. Such shared experiences are the heart of our lively community on the Odenwald wine island.
On the trail of home around Raibach
Under the highly knowledgeable and charming leadership of Willi Schäfer, the hiking group delved deep into the secrets of local nature. With his unmistakable straw hat he led the attentive participants along the picturesque Kuckucksweg (Cuckoo Trail). Along the way the hikers received fascinating, detailed insights into the area around Raibach. The gentle hills and the fresh green of the trees provided a perfect backdrop for this instructive excursion.
Those present listened particularly spellbound to his fascinating explanations of the origin of the name “Kuckuck” (cuckoo). The historical significance of the so-called “Kulturfrauen” was also impressively explained on an informative display board by the wayside. Willi Schäfer masterfully brought historical facts to life with great commitment and enormous knowledge. This excursion into local history was rounded off by highly informative background on the old quarry, whose relics are still visible in the landscape today.
Italian moments and pure joie de vivre at the Rödelshäuschen
After the exciting impressions of the hike, the group finally reached the Rödelshäuschen. There the participants were surprised with a lovingly prepared and plentiful snack. On the rustic wooden tables, delicious Mediterranean specialities, small puff-pastry swirls and fresh tomato-mozzarella skewers awaited. The southern flair of our partner town Dicomano, regarded as our gateway to magnificent Tuscany, could be felt immediately. Dicomano always captivates with warm Italian hospitality and the inimitable “dolce vita”.
Naturally, sparkling Prosecco and a good Italian wine were not to be missed at this stop. In a very convivial circle people feasted, laughed and philosophised at length. Such moments of relaxation over excellent food and good conversation are essential for our community. They combine deep roots in our Odenwald homeland with the carefree lightness of the South.
International understanding in practice and a humanist worldview
Outings like this wonderful Groß-Umstadt spring hike are far more than a walk in the countryside. Our association deliberately sets itself the goal of nurturing personal contacts across borders and supporting a humanist worldview. We are deeply convinced that a shared Europe only comes alive through the direct encounter of people. The twinning with our partner towns Saint-Péray, Santo Tirso and Dicomano forms the strong foundation of our work.
When we hike, eat and laugh together, we build invisible bridges between cultures. We look far beyond our own plate, perhaps even as far as the wooded heights of the Odenwald, and feel part of a great European family. The intense conversations during the hike showed once again how important this constant cultural exchange is for a peaceful and understanding future. Europe is not made in conference rooms but right here, on the forest paths and at the rest stops of our homeland.
A successful finish and a warm invitation
After ample refreshment and many wonderful moments, the group slowly set off back to Raibach in the evening hours. The setting sun bathed the landscape in a warm light and gave the hike a thoroughly atmospheric finish. This event by the Italian section was once again proof of how enriching shared experience can be. All involved will keep this dream day in the best of memories for a very long time.
If you have now developed a desire to become part of this fantastic European family, don’t hesitate any longer. We warmly invite you to join us at our upcoming festivals, outings or encounters and to feel the borderless friendship for yourself. Find out how you can actively get involved in nurturing our living town twinnings. Become a member now and help us shape an open, peaceful and joyful Europe!
Spring hike: a dream outing by the Italian section
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