{"id":1904486,"date":"2026-04-27T05:02:15","date_gmt":"2026-04-27T02:02:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1904486"},"modified":"2026-04-27T05:02:15","modified_gmt":"2026-04-27T02:02:15","slug":"i-loved-everything-about-it-reconnect-with-nature-on-germanys-barefoot-hiking-trails","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1904486","title":{"rendered":"&#8216;I loved everything about it&#8217;: Reconnect with nature on Germany&#8217;s barefoot hiking trails"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/33\/80\/1200x675_cmsv2_ef4fb96b-44f9-51c5-a0c8-b71be90461b5-9733380.jpg&#8221;]<\/p>\n<article id=\"abe-2887924-pos1-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-1 m-modeDesktop-1 m-modeXL-1\" data-nid=\"2887924\" data-cid=\"9730337\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2887924-label-pos1-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/03\/37\/189x106_cmsv2_d5304a84-042a-51ae-bd3c-ab657144b6d8-9730337.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"'Man on Fire' - 'Devil Wears Prada 2' - KAWS | SPACE, 2023\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Culture news<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    The best things to do, hear, see or watch in Europe this week\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2889169-pos2-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-1 m-modeDesktop-1 m-modeXL-1\" data-nid=\"2889169\" data-cid=\"9736684\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2889169-label-pos2-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/66\/84\/189x106_cmsv2_75b6b92d-d32f-5209-b7cc-3d434440bd0a-9736684.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Smoke rises after a Russian strike in Dnipro, Ukraine, Saturday, April 25, 2026. (AP Photo\/Mykola Synelnykov)\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    World News<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    At least 16 killed in Russia&#8217;s war on Ukraine on Chernobyl anniversary\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2888768-pos3-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-1 m-modeDesktop-1 m-modeXL-1\" data-nid=\"2888768\" data-cid=\"9735238\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2888768-label-pos3-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/52\/38\/189x106_cmsv2_0314dd6e-9648-5774-b390-0baa747b6c25-9735238.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Canva\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Health news<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Stress during pregnancy? Early skills may help children cope\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2886960-pos4-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-1 m-modeDesktop-1 m-modeXL-1\" data-nid=\"2886960\" data-cid=\"9725784\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2886960-label-pos4-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/72\/57\/84\/189x106_cmsv2_75606bec-6f74-547d-bd2a-a38d3d1cd562-9725784.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Cycling in Camino de Santiago\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Destinations<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Europe\u2019s best destinations for cycling holidays in 2026\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2887924-pos1-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2\" data-nid=\"2887924\" data-cid=\"9730337\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2887924-label-pos1-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/03\/37\/189x106_cmsv2_d5304a84-042a-51ae-bd3c-ab657144b6d8-9730337.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"'Man on Fire' - 'Devil Wears Prada 2' - KAWS | SPACE, 2023\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Culture news<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    The best things to do, hear, see or watch in Europe this week\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2889169-pos2-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2\" data-nid=\"2889169\" data-cid=\"9736684\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2889169-label-pos2-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/66\/84\/189x106_cmsv2_75b6b92d-d32f-5209-b7cc-3d434440bd0a-9736684.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Smoke rises after a Russian strike in Dnipro, Ukraine, Saturday, April 25, 2026. (AP Photo\/Mykola Synelnykov)\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    World News<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    At least 16 killed in Russia&#8217;s war on Ukraine on Chernobyl anniversary\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2888768-pos3-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2\" data-nid=\"2888768\" data-cid=\"9735238\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2888768-label-pos3-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/52\/38\/189x106_cmsv2_0314dd6e-9648-5774-b390-0baa747b6c25-9735238.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Canva\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Health news<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Stress during pregnancy? Early skills may help children cope\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2886960-pos4-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2\" data-nid=\"2886960\" data-cid=\"9725784\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2886960-label-pos4-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/72\/57\/84\/189x106_cmsv2_75606bec-6f74-547d-bd2a-a38d3d1cd562-9725784.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Cycling in Camino de Santiago\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Destinations<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Europe\u2019s best destinations for cycling holidays in 2026\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"helper-site-row o-article-newsy\">\n<div class=\"helper-site-container o-article-newsy__container\">\n<div class=\"o-article-newsy__main\">\n<header class=\"h-grid o-article-newsy__main__header\">\n<nav aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\" class=\"c-article-breadcrumbs\">\n<div id=\"adb-article-breadcrumb\" class=\"c-article-breadcrumbs__list\">\n<p>                          Earth<\/p>\n<p>                          Nature<\/p><\/div>\n<\/nav>\n<h1 class=\"c-article-redesign-title\">\n                            &#8216;I loved everything about it&#8217;: Reconnect with nature on Germany&#8217;s barefoot hiking trails<\/h1>\n<div class=\"c-article-image-video u-position-relative \">\n<div class=\"js-superdiv u-aspect-ratio-16x9 u-position-relative \" data-sponsored=\"Partner content\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"js-poster-img c-article-media__img\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/33\/80\/1536x864_cmsv2_ef4fb96b-44f9-51c5-a0c8-b71be90461b5-9733380.jpg\" width=\"1536\" height=\"864\" loading=\"eager\" alt=\"This photo provided by Katherine Hunt shows her children walking barefoot at the Park for All Senses, known locally as Park Mit Allen Sinnen, Aug. 8, 2024, in Gutach, Germany.\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-caption u-position-absolute\"><i id=\"article-caption-content\" class=\"c-article-caption__content\"><span class=\"c-article-caption__text\"><br \/>\n              This photo provided by Katherine Hunt shows her children walking barefoot at the Park for All Senses, known locally as Park Mit Allen Sinnen, Aug. 8, 2024, in Gutach, Germany.<br \/>\n                    <span class=\"u-color-white\">&#8211;\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"c-article-caption__copyright\">Copyright\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"c-article-caption__credit\">AP Photo\/Kelvin Chan<\/span><\/span><\/i><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-image-copyright c-article-image-copyright--novideo\">\n      Copyright\u00a0AP Photo\/Kelvin Chan\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<div class=\"h-grid o-article-newsy__main__body u-article-content\">\n<div class=\"o-article-newsy__contributors-publication-date\">\n<div class=\"c-article-contributors\">\n  By&amp;nbspAngela Symons&amp;nbspwith&amp;nbsp<b>AP<\/b><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-publication-date\" data-timestamp=\"1777006935\">\n         Published on<br \/>\n            <time datetime=\"2026-04-24 07:02:15 +02:00\">24\/04\/2026 &#8211; 7:02 GMT+2<\/time><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire u-align-items-center u-display-flex\"><span class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire__links u-align-items-center u-display-flex u-justify-content-center js-c-article-partage-commentaire-share\"><span>Share<\/span><\/span><span>Comments<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire-popup-overlay js-c-article-partage-commentaire-popup-overlay u-display-none\">\n<div id=\"js-c-article-partage-commentaire-popup\" class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire-popup js-c-article-partage-commentaire-popup\">\n<div 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width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"vk\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-bluesky.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"bluesky\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Bluesky<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-bluesky.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"bluesky\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-threads.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"threads\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Threads<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-threads.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"threads\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-whatsapp.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"whatsapp\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Whatsapp<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-whatsapp.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"whatsapp\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 class=\"c-article-summary\">\n        Germany&#8217;s barefoot hiking trails have inspired the launch of similar nature walks in the US.<br \/>\n    <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-article-content c-article-content--earth js-article-content\">\n<p>At the edge of a trail in Germany\u2019s picturesque Black Forest region, waterlogged steps sink into ankle-deep water and mud, requiring careful footing. The pathway&#8217;s truly unique feature, though, is that it was designed for visitors to use without wearing socks or shoes.<\/p>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-ad u-show-for-mobile-only\">\n<div class=\"c-ad__placeholder\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"c-ad__placeholder__logo\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/logos\/logo-euronews-stacked-outlined-72x72-grey-9.svg\" width=\"72\" height=\"72\" alt loading=\"lazy\"><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-ad u-show-for-desktop\">\n<div class=\"c-ad__placeholder\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"c-ad__placeholder__logo\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/logos\/logo-euronews-stacked-outlined-72x72-grey-9.svg\" width=\"72\" height=\"72\" alt loading=\"lazy\"><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Barefoot trails exist around the world, inviting people to get closer to nature through sounds and sensations. Feeling cool mud squish between toes, stepping on pine needles and exploring meditation caves, scent stations and dark rooms transform a routine walk into an immersive experience.<\/p>\n<p>Walking shoeless on varied surfaces also may contribute to emotional well-being and overall foot health, according to podiatrists and barefoot enthusiasts.<\/p>\n<p>Here&#8217;s why some people are bringing themselves down to earth \u2013 one step at a time.<\/p>\n<h2>Barefoot trails as an environmental and health movement<\/h2>\n<p>Theories about the benefits of going barefoot have gained popularity among runners and other athletes in recent decades, as well as with environmentalists and as an alternative <strong>mental health<\/strong> treatment, but the idea has been around for well over a century.<\/p>\n<p>Sebastian Kneipp, a 19th century German Catholic priest and early pioneer of naturopathy, promoted <strong>nature exposure<\/strong>, water therapy and barefoot walking as exercise and a way to stimulate circulation and support overall health, including immune function. He recommended walking barefoot over \u201cdew-wet grass\u201d or snow and is said to have called shoes \u201cfoot-bending machinery\u201d.<\/p>\n<p>His philosophy inspired trails and paths across Europe, where they are sometimes known as Kneipp paths, and to a lesser extent in the United States. In Asia, reflexology trails made of stones, pebbles and grass are intended to stimulate acupressure points on the soles of the feet, a concept linked to traditional medical therapies.<\/p>\n<div class=\"widget widget--type-image widget--size-fullwidth widget--animation-fade-in widget--align-center\" data-ratio=\"0.75\">\n<div class=\"widget__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"widget__ratio widget__ratio--auto\">\n<div class=\"widget__contents\">\n<figure class=\"widget__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"widgetImage__image\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/33\/80\/808x608_cmsv2_9a3c24d8-6ebb-5668-ad52-d1c35961e2d8-9733380.jpg\" alt=\"A sign at the Park for All Senses, known locally as Park Mit Allen Sinnen, is displayed, Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024, in Gutach, Germany.\"><figcaption class=\"widget__caption\"><span class=\"widget__captionWrap\"><span class=\"widget__captionText\">A sign at the Park for All Senses, known locally as Park Mit Allen Sinnen, is displayed, Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024, in Gutach, Germany.<\/span><span class=\"widget__captionCredit\">AP Photo\/Kelvin Chan<\/span><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Germany&#8217;s &#8216;park with all senses&#8217;<\/h2>\n<p>Germany&#8217;s Park mit allen Sinnen, which in English translates to &#8216;park with all senses&#8217;, reflects a broader focus on wellness tourism in the Black Forest, which covers more than 6,000 square kilometres and where visitors can breathe mountain air, soak in thermal baths and visit spas offering treatments that incorporate local plants and herbs.<\/p>\n<p>The park charges an admission fee. Its website says that meandering barefoot over the two-kilometre-long trail&#8217;s different surfaces &#8220;is ideal for exercising your back and spine, and at the same time, it\u2019s a perfect foot reflexology massage in the fresh air.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Leah Williams, the owner of The Barefoot Trail park near Flagstaff, Arizona, opened a manicured trail of the same length near Route 66 two years ago after a family trip in Europe. Tickets are required, though Williams operates the park as a nonprofit charitable foundation.<\/p>\n<div class=\"c-widget-related\" data-stories-id data-event=\"widget_related\">\n<div class=\"c-widget-related__title\"><b class=\"c-widget-related__title__text\" lang=\"en\">Related<\/b><\/div>\n<ul class=\"c-widget-related__list\">\n<li class=\"c-widget-related__item\">Scientists sound alarm over Europe&#8217;s forests as 216,000 hectares at risk &#8211; even if warming halts<\/li>\n<li class=\"c-widget-related__item\">\u2018Beautiful but precarious\u2019: Photographer captures Earth\u2019s fragile systems hanging by a thread<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<p>Williams says her mother, who is from Germany, encouraged her to go barefoot as a child climbing trees and playing in the <strong>forests<\/strong> and creeks around Seattle \u2013 a practice Williams carried into adulthood and passed on to her own children. While living in the Netherlands, her family visited a barefoot trail in Belgium.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI loved everything about it. I saw all ages, and I loved seeing older people at the park because you don\u2019t see that here in the United States,&#8221; Williams says. &#8220;I thought, \u2018Wow, when I get back to the United States, I\u2019m going to build one of these parks myself.&#8217;\u201d<\/p>\n<p>She offers educational materials for schools, summer programs and camps to children who visit the park.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cBeing good stewards of nature is really our job as human beings, and we have taken [five hectares] of land at our park for our community enjoyment,&#8230; for local, statewide and regional enjoyment,\u201d Williams says.<\/p>\n<div class=\"widget widget--type-image widget--size-fullwidth widget--animation-fade-in widget--align-center\" data-ratio=\"0.753\">\n<div class=\"widget__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"widget__ratio widget__ratio--auto\">\n<div class=\"widget__contents\">\n<figure class=\"widget__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"widgetImage__image\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/33\/80\/808x608_cmsv2_2220644d-fe7d-5412-b5f5-69312091a577-9733380.jpg\" alt=\"Shoes hang near the entrance of a barefoot trail near Flagstaff, Ariz, on Thursday, April 16, 2026. \"><figcaption class=\"widget__caption\"><span class=\"widget__captionWrap\"><span class=\"widget__captionText\">Shoes hang near the entrance of a barefoot trail near Flagstaff, Ariz, on Thursday, April 16, 2026. <\/span><span class=\"widget__captionCredit\">AP Photo\/Cheyanne Mumphrey<\/span><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>A sensory experience<\/h2>\n<p>Most people don&#8217;t walk outside barefoot regularly, and exposing their tender feet to different textures, temperatures and types of contact can take getting used to.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cYou should see people\u2019s faces when they start <strong>walking<\/strong>,\u201d Williams says.<\/p>\n<p>While many parks with barefoot trails encourage users to walk the paths without shoes, naked feet are not required. Guests with neuropathy, diabetes or foot conditions are welcome to keep their shoes on at the parks in Arizona and Germany.<\/p>\n<p>Some barefoot trails are designed to <strong>engage multiple senses<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>At Park mit allen Sinnen, a sign that reads \u201cPlease be quiet\u201d in German identifies a spot described as a meditation cave. Inside, a long bench faces tall windows overlooking the forest, and soft music plays through hidden speakers.<\/p>\n<p>Elsewhere at the park, visitors can squeeze red bulbs to release the scent of papaya or apricots, or place their hands inside a box filled with wild boar fur.<\/p>\n<div class=\"widget widget--type-image widget--size-fullwidth widget--animation-fade-in widget--align-center\" data-ratio=\"0.6665\">\n<div class=\"widget__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"widget__ratio widget__ratio--auto\">\n<div class=\"widget__contents\">\n<figure class=\"widget__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"widgetImage__image\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/33\/80\/808x539_cmsv2_d0732433-5315-50ff-a9b1-b4825a244f29-9733380.jpg\" alt=\"A sign at the Park for All Senses, known locally as Park Mit Allen Sinnen, is displayed, Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024, in Gutach, Germany. \"><figcaption class=\"widget__caption\"><span class=\"widget__captionWrap\"><span class=\"widget__captionText\">A sign at the Park for All Senses, known locally as Park Mit Allen Sinnen, is displayed, Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024, in Gutach, Germany. <\/span><span class=\"widget__captionCredit\">AP PhotoAP Photo\/Kelvin Chan<\/span><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Ditching the shoes step by step around the world<\/h2>\n<p>Austria, Denmark, France, Hungary, Switzerland and <strong>the UK<\/strong> are among other European countries with barefoot trails. Some are meant for local residents and not tourists, so finding them can prove difficult. Searching the terms \u201cbarefoot\u201d or \u201cbarefoot paths\u201d in the local language might help.<\/p>\n<p>In Hong Kong, Singapore and <strong>Japan<\/strong>, some public parks have pebble trails, which are walkways with smooth stones cemented into place that can be used for reflexology and foot massage.<\/p>\n<p>Similarly, there are so-called wellness parks and informal barefoot hikes on regular trails in the United States. But because of how rare they are in the US, Williams plans to expand the The Barefoot Trail concept elsewhere.<\/p>\n<p>The foundation recently received about eight hectares of land in a commercial and residential area of college town Lawrence, Kansas, to develop a park similar to the one she opened in Arizona.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe <strong>park<\/strong> will be one of the components of a larger commercial space being developed,\u201d Williams says. \u201cIt\u2019s about integrating those natural environments into people\u2019s daily lives and providing those safe spaces for people to enjoy.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>                                  Go to accessibility shortcuts<\/p>\n<div class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire u-align-items-center u-display-flex\"><span class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire__links u-align-items-center u-display-flex u-justify-content-center js-c-article-partage-commentaire-share\"><span>Share<\/span><\/span><span>Comments<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"adb-article-you-might-also-like\" class=\"perf-cv-auto c-article-you-might-also-like\">\n<h2 class=\"c-article-you-might-also-like__title\">\n        Read more<br \/>\n      <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-article-you-might-also-like__container\">\n<article id=\"abe-2888668-pos0-c-article-you-might-also-like__item\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-1 m-modeDesktop-1 m-modeXL-1\" data-nid=\"2888668\" data-cid=\"9734522\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2888668-label-pos0-c-article-you-might-also-like__item\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/45\/22\/480x270_cmsv2_f705bad3-cefd-5744-8093-4838030362e0-9734522.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"This illustration provided by researchers in April 2026 depicts a giant octopus that may have been a top marine predator millions of years ago.\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Nature<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Giant 19-metre-long octopuses may have ruled the ancient seas<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2887862-pos1-c-article-you-might-also-like__item\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-1 m-modeDesktop-1 m-modeXL-1\" data-nid=\"2887862\" data-cid=\"9730029\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2887862-label-pos1-c-article-you-might-also-like__item\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/00\/29\/480x270_cmsv2_b93d07ff-74ae-507a-8e06-bab8f546daf0-9730029.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"\u2018Patterns: Art of the Natural World\u2019: An Antarctic iceberg melts, revealing darker, older ice.\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Nature<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Photographer captures Earth\u2019s delicate systems \u2018losing their rhythm\u2019<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2887919-pos2-c-article-you-might-also-like__item\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-1 m-modeDesktop-1 m-modeXL-1\" data-nid=\"2887919\" data-cid=\"9730320\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2887919-label-pos2-c-article-you-might-also-like__item\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/03\/20\/480x270_cmsv2_54e1abcc-0bb6-551c-8475-a3318e267a9b-9730320.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"These tiny bandicoots were once considered extinct. Now 100 of them have been released into the wild.\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Nature<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Tiny bandicoots rescued from extinction as 100 released into the wild<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"perf-cv-auto\">\n<ul id=\"adb-article-tags\" class=\"c-tags-list\">\n<li class=\"c-tags-list__item\">\n<p>    hiking<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"c-tags-list__item\">\n<p>    Nature reserve<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"c-tags-list__item\">\n<p>    Tourism<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"c-tags-list__item\">\n<p>    Forests<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"c-tags-list__item\">\n<p>    Mental health<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"c-tags-list__item\">\n<p>    tree<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"o-article-newsy__aside\">\n<div class=\"c-ad-wrapper o-article-newsy__aside__content-1\" data-ad-name=\"adzone-halfpage\">\n<div class=\"c-ad c-ad-halfpage u-show-for-desktop\">\n<div class=\"c-ad__placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"c-ad__placeholder__logo\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/logos\/logo-euronews-stacked-outlined-72x72-grey-9.svg\" width=\"72\" height=\"72\" alt><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-ad u-show-for-mobile-only\">\n<div class=\"c-ad__placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"c-ad__placeholder__logo\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/logos\/logo-euronews-stacked-outlined-72x72-grey-9.svg\" width=\"72\" height=\"72\" alt><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"adb-article-top-stories\" class=\"perf-cv-auto c-top-stories\">\n<h2 class=\"c-top-stories__title\">Top stories<\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-top-stories__item\">\n<article id=\"abe-2888549-pos2-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--no-label\" 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class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/72\/15\/72\/320x180_cmsv2_ec9539b4-e447-54a1-a250-b3f078617dd0-9721572.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Climate Justice Flotilla crew in Sint Maarten, 7 April 2026\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    EU countries to plan fossil fuel phaseout at Colombia conference<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-top-stories__item\">\n<article id=\"abe-2888668-pos4-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888668\" data-cid=\"9734522\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2888668-label-pos4-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/45\/22\/320x180_cmsv2_f705bad3-cefd-5744-8093-4838030362e0-9734522.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"This illustration provided by researchers in April 2026 depicts a giant octopus that may have been a top marine predator millions of years ago.\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Giant 19-metre-long octopuses may have ruled the ancient seas<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-top-stories__item\">\n<article id=\"abe-2888508-pos5-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888508\" data-cid=\"9733654\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2888508-label-pos5-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" 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class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Nature<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Giant 19-metre-long octopuses may have ruled the ancient seas<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2887862-pos1-c-article-you-might-also-like__item\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-1 m-modeDesktop-1 m-modeXL-1\" data-nid=\"2887862\" data-cid=\"9730029\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2887862-label-pos1-c-article-you-might-also-like__item\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/00\/29\/480x270_cmsv2_b93d07ff-74ae-507a-8e06-bab8f546daf0-9730029.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"\u2018Patterns: Art of the Natural World\u2019: An Antarctic iceberg melts, revealing darker, older ice.\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Nature<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Photographer captures Earth\u2019s delicate systems \u2018losing their rhythm\u2019<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2887919-pos2-c-article-you-might-also-like__item\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-1 m-modeDesktop-1 m-modeXL-1\" data-nid=\"2887919\" data-cid=\"9730320\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2887919-label-pos2-c-article-you-might-also-like__item\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/03\/20\/480x270_cmsv2_54e1abcc-0bb6-551c-8475-a3318e267a9b-9730320.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"These tiny bandicoots were once considered extinct. Now 100 of them have been released into the wild.\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Nature<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Tiny bandicoots rescued from extinction as 100 released into the wild<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2888549-pos2-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888549\" data-cid=\"9734046\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2888549-label-pos2-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/39\/24\/320x180_cmsv2_0b69cffc-1108-5f2a-bd83-b5ef4a75a446-9733924.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Conference on the transition from fossil fuels\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Transition from fossil fuels: &#8216;The EU must put up a united front&#8217;<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2886123-pos3-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2886123\" data-cid=\"9721572\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2886123-label-pos3-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/72\/15\/72\/320x180_cmsv2_ec9539b4-e447-54a1-a250-b3f078617dd0-9721572.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Climate Justice Flotilla crew in Sint Maarten, 7 April 2026\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    EU countries to plan fossil fuel phaseout at Colombia conference<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2888668-pos4-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888668\" data-cid=\"9734522\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2888668-label-pos4-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/45\/22\/320x180_cmsv2_f705bad3-cefd-5744-8093-4838030362e0-9734522.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"This illustration provided by researchers in April 2026 depicts a giant octopus that may have been a top marine predator millions of years ago.\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Giant 19-metre-long octopuses may have ruled the ancient seas<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2888508-pos5-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888508\" data-cid=\"9733654\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2888508-label-pos5-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/36\/54\/320x180_cmsv2_0ad0a680-b8f2-5128-b0a0-0290640765f8-9733654.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Now, a new report has found that electricity was made on average almost 25 per cent cheaper in some European countries between 2023 and 2025, thanks to renewables.\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Solar and wind slashed Europe\u2019s electricity prices by 25% in 2023-2025<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2887758-pos6-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--has-video the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2887758\" data-cid=\"9729684\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2887758-label-pos6-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/72\/94\/74\/320x180_cmsv2_04c9cbb3-b566-592d-8d47-1b4d08bc86cb-9729474.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Volunteers treating a swan at the Maisons-Alfort veterinary hospital for wild animals, near Paris, on 17 April 2026.\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Paris veterinary hospital treats wild animal victims of human activity<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2887634-pos1-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--has-video the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2887634\" data-cid=\"9728799\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    \u2018Small miracle\u2019: Przewalski\u2019s horses adapt to radioactive Chernobyl<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2888516-pos2-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--has-video the-media-object--has-related the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888516\" data-cid=\"9733734\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Central Asian countries collaborate to push green energy transition<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2888508-pos3-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--has-related the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888508\" data-cid=\"9733654\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Solar and wind slashed Europe\u2019s electricity prices by 25% in 2023-2025<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2887616-pos4-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2887616\" data-cid=\"9728682\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    \u2018Miracle tree\u2019 removes 98% of microplastics from drinking water<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2888756-pos5-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--has-related the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2888756\" data-cid=\"9735071\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Strong El Ni\u00f1o could make 2027 the hottest year on record<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"articleBody\" data-key=\"articleBody\">At the edge of a trail in Germany\u2019s picturesque Black Forest region, waterlogged steps sink into ankle-deep water and mud, requiring careful footing. The pathway&#8217;s truly unique feature, though, is that it was designed for visitors to use without wearing socks or shoes.Barefoot trails exist around the world, inviting people to get closer to nature through sounds and sensations. Feeling cool mud squish between toes, stepping on pine needles and exploring meditation caves, scent stations and dark rooms transform a routine walk into an immersive experience.Walking shoeless on varied surfaces also may contribute to emotional well-being and overall foot health, according to podiatrists and barefoot enthusiasts.Here&#8217;s why some people are bringing themselves down to earth \u2013 one step at a time.Barefoot trails as an environmental and health movementTheories about the benefits of going barefoot have gained popularity among runners and other athletes in recent decades, as well as with environmentalists and as an alternative mental health treatment, but the idea has been around for well over a century.Sebastian Kneipp, a 19th century German Catholic priest and early pioneer of naturopathy, promoted nature exposure, water therapy and barefoot walking as exercise and a way to stimulate circulation and support overall health, including immune function. He recommended walking barefoot over \u201cdew-wet grass\u201d or snow and is said to have called shoes \u201cfoot-bending machinery\u201d.His philosophy inspired trails and paths across Europe, where they are sometimes known as Kneipp paths, and to a lesser extent in the United States. In Asia, reflexology trails made of stones, pebbles and grass are intended to stimulate acupressure points on the soles of the feet, a concept linked to traditional medical therapies.Germany&#8217;s &#8216;park with all senses&#8217;Germany&#8217;s Park mit allen Sinnen, which in English translates to &#8216;park with all senses&#8217;, reflects a broader focus on wellness tourism in the Black Forest, which covers more than 6,000 square kilometres and where visitors can breathe mountain air, soak in thermal baths and visit spas offering treatments that incorporate local plants and herbs.The park charges an admission fee. Its website says that meandering barefoot over the two-kilometre-long trail&#8217;s different surfaces &#8220;is ideal for exercising your back and spine, and at the same time, it\u2019s a perfect foot reflexology massage in the fresh air.\u201dLeah Williams, the owner of The Barefoot Trail park near Flagstaff, Arizona, opened a manicured trail of the same length near Route 66 two years ago after a family trip in Europe. Tickets are required, though Williams operates the park as a nonprofit charitable foundation.Williams says her mother, who is from Germany, encouraged her to go barefoot as a child climbing trees and playing in the forests and creeks around Seattle \u2013 a practice Williams carried into adulthood and passed on to her own children. While living in the Netherlands, her family visited a barefoot trail in Belgium.\u201cI loved everything about it. I saw all ages, and I loved seeing older people at the park because you don\u2019t see that here in the United States,&#8221; Williams says. &#8220;I thought, \u2018Wow, when I get back to the United States, I\u2019m going to build one of these parks myself.&#8217;\u201dShe offers educational materials for schools, summer programs and camps to children who visit the park.\u201cBeing good stewards of nature is really our job as human beings, and we have taken [five hectares] of land at our park for our community enjoyment,&#8230; for local, statewide and regional enjoyment,\u201d Williams says.A sensory experienceMost people don&#8217;t walk outside barefoot regularly, and exposing their tender feet to different textures, temperatures and types of contact can take getting used to.\u201cYou should see people\u2019s faces when they start walking,\u201d Williams says.While many parks with barefoot trails encourage users to walk the paths without shoes, naked feet are not required. Guests with neuropathy, diabetes or foot conditions are welcome to keep their shoes on at the parks in Arizona and Germany.Some barefoot trails are designed to engage multiple senses.At Park mit allen Sinnen, a sign that reads \u201cPlease be quiet\u201d in German identifies a spot described as a meditation cave. Inside, a long bench faces tall windows overlooking the forest, and soft music plays through hidden speakers.Elsewhere at the park, visitors can squeeze red bulbs to release the scent of papaya or apricots, or place their hands inside a box filled with wild boar fur.Ditching the shoes step by step around the worldAustria, Denmark, France, Hungary, Switzerland and the UK are among other European countries with barefoot trails. Some are meant for local residents and not tourists, so finding them can prove difficult. Searching the terms \u201cbarefoot\u201d or \u201cbarefoot paths\u201d in the local language might help.In Hong Kong, Singapore and Japan, some public parks have pebble trails, which are walkways with smooth stones cemented into place that can be used for reflexology and foot massage.Similarly, there are so-called wellness parks and informal barefoot hikes on regular trails in the United States. But because of how rare they are in the US, Williams plans to expand the The Barefoot Trail concept elsewhere.The foundation recently received about eight hectares of land in a commercial and residential area of college town Lawrence, Kansas, to develop a park similar to the one she opened in Arizona.\u201cThe park will be one of the components of a larger commercial space being developed,\u201d Williams says. \u201cIt\u2019s about integrating those natural environments into people\u2019s daily lives and providing those safe spaces for people to enjoy.\u201d<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.euronews.com\/2026\/04\/27\/i-loved-everything-about-it-reconnect-with-nature-on-germanys-barefoot-hiking-trails&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/73\/33\/80\/1200x675_cmsv2_ef4fb96b-44f9-51c5-a0c8-b71be90461b5-9733380.jpg&#8221;] Culture news The best things to do, hear, see or watch in Europe this week World News At least 16 killed in Russia&#8217;s war on Ukraine on Chernobyl anniversary Health news Stress during pregnancy? Early skills may help children cope Destinations Europe\u2019s best destinations for cycling holidays in 2026 Culture news The [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[90],"tags":[226,36],"class_list":["post-1904486","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-international","tag-crawlmanager","tag-euronews-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1904486","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1904486"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1904486\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1904486"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1904486"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1904486"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}