10: Franz-Karl-Effenberg | Vienna Hiking Trails

It's a gloomy October day in 2023, and I am walking along hiking trail number 10 - spectacularly unspectacular: no colour, no dimension, no fun. When I get back home, I write a little "x" on the page of the Franz-Karl-Effenberg-Wanderweg, which means "Did not enjoy it".

More than a year later, I take my daughter there. After an hour on the public transport, we finally reach the starting point. “Mum,” she says, “I don't feel well.” We sit on a bench next to the graveyard for about 40 minutes, then we go back home.

It's October again. This time, we come prepared: we had breakfast at home, but in my backpack there is a full bag of Glühwürmchen (gummy sweets), which work wonders on a little adventurer whenever she feels she has walked a bit too much.

This time, the trail has life to it. In fact, I perceive everything quite differently: it's sunny, and colourful, and simply nice. It's probably my company. It could also be the Glühwürmchen.

We take pictures, try to fly a kite, and make bouquets of red autumn leaves. The hiking trail is only 7 km long and has no elevation, making it perfect for an introduction to hiking or for taking a child there. It's still not one I would prefer over the others, because it is indeed boring, but it's a perfect opportunity to spend quality time with someone you love while walking and enjoying the autumn.

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NIB & Ember