Day 158: Home!

Gfellacher near Hörnli to Wetzikon

Distance: 20km

The sunrise does not disappoint. The early start was well worth it.

Looking east and south, a wonderful mountain panorama is nicely lit by the early morning sun. The mountains seem close. So close, it feels like I can touch them. With such a view, walking goes much easier than yesterday. It's familiar territory. Terrain I know, terrain I have been walking and running around for years. Thru-hiking it feels special. In Scandinavia and Germany I initially felt like an explorer in inkonwn territory. Here I feel at home.

As it's a short day to Wetzikon, the place I spent my years as a teenager, we are not in a rush. We take plenty of photos, soaking up the views. Yet, as we get closer to Wetzikon and the legs start feeling heavier, both of us are looking forward to putting our feet up.

I am feeling less emotional than I thought I would, when I finally arrive in Wetzikon and spot the house. Most probably it will take a while to really realize than I just completed a walk from Nordkapp. 6000 kilometers. Obviously, I split up the walk in three sections. Yet, it's still a bit of an effort. A rewarding one with a wast amount ofmemories. And these, mostly great memories, make we want to hit the trail again and head south as quickly as possible.

My itchy feet need to stay still for a day or two though as I want to savour the moment. Savour home. There won't be another "home" on E1.

However, it's business before pleasure. Laundry, resupply, exchanging backpacks,... . Especially the exchange of my backpack consumes a bit of time. The first impression of the pack is very good. Still, it's also different to my now retired pack, which I carried for roughly 15'000 kilometers and which I got so used to. Every strap, every pocket had its own purpose. I have to rearrange myself. I'm looking forward to it, but it will take a while to customize the pack until it fully suits my need. 

Eventually, I need a break. Time for an early dinner. Rösti with broccoli, eggs and Fredy's famous bean and Feta salad. My first real meal after nearly to weeks. I very much appreciate it. 

The rest of the day I do what I do best at home: feeling comfortable. Feeling at home.