Retired, what now? 5 adventure hobbies for the young at heart
The time after working life - it is finally here! Many people long for the day when they can say goodbye to their jobs and from then on simply let the day take its course. But especially for people who are still physically and mentally in top shape, a certain agility and thirst for adventure soon makes itself felt. Then it's time for exciting experiences with thrill factor. The adventure is on your doorstep!
On the trail of the gold diggers
Gold washing in Germany? Yes! Many regions even offer gold panning courses. Nature, exercise and thrills can be combined here. In the rivers of the Upper Palatinate, the Southern Black Forest, the Erzgebirge, the Vogtland or the Bavarian Forest there are proven deposits of gold in the form of gold flakes and nuggets. Since gold is relatively heavy, it separates from lighter substances in the water and sinks to the bottom. There it can be collected. The chances of finding gold are greatest in areas where the current is calmer (such as river bends and depressions). Besides weatherproof clothing and rubber boots, you will need a gold panning pan, shovel, sieve, bucket and a container for the finds. An exciting outdoor experience that is not rich, but fun!
Before you just go wild and start sieving, pay attention to the legal regulations. Find out in advance on the internet or at the responsible authorities who owns the water body, whether it is under nature protection and whether a permit is even required for the selected river.
Geocaching - treasure hunt with the smartphone
Do you find simple walks boring? Then geocaching is something for you! In simple terms, it's a scavenger hunt with GPS coordinates. All you need is a GPS-compatible smartphone or GPS device, a pen and a small gift in your luggage. Equipped with geographical coordinates, you go out into nature to find a treasure in an unknown hiding place. The treasure (the "cache") is usually in a small container with a log book. You can sign the book and take the gift with you if you like it. In return, you put in the present you brought with you for the next treasure hunter. For professionals, there are so-called "riddle caches", where you first have to solve a riddle to find the treasure, or "lost places", where the caches are hidden in abandoned places or buildings. This exciting hobby can be carried out anywhere in Germany. Coordinates for the hiding places are listed on various websites (including opencaching.de).
Summer, sun, stand-up paddling
Stand-up paddling, also called SUP, means moving around on a large surfboard with a paddle - standing up. You can do it anywhere where the water is at least 30 cm deep. So you don't have to travel to the sea to do it, but can also get started on the waters outside your front door. This hobby offers a perfect whole-body workout, especially for water rats. It works all the muscles of the body. It is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. There are different types of boards available on the market, which differ in length, shape, weight and, of course, price. Which board you need depends on whether you prefer paddling in rivers, lakes or the sea. But beware: with the wrong technique, you will progress slowly and tire more quickly. It is important to stand upright on the board and to change the side you are paddling on regularly. Many regions offer beginners' courses where you can learn the best technique and meet like-minded people.
A night hike with campfire
At night, everything seems mysterious. Especially in summer, when the nights are warm, it is the ideal opportunity for a walk through the darkness with its unique atmosphere. While you enjoy the fresh evening air and listen to the chirping of the crickets, you experience your surroundings in a completely new way. With a bit of luck, you may spot some nocturnal animals such as owls, bats, hedgehogs, foxes or fireflies. Even when you're out and about in the city, you'll get a whole new perspective. The hustle and bustle of the day subsides, the soundscape changes, alleys and buildings are bathed in a dim light from the street lamps.
Of course, such a nocturnal stroll is even more fun in pairs or groups. Perhaps you would like to find a barbecue spot for a small campfire afterwards? There you can watch the flames blaze and, on a clear day, observe the stars. A great experience, especially on shooting star nights! A few poems you bring along will add to the special atmosphere. Are you more into scary stories? You can also read them to each other around the campfire or under the torch. Goosebumps guaranteed!
For your night hike you will need the following things: a smartphone for emergencies, a torch for everyone, a lighter, a small picnic blanket, something to drink and possibly a small snack, mosquito spray, a light jacket and a book if needed.
Pilgrimage - on the way to oneself
Hippocrates, a doctor of antiquity, already said: "Walking is man's best medicine". The word "pilgrim" comes from the Latin and means something like "to be on the way" or "to be in a foreign place". Pilgrimage therefore means setting out on a journey to a holy or religious place. This tradition exists in all religions. In contrast to pilgrimage, where the destination and duration are fixed in advance, pilgrimage focuses on the experience, self-discovery, experiences and encounters with other people. Pilgrimage is good for body and soul. The journey does not have to have a religious background. Many people find peace of mind and new vitality while walking for hours on end. Santiago de Compostela, Rome, Jerusalem and Lourdes are famous pilgrimage destinations. Most German destinations are in the west and south of Germany, for example in Altgötting, Fulda or Passau.
Conclusion
Life is too short for boredom! Whether you walk through the forest in the dark, look for a hidden treasure or (almost) feel like a surfer while paddling: there are many activities that offer an exciting change from everyday life even in old age. Just give them a try!
