Once upon a time, two women, Louise and Amanda, met in a mothers’ group 14 years ago. Little did they know that their friendship would grow into something far greater—a community that would transform their lives and inspire other women to find strength and joy in nature, their bodies, and each other.
The story began in challenging times. Louise suffered a severe concussion, plunging her into a dark period of pain and isolation. Amanda, who was familiar with chronic pain from hypermobility, osteoarthritis, and endometriosis, understood the heavy toll when the body doesn’t align with the mind. Yet, the two women found a way forward—a path through Hareskov Forest, west of Copenhagen, where they began taking walks together.
In the beginning, it was just small steps, a brief respite, and a way to reconnect with their bodies. But as they walked, something remarkable happened. Their walks grew longer, their backpacks heavier, and with every kilometer, they felt stronger. Their bodies, once seen as adversaries, became allies—carrying them and everything they needed. The serenity of nature became a source of healing, and their conversations fostered a sense of community.
Amanda shared their experiences on social media, and soon the question came: “Can we join you?” And so, Women’s Hiking Club was born.
The first official hike took place in 2017—a “Port Wine Hike,” where leisure and indulgence were paired with the joy of nature. What followed were “Gin Hikes,” “Wine Hikes,” “Cocktail Hikes,” “Mulled Wine Hikes,” and two-day trips, where the focus on enjoyment, camaraderie, and moments of pause was just as important as the walking itself. With each new concept, the club grew, and more women joined—united by the simple pleasures of being present, embracing nature, and sharing experiences.
The proceeds from the hikes fund new adventures, as Louise and Amanda embark on journeys four times a year—from Denmark to the wild landscapes of Norway, Iceland, Spain, and France. With their backpacks on and pleasure as their compass, they continue to explore, inspire, and build a community for women seeking joy and strength in nature and each other.
And that’s how Women’s Hiking Club began—a story of courage, resilience, community, and the delight of taking life one step at a time.
Amanda Lagoni is an author, couples therapist, sexologist, singer, and founder of Women’s Hiking Club. She runs her clinic in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, and has written At elske er ikke en følelse (2021), Lidt om Lyst (2022), and Voksenkærlighed i børnefamilien (2023). She also hosts the podcasts Kvart i sex and Lyst.
Visit Amanda at www.amandalagoni.dk and find Women’s Hiking Club on Instagram and Facebook.
