A Family Hike to St. Anthony’s Chapel in Korčula

Remember when we used to be able to travel? That was fun, wasn’t it? Anywho it’s all going to be okay. Really, it will.

In the meantime, there are plenty of adventures you can scrounge up wherever you are around the world.

If you find yourself “stuck at home” this summer, finding a local shrine and creating your own family pilgrimage for the day is an awesome way to break up the regular routine and make some memories.

Added bonus: it doesn’t have to cost you a penny — and just maybe, you will discover a fondness for family hikes you never knew you had. Extra bonus: it expends all the “littles” never-ending energy.

I, for one, would never label myself a hiker, but having 6 kids and traveling to far off places has introduced me to the beauty of getting outdoors and going on a hike.

Take this little hike we took while in Croatia last summer.

I did my research and discovered a hike a few miles out of town to a peaceful little place called St. Anthony’s Chapel.

The stairs are well known by many because of their steep climb up a cypress-lined hill — makes for a dramatic backdrop.

More on that dramatic backdrop later.

If you ever find yourself on Korčula Island in Croatia (seriously one of our family’s favorite places in the world!) do yourself a favor and take a hike away from the bustle of Korčula town to the peaceful little 14th century chapel dedicated to St. Anthony.

Even if you can’t make it to Croatia, hopefully this “virtual” hike in a far off-place will inspire you to step out of your own front door and explore with your kids.

Okay then, back to the hike.

You will see signs as you walk away from town. They lead you through olive groves and past little chapels dedicated to Mary along the way. It’s all so very Catholic.

Just keep following the signs, when in doubt. The good news is that there are a few small markets on the way — because summer in Croatia is HOT!

Grab some cold drinks and keep going!

The sweating and struggling is part of the reward at the end — so don’t Uber it. Trust me on this one.

Finally, you will come upon the cypress-lined steps.

Just think of all the faithful men and women who hiked those steps before you — searching for something in this world — and finding it in the Church.

If you are really on top of your life — which we aren’t — you could even try to coordinate it with Mass in the little chapel. I believe they happen on occasion.

Regardless, take some time to explore and soak in the quiet, peaceful atmosphere.

You will also discover some lovely views of the sea around back. All in all, it’s a lovely place to get away, say a prayer or two and to thank God for the beauty of this world that He has created.

By the way, I realize that some people can’t travel to far off places — but let me assure you, that God has promised a new Heaven and a new Earth when He comes again.

You better believe Heaven is going to blow away any of the most beautiful spaces in this place we now call Earth. Just think, an eternity to explore and experience a beauty that far surpasses these little glimpses of it on earth.

I don’t know about you, but that makes me so happy for the amazing people I know who don’t have the ability to travel to far-off places.

It makes me happy to know that those amazing parents who have put every resource into raising their kids or who have kids with chronic illnesses or those who experience overwhelming sadness or depression — they haven’t been forgotten by God.

God will wipe away every tear and reward the fidelity of those who struggled through this life and remained faithful in the struggle.

The sweetness of Heaven will be sweeter for those who suffered more in this life.

I don’t pretend to know exactly what Heaven will be like — but I have seen enough of this world and spent enough time in prayer to know that our Father in Heaven has so much in store for those who love Him.

I know that I want to make it to Heaven — and I hope that you do, too!

I want to experience all those beautiful things in the everlasting light of a God who loves us and made all of the beautiful things of this Earth to remind us of Him and His love for us and that our ultimate Home is in Heaven.

Oh, His love is overwhelming! His Beauty is bound to knock our socks off. Till then, we just need to keep hoping, keep loving, keep trying to live our life for Him.

And don’t forget to enjoy those little moments which remind you that He is Good and He is beautiful and Life is Precious!!!

Maybe even take a family picture to remember the moment — not a feat for the faint of heart. The struggle is real! All I can say is hooray for automatic timers on your camera!

And that is the end of our hike up to St. Anthony’s Chapel.

Love ya guys! Have a great weekend!