In today’s capitalist society, characterized by relentless rhythms and the constant pressure of consumerism, many people feel the need to rethink their lifestyles. Alienation from monotonous jobs, a longing for freedom, and a deeper connection with Nature are among the reasons pushing more and more individuals toward a radical life change.

Alessandro was one of them. After 34 years in a job that didn’t fulfill him, he decided to break free from the mold and design a life on his own terms, far from societal expectations and closer to his personal idea of freedom.

A New Beginning: From the Postal Office to Hiking

Alessandro’s path to freedom began gradually while still working for Poste Italiane. In 2004, he secured a part-time schedule that allowed him to work only six months a year. This compromise gave him the opportunity to explore his passion for hiking and Nature.

During his free months, Alessandro trained as a hiking guide and slowly started leading groups through Italy and Europe. This decision marked a turning point in his life, giving him a taste of liberty and allowing him to live in a way that aligned more closely with his values and dreams.

Discovering an Abandoned Garden

Fate played an important role when Alessandro stumbled upon an abandoned garden in the Florentine hills during one of his walks. This forgotten space soon became the catalyst for his transformation.

“I used to pass by here, and I grew fond of this corner. It was an abandoned garden, but it still felt alive, with a story to tell. I would always say, ‘I’m going to my garden,’ even though it wasn’t mine at all.”

Alessandro began tending the land, transforming it into a flourishing garden and a space of creativity and inspiration. As he nurtured the soil back to life, he felt a similar revival within his soul—every gesture imbued with a sense of inner renewal.

From Garden to Open-Air Art Gallery

Over time, Alessandro rediscovered his creativity, and the garden evolved into an open-air art gallery. He started by placing meditative phrases, poems, and quotes around the garden. Then, using reclaimed materials, he crafted unique totems and installations, each with its own story and meaning.

Highlights of his creations include "Oz," a character inspired by The Wizard of Oz and made from an old watering can, and the "Mirror of Narcissus," an installation that reflects the surrounding trees, creating a stunning effect that invites visitors to observe and listen to Nature.

Together, these elements form a meditative path designed to immerse visitors in a profound dialogue with Nature and themselves.

Alessandro’s Philosophy of Life

Alessandro’s life philosophy revolves around simplicity, freedom, and a deep connection with Nature. Inspired by the words of Henry David Thoreau:

“A man is rich in proportion to the number of things he can afford to let alone”—he has embraced a minimalist approach to life."

For Alessandro, change is not something to fear but an opportunity for growth and discovery. Creativity has been his greatest ally in this process. He believes that reconnecting with creative expression can improve our well-being and adaptability. Whether he’s creating artwork, building, or repairing, Alessandro prefers to work with what he has, using ingenuity to find practical solutions.

The Cabin: A Sanctuary of Happiness

During the lockdown, Alessandro built a small wooden cabin in the woods, one plank at a time. This eight-square-meter refuge, constructed almost entirely from reclaimed materials, has become his home.

To minimize his environmental impact, Alessandro made the cabin as sustainable as possible. It runs on solar power and collects rainwater for daily use. Minimalist yet functional, the cabin includes a small kitchen, a bed, and a stove. For Alessandro, simplicity is no longer a limitation but a source of freedom and joy.

Moving to the cabin allowed Alessandro to reconnect with an ancestral bond to Nature, aligning his rhythm of life with that of his surroundings. Waking up at dawn, accompanied by the sounds of the forest, provides him with an unparalleled sense of inner peace—serenity that no material comfort could ever match.

Walden Walking Tours

Alessandro’s passion for hiking and Nature led him to found Walden Walking Tours, a cooperative inspired by the book "Walden - Life in the Woods" by Henry David Thoreau.

Through this project, Alessandro organizes hiking trips and walking tours, sharing his greatest passion: walking in Nature. These journeys are not just outdoor adventures but true paths of inner growth. His mission is simple yet powerful: to help anyone who chooses to join him rediscover what truly matters, slow down the frantic pace of life, and reconnect authentically with Nature and their own heart.

In a Nutshell

Alessandro Vergari's story is proof that changing life is possible when you find the courage to follow the path of the heart.

From his small cabin in the Florentine hills, he has created a model for sustainable living that inspires many. Through his cooperative, Walden Walking Tours, Alessandro shares his love for Nature and hiking, inviting others to embark on journeys that are as much about self-discovery as they are about exploring the outdoors.

In a world that often feels disconnected and rushed, Alessandro’s reminds us that true wealth, after all, lies within us and in our ability to be amazed by the small yet profound miracles that Nature offers us every single day.