When two directors from completely different parts of a business decide to swap laptops for backpacks and head off on a multi-day hike, the result is more than just a good story — it’s a surprisingly powerful way to build connection, clarity, and trust.
Recently, our Sales and Marketing Director, Alex, and Product Director, Roberto headed to Spain for a 3-day hike through mountains and coastal paths of southeastern Spain. With everything they needed carried on their backs, they covered around 20 miles a day across a mix of terrain — from sun-beaten coastal paths to winding mountain tracks and quiet roads. While the weather mostly delivered scorching sun, the final day threw in some rain to keep things interesting.
Neither were seasoned adventurers, and this wasn’t about proving anything. It was simply a shared decision to do something different — to step outside of the day-to-day and see what happens when you spend a few days navigating nature with someone who, in the office, lives in a totally different world. One talks customer journeys and campaign strategy; the other lives in product innovation and engineering.
One standout moment came at the Pasarela de Relleu — a cliffside walkway known for its stunning views and, as it turns out, its nerve-testing height. For Alex, a fear of heights kicked in halfway across. Despite freezing up and not finishing the full crossing, it sparked a moment of honesty, support, and shared challenge between them. (Roberto did make it to the end — but even he admitted it was tough.)
Over the miles, they talked about everything — work, home life, challenges, ambitions, and of course, their shared love of the outdoors. Being out in nature strips things back. You get to know people for who they are — not their job titles. And back at work, that connection makes collaboration easier, conversations more open, and mutual respect much stronger.
Reflecting on the trip, both agreed it hit the sweet spot — long enough to make a real impact, not so long it became a slog. The benefits weren’t just personal, they were professional too. In fact, plans are already being laid for the next adventure.
Because sometimes, the best team-building doesn’t involve conference rooms, name badges, or post-it notes — just a pair of walking boots, an open trail, and a willingness to try something new.
