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Top 10 Remarkable European Hiking Trails Explored

By Alice Hayes | Published on  
Explore Europes top 10 hiking trails, from Slovenias long trek through mountain ranges to the transnational Alpine trek. Get insights for planning your adventure!

Europe’s scenic landscapes are as diverse as they are breathtaking, and there’s no better way to experience them than by lacing up your hiking boots and venturing out. We’ve compiled a list of ten inspiring hikes that offer everything from tranquil day strolls to week-long escapades, guaranteeing an unforgettable European travel adventure.

Conceived in the 20th century by professor and mountaineer Ivan Shumlya, Slovenia’s extensive trail network connects various mountain ranges with footpaths. The route begins in the charming city of Maribor, weaving through areas like Pohorje, the Julien Alps, the Komniksa Vina Alps, and finally reaching the captivating Catavans. Depending on your speed and endurance, the complete journey spans about a month. However, shorter and equally enjoyable portions can be tackled for day trips. Perfect for those seeking a lengthy but manageable trek, this intermediate-level trail will reward you with Slovenia’s awe-inspiring beauty.

Scotland’s most popular long-distance trail, the West Highland Way, stretches about 100 miles and can take up to a week to conquer. Yearly, thousands of hikers undertake this journey, enchanted by the opportunity to appreciate the famed highlands up close. The option to cover only a section of the trail accommodates those with limited time, ensuring everyone can enjoy this breathtaking trail.

Nestled in a glacial valley, the tiny Swiss village of Lauterbrunnen paints a picture so whimsical; it appears straight out of a fairytale. From here, an easy day hike leads to Muren, promising jaw-dropping views of the surrounding Alps and cascading waterfalls. The two-stage walk starts with a tram ride or a one-and-a-half-hour hike up the mountains, followed by an hour’s walk to Muren. This scenic adventure is an unforgettable snapshot of Switzerland’s alpine wonderland.

In the heart of Scotland’s Isle of Skye lies a rewarding and accessible journey to the magical Fairy Pools. A brisk half-hour walk from the parking lot makes it family-friendly and an excellent option for beginner hikers. If you dare, plunge into the pools for a refreshing dip, but beware—the waters can be chilly!

The Way of St. James, a vast network of routes in Europe, was initially a pilgrimage path culminating in northwestern Spain. Today, it has evolved into an immensely popular hiking trail. The end point for religious trekkers remains the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, believed to house the remains of St. James the Great. The Camino Frances, starting in France and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most favoured routes, marked by scallop shell symbols, a longstanding emblem of the pilgrimage.

Corsica, a relatively small island, is home to the GR20 Trail, an expert-level path stretching nearly the entire island’s length. This trail demands two weeks to complete but offers a unique experience of Corsica’s striking landscapes. The record-holder, Francois Dan, a French winemaker and hiking enthusiast, accomplished the feat in just 31 hours. For a less grueling adventure, the journey can be split in half at Vitavona, allowing you to explore either the northern or southern part of the trail.

The Pulpit Rock, a symbol of Norway’s grandeur, can be accessed through a moderately challenging four-hour round-trip hike. To experience the rock’s beauty without the typical tourist crowd, consider beginning your trek before dawn and arriving as the sun rises over the fjord—a sight you won’t soon forget.

Iceland’s growing popularity as a tourist destination is a testament to its rugged charm. The Hot Springs Trail, a hike spanning two to four days, showcases some of Iceland’s most remarkable backcountry sights. For those seeking an extended adventure, the trail can be combined with the femme vord de Hals route, adding a couple of days to the journey.

While Cinque Terre is already a popular Italian destination, its hiking trails remain relatively unknown. The five lands, named for the villages connected by footpaths, offer an immersive hiking experience. The Santiago Azzurro, or Blue Path, boasts unmatched views, and the coastal villages are truly national gems. However, check ahead, as environmental factors occasionally close parts of the trail.

To conclude, let’s take a glance at the most epic hike on our list—a 105-mile circuit traversing three countries: France, Italy, and Switzerland. Located in the western Alps, the trail varies in difficulty and takes approximately 11 days to complete, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience. Every year, a mountain marathon is held here, with the quickest participants completing the entire route in just 24 hours.

Stepping away from the typical tourist trails, the allure of hiking in Europe comes from the incredible diversity of experiences that await your adventurous spirit. These ten hikes, varying in length, difficulty, and scenery, are more than just routes through the wilderness. They embody the essence of the countries they traverse, each offering a unique journey that transforms the trekker as much as the landscape evolves along the path.

In the dense forests of Slovenia, the gentle murmur of leaves rustling in the wind accompanies you, echoing the wisdom of mountaineer Ivan Shumlya as you traverse his carefully plotted trails. Scotland’s West Highland Way presents a rendezvous with raw nature and history, whispering tales of ancient highlanders with every step you take. Then, the enchanting alpine vistas of Switzerland enthrall you as you wander from the fairytale village of Lauterbrunnen to the idyllic hamlet of Muren.

The magic isn’t limited to the mainland. The Fairy Pools of Scotland’s Isle of Skye extend an invitation too alluring to resist. Their charm is simple yet profound, reminding us that beauty often lies in the most accessible places. Meanwhile, the Corsican GR20 trail demands courage and endurance, testing your limits as you embark on a journey across the rugged landscape of the beautiful island.

Sacred and secular worlds intertwine in Spain on the Camino Frances, where every step along the Way of St. James is imbued with centuries of pilgrimage history, bound to evoke introspection. Equally inspiring is the trek to Norway’s iconic Pulpit Rock, where you’re rewarded with majestic views and the sublime feeling of being part of something greater than yourself.

Venturing to the Nordic realms, Iceland’s Hot Springs Trail presents an immersion into an otherworldly realm, where the Earth’s raw power is on full display in the form of active geysers and steaming springs. Back in the Mediterranean, Italy’s Cinque Terre offers a picturesque journey through charming villages, each step revealing new facets of Italian culture and tradition.

Completing our list is the ultimate challenge: a transnational trek through the Alps that promises to push you beyond your boundaries. It’s a testament to the transcendence of human endurance and the indomitable spirit of exploration, which, just like the landscapes it traverses, knows no borders.

In essence, these treks are more than just adventures; they are stories told by footprints left on ancient trails, memories etched into heartbeats echoing in the wilderness, and dreams fulfilled under expansive skies. They’re about the thrill of the unknown, the quiet beauty of solitude, and the priceless wisdom of nature. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, the trails of Europe await you, ready to unfold their secrets and transform your understanding of travel and exploration.

Most of these trails are best hiked from late spring to early autumn when the weather is generally more favorable. However, the ideal season can vary depending on the specific trail and region. For example, the West Highland Way in Scotland is often hiked in May to avoid midges, while the Alps are typically hiked in the summer to avoid snow. Always check local conditions before planning your trip.

The equipment you need depends on the hike’s duration and difficulty. For shorter day hikes, like the Fairy Pools or the trail from Lauterbrunnen to Muren, good walking shoes, water, snacks, and appropriate clothing for the weather should suffice. For longer or more challenging hikes like the GR20 or the three-country Alpine trek, you’ll need good hiking boots, suitable clothing layers, a backpack with food, water, navigation tools, and potentially camping equipment.

Absolutely! There are options suitable for all levels of experience. Trails like the Fairy Pools and the walk from Lauterbrunnen to Muren are great for beginners and families. The Cinque Terre trails are moderately challenging but should be manageable with some preparation. However, hikes like the GR20 and the three-country Alpine trek are more suited to experienced hikers due to their length and difficulty.

Yes, guided tours are available for many of these trails, particularly the longer and more challenging ones. Guided tours can provide additional safety, knowledge about the local environment and history, and logistical support such as transporting your luggage or providing meals. However, many of these hikes can also be done independently with the right preparation and resources.

Physical preparation depends on the trail’s length and difficulty. For shorter and easier hikes, regular walking or light cardio exercises should be sufficient. For longer and more challenging hikes, it’s recommended to engage in regular cardio exercises like running or cycling, strength training, especially focusing on legs and core, and practice hikes with a loaded backpack. Always remember to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise regime.