Hiking trails in Europe – long-distance routes and unusual destinations
When travel within Europe is at last possible and safe, there is no better way to explore than to experience the freedom and joy of long-distance walking. Trails such as the Tour of Mont Blanc are spectacular and justifiably popular, however Europe has other wonderful hiking trails and GR routes, many listed here are considerably less crowded, yet no less rewarding. While accommodation provides good, clean and safe facilities, camping and backpacking will keep you well away from any crowds. Time is precious – if you have only ever walked in the UK, seize any opportunity that you have to explore further. It's different, rewarding and you'll have no regrets.
Time is precious – if you have only ever walked in the UK, seize any opportunity that you have to explore further. It's different, rewarding and you'll have no regrets.
New titles for European trekking
All European trekking information
This can be the beginning of your research for international trekking routes, guidebooks and inspiring articles.
Hiking routes in Norway, Sweden and Iceland
Hiking routes in France
Title | Long or shorter trek | Difficulty | Popularity |
---|---|---|---|
Short treks on Corsica | short | Easy to moderate | Moderate |
GR20 Corsica | long | Difficult | Very popular |
GR5: Benelux and Lorraine | long | Easy to moderate | Quiet |
GR5: Vosges and Jura | long | easy to moderate | Quiet |
GR5: Lac Léman to Nice | long | moderate to difficult | Moderate to popular |
Robert Louis Stevenson Trail | short | Easy | Moderate |
Tour of the Oisans GR54 | long | difficult | Moderate |
Tour of the Queyras | long | moderate to difficult | Quiet to moderate |
Alpine trails you may not have considered
Below are some Alpine trails that trekkers from the UK may not have considered. While some are popular within their own country, they have not yet gained the massive international appeal of trails such as the Tour of Mont Blanc and the Walker's Haute Route from Chamonix to Zermatt.
More popular Alpine routes include:
Non alpine trails in Europe
These long-distance routes may not be alpine, but many are still challenging, either in length, or in hilly and mountainous terrain, including the Pyrenees.
Ireland, Benelux, Pyrenees, Spain and Portugal
Germany, Italy and eastern Europe
Southern and Mediterranean regions
Pilgrimage and Camino trails
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