The hiking routes in Europe are considered some of the best in the world, and each nation has its own distinctive scenery and activities to offer. The top hiking locations in Europe are described in more detail below
The Swiss Alps, Switzerland
The majestic peaks, immaculate lakes, and charming villages that make up the Swiss Alps are well known. Switzerland is a hiker’s paradise with more than 65,000 kilometres of paths. Popular hiking areas include the Jungfrau region, Zermatt, and Grindelwald, where you may follow paths that pass through glaciers, alpine meadows, and old mountain houses.
The Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau are three of Switzerland’s most recognisably named peaks, all of which are located in the Jungfrau region. The area has a range of hiking trails, from leisurely strolls to difficult mountain climbs. The Aletsch Glacier, the biggest glacier in the Alps, is one of the breathtaking scenes you will pass through on the Panorama Trail, a well-liked day trip.
Another well-liked hiking location in Switzerland is Zermatt, which has trails that provide sweeping views of the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic mountains in the world. A multi-day walk across high alpine terrain, suspension bridges, and magnificent landscapes is the Europaweg route.
Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland has Grindelwald, a well-liked starting point for mountaineering and hiking. From Kleine Scheidegg to Alpiglen, the Eiger Trail is a well-known walk that offers breathtaking views of the Eiger North Face.
The Dolomites, Italy
Northeastern Italy’s Dolomites are home to some of Europe’s most breathtaking scenery. This area is a hiker’s paradise thanks to its craggy peaks, towering cliffs, and vibrant meadows. Popular multi-day hikes through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Dolomites are the Alta Via 1 and 2.
The 120-km-long Alta Via 1 trail winds through the Dolomites’ interior, passing through alpine meadows, steep mountain passes, and ancient mountain villages. The trail travels by some of the most recognisably named peaks in the area, including the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, from Dobbiaco to Belluno.
Starting at Bressanone and concluding in Feltre, the 160-km Alta Via 2 trail traverses the eastern Dolomites. You get the chance to stay in welcoming mountain cottages while hiking through some of the most secluded and wild terrain in the area.
The Camino de Santiago, Spain
The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is located in Galicia, Spain, and is reached by a network of pilgrimage paths known as the Camino de Santiago. The Camino Frances, which begins in St. Jean Pied de Port, France, and finishes in Santiago de Compostela, is the most well-known route. With possibilities to connect with other hikers from across the world, stay in quaint communities, and sample the regional food, this trail offers an original hiking experience.
The 780-kilometre Camino Frances trail passes through some of Spain’s most stunning natural settings, such as rolling hills, dense forests, and old-world cities. There are numerous choices to stay along the path in hotels, guesthouses, or hostels, and the trail is clearly marked.
The West Highland Way, Scotland
Scotland’s West Highland Way covers 96 miles from Milngavie to Fort William. The lochs, mountains, and glens on this circuit are among Scotland’s most breathtaking natural settings. There are several chances, and the trail is clearly defined.
The Julian Alps, Slovenia
The Julian Alps, which are in Slovenia’s northwest, are home to some of Europe’s most breathtaking mountain scenery. Triglav National Park, which spans more than 83,000 hectares and is named after Mount Triglav, Slovenia’s highest peak, is located in this area. The park has a range of hiking trails, from simple strolls to difficult alpine climbs. The 267-kilometer Juliana Trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, lakes, and valleys as it leads you through the Julian Alps.
The Rila Monastery Trail, Bulgaria
The four-day Rila Monastery Trail begins and ends at the well-known Rila Monastery and travels through the Rila Mountains in southwest Bulgaria. The route passes through some of Bulgaria’s most breathtaking scenery, including alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and breathtaking mountain peaks. The trail’s high point is the ascent to Mount Musala, the tallest summit in the Balkans, which provides magnificent views of the other peaks.
The GR20, Corsica, France
The GR20 is a 180-km track that goes around the entire island of Corsica, beginning in the north at Calenzana and ending in the south at Conca. The route is recognized as one of Europe’s most difficult long-distance hikes because of its difficult climbs, steep descents, and rocky terrain. Although the journey is challenging, the rewards are fantastic, with breath-taking views of the Mediterranean Sea, natural mountain ranges, and lovely villages. The trek demands good physical condition and previous mountain hiking skills, and it takes about 15 days to complete.
Overall, Europe offers a wide range of hiking trails, from easy hikes to challenging alpine treks. Europe offers hiking opportunities for any kind of hiker, whether you’re seeking breathtaking mountain scenery, wild coastlines, or ancient communities.