7 of Europe’s most beautiful trekking routes
In order not to miss out on any of the virtues of the area you’ve decided to go to, you should opt for a trekking tour. By this we mean exploring not the standard trails, but the trails that are often hidden from visitors. There are more places like this in Europe than can be counted, but there are some must-see destinations for anyone who loves to travel.
1. the Azure Path, aka Sentiero Azzurro, Italy
A beautiful area along the Italian coast. The 12 km long trail starts in Riomaggiore and ends in Monterosso. Along the way you can call at Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare.
2. Grand Randonne, France
A somewhat complicated task awaits those who intend to conquer this route, which runs through French Corsica. It is 180km long but can be broken up into sections to regain your strength. It is recommended to visit in June and September when nature is more colourful and the flow of tourists is much less. The start point is in Calenzana and the finish point is in Conca. You can choose your own direction and start from the last point heading towards the first one.
3. Fimmvurduhauls Pass, Iceland
Cold, inaccessible to some, but so beautiful Iceland offers a closer look at the Leygavegur route. It’s 80 kilometres long, but there are many rest houses along the way where you can take a breather before setting off further. These are only accessible from June to mid-September.
4 The South West Coast Path, UK
If you’re getting to know the UK, this is the route to start with. You have to walk from Minehead to Poole Harbour. The scenery is often seen in movies, but what a thrill it is to see it with your own eyes. The route takes about 1,016 kilometres to walk. The route follows the south-west coast of Foggy Albion, reaching its westernmost point. The bays are the trail’s signature feature. Only occasionally you’ll have to leave the coast and head deeper into the island, but then you’ll be back on “water”.
5. The road through Mont Blanc, Italy, Switzerland, France
The hike takes you through Italy, Switzerland and France, conquering their mountainous territories. In the process there is an introduction to glaciers, cliffs, green fields, steppes and much more. The fascinating journey begins at Les Houches, passes through pastures, lakes, valleys. It is about 170 km long. It is recommended to hike from June to mid-September when there are mountain shelters where you can catch your breath.
6. The Way of the French Kings, Spain
The Way of St. James or the Way of the French Kings offers unmatched beauty in the spring and autumn when there is a riot of colour. It is preferable to be physically prepared before venturing out, as there will be many climbs and descents. The journey starts in St. Jean Pied de Por and ends in Galicia. It is possible to make rest stops, especially in León and Pamplona.
7. The Tatras, Slovakia
There are several variations of this trekking tour. You can move in the High Tatras or in the Lesser Tatras, or you can combine them into one long trip. Along the way you will come across a glacial lake, wildlife areas and forests in particular. It is advisable to prepare yourself for this hike, as the difference in terrain has a significant impact on your physical condition.