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The 10 most beautiful hikes in Europe
Do you like walking, getting fresh air and discovering new horizons? Hiking is one of the best ways to travel alternatively, taking time to observe landscapes and enjoy nature to the full. In Europe, the possibilities are endless: mountains, volcanoes, cliffs, forests, coastlines... there's something for every taste and level.
In this article, we've selected 10 must-do hikes in Europe. Some are great classics like the Tour du Mont-Blanc or the Camino de Santiago de Compostela, others take you to more exotic territories like the volcanoes of the Canaries or the peaks of Madeira. These trails offer another way of traveling: simpler, closer to the destinations, and often more authentic.
Ready to get your shoes ready and discover our favorites?
1) Tre Cime di Lavaredo
The trail around the Tre Cime di Lavaredo is one of the most famous in Italy. The three towering rocky peaks dominate the landscape, offering spectacular views of Alpine valleys and lakes. Accessible to hikers of all levels, the route offers several variations, from family walks to more athletic hikes. The sunrises and sunsets are particularly magical, making every step unforgettable. This trek is also rich in alpine flora and mountain stories.
2) El Teide volcano
The Parc national du Teide on theisland of Tenerife offers a unique hike on an active volcano. Reaching the summit of Teide (3,718 m) allows you to admire lunar landscapes and spectacular panoramas over the Canary archipelago. The trail alternates between lava fields, craters and strange rock formations. The contrast between blue skies and volcanic landscapes creates an exceptional visual experience. The hike can be done during the day or with a sunrise for a memorable adventure.
3) Laugavegur
The Laugavegur links Landmannalaugar to Thórsmörk, through the wild landscapes of Iceland. You cross lava fields, multicolored mountains, glaciers and glacial rivers. The trek generally takes 4 to 6 days, with nights in refuges or tents. The vibrant colors of the land, the natural hot springs and the purity of the air make this an unforgettable trek. Each stage reveals different panoramas, guaranteeing a unique visual and sensory adventure.
4) Tour du Mont-Blanc
The Tour du Mont-Blanc is an iconic itinerary linking France, Switzerland and Italy. For around 170 km, hikers cross alpine valleys, glaciers and picturesque villages. The trek can be completed in 7 to 12 days, depending on your pace and level. Each stage offers impressive panoramas of the peaks and immersion in different local cultures.
For those wishing to venture out, at ATC Routes du Monde, we own a vacation village at Argentière-Chamonix, which can serve as an ideal starting point for your excursion.
5) Cinque Terre
The Cinque Terre offers a unique coastal trail linking five colorful villages clinging to the Mediterranean. The route, around 40 km long, takes in secret coves, terraced vineyards and picturesque alleyways. The hike generally takes 3 to 4 days, with numerous panoramic viewpoints. The authentic Italian ambience, combined with the sea and hills, makes every stop magical. It's an ideal hike for lovers of coastal scenery and heritage.
6) The GR20
The GR20 crosses the Corsica from north to south and is renowned for its difficulty and spectacular scenery. Hikers face steep slopes, airy ridges and high-altitude lakes. It takes 15 days to get from Calenzana to Conca, with overnight stays in mountain refuges. The granite panoramas, diversity of trails and isolation make this a unique adventure. This is a trek for experienced hikers only, but every effort is rewarded with unforgettable views.
7) Lofoten
The Lofoten Islands offer a spectacular mix of fjords, beaches and rugged mountains. Hikes are by the day, with the option of bivouacking or spending the night in a traditional fisherman's hut. The landscapes are varied and wild, with aunique contrast between turquoise sea and sharp peaks. Hikers can enjoy the midnight sun in summer or the northern lights in autumn. Each trail is an invitation to explore unspoilt and awe-inspiring nature.
8) Crete
Crete offers a variety of landscapes, from golden beaches to deep gorges and mountain peaks. The Samaria Gorge Trail,16 km long, is one of the most famous, but the island also abounds in lesser-known treks in the White Mountains. Each stage reveals unspoilt nature, picturesque villages and a rich local culture. The Mediterranean climate allows hiking almost all year round, with bright, colorful panoramas. It's an experience that combines physical exertion and immersion in an authentic and spectacular setting.
9) Les sentiers des Picos
Madeirais a veritable paradise for hikers, with its steep trails, levadas (irrigation canals) and lush forests. The route linking the Pico do Arieiro to the Pico Ruivo, the island's highest point, is one of the most emblematic. Betweenvertiginous ridges, tunnels carved into the rock and breathtaking views of the Atlantic, every step is an intense experience. The mild year-round climate makeshiking accessible in all seasons. It's an adventure that combines the adrenaline of rugged terrain with the soothing beauty of island nature.
10) Santiago de Compostela
The Chemin de Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle is arguably Europe's best-known hiking route, steeped in history and spirituality. Several routes lead to Santiago Cathedral in Galicia, but the Camino Francés remains the most popular. More than just a walk, it's a real human experience of encounters, sharing and cultural discovery. The landscapes vary from mountains and plains to medieval villages and vineyards. This centuries-old path attracts both believers and hiking enthusiasts in search of an inner journey.
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Prepare your bag before you leave
A few essentials for safe and comfortable hiking
Suitable footwear
Water and hydration
Technical clothing
Map or GPS
Useful accessories
Hiking, a journey with every step
From high Alpine mountains to Mediterranean cliffs, volcanoes or Nordic islands, Europe is full of trails worth discovering. Here we've presented 10 must-do hikes, each offering its own unique landscapes, atmospheres and experiences. Whether you're an occasional walker or an avid trekker, you're bound to find an itinerary to suit your desires and your level.
And if you want to go further, you should know that at the ATC Routes du Monde organizes hiking holidays in France and abroad, supervised by our passionate volunteers, who know the proposed itineraries inside out. For those who prefer a shorter getaway, our relais de proximité also organize numerous day outings, ideal for discovering a territory in a friendly atmosphere.
So, what's your next hike?
