Exploring Europe on Foot
If you want to uncover all of the amazing culture and geography that Europe has to offer, then the best way to do it is on foot. Hiking allows you to reach parts of the continent that are simply inaccessible to those travelling on four wheels (or two). You’ll need a rugged pair of hiking boots and some comfortable clothing. But you’ll also need an idea of where you’re going and what to expect.
Let’s take a look at several of the continent’s most appealing hiking destinations and what each has to offer.
The Alps
When it comes to mountains in Europe, it’s difficult to beat the Alps. This is the largest and highest mountain chain on the continent, covering large parts of France, Switzerland, Italy and Germany.
Famous trails, like the Haute Route and the Tour du Mont Blanc, are sure to appeal to veteran hikers. The former is for ice-climbing purists, and will take the best part of a week for an experienced mountaineer to conquer. The latter is even longer, and stretches over three countries and more than 170 kilometres.
Of course, there are easy walks available in the region, too – and from them, you’ll be able to enjoy magnificent views of the soaring mountains on every side.
Italy
The Alps, as we’ve mentioned, cover part of Italy. But there’s more on offer in this particular country – which is why hiking tours in Italy are so popular. You might look into the Sentiero Azzurro, which will take you through the famous ‘Cinque Terre’ (or ‘five lands’): a quintet of amazing clifftop villages overlooking the sparkling blue water below.
Tuscany is a paradise for touring cyclists, but it’s also sure to appeal to hikers. You can stroll between the vineyards and sample the local produce. If you’d prefer another mountain hike, you might look to tour the Dolomites, where you can hike all day and stay in a hut overnight.
UK
The United Kingdom offers a very different experience, but the principles are the same. If you want to explore the Highlands of Scotland, then the West Highland Way might be worth considering. Along the Way, you’ll be able to visit Glengoyne Distillery and the amazing Falls of Falloch between Inverarnan and Tyndrum.
Further south, in England, there’s the famous Lake District, which is thronged with tourists during summer but beautiful and clear during fall and spring. Finally, those looking for a coastal walk might consider the Pembrokeshire Coast Path in Wales, where a whole range of wildlife, including seals, are often visible.
Spain
Spain is synonymous with scorching sunshine, but there’s a great deal more to the country than that. The most famous route on offer here is, of course, the amazing Camino de Santiago (or ‘Way of St James’), which runs from the border with France to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia. This route has enormous significance, culturally and historically: it was reportedly travelled by St. James on his way to spread the faith to the Iberian Peninsula.
Then there are the coastal paths that run alongside Costa Brava, beloved by cyclists. You can marvel at the sea views or visit the Natural Park of Aiguamolls de l’Empordà. The path is extremely long, so most hikers will want to travel just a short part of it at any given time.
