Planning any hiking trip can be difficult even if you have years of experience behind you simply because there are so many possibilities to choose from. All over the world there are guided walks and forgotten trails that not only provide a challenge but give you the opportunity to try unfamiliar terrain underfoot and see the most stunning and invigorating views so you might not know where to go next, so why not try some of the most popular hiking destinations Europe has to offer? While there are arguably numerous favourites here are some you may want to try first:
1. Swiss Alps, Switzerland
Unquestionably one of the most beautiful places in the world; the Swiss Alps provide a haven for hikers of any ability with a number of routes and mountain ranges to choose from. Some of the popular areas like Zermatt which lies at the base of the iconic Matterhorn where you can walk trails near the local villages and themed historic and cultural trails if you want something easier and informative, but for a challenge there are over 400 kilometres of marked trails to explore going up to 3,000 metres above sea level. Other areas like the Jungfrau region with the north face of the formidable Mount Eiger are a must for hikers too.
2. Tour du Mont Blanc
Hiking Mont Blanc provides different options depending on your abilities or time constraints as there are single day routes between Les Houches and Argentiere or the full Mont Blanc tour which is 100 miles long. The views around the routes are truly incredible and give some of the most astounding natural alpine vistas of Italy, Switzerland and France and are best walked in the summertime when the climate tends to be more predictable and less likely to change. On average the hike can be done in 6-10 days with either a full contingent of camping equipment, water, food and orienteering equipment or you can use the hotels, huts and vehicle support along the way.
3. Jotunheimen, Norway
The Norwegian national park; Jotunheimen is an area of mountains covering a staggering 2174 miles and features a mix of waterways, peaks, glaciers, valleys and indigenous flora and fauna like reindeer, elk, lynx and wolverine which you won’t want to miss. While it is favoured for numerous types of adventure sports, it is one of Europe’s best spots for hiking with routes and trails that you can enjoy as a stroll or several day hikes. A particularly favoured route is the six to eight hour trail from Memurubu to Gjendesheim that provides exquisite views of Lake Gjende and Lake Bessvatnet as you journey along the Besseggen ridge. There are plenty of campsites in the area to pitch up in or enjoy one of their lodges after a long day’s hike.
Whichever hiking destination you choose whether it is from these three or one of the many others around Europe or even the world you’ll undoubtedly enjoy the natural wonders and challenges each journey provides. If you are looking for walking equipment for your next trip then check out Blackleaf.com for top brands