[Infographic] 7 Amazing Hikes in European National Parks
Celebrate the summer solstice on the Laugavegur Trail in Iceland, hop the pond to the West Highland Way in Scotland or embrace your daredevil roots on El Caminito Del Rey with AIG’s list of the most stunning hikes around Europe.
But first, make sure you’re set for a safe trip with AIG’s travel insurance.
From breathtaking mountain ranges to sprawling valleys, Europe’s hiking trails have a lot to offer. Whether you’re a casual hiker or a backpacker looking for a challenge, there’s a hike out there for you. Find the best hiking trail for you below.
1. Kerry – Ireland
This is one of Ireland’s most popular signposted walking trails. Follow the Ring of Kerry circular route to experience a variety of spectacular landscapes around the Iveragh Peninsula.
The route is typically split into 9 stages – allowing for customised treks.
The route: 215 km (134 miles)
Duration: 7 to 10 days
When to go: March to October
Difficulty: moderate
2. West Highland Way – Scotland
Dive straight into the heart of the rugged and romantic landscapes of Scotland. Journey through a diverse range of terrains from lowland moors, rolling hills, dense woodlands to high mountainous regions.
Board ‘The Jacobite’ steam train at Fort William to cross the 21-arched Glenfinnan viaduct – a location made famous by the Harry Potter films.
The route: 154 km (96 miles)
Duration: 6 to 7 days
When to go: March to October (warmer months best)
Difficulty: moderate
3. Laugavegurinn Trail – Iceland
With what seems like a new terrain every few miles, the Laugavegurinn Trail is a diverse and scenic hiking route. Take in volcanoes, glaciers, hot springs, cross-glacial streams, lava fields and green valleys along your journey.
Icelandic tradition includes hiking the Fimmvörðuháls Pass on the summer solstice – celebrating the longest day of the year. Add this route to extend your adventure and meet some locals.
The route: 55 km (34 miles), not including the Fimmvörðuháls
Duration: 4 to 5 days
When to go: June to September
Difficulty: moderate (weather depending)
4. Kungsleden (The King’s Trail) – Lapland, Sweden
Running through 4 rational parks and a nature reserve, Kungsleden has a lot to offer. Birch forests, vast valleys, powerful rivers and spectacular mountain scenery are just some of the wonders you’ll pass on your journey.
The route naturally divides into four-week segments, allowing for flexibility.
The route: 443 km (275 miles)
Duration: 1 to 4 weeks depending on selected route
When to go: June to September
Difficulty: moderate
5. Tour du Mont-Blanc – France, Italy and Switzerland
This trail sprawls through the French, Italian and Swiss alps, including circling the Mont Blanc Massif. You’ll cross wildflower meadows and hike through mountains to experience Europe’s most dramatic glacier views.
Rest and experience the local culture at the many huts and villages dotted along the way.
The route: 180 km (112 miles)
Duration: 10 to 12 days
When to go: June to September
Difficulty: moderate to tough
6. GR20 Grande Randonnées – Corsica, France
Considered one of Europe’s toughest long-distant treks, GR20 combines steep rocky mountains with turquoise glacial lakes – offering views well worth seeing. Confidence in walking over rugged terrains and high fitness levels are recommended to complete the hike.
The trail can be undertaken starting in the north or south of Corsica. Starting at calenzana in the north will allow for tackling the toughest climbs in the shade.
The route: 180 km (112 miles)
Duration: 12 to 15 days
When to go: July to September
Difficulty: difficult
7. El Caminito Del Rey – Spain
Once known as one of the world’s most dangerous hike, El Caminito del Rey’s steep rock faces, rope bridges and gushing river instil a sense of awe as well as fear. Following the walls of the El Chroo gorge, the walkway sits 100m high and 3km long – perfect for a hiker who wants to get their adrenaline going.
After closing 2000 due to danger risks of the 100 year old path, El Caminito del Rey was reopened in 2015 after restoration.
The route: 8km (5 miles)
Duration: 1 days,
When to go: good weather and daylight for safety
Difficulty: expert